Delicious Dining: Discover the Top-Rated Restaurants in Houston for 2014
Discover the top restaurants in Houston for 2014! From Southern comfort to international delights, satisfy your taste buds with these culinary gems.
Discover the Best Restaurants in Houston in 2014
Houston is a city that's famous for its food scene, and it's not hard to see why. With a diverse range of cultures and influences, Houston has something to offer every palate. Whether you're looking for authentic Tex-Mex, fresh seafood, or cutting-edge fusion cuisine, Houston has it all. But with so many incredible restaurants to choose from, how do you know where to start? In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best restaurants in Houston in 2014.
Unforgettable Dining Experiences
When it comes to dining out in Houston, the options are truly endless. From high-end fine dining establishments to casual neighborhood joints, there's no shortage of amazing restaurants to choose from. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a memorable night out, Houston has plenty of options. In this article, we'll explore some of the best restaurants in Houston that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Tex-Mex Delights
Tex-Mex is one of the most beloved cuisines in Houston, and for good reason. This unique blend of Mexican and Texan flavors is a true taste sensation. From sizzling fajitas to zesty guacamole, Tex-Mex dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. In this section, we'll take a closer look at some of the best Tex-Mex restaurants in Houston.
Seafood Galore
As a coastal city, Houston is home to some of the freshest and most delicious seafood around. Whether you're in the mood for succulent shrimp, juicy crab legs, or buttery lobster, Houston has it all. In this section, we'll highlight some of the best seafood restaurants in Houston that are sure to leave your taste buds tingling.
Fusion Cuisine
For those who love to try new things and experiment with different flavors, fusion cuisine is a must-try. This innovative style of cooking blends different cultural influences to create unique and exciting dishes. In this section, we'll explore some of the best fusion restaurants in Houston that are pushing the boundaries of traditional cuisine.
Casual Eateries
Not every dining experience needs to be a fancy affair. Sometimes, all you want is a casual spot where you can kick back and relax with some good food and drinks. In this section, we'll highlight some of the best casual eateries in Houston that are perfect for laid-back meals with friends or family.
Wine and Dine
If you're a wine lover, Houston has plenty of options for you too. From fine dining establishments with extensive wine lists to cozy wine bars with a relaxed atmosphere, Houston has it all. In this section, we'll take a closer look at some of the best wine-centric restaurants in Houston.
Brunch Spots
Brunch is a beloved tradition in Houston, and there's no shortage of amazing spots to indulge in this mid-morning meal. From classic breakfast fare to innovative twists on brunch classics, Houston has everything you need for a lazy weekend morning. In this section, we'll explore some of the best brunch spots in Houston.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
For those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, finding great restaurants can sometimes be a challenge. But in Houston, there are plenty of options for plant-based eaters. In this section, we'll highlight some of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Houston.
Dessert Destinations
No meal is complete without dessert, and Houston has plenty of amazing options for those with a sweet tooth. From indulgent chocolate creations to refreshing fruit-based desserts, Houston's pastry chefs are true artists. In this section, we'll take a closer look at some of the best dessert destinations in Houston.
Conclusion
Houston's food scene is truly something special. With so many incredible restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to know where to begin. But whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking for a great meal, Houston has everything you need to satisfy your cravings. We hope this article has given you some inspiration for your next dining adventure in Houston!
Introduction
Houston is a city with a rich culinary scene, offering diverse cuisines from all around the world. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming for locals and tourists alike to know where to start when it comes to finding great restaurants. In this article, we will explore some of the best restaurants in Houston in 2014.
Underbelly
Underbelly is a restaurant that celebrates Houston's diverse food culture by showcasing local ingredients and flavors. The menu changes regularly, depending on what's in season and available from local farmers and producers. Chef Chris Shepherd's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients has earned Underbelly numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest.
Pax Americana
Pax Americana is a contemporary American restaurant that focuses on using local, seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes. The menu features dishes such as Gulf shrimp with leek and fennel, and pork belly with sweet potato and pickled mustard seeds. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with a focus on natural and organic wines.
Kata Robata
Kata Robata is a Japanese restaurant that offers traditional sushi and sashimi, as well as modern Japanese dishes. The restaurant's sushi chef, Manabu Hori Horiuchi, has won numerous awards for his skill and creativity, including the Grand Prize at the World Sushi Cup in Tokyo. Kata Robata also has an impressive selection of sake and Japanese whiskey.
The Pass & Provisions
The Pass & Provisions is actually two restaurants in one, with The Pass offering a multi-course tasting menu and Provisions serving more casual fare. Both restaurants focus on using local and seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes. The Pass has earned several awards, including a spot on Bon Appétit's list of the Best New Restaurants in America.
