Guidebook for Houston

Hunter
Guidebook for Houston

Drinks & Nightlife

from Houston Press: “Anvil Bar & Refuge is like the Jay-Z of Houston bars. It can do no wrong, from the food to the drinks to the skill of the bartenders. Since opening in mid-2009, it has become the standard by which most other local bars define themselves. They either want to be better than Anvil, or not as supposedly "snooty" or "posh" as they think it is. Either one is a sign of the impact the Westheimer drinkery has had. You can't drive three blocks inside the Loop without finding a new gastropub either tweaking Anvil's concept or stealing it outright. Anvil makes drinks the way they should be made, with homemade ingredients, craft liquors, loving care, and no soda nozzles or Red Bull.”
214 locals recommend
Anvil Bar & Refuge
1424 Westheimer Rd
214 locals recommend
from Houston Press: “Anvil Bar & Refuge is like the Jay-Z of Houston bars. It can do no wrong, from the food to the drinks to the skill of the bartenders. Since opening in mid-2009, it has become the standard by which most other local bars define themselves. They either want to be better than Anvil, or not as supposedly "snooty" or "posh" as they think it is. Either one is a sign of the impact the Westheimer drinkery has had. You can't drive three blocks inside the Loop without finding a new gastropub either tweaking Anvil's concept or stealing it outright. Anvil makes drinks the way they should be made, with homemade ingredients, craft liquors, loving care, and no soda nozzles or Red Bull.”
from Houston Press - Cecil's is a Montrose drinking institution, full of a surliness and warmth that only family can give you. The small television nook to the left of the bar, complete with a worn-in couch, is perfect for lazing the night away after a day in the high-rise salt mines down the street. It's easy to hide inside a darkened booth if that's your bag, or you can hold court out on the deck. To soundtrack your pool-sharking or dart-throwing ways, the jukebox oozes with old punk rock and other required Houston roots selections. For the thrifty drinker, Monday nights feature cheap wells and draw a huge, smoky crowd, and grilled foods to the front deck.
6 locals recommend
Cecil's Pub
600 W Gray St
6 locals recommend
from Houston Press - Cecil's is a Montrose drinking institution, full of a surliness and warmth that only family can give you. The small television nook to the left of the bar, complete with a worn-in couch, is perfect for lazing the night away after a day in the high-rise salt mines down the street. It's easy to hide inside a darkened booth if that's your bag, or you can hold court out on the deck. To soundtrack your pool-sharking or dart-throwing ways, the jukebox oozes with old punk rock and other required Houston roots selections. For the thrifty drinker, Monday nights feature cheap wells and draw a huge, smoky crowd, and grilled foods to the front deck.
Nightclub
133 locals recommend
Clé
2301 Main St
133 locals recommend
Nightclub
from ZAGAT - The team behind Coltivare and Revival Market have converted an old gas station into this modern, elevated Heights icehouse specializing in craft beer, on-site cask bourbons, frozen cocktails and inventive tacos served from a slick backyard food truck.
93 locals recommend
Eight Row Flint
1039 Yale St
93 locals recommend
from ZAGAT - The team behind Coltivare and Revival Market have converted an old gas station into this modern, elevated Heights icehouse specializing in craft beer, on-site cask bourbons, frozen cocktails and inventive tacos served from a slick backyard food truck.
from HoustonPress - Griff's, a very neighborhood-oriented sports bar, serves standard, artery-clogging bar food all day up until closing time. The interior is comfortable and worn - read: this falls on the dive side of the dive-fancy spectrum, in a good way - and the patio is spacious. Friday and Saturday nights bring dollar Lone Stars and a DJ-fueled party atmosphere, but most other times you can enjoy a reasonably peaceful bite in a 45-year-old bar. Tuesday is steak night and Wednesday brings pork chops, both for around ten bucks.
9 locals recommend
Grif's
3416 Roseland St
9 locals recommend
from HoustonPress - Griff's, a very neighborhood-oriented sports bar, serves standard, artery-clogging bar food all day up until closing time. The interior is comfortable and worn - read: this falls on the dive side of the dive-fancy spectrum, in a good way - and the patio is spacious. Friday and Saturday nights bring dollar Lone Stars and a DJ-fueled party atmosphere, but most other times you can enjoy a reasonably peaceful bite in a 45-year-old bar. Tuesday is steak night and Wednesday brings pork chops, both for around ten bucks.
from ZAGAT - Championing the metaphor of craft beer (mongoose) triumphing over bigger beer brands (cobra), this Midtown bar with myriad taps and a knack for cocktails attracts an educated crowd that appreciates things like hop subtleties, Fernet on draft and upscale snacks to accompany; its modern interior marries brick, wood and metal, with vine-covered walls and monthly poetry readings softening its machismo.
