Mardi Gras at Haven and Tony Mandola's; Poetry at MVSC

UPPER KIRBY— Haven will offer a special, three-course menu on Fat Tuesday February 12. For $55, there's duck confit gumbo, lamb two ways and oatmeal pancakes for dessert. Call 713-581-6101 for reservations. [EaterWire]

RIVER OAKS— Tony Mandola's Gulf Coast Kitchen is celebrating Mardi Gras with two events. First, diners who buy a $5 slice of king cake between now and Fat Tuesday will have the chance to win a trip for two to New Orleans. Second, on Saturday February 9, the restaurant will host an oyster eating contest; the winner earns a $250 gift card. Email katy@onthemarkcom.com to sign up to compete or get more information.

MIDTOWN— Mongoose versus Cobra proprietor Shafer Hall and poet Kristin Kostick will host a reading series on the second Monday of every month beginning next week at 8:00 p.m. There will also be beer pairings with the readings. This month's authors are Henk Rossouw, David Tomás Martínez and Kevin Prufer. See the full press release for author biographies and more information. [EaterWire]