Houston is a melting pot where multicultural flavor abounds by Katharine Branham
Houston goes way beyond the classification of Bayou City. Houston is now the seventh largest city in the USA. It is standing strong in technology, arts, entertainment, and now dining. The city has undergone a major renovation project that has breathed new life into the downtown district and energized the entire metropolitan area.
Houston has the third most concentrated skyline following New York and Chicago. World renowned chefs have recently dared to open some fabulous dining spots with hopes to compete against Chicago for fine fare. Cultural diversity has given birth to many great culinary delights. And now, with so many choices, the bar has been raised and the best-of-the-best prevail.
Established in 1917, family-owned and operated Christie’s is the oldest restaurant in Houston. The restaurant has been awarded five blue ribbons for the remarkable cleanliness of the kitchen. Being family owned still today has ensured that the quality that once went into a dream continues to live on. Christie’s offers many dishes, the most popular of which is the fried shrimp served with onion rings, baked potato and a salad. The onion rings are oh-so-good. They have a tasty kid’s menu that is sure to please the little ones. Christie’s is sure to make you feel like family. The staff here loves what they do and it shows. Call ahead to reserve a banquet room for large parties.
Estimated dinner cost per person = $15
Holiday Schedule: Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas, Christmas Eve till 6:00, New Years Day-Closed, Valentines-Open, Easter-Open
When pulling into the parking lot, you are instantly greeted by the aroma of barbeque. Then you’re guided in by curiosity and gently introduced to true Texas barbeque. Out-of-towners will wish they lived here. Bread and pies onsite to ensure no taste is lost, as you’ll discover when sinking your teeth into the Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie. The stuffed baked potato loaded down with everything is a hot lunch item. The lunch crowd comes in prepared to throw back their ties and get down to business. All sauces served are bottled and made available for purchase, which gives every customer the opportunity to relive the experience back home. The label reads Goode Company BBQ Hall of Fame. Uncle Joe’s Secret Sauce, which comes in a wood crate, is my favorite. It’s sure to put and smile on anyone’s face.
Estimated cost per person $8- $15. Holiday Schedule: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Day-Closed, Valentines-Open, Easter-Open
Passion for perfection is alive and well at Tony’s. Tony’s uses organic and free range products. The décor is breathtaking with the oversize art that surrounds you. Each and every menu item that passes through the kitchen door leaves as a work of art. Almost too spectacular to eat, the experience is extraordinary. A favorite dish of mine is the tableside-carved Roasted Amish Chicken. Leaving without dessert would be an injustice. I recommend the ice cream bomb that will literally light up your night ;-) But for those of who prefer not to draw attention, Tony’s makes a chocolate mousse that will finish the evening with low-key brilliance. Reservations recommended during the holiday season.
Estimated cost per person for dinner= $75-$100
Holiday Schedule: Closed all Holidays except Valentines
NIKO NIKO’S 2520 Montrose, Houston TX (713)528-gyro Hours: Mon-Thurs 10-10, Fri-Sat 10-11, Sun 11-9
Niko Niko’s is a Greek & American Café that has continued to grow strong since 1977. It’s the hottest spot for a quick bite of delicious Greek cuisine. Don’t worry if there’s a line, because it moves very fast. Dolmades, a real favorite, are Grape leaves stuffed with ground beef & rice topped with a lemon sauce and served with a Greek salad piled high with Feta cheese. Energetic staff makes this place fun and exciting. Niko’s has expanded since it first opened its doors; and while it grows, so does the following. If you’re cool or think you are, then you know of Niko Niko’s. Outdoor dining is available. No reservation needed.
Estimated cost per person= $15
Holiday Schedule: Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Day-Open, Valentines Day-Open, American Easter-Closed, Greek Easter-Open
THE DOWNTOWN AQUARIUM 410 Bagby St. @ Memorial (713) 223-FISH Hours: Sun-Thurs 11:00-10:00pm, Friday-Sat 11:00-11:00pm
Right in the heart of Houston is the Aquarium which has managed to encompass wonderful dining, entertainment, games, and a 150,000-gallon you-guessed it. If you have a group of various ages, there is something for all. While the rides and games continue all day, some may decide to take a beautiful and educational tour of some of the most exotic creatures of the sea. The restaurant is packed with dishes that range from Jumbo Fried Shrimp to the Fisherman Platter that happens to be loaded down with everything. The Lobster is juicy and plump. Each dessert arrives with a special theme. The ultimate Favorite is The Treasure Chest: a chocolate treasure box with candies inside. I just love it.
