Le Tesserae to Musaafer: From Meaningful Meetings to a Feast for the Soul

The second day of Journeys North America began with a different kind of elegance. After the theatre boxes and the Texan trails, we gathered at Le Tesserae — a refined and peaceful space located just a short distance from the city centre in East Downtown Houston, designed for focus, calm, and clarity.

Group photo at Le Tesserae in Houston

The name Tesserae refers to the tiny pieces of stone or glass that come together to form a

mosaic — and it felt fitting. Because that’s what the morning was: a mosaic of conversations, insights, and connection. One-to-one meetings flowed naturally, with the kind of trust that only builds after a shared journey like ours. The mood was relaxed but purposeful. Quietly productive.

Coffee breaks gave everyone a moment to reconnect casually — to pick up conversations from the day before, or spark new ones over espresso and pastries. By late morning, the room was buzzing with that kind of gentle momentum that tells you things are clicking. Partnerships forming. Ideas landing. Confidence growing.

And then, it was time to step out — and step into something extraordinary.

We were welcomed to Musaafer, one of Houston’s most celebrated restaurants and a sensory experience from the moment you walk through the doors. The name means traveller, and that’s exactly what the experience felt like — a journey across India’s culinary landscape, told through flavour, design, and story.

What a treat to be here together in this absolutely stunning restaurant — it wasn’t just a feast for the palate, but for the eyes too. The interiors alone — inspired by Indian royal courts and artisan workshops — transported us before we’d even seen the menu.

This beautiful lunch was made possible thanks to our incredible friends at Visit Houston. Jorge, Amanda, Paul, Shandra, Daniel — thank you for making this happen, and for supporting us every step of the way.

Before we sat down, Jorge gave a warm welcome and then introduced the incredible talent behind the kitchen — Chef Mayank Istwal, the creative visionary behind Musaafer’s menu. Chef Mayank shared his philosophy and passion with us: to tell the story of India’s regions and culture through modern, expressive cuisine. It was thoughtful, personal, and full of heart.

And then we ate — slowly, appreciatively, together. Each course carried us somewhere different. It wasn’t just a meal. It was a curated experience, a moment to breathe, connect, and enjoy something truly special.

There was laughter, conversation, and that wonderful feeling of being right where you’re meant to be — with people who get it, over food that says something.

This is what we mean when we talk about the Fam-Meet® way. Moments that matter. Conversations that deepen. A meal that becomes a memory.

And this — from Le Tesserae to Musaafer — was one of those memories.