53 locals recommend
Mongoose Versus Cobra
1011 McGowen St
53 locals recommend
from ZAGAT - Championing the metaphor of craft beer (mongoose) triumphing over bigger beer brands (cobra), this Midtown bar with myriad taps and a knack for cocktails attracts an educated crowd that appreciates things like hop subtleties, Fernet on draft and upscale snacks to accompany; its modern interior marries brick, wood and metal, with vine-covered walls and monthly poetry readings softening its machismo.
from Houston Press - Where else in Houston could you see Valient Thorr, eat a near-orgasmic cheeseburger (seriously, it's kinda sexy), watch the Rockets on the tube and play a game of drunkenly dangerous darts all in the same night? Rudyard's, that's where! Located just off Waugh in the Montrose and amidst town homes and sketchy backstreets, its charm isn't manufactured or pre-packaged like all the other corporate "pubs" in town. Rudz is a product of its environment through and through, populated by our city's own indie musicians and artists. The beer menu is lively and always changing, so be sure to stop by frequently to taste some of the state's best micro-brews. Also, the bathroom wall gr
39 locals recommend
Rudyard's British Pub and Grill
2010 Waugh Dr
39 locals recommend
from Houston Press - Where else in Houston could you see Valient Thorr, eat a near-orgasmic cheeseburger (seriously, it's kinda sexy), watch the Rockets on the tube and play a game of drunkenly dangerous darts all in the same night? Rudyard's, that's where! Located just off Waugh in the Montrose and amidst town homes and sketchy backstreets, its charm isn't manufactured or pre-packaged like all the other corporate "pubs" in town. Rudz is a product of its environment through and through, populated by our city's own indie musicians and artists. The beer menu is lively and always changing, so be sure to stop by frequently to taste some of the state's best micro-brews. Also, the bathroom wall gr

Food Scene

from Zagat : “Meat lovers can dine in at this upscale, wood-and-brick-accented steakhouse located on one side of a vintage former bakery, or drop in for takeout from the attached butcher shop and deli. The elegant restaurant, which offers rooftop dining with city views, features a wide variety of house-aged cuts and chops as well as shareable steaks, seafood options and a raw bar, along with wines by the glass and signature cocktails.”
73 locals recommend
B&B Butchers & Restaurant
1814 Washington Ave
73 locals recommend
from Zagat : “Meat lovers can dine in at this upscale, wood-and-brick-accented steakhouse located on one side of a vintage former bakery, or drop in for takeout from the attached butcher shop and deli. The elegant restaurant, which offers rooftop dining with city views, features a wide variety of house-aged cuts and chops as well as shareable steaks, seafood options and a raw bar, along with wines by the glass and signature cocktails.”
from ZAGAT - Located downtown among a myriad of restaurants and bars including The Original OKRA Charity Saloon, Goro & Gun, Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar and Little Dipper, Batanga offers a price break on Latin American tapas and refreshing libations during its weekday happy hour from 4 to 7 PM. Grab a seat inside or on the expansive outdoor patio and order $4 plates like the Cuban mojo chicken skewers, crispy patatas Batanga with smoky chili aioli sauce and chickpea puree with flatbread. For five dollars each, throw back tasty sips like a mojito, or glass of sangria, red or white wine, and beer is just $3.
33 locals recommend
Batanga
908 Congress St
33 locals recommend
from ZAGAT - Located downtown among a myriad of restaurants and bars including The Original OKRA Charity Saloon, Goro & Gun, Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar and Little Dipper, Batanga offers a price break on Latin American tapas and refreshing libations during its weekday happy hour from 4 to 7 PM. Grab a seat inside or on the expansive outdoor patio and order $4 plates like the Cuban mojo chicken skewers, crispy patatas Batanga with smoky chili aioli sauce and chickpea puree with flatbread. For five dollars each, throw back tasty sips like a mojito, or glass of sangria, red or white wine, and beer is just $3.
from Houston Press : “A River Oaks playground for Houston's rich and famous, Brasserie 19 nevertheless has the food to match the crowds and the hype, turning out classic French and Belgian staples like steak frites and cassoulet and serving an impressive list of beers and wines to match. The sleek bar is the place to be if you're young and single, while the restaurant's main floor is a gathering point for socialites and food-lovers alike. The egalitarian patio is the most pleasant spot to dine, however, with far less noise and a pretty view of the brightly lit River Oaks Theatre marquee across West Gray.”