Estimated cost per person for dinner= $15 - $45
Holiday Schedule: Open all Holidays except Christmas Day
DA MARCO’S 1520 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77006 (713) 807-8857 Hours: Tues-Fri 11:30-2pm Lunch, Tues-Thurs 5:30-10:00pm Dinner, Closed Sun & Mon
You’ll be charmed by the authentic Italian cuisine at Da Marco’s. The chef offers a special soup of the day to complement any of the show-cased entrees. The dilemma here is deciding what to order. Everything is great. The Roasted Texas Quail, Roasted Pork Loin, and Maple Leaf Duck are only a few of the mouthwatering delicacies. They offer a 48oz. Porter House that has become a frequent requested favorite. Keeping true to Italy, they have the best hand made Cannoli in town. The quality of service is impeccable. The wait staff is well seasoned. Reservations are suggested to ensure a table.
Estimated cost per person for dinner= $45 - $75
Holiday Schedule: Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day Closed, New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open
This fine Steakhouse is grand in appearance and class, offering plush décor and rich flavor. Anyone who wants a dining experience fit for the king himself will find it here. The starters include Calamari served with sweet and spicy peppers, Blue Point Oyster Rockefeller, and the Tomato & Mozzarella with vinaigrette and reduced balsamic just to name a few. If you enjoy Lobster Bisque you’ll find the best here. My favorite is the rack of Lamb. The best steak is the Filet Mignon. A couple of their best desserts are Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee and Cookies & Milk. Vic & Anthony’s prefer business attire or dressy casual. Jacket and Tie are commonly worn here. Reservations on weekends are recommended.
IRMA’S SOUTHWESTERN GRILL 1314 TX @ Austin, Houston, TX (2 blocks west of Minute Maid Park on the corner) (713) 247-9651 Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-3:00pm - game day open 3 hours before game except Sun.
The Tex-Mex cuisine here is a genuine tribute to Texas heritage. Served hot and fresh, the breakfast is wild in flavor with a down home appearance. An original collection of Irma’s family favorites are also served. The best spinach enchiladas exist here at Irma’s. They are as real as it gets. Irma’s makes homemade lemonade that taste like the kind Grandma used to make. This place is sure to make anyone’s top ten list.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $10-$15
Holiday Schedule: Closed all Holidays except Valentines Day
MARK’S AMERICAN CUISINE 1658 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX (713) 523-3800 Hours: Mon-Fri 11-2pm (lunch), Mon-Fri 5-10pm (dinner), Sat 5:30-12:00pm, Sun 5-10pm
The true tranquil beauty of this restaurant is apparent from the moment you walk in. The building itself is a church. Mark’s has managed to turn a blessed building into a blessed business. In fact, it’s recommend to make reservations two to three weeks in advance. Mark Cox is the proprietor and Chef. He promotes a well rounded experience by offering the finest culinary delights. Chef specials are offered by seasonal availability. He only serves the best quality, making Mark’s perhaps the most sought after dining spots in Houston. Copper River Salmon and the Duck are sure to surpass expectations. Setting their food apart from the competition, Mark’s wants only the freshest for their customers. The verbal menu changes several times a day depending on what has just arrived. Desserts are aplenty but the raspberry shortbread tart is sure to be a favorite.
Estimated cost per person=$100
Holiday Schedule: Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve & Day-Closed, New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Closed
THE RAINBOW LODGE 2011 East @ TC Jester, Houston, TX (713) 861-8666 Hours: Mon-Closed (except December), Tues-Fri 11:30am-10:30pm, Sat-6:00-10:30pm, Sun 10:30am-10:30pm
This enchanted lodge plays host to weddings, private parties, and corporate events. It has an acre of beautifully landscaped grounds with a majestic feel. The Lodge is known for its ambiance, making it the most romantic setting. The menu is made up of wild game dishes that bring this restaurant into a class all its own. While most would hardly attempt to make wild game a niche, the Lodge has mastered the art. A true favorite here is the Medallion Grilled Duck Breast with a Wild Boar Chop. They have a five course meal called The Wild Game Safari. Desserts run as wild as the main course with Jack Daniels Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie. Chocolate lovers are welcome to the warmly served ‘Triple Chocolate Torte’. Rainbow is a great choice if for anyone seeking a truly unique dining experience.
The Top List of Great Restaurants - Houston, TX