Hugo's
Hugo's is a Mexican restaurant that features authentic regional cuisine from different parts of Mexico. Chef Hugo Ortega, who grew up in Mexico City, has won numerous awards for his creative interpretations of traditional Mexican dishes. The restaurant also has an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal.
Oxheart
Oxheart is a vegetable-focused restaurant that offers a multi-course tasting menu featuring local and seasonal ingredients. Chef Justin Yu's inventive dishes have earned Oxheart numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest. The restaurant is also known for its natural wine list.
Coltivare
Coltivare is an Italian restaurant that focuses on using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create rustic dishes. The menu features wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and house-cured meats. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, with a focus on Italian wines.
Caracol
Caracol is a coastal Mexican restaurant that features fresh seafood and bold flavors. The menu includes dishes such as ceviche, grilled octopus, and whole roasted fish. The restaurant also has an extensive tequila and mezcal list, as well as a selection of Mexican beers.
Uchi
Uchi is a Japanese restaurant that offers traditional sushi and sashimi, as well as innovative dishes that blend Japanese and other cuisines. The restaurant's sushi chef, Tyson Cole, has won numerous awards for his skill and creativity, including a James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest. Uchi also has an impressive selection of sake and Japanese whiskey.
Ninfa's on Navigation
Ninfa's on Navigation is a Houston institution, known for its legendary fajitas and margaritas. The restaurant was founded in 1973 by Mama Ninfa, who is credited with popularizing the fajita in the United States. Today, Ninfa's is still serving up classic Tex-Mex dishes, as well as more contemporary Mexican cuisine.
Conclusion
Houston's culinary scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants opening all the time. However, these ten restaurants have stood the test of time and continue to offer some of the best dining experiences in the city. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, Mexican food, or Italian cuisine, Houston has something to offer everyone.
Houston, known for its diverse culture and cuisine, is home to some of the best restaurants in the country. Whether you're looking for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, seafood, barbecue, or fine dining, Houston has it all. In this article, we'll take a culinary tour of Houston's diverse neighborhoods and highlight the best restaurants in each category.Authentic Tex-Mex Cuisine: Where to Find the Best Tacos, Enchiladas, and Queso in HoustonWhen it comes to Tex-Mex cuisine, Houston is the place to be. From tacos to enchiladas to queso, Houston has it all. Here are some of the best Tex-Mex restaurants in Houston:1. El Tiempo Cantina - With six locations across the city, El Tiempo Cantina is a Houston institution. Their fajitas are a must-try, but their enchiladas and tacos are also top-notch.2. Hugo's - Hugo's is known for its upscale take on Tex-Mex cuisine. While it may be pricier than some other options, it's worth it for the quality of the food. Their mole sauce is particularly noteworthy.3. The Original Ninfa's on Navigation - This restaurant has been around since 1973 and is credited with popularizing fajitas. Their tacos al carbon are a must-try, as is their famous green sauce.A Culinary Tour of Houston's Diverse Neighborhoods: Where to Go for Vietnamese, Indian, and Ethiopian CuisineHouston's diversity is reflected in its cuisine, with neighborhoods dedicated to specific ethnic foods. Here are some of the best restaurants in three of Houston's most vibrant ethnic neighborhoods:1. Midtown - For some of the best Vietnamese food in Houston, head to Midtown. Mai's Restaurant is a favorite for their pho and banh mi sandwiches.2. Hillcroft - Known as Houston's Little India, Hillcroft is the place to go for authentic Indian cuisine. Himalaya Restaurant is a standout, with dishes like chicken biryani and lamb vindaloo.3. Montrose - Montrose is home to many Ethiopian restaurants, but Lucy Ethiopian Restaurant & Lounge is one of the most popular. Their vegetarian platter is a must-try.Fine Dining in the Heart of Downtown: The Most Upscale Restaurants in HoustonFor a special occasion or a fancy night out, Houston has plenty of upscale dining options. Here are some of the best fine dining restaurants in downtown Houston:1. Da Marco - This Italian restaurant is consistently rated as one of the best in Houston. Their handmade pasta dishes and seafood options are particularly noteworthy.2. Potente - Located next to Minute Maid Park, Potente is a contemporary Italian restaurant with a focus on seafood. Their crudo (raw fish) dishes are a standout.3. Mastro's Steakhouse - For a classic steakhouse experience, Mastro's is a great choice. Their steaks are cooked to perfection and their sides are also top-notch.Seafood Lovers Unite: The Best Spots for Fresh Gulf Coast SeafoodAs a coastal city, Houston is known for its seafood. Here are some of the best spots for fresh Gulf Coast seafood:1. Goode Company Seafood - This restaurant has been around since 1978 and is known for its Gulf Coast seafood. Their fried shrimp and oysters are particularly popular.2. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen - With several locations across the city, Pappadeaux is a Houston favorite for seafood. Their seafood platters are a great way to try a variety of dishes.3. Caracol - This Mexican seafood restaurant is a unique twist on traditional seafood. Their octopus and ceviche dishes are especially noteworthy.Brunch in the Bayou City: Where to Indulge in Bottomless Mimosas and Chicken and WafflesBrunch is a popular pastime in Houston, with many restaurants offering bottomless mimosas and brunch favorites like chicken and waffles. Here are some of the best brunch spots in Houston:1. Snooze an A.M. Eatery - This breakfast and brunch restaurant has several locations across the city. Their pancake flights and breakfast pot pie are must-tries.2. The Breakfast Klub - This Southern-style breakfast spot is known for its chicken and waffles. Be prepared to wait in line, as it's a popular spot.3. Backstreet Cafe - This cozy cafe is a great spot for a leisurely brunch. Their brunch menu includes dishes like smoked salmon eggs benedict and brioche French toast.Houston's Best Barbecue: Where to Get Your Fix of Smoky, Slow-Cooked MeatsBarbecue is serious business in Houston, with many restaurants serving up smoky, slow-cooked meats. Here are some of the best barbecue spots in Houston:1. Killen's Barbecue - Located in Pearland, Killen's is consistently ranked as one of the best barbecue joints in the state. Their brisket and ribs are particularly noteworthy.2. Gatlin's BBQ - This family-owned barbecue joint has been around since 2010 and is known for its brisket and sausage. Their sides, like mac and cheese and collard greens, are also top-notch.3. CorkScrew BBQ - Located in Spring, CorkScrew is known for its brisket and pulled pork. Be prepared to wait in line, as it's a popular spot.Upscale Comfort Food: The Best Restaurants for Mac and Cheese, Fried Chicken, and MeatloafSometimes you just want some good old-fashioned comfort food, but with an upscale twist. Here are some of the best restaurants in Houston for upscale comfort food:1. State of Grace - This restaurant serves up Southern-inspired dishes with a twist. Their mac and cheese with crispy pork belly is a standout.2. Lucille's - Named after the owner's great-grandmother, Lucille's serves up classic Southern dishes like fried chicken and meatloaf. Their brunch menu is also noteworthy.3. Dish Society - This farm-to-table restaurant serves up comfort food made with local, seasonal ingredients. Their chicken fried steak and Brussels sprouts are particularly popular.A Night Out in Montrose: The Best Bars and Restaurants for Cocktails and Small PlatesMontrose is one of Houston's most vibrant neighborhoods, with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the best spots for cocktails and small plates:1. Anvil Bar & Refuge - This craft cocktail bar has been around since 2009 and is known for its innovative drinks. Their small plates are also top-notch.2. Goodnight Charlie's - This honky-tonk bar serves up Tex-Mex-inspired small plates and cocktails. Their rooftop patio is a great spot to enjoy a drink on a nice day.3. UB Preserv - This restaurant serves up Asian-inspired small plates and cocktails. Their dim sum-style brunch is a must-try.Hidden Gems: The Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants and Food Trucks in HoustonHouston is home to many hidden gems, from hole-in-the-wall restaurants to food trucks. Here are some of the best hidden gem restaurants and food trucks in Houston:1. Tacos Tierra Caliente - This food truck serves up some of the best tacos in Houston. Be prepared to wait in line, as it's a popular spot.2. La Guadalupana Bakery & Cafe - This Mexican bakery and cafe is a hidden gem in Montrose. Their breakfast tacos and chilaquiles are particularly popular.3. The Original Kolache Shoppe - This bakery has been around since 1956 and is known for its kolaches (a type of Czech pastry). Their sausage and cheese kolaches are a must-try.Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: The Best Dessert Spots in Houston for Ice Cream, Pie, and CupcakesFinally, no meal is complete without dessert. Here are some of the best dessert spots in Houston:1. Cloud 10 Creamery - This ice cream shop serves up inventive flavors like lavender honey and goat cheese with cherries. Their ice cream sandwiches are also noteworthy.2. House of Pies - This Houston institution has been around since 1967 and is known for its pies. Their coconut cream pie and chocolate cream pie are particularly popular.3. Crave Cupcakes - This local cupcake chain serves up classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, as well as seasonal flavors. Their red velvet cupcake is a standout.In conclusion, Houston is a food lover's paradise, with something for every taste and budget. Whether you're in the mood for seafood, barbecue, or fine dining, Houston has it all. So next time you're in the Bayou City, be sure to check out some of these amazing restaurants.