54 locals recommend
Brasserie 19
1962 W Gray St
54 locals recommend
from Houston Press : “A River Oaks playground for Houston's rich and famous, Brasserie 19 nevertheless has the food to match the crowds and the hype, turning out classic French and Belgian staples like steak frites and cassoulet and serving an impressive list of beers and wines to match. The sleek bar is the place to be if you're young and single, while the restaurant's main floor is a gathering point for socialites and food-lovers alike. The egalitarian patio is the most pleasant spot to dine, however, with far less noise and a pretty view of the brightly lit River Oaks Theatre marquee across West Gray.”
from Zagat : “Gourmet burgers, grilled hot dogs, sandwiches and shakes headline the locally sourced menu at this Montrose brick-and-mortar by popular food truckers Shawn Bermudez and Matthew Pak. The open-garage concept attracts families, singles and late-night revelers with a generous decked-out patio sporting picnic tables, large-screen TVs and an inside bar with 24 beers on tap.”
77 locals recommend
The Burger Joint
2703 Montrose Blvd
77 locals recommend
from Zagat : “Gourmet burgers, grilled hot dogs, sandwiches and shakes headline the locally sourced menu at this Montrose brick-and-mortar by popular food truckers Shawn Bermudez and Matthew Pak. The open-garage concept attracts families, singles and late-night revelers with a generous decked-out patio sporting picnic tables, large-screen TVs and an inside bar with 24 beers on tap.”
from Houston Press - Behind Cafe Brussels is Catherine Duwez, who once operated Cafe Montrose and the Broken Spoke, both of which were fine Belgian restaurants. There’s a rhyme to remember when dining at this restaurant. “At Café Brussels, get the mussels.” There are five different varieties of the steaming pots of mollusks here in both appetizer and main course sizes and three different plated presentations, including a sampler with both the garlic butter sauce and Roquefort cheese renditions. The saucy moules en casserole varieties include the classic white wine and more adventurous ones like curry sauce and spicy Moules Diable. We recommend the entrée size for the side order of Belgian fr
25 locals recommend
Cafe Brussels
1718 Houston Ave
25 locals recommend
from Houston Press - Behind Cafe Brussels is Catherine Duwez, who once operated Cafe Montrose and the Broken Spoke, both of which were fine Belgian restaurants. There’s a rhyme to remember when dining at this restaurant. “At Café Brussels, get the mussels.” There are five different varieties of the steaming pots of mollusks here in both appetizer and main course sizes and three different plated presentations, including a sampler with both the garlic butter sauce and Roquefort cheese renditions. The saucy moules en casserole varieties include the classic white wine and more adventurous ones like curry sauce and spicy Moules Diable. We recommend the entrée size for the side order of Belgian fr
from Houston Press - “Cedar Creek Cafe is a beer-and-burger joint that calls itself a Hill Country Cafe and wishes it was in Austin. The yearning for the vibe of Texas' hipster capital is overwhelming. Take advantage of the free wi-fi -- when it is free that is -- and soak in the frat element here. The excellent house java is supplied by Katz Coffee Company, and the breakfasts are excellent, even though the restaurant doesn't open until 11 a.m. on most days.”
76 locals recommend
Cedar Creek Cafe Bar & Grill
1034 W 20th St
76 locals recommend
from Houston Press - “Cedar Creek Cafe is a beer-and-burger joint that calls itself a Hill Country Cafe and wishes it was in Austin. The yearning for the vibe of Texas' hipster capital is overwhelming. Take advantage of the free wi-fi -- when it is free that is -- and soak in the frat element here. The excellent house java is supplied by Katz Coffee Company, and the breakfasts are excellent, even though the restaurant doesn't open until 11 a.m. on most days.”
from Houston Press - “Founded in Austin, this is a favorite hangout of young Anglos who like to drink. You can almost always expect a long wait at this noisy, crowded spot, which has colorful decor and a large outdoor patio. The strong suit at Chuy's is the sauces and the ultra-thin, crispy tortilla chips. The creamy jalapeño and Hatch green chile sauce will not be found elsewhere. If you're into "Big As Yo' Face" burritos and combination plates, you'll be at home here.”
