Houston’s culinary scene is as exciting, varied, and surprising as the city itself. Whatever you’re after, you’ll find it– and plenty you never dreamed of. Whether you’re after high-end haute cuisine, experimental fusion flavors, or anything in between, the many restaurants doing a booming trade across the city’s characterful neighborhoods cater to all manner of gastronomic whims. Tex Mex is big business, but most national dishes are represented, as is good old-fashioned Southern cooking.
Typical dish
There’s a huge range of variety, so no such thing as typical in Houston, but one local favorite is the crawfish, locally sourced of course, which is one of the highlights of an impressive seafood scene.
Downtown
Downtown was once all about business, and the nightlife next to non-existent, but thanks to the buzz around the Theater District and the trendy bars and clubs which have sprung up for post-play action, there’s a scintillating culinary scene here these days, where culture vultures and revelers have the world at the end of their fork. Two highlights of the region are the Asian flavors of Huynh Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine and the huge range of ales and gastro-goodness on offer at Flying Saucer Draught Emporium.
• Huynh Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine, 912 Saint Emanuel, 77003
Midtown
An area which is firmly on the up, Midtown is seeing a major influx of residents and also shops, businesses and, of course, restaurants. There’s something of an Asian flavor the area around Milam Street, which is becoming a great place to go for Vietnamese dishes, but there’s a wide, eclectic range of eateries on offer throughout the neighborhood. One of the best is Brennan’s of Houston, where you’ll find soul food and Cajun specials to make your mouth water. Ibiza is a taste of Spain, with a wide range of meat and seafood dishes.
• Brennan’s of Houston, 3300 Smith St, 77006
Heights
A buzzy and bohemian vibe sets this historic neighborhood apart. The Heights was once a planned, and sober, residential area but these days it’s a hangout for hipsters, with the sort of artsy boutiques, thrift stores, and vintage clothing stalls you’d expect in a place where history and creativity collide. The restaurant scene is every bit as charming, and a must visit for Mexican food is the Teotihuacan Mexican Café, where great food won’t cost a bomb. For more American flavors, Zelko Bistro is a slice of down-at-home with a twist.
• Teotihuacan Mexican Café, 1511 Airline Dr, 77009
Montrose
Montrose is a beacon for artists in the area, thanks to its wide range of galleries and exhibitions and this interest in high culture and visual excellence extends into what you’ll find on your plate if you opt to sample the local eateries. Niko Niko’s Greek is one of the best restaurants in the neighborhood, thanks to its mouthwatering Greek flavors, unpretentious vibe, and reasonable prices. For a taste of the East, Nippon Japanese offers authentic, delicious sushi.
• Niko Niko’s Greek, 2520 Montrose Blvd, 77006
Tel: (713) 528-1308
• Nippon Japanese, 4464 Montrose Blvd, 77006
Tel: (713) 523-3939