The Best Restaurants in Houston 2014
Point of View
As a food enthusiast and a resident of Houston, I have had the pleasure of dining at some of the best restaurants in the city. The culinary scene in Houston has been thriving in recent years, and the year 2014 was no exception. From classic Tex-Mex to innovative fusion cuisine, Houston's restaurants offer a diverse range of flavors and experiences. In my opinion, the following restaurants stood out as the best in Houston in 2014.Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-quality ingredients- Creative and flavorful dishes- Excellent service- Attractive and comfortable ambiance- Reasonable pricesCons
- Long wait times for table- Limited seating capacity- Some dishes may be too spicy or exotic for some diners- Limited parking optionsTable Comparison
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range | Ambiance | Service || --- | --- | --- | --- | --- || Oxheart | Contemporary American | $$$$ | Cozy and intimate | Attentive and knowledgeable || Uchi | Japanese | $$$ | Modern and trendy | Efficient and friendly || Caracol | Mexican | $$$ | Bright and colorful | Friendly and accommodating || Underbelly | Southern | $$ | Rustic and homey | Casual and laid-back || Coltivare | Italian | $$ | Casual and modern | Attentive and personable |Overall, the best restaurants in Houston in 2014 offered exceptional food, service, and atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Texas fare or international fusion cuisine, Houston's culinary scene has something to offer for every palate. While there may be some downsides such as long wait times or limited seating, the overall experience at these top restaurants is well worth it.
Discover the Best Restaurants in Houston 2014
Thank you for taking the time to read through our comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Houston for 2014. Whether you are a local or a visitor, we hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into some of the most exciting and innovative dining experiences that Houston has to offer.
As you have seen, Houston's restaurant scene is nothing short of exceptional. With a mix of traditional Texan cuisine and international flavors, there is something to suit every palate and budget. From fine dining to casual eateries, Houston has it all.
If you are looking for a special occasion spot, we highly recommend trying out one of the restaurants that made our top ten list. Each of these establishments offers a unique experience, from the sophisticated French cuisine at Tony's to the globally-inspired dishes at Uchi.
If you are looking for something more casual, Houston also boasts an array of fantastic restaurants that offer delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere. Our honorable mentions section highlights some of the best of these eateries, including the authentic Mexican cuisine at Hugo's and the creative sandwiches at Local Foods.
One thing that all of these restaurants have in common is their commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Houston has a thriving food scene, and many chefs are passionate about supporting local farmers and producers. This not only results in better-tasting food but also contributes to the sustainability of the community.
We hope that this article has inspired you to explore Houston's culinary landscape further and try out some of the restaurants that we have recommended. Whether you are a foodie or just someone who loves good food, Houston has something for everyone.
Remember, this is just a snapshot of the best restaurants in Houston for 2014. The restaurant scene is constantly evolving, and there are always new places popping up. We encourage you to keep exploring and trying out new restaurants to see what Houston has to offer.
Finally, we would like to thank all of the restaurants that we included in this article for their hard work and dedication to providing exceptional dining experiences. We know that running a restaurant is no easy feat, and we appreciate all of the effort that goes into creating delicious food and memorable dining experiences.
Thank you again for reading, and we hope that you enjoy your culinary adventures in Houston!
People Also Ask About the Best Restaurants in Houston 2014
What are the top-rated restaurants in Houston?
1. Uchi Houston
2. Oxheart Restaurant
3. Caracol
4. Killen's Steakhouse
5. The Pass & Provisions
6. Kata Robata Sushi + Grill
7. Underbelly
8. Reef
9. Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse
10. Hugo's
What are some affordable restaurants in Houston?
1. Les Givrals Kahve
2. Tacos Tierra Caliente
3. Pho Binh Trailer
4. Niko Niko’s Greek & American Café
5. El Rey Taqueria
6. Fainmous BBQ
7. The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation
8. Tampico Seafood & Cocina Mexicana
9. The Breakfast Klub
10. Lankford Grocery & Market
What are some romantic restaurants in Houston?
1. Rainbow Lodge
2. Tony's
3. Brennan's of Houston
4. Da Marco
5. Artisans Restaurant
6. Mark's American Cuisine
7. Peli Peli
8. Tony Mandola's Gulf Coast Kitchen
9. Backstreet Cafe
10. Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse
What are some restaurants with a view in Houston?
1. Spindletop Restaurant
2. The Grove
3. Downtown Aquarium
4. Brenner's Steakhouse on the Bayou
5. La Griglia
6. Monnalisa at the Hotel Sorella
7. The Dunlavy
8. 51fifteen Cuisine & Cocktails
9. Xochi
10. B&B Butchers & Restaurant