49 locals recommend
Chuy's
2706 Westheimer Rd
49 locals recommend
from Houston Press - “Founded in Austin, this is a favorite hangout of young Anglos who like to drink. You can almost always expect a long wait at this noisy, crowded spot, which has colorful decor and a large outdoor patio. The strong suit at Chuy's is the sauces and the ultra-thin, crispy tortilla chips. The creamy jalapeño and Hatch green chile sauce will not be found elsewhere. If you're into "Big As Yo' Face" burritos and combination plates, you'll be at home here.”
from Houston Press - JINYA Ramen Bar’s sleek, sophisticated atmosphere stops just shy of “dress to impress,” but it would make total sense to take a date there—as long as you don’t mind your date watching you wrangle noodles into your mouth. (If he or she doesn’t mind it, that one’s a keeper.) JINYA is one of the franchise locations that evolved from Robata Jinya, which started in Tokyo. They now have 14 locations and as far as ramen goes, they’ve got it down to a science. Their milky-white, porky tonkotsu broth seems to take over every taste bud with its goodness and noodles are the perfect firmness every time. Servers are more than capable of guiding diners to a good beverage choice, wheth
119 locals recommend
JINYA Ramen Bar
3201 Louisiana St
119 locals recommend
from Houston Press - JINYA Ramen Bar’s sleek, sophisticated atmosphere stops just shy of “dress to impress,” but it would make total sense to take a date there—as long as you don’t mind your date watching you wrangle noodles into your mouth. (If he or she doesn’t mind it, that one’s a keeper.) JINYA is one of the franchise locations that evolved from Robata Jinya, which started in Tokyo. They now have 14 locations and as far as ramen goes, they’ve got it down to a science. Their milky-white, porky tonkotsu broth seems to take over every taste bud with its goodness and noodles are the perfect firmness every time. Servers are more than capable of guiding diners to a good beverage choice, wheth
OPEN 24 hours - from Zagat : “A “legendary” LES landmark since 1888 (with its first offshoot in Brooklyn’s DeKalb Market Hall), this “bucket lister” remains the “gold standard” for “sky-high” pastrami sandwiches and other “real-deal” Jewish deli eats; the “crowded, hectic” space is “nothing to talk about”, but for a “classic NYC” experience it still has many joining 'When Harry Met Sally' fans in shouting “yes, yes, yes!””
54 locals recommend
Katz's Deli
616 Westheimer Rd
54 locals recommend
OPEN 24 hours - from Zagat : “A “legendary” LES landmark since 1888 (with its first offshoot in Brooklyn’s DeKalb Market Hall), this “bucket lister” remains the “gold standard” for “sky-high” pastrami sandwiches and other “real-deal” Jewish deli eats; the “crowded, hectic” space is “nothing to talk about”, but for a “classic NYC” experience it still has many joining 'When Harry Met Sally' fans in shouting “yes, yes, yes!””
from Fodor’s : You know you've come to a dining hot spot when you're greeted by the cement handprints of local notables outside the front doors of the ebullient La Griglia. Even after all these years (it opened in 1991), no other Houston restaurant can match its buzzy social energy. Dramatic decor, an open kitchen, imaginative and dependable food, and fair prices make this River Oaks favorite a touchstone among those in the know (and in the gossip columns). This place fills by 7 pm, so arrive early or prepare to enjoy the scenery for a while. Try the seafood cheesecake, maybe the richest appetizer in town and worth every calorie or smooth, silky shrimp bisque. Soft-shell crabs and fillet of
31 locals recommend
La Griglia
2817 W Gray St
31 locals recommend
from Fodor’s : You know you've come to a dining hot spot when you're greeted by the cement handprints of local notables outside the front doors of the ebullient La Griglia. Even after all these years (it opened in 1991), no other Houston restaurant can match its buzzy social energy. Dramatic decor, an open kitchen, imaginative and dependable food, and fair prices make this River Oaks favorite a touchstone among those in the know (and in the gossip columns). This place fills by 7 pm, so arrive early or prepare to enjoy the scenery for a while. Try the seafood cheesecake, maybe the richest appetizer in town and worth every calorie or smooth, silky shrimp bisque. Soft-shell crabs and fillet of
from Houston Press - The group is attempting to do something never done before in Houston—Vietnamese fine dining. Unlike many restaurants in Houston's International District, Le Colonial has been designed as an upscale beauty, which fits in nicely within the ritzy River Oaks District. The interior design is reminiscent of a 1920s French Colonial villa in Southeast Asia, with high, pressed tin ceilings, palm fronds and vintage black and white photographs from the era. In addition to patio dining, Le Colonial’s first floor contains the restaurant space while a bar and lounge area are on the second floor.
38 locals recommend
Le Colonial
4444 Westheimer Rd
38 locals recommend
from Houston Press - The group is attempting to do something never done before in Houston—Vietnamese fine dining. Unlike many restaurants in Houston's International District, Le Colonial has been designed as an upscale beauty, which fits in nicely within the ritzy River Oaks District. The interior design is reminiscent of a 1920s French Colonial villa in Southeast Asia, with high, pressed tin ceilings, palm fronds and vintage black and white photographs from the era. In addition to patio dining, Le Colonial’s first floor contains the restaurant space while a bar and lounge area are on the second floor.
from Zagat - “Food-trucker/chef Cat Huynh brings his first brick-and-mortar to Montrose, featuring Vietnamese breakfast and coffees, banh mi sandwiches, spring rolls, pho and Japanese beer. The cool, pint-size space with blond-wood walls and pitched exposed-wood ceilings attracts hipsters, coffee-shop lingerers and foodies on the go for counter-service fare.”
25 locals recommend
LES BA'GET
1717 Montrose Blvd
25 locals recommend
from Zagat - “Food-trucker/chef Cat Huynh brings his first brick-and-mortar to Montrose, featuring Vietnamese breakfast and coffees, banh mi sandwiches, spring rolls, pho and Japanese beer. The cool, pint-size space with blond-wood walls and pitched exposed-wood ceilings attracts hipsters, coffee-shop lingerers and foodies on the go for counter-service fare.”
from HoustonPress - Chef David Luna's modern Texas fare at Line & Lariat showcases the best the Lone Star State has to offer, from surf to turf. Try the Gulf-caught red snapper or cobia for lighter fare that doesn't skimp on flavor, or go whole hog with an antelope steak or mustard-roasted wild boar chop. You'll find everything from German and Mexican to cowboy and Cajun influences on the menu, which ranges from pulled pork tostadas (which make a great bar snack with a pint of locally brewed beer) to filé gumbo filled with Gulf shrimp and local chicken — all of it served in a converted two-story bank lobby that's simply the most stunning dining room downtown.
Line & Lariat
220 Main St
from HoustonPress - Chef David Luna's modern Texas fare at Line & Lariat showcases the best the Lone Star State has to offer, from surf to turf. Try the Gulf-caught red snapper or cobia for lighter fare that doesn't skimp on flavor, or go whole hog with an antelope steak or mustard-roasted wild boar chop. You'll find everything from German and Mexican to cowboy and Cajun influences on the menu, which ranges from pulled pork tostadas (which make a great bar snack with a pint of locally brewed beer) to filé gumbo filled with Gulf shrimp and local chicken — all of it served in a converted two-story bank lobby that's simply the most stunning dining room downtown.
from ZAGAT - Touted as “excellent in every respect”, this “top-tier” Galleria-area New American offers “varied selections” of mains and more including game and “unusual fish species” that “always taste fresh out of whatever sea they came from”; “reasonably quiet for a Houston restaurant” and sporting a contemporary look with clean lines and muted colors, it’s a “great choice for an expense-account dinner” or “special occasion.”
15 locals recommend
H-Town Ductz Clean
9655 Katy Freeway
15 locals recommend
from ZAGAT - Touted as “excellent in every respect”, this “top-tier” Galleria-area New American offers “varied selections” of mains and more including game and “unusual fish species” that “always taste fresh out of whatever sea they came from”; “reasonably quiet for a Houston restaurant” and sporting a contemporary look with clean lines and muted colors, it’s a “great choice for an expense-account dinner” or “special occasion.”
ZAGAT - Upscale espresso bar meets specialty grocer at this artisanal duo in Rice Village and Montrose, where latte artists fill cups w/ frothy drinks made from locally sourced beans. Gourmands can shop a curated display of fancy food items, from farm-fresh selections to Chemex coffeemakers. P.S. This location offers beer and wine, plus WiFi & playful indoor swing seating. website - “We are part espresso bar, part specialty grocery, & part artistic expression. Nestled in the heart of Rice Village, mission is to provide hard to find coffee & food products that are made with the same values & integrity that we have. w/products from all over the country, we promise something new every time.
28 locals recommend
Mercantile
5411 Morningside Dr
28 locals recommend
ZAGAT - Upscale espresso bar meets specialty grocer at this artisanal duo in Rice Village and Montrose, where latte artists fill cups w/ frothy drinks made from locally sourced beans. Gourmands can shop a curated display of fancy food items, from farm-fresh selections to Chemex coffeemakers. P.S. This location offers beer and wine, plus WiFi & playful indoor swing seating. website - “We are part espresso bar, part specialty grocery, & part artistic expression. Nestled in the heart of Rice Village, mission is to provide hard to find coffee & food products that are made with the same values & integrity that we have. w/products from all over the country, we promise something new every time.
from Houston Press - “Moon Tower Inn isn't a restaurant as much as it is a beacon in the night: Come here and we will comfort you with sausages and beer. Out here in the wilds of the Second Ward, Moon Tower's young owners have carved out a space for people just like them, people who crave good food, good beer, a place to park their bicycles and absolutely no intruding sense of normalcy. Relax with a beer on the knobbly open-air patio while you dither between buffalo or rabbit dogs. Whatever you do, leave your attitude and expectations at the door and you'll be a happy camper.”
120 locals recommend
Moon Tower Inn
3004 Canal St
120 locals recommend
from Houston Press - “Moon Tower Inn isn't a restaurant as much as it is a beacon in the night: Come here and we will comfort you with sausages and beer. Out here in the wilds of the Second Ward, Moon Tower's young owners have carved out a space for people just like them, people who crave good food, good beer, a place to park their bicycles and absolutely no intruding sense of normalcy. Relax with a beer on the knobbly open-air patio while you dither between buffalo or rabbit dogs. Whatever you do, leave your attitude and expectations at the door and you'll be a happy camper.”
from Zagat - “These counter-serve cafes dole out what many consider the “best authentic Greek food in Houston” – from “legendary” gyros to “great” Greek salads to “outstanding” baklava – in a “fun, casual atmosphere”; there's “always a line” at the Montrose “institution” (“it's worth the wait”), and the quaint Downtown branch on Market Square Park offers outdoor seating and lunch options”
116 locals recommend
Niko Niko's
2520 Montrose Blvd
116 locals recommend
from Zagat - “These counter-serve cafes dole out what many consider the “best authentic Greek food in Houston” – from “legendary” gyros to “great” Greek salads to “outstanding” baklava – in a “fun, casual atmosphere”; there's “always a line” at the Montrose “institution” (“it's worth the wait”), and the quaint Downtown branch on Market Square Park offers outdoor seating and lunch options”
from Houston Press - “The quirky Navigation original still can remind you what all the fuss was about. Peerless beef fajitas, complex green and red salsas, and hand-patted flour tortillas define their genres. The quesos, carnitas and grilled platters seem largely undiminished. The engaging back room, with its snaky A/C ducts and paucity of right angles, remains a nonstop party.”
265 locals recommend
The Original Ninfa's on Navigation
2704 Navigation Blvd
265 locals recommend
from Houston Press - “The quirky Navigation original still can remind you what all the fuss was about. Peerless beef fajitas, complex green and red salsas, and hand-patted flour tortillas define their genres. The quesos, carnitas and grilled platters seem largely undiminished. The engaging back room, with its snaky A/C ducts and paucity of right angles, remains a nonstop party.”
from Zagat: “So much more than a coffeehouse”, this Heights “hangout” also has a “fantastic” selection of beer and wine, plus a casual dining menu served in a “laid-back” setting with outdoor seating that brings “a touch of Austin” to Houston; with service that is “no-nonsense and quick” and a “friendly” vibe, it's a “go-to” for many.
96 locals recommend
Onion Creek Coffee House, Bar and Lounge
3106 White Oak Dr
96 locals recommend
from Zagat: “So much more than a coffeehouse”, this Heights “hangout” also has a “fantastic” selection of beer and wine, plus a casual dining menu served in a “laid-back” setting with outdoor seating that brings “a touch of Austin” to Houston; with service that is “no-nonsense and quick” and a “friendly” vibe, it's a “go-to” for many.
from ZAGAT - A giant map of the U.S. cut from a single piece of steel hangs in the quaint dining room of this high-energy modern American in Montrose. Amid the rotating collection of contemporary artwork – which includes an authentic Andy Warhol and several pieces by Keith Haring – a focused menu showcases a balanced mix of small plates, specialty items, desserts and entrees.
56 locals recommend
Pax Americana Restaurant
4319 Montrose Blvd
56 locals recommend
from ZAGAT - A giant map of the U.S. cut from a single piece of steel hangs in the quaint dining room of this high-energy modern American in Montrose. Amid the rotating collection of contemporary artwork – which includes an authentic Andy Warhol and several pieces by Keith Haring – a focused menu showcases a balanced mix of small plates, specialty items, desserts and entrees.
from ZAGAT - Though some consider it a “hike” to suburban Cypress, the pay-off is “wonderful” at this lively spot serving up “generous portions” of “fabulously presented” South African fusion fare; the “beautiful” space features an artistically rendered 30-ft.-tall Acadia tree inside, and is especially upbeat on nights when there’s live music. P.S. There's also an outpost at Uptown's The Galleria.
30 locals recommend
Peli Peli Galleria
5085 Westheimer Rd
30 locals recommend
from ZAGAT - Though some consider it a “hike” to suburban Cypress, the pay-off is “wonderful” at this lively spot serving up “generous portions” of “fabulously presented” South African fusion fare; the “beautiful” space features an artistically rendered 30-ft.-tall Acadia tree inside, and is especially upbeat on nights when there’s live music. P.S. There's also an outpost at Uptown's The Galleria.
Fantastic Vietnamese food/Pho. I think it's one of the best in the city. Next to California, Houston has the largest population of Vietnamese people on the United States.
21 locals recommend
Pho Saigon
2808 Milam St
21 locals recommend
Fantastic Vietnamese food/Pho. I think it's one of the best in the city. Next to California, Houston has the largest population of Vietnamese people on the United States.
from Zagat : It feels like Houston welcomes a new craft brewery every week what with Under the Radar, Eureka Heights, Sigma and Holler offering suds in 2016 alone, to name but a few. So what sets this Washington Corridor locale apart? For starters, Australian hops find their way into several brews like the Bobby Dazzler and Troppo. Second, the kitchen turns out authentic Aussie comfort foods of sausage rolls and lamingtons. Oh, and the master brewer is a woman — need we go on?
33 locals recommend
Platypus Brewing
1902 Washington Ave
33 locals recommend
from Zagat : It feels like Houston welcomes a new craft brewery every week what with Under the Radar, Eureka Heights, Sigma and Holler offering suds in 2016 alone, to name but a few. So what sets this Washington Corridor locale apart? For starters, Australian hops find their way into several brews like the Bobby Dazzler and Troppo. Second, the kitchen turns out authentic Aussie comfort foods of sausage rolls and lamingtons. Oh, and the master brewer is a woman — need we go on?
from website - Relish offers seasonal, sustainable, locally-inspired cuisine in the Upper Kirby District in Houston. Our food combines traditional American fare with a refined, modern sensibility. Relish is a neighborhood restaurant for friends and family and a destination for diners.
8 locals recommend
Relish Restaurant & Bar
2810 Westheimer Rd
8 locals recommend
from website - Relish offers seasonal, sustainable, locally-inspired cuisine in the Upper Kirby District in Houston. Our food combines traditional American fare with a refined, modern sensibility. Relish is a neighborhood restaurant for friends and family and a destination for diners.
THIS PLACE IS FANTASTIC… this is from Zagat - “An open kitchen turns out modern American small plates with Ukrainian, French-Canadian and Texan nuances at this chic Montrose destination delivering inventive steak, seafood and vegetable dishes. Clean lines and dark furnishings add sleek structure to the intimate space, contrasted by funky pendant lighting and bright local art.”
22 locals recommend
Riel
1927 Fairview St
22 locals recommend
THIS PLACE IS FANTASTIC… this is from Zagat - “An open kitchen turns out modern American small plates with Ukrainian, French-Canadian and Texan nuances at this chic Montrose destination delivering inventive steak, seafood and vegetable dishes. Clean lines and dark furnishings add sleek structure to the intimate space, contrasted by funky pendant lighting and bright local art.”
from Zagat: Local craft beer is served with hearty Southern favorites like barbecued shrimp and greens, smoked chicken with black-eyed peas, and Black Hill pork loin with stewed Texas peaches at this intimate Heights haunt with a patio.
42 locals recommend
Ritual
602 Studewood St
42 locals recommend
from Zagat: Local craft beer is served with hearty Southern favorites like barbecued shrimp and greens, smoked chicken with black-eyed peas, and Black Hill pork loin with stewed Texas peaches at this intimate Heights haunt with a patio.
from Houston Press : The Houston outpost of the New York-based Smith & Wollensky chain serves some of the only dry-aged USDA Prime steaks in the city (ask the waiter which ones). The chain spends more money building and decorating its restaurants than most other chains do, and the atmosphere is a delight. There are lots of bargains on the savvy wine list, but salads and sides are à la carte.
Smith & Wollensky
4007 Westheimer Rd
from Houston Press : The Houston outpost of the New York-based Smith & Wollensky chain serves some of the only dry-aged USDA Prime steaks in the city (ask the waiter which ones). The chain spends more money building and decorating its restaurants than most other chains do, and the atmosphere is a delight. There are lots of bargains on the savvy wine list, but salads and sides are à la carte.

Essentials

Same category as Whole Foods and in many ways much better.
110 locals recommend
Central Market
3815 Westheimer Rd
110 locals recommend
Same category as Whole Foods and in many ways much better.
it's a Whole Foods...
450 locals recommend
Whole Foods Market
515 Elgin St
450 locals recommend
it's a Whole Foods...
it's a Whole Foods
450 locals recommend
Whole Foods Market
515 Elgin St
450 locals recommend
it's a Whole Foods

Everything Else

The venue, named for the middle names of the two founding brothers of Houston, John Kirby Allen and Augustus Chapman Allen, reportedly honors Houston's heritage and history. Co-owner Bien Tran told the Houston Press that “menu items will be named for historical landmarks or areas in the city.” Tim Soufan, with 25 years of experience with Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, is helming the kitchen team as the executive chef. “We love Houston,” said Tran. “Embracing where we come from is important to us.” The team behind Chapman is also responsible for other local hot spots, like the former Hughes Hangar, Christian's Tailgate and The Astorian. The public grand opening is slated for mid-April. According t
85 locals recommend
Chapman And Kirby
2118 Lamar St
85 locals recommend
The venue, named for the middle names of the two founding brothers of Houston, John Kirby Allen and Augustus Chapman Allen, reportedly honors Houston's heritage and history. Co-owner Bien Tran told the Houston Press that “menu items will be named for historical landmarks or areas in the city.” Tim Soufan, with 25 years of experience with Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, is helming the kitchen team as the executive chef. “We love Houston,” said Tran. “Embracing where we come from is important to us.” The team behind Chapman is also responsible for other local hot spots, like the former Hughes Hangar, Christian's Tailgate and The Astorian. The public grand opening is slated for mid-April. According t
from Houston Press - Saint Arnold Brewing Company is Texas’s oldest craft brewery, and a Houston institution. Public weekday and Saturday tours fill the brewery with a diverse crowd of beer lovers, and the tour hall’s taps often feature hard-­to-­find brews, with a view of the brewery floor. A menu centered on an array of sandwiches, salads and snacks — many of which incorporate Saint Arnold beer — offers tour attendees a one­-stop choice for a beer-­centric afternoon. Show up early to get the most bang for your buck with the daily special, which comes with salad, an entrée and beer. Save room for a float made with Saint Arnold root beer and Mexican Vanilla ice cream from local favorite Fat
291 locals recommend
Saint Arnold Brewing Company
2000 Lyons Ave
291 locals recommend
from Houston Press - Saint Arnold Brewing Company is Texas’s oldest craft brewery, and a Houston institution. Public weekday and Saturday tours fill the brewery with a diverse crowd of beer lovers, and the tour hall’s taps often feature hard-­to-­find brews, with a view of the brewery floor. A menu centered on an array of sandwiches, salads and snacks — many of which incorporate Saint Arnold beer — offers tour attendees a one­-stop choice for a beer-­centric afternoon. Show up early to get the most bang for your buck with the daily special, which comes with salad, an entrée and beer. Save room for a float made with Saint Arnold root beer and Mexican Vanilla ice cream from local favorite Fat

Entertainment & Activities

from Visit Houston.com - The Children’s Museum of Houston is all-new and now twice as big! Rated the No. 1 children's museum in the U.S. by Parents magazine, the Children's Museum is A Playground for Your Mind™. The Museum is packed with 90,000 square feet of innovative, interactive bilingual exhibits for kids, ages birth to 12 years, housed in a whimsical Robert Venturi-designed building.
377 locals recommend
Children's Museum of Houston
1500 Binz St
377 locals recommend
from Visit Houston.com - The Children’s Museum of Houston is all-new and now twice as big! Rated the No. 1 children's museum in the U.S. by Parents magazine, the Children's Museum is A Playground for Your Mind™. The Museum is packed with 90,000 square feet of innovative, interactive bilingual exhibits for kids, ages birth to 12 years, housed in a whimsical Robert Venturi-designed building.
My favorite way to see a movie... sitting in your own pod, fully automatic fully reclining seats into almost a bed, food, wine, drinks all delivered at the push of a button... very pricy but what an experience! You may never want to go to a normal theater again.
142 locals recommend
IPIC - Houston
4444 Westheimer Rd
142 locals recommend
My favorite way to see a movie... sitting in your own pod, fully automatic fully reclining seats into almost a bed, food, wine, drinks all delivered at the push of a button... very pricy but what an experience! You may never want to go to a normal theater again.
from Houston Press - “Forget the days of dark, dank bowling alleys filled with stale cigarette smoke and competitive bowlers. Lucky Strike is way too fancy-pants for that business. Those plastic seats and sticky tables of bowling alley old have been replaced with posh curtains and plush furnishings, creating a lounge-like atmosphere that only the least serious of bowlers could appreciate. But that's part of what makes Lucky Strike so awesome: There are no serious bowlers here. It's all slightly tipsy novices, which makes the atmosphere light, especially once the drinks start flowing. Just make sure you wear your trendiest pair of bowling socks and head over to the city's chic little bowling
39 locals recommend
Lucky Strike Entertainment
1201 San Jacinto Street
39 locals recommend
from Houston Press - “Forget the days of dark, dank bowling alleys filled with stale cigarette smoke and competitive bowlers. Lucky Strike is way too fancy-pants for that business. Those plastic seats