Mark’s American Cuisine

1658 Westheimer, (713) 523-3800; www.marks1658.com

Houston’s most romantic restaurant is located in a 1920’s renovated church. Perfect for special occasions and banquet dinners, chef Mark Cox delivers an epicurean adventure like the succulent lamb perfumed with fresh basil sauce followed by the warm raspberry tart. $$$$

Little Big’s

2703 Montrose Blvd., (713) 521-2447; www.littlebigshouston.com

One of Houston’s best patios keeps Houstonians coming back again and again for the simple menu: sliders.  Or you can order sliders with fries. $

Lankford Grocery & Market

88 Dennis, (713) 522-9555

The burgers are amazing. The staff makes you feel like you’ve finally come home—a home with better burgers. Savor a cheeseburger and sip an ice-cold beer. It’s no mystery why this neighborhood eatery has been around for decades. Open Mon. – Sat. $

Julia’s Bistro

3722 Main, (713) 807-0090; www.juliasbistro.com

In the middle of all the action of midtown, this is the perfect spot for a lunch with the girls or a dinner date with your sweetie. A casually hip atmosphere lends nicely to the upscale cafe treats.
L, D, $$$

Ibiza

2450 Louisiana, (713) 524-0004; www.ibizafoodandwinebar.com

Steamed mussels and mushroom risotto are among the delectable dishes here. The Lounge Next Door is a hip after-hours party place. $$$

Hungry’s Café & Bistro

2356 Rice, (713) 523-8652; www.hungryscafe.com

Fresh food and a cozy atmosphere compliment the art deco design at Hungry’s. Great for lunch while you shop in Rice Village, this eatery offers health conscious fare, as well as burgers, salads, sandwiches, and Mediterranean. $$

Haven

2502 Algerian Way  (713) 581-6101; www.havenhouston.com

Built from the ground up with sustainability in mind, chef Randy Evans (formerly of Brennans) has created one of Houston’s most anticipated restaurants.  The menu changes often as this chef utilizes only the freshest ingredients.  We were blown away on our first visit by the Chateau Brion and foie gras.  The décor is comfortable and the wine list extensive. Closed Sunday. $$$

Glass Wall

933 Studewood, (713) 868-7930; www.theglasswallrestaurant.com

Working chef and co-owner Lance Fegen serves up a fresh perspective on cuisine at his Heights’ bistro. The menu changes to incorporate seasonal ingredients and the wine cellar is unparalleled. Chris the bartender makes sure each drink is sublime. Open Tues.-Sat. $$$

Feast

219 Westheimer, (713) 529-7788; www.feasthouston.com.com

Feast stands out with unusual cuts of meat (veal tongue, cow testicles, pig’s feet), and unusual seafood (mother-in-law, sting rays). The kitchen in this old Montrose bungalow pumps out treats night after night. $$$$

Catalan

5555 Washington Ave., (713) 426-4260; www.catalanfoodandwine.com

Wine lovers are intoxicated by Catalan’s wine list. Most are priced near retail, and the list is remarkable for its scope and creativity.  Don’t miss the most unique part of the menu, labeled “Chef’s Playground,” you can add seared foie gras to anything! $$$.

Canopy

3939 Montrose Blvd, (713) 528-6848; www.canopyhouston.com

Fresh offerings from chef Claire Smith, we love the mac and cheese appetizer. $$$

The Breakfast Klub

3711 Travis, (713) 528-8561; www.thebreakfastklub.com

You may have to stand in line to order, but the food at the Breakfast Klub is worth the wait. In recent years, it’s emerged as one of the hippest brunch spots in town. Diverse clientele feast on fried chicken, waffles, catfish and grits. $

Branch Water Tavern

510 Shepherd Drive, (713) 863-7777; www.branchwatertavern.com

Warm, flaky biscuits greet you as you prepare for seared scallops and more. Casual atmosphere. $$

Bistro Alex

800 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. Bldg 9 , (713) 827-3545; www.bistroalex.com

Down home Southern treats are available seven days a week.  Part of the new Hotel Sorella complex. $$

Benjy’s

2424 Dunstan, (713) 522-7602; www.benjys.com

Combining Asian, South American, Middle Eastern and Mexican cuisines, this eclectic menu changes monthly. Make a reservation for the impressive weekend brunch and enjoy The Lounge upstairs for fine spirits and cigars. Second location on Washington Ave., is a hot single spot. $$$

Beaver’s

2310 Decatur, (713) 864-2328; www.beavershouston.com

This is bar food with a twist.  Awesome salads, burgers and more. $

Backstreet Cafe

1103 South Shepherd, (713) 521-2239; www.backstreetcafe.net

This location is awesome, partly due to the lovely al fresco patios, cozy fireplace and intimate tables. Don’t miss the Grilled Spiny Lobster with champagne crabmeat sauce. $$$

Ragin’ Cajun

4302 Richmond, (832) 251-7171; www.ragin-cajun.com.

Louisianans have found a new home at Ragin’ Cajun. Friendly service, fresh seafood and tons of Cajun spices make this place a favorite, along with all the Louisiana college memorabilia making LSU or Tulane alums feel right at home. Order a couple of pounds of crawfish, munch on a “dressed” po boy, swallow some oysters on the half shell, or savor some crawfish étuoffée. Great for the family or a fun dinner with friends, these authentic recipes will bring you back to your days on the bayou.
L, D, $

Mardi Gras Grill

1200 Durham, (713) 864-5600; www.mardigrasgrill.net

It’s crawfish season and the mud bugs here are the best! The hard-working staff delivers them hot to the table daily. $$

Le Mistral

1400 Eldridge Pkwy, (832) 379-8322; www.lemistralhouston.com

A delightful je ne sais quoi graces this West Houston family-owned French restaurant. Grilled lamb chops a ju and foie gras seared to perfection accompany classic French Onion soup, escargot in garlic butter, and heavenly chocolate soufflé. For an exceptional dining experience, make a reservation and let Le Mistral do the rest.   $$$

« Previous Page — Next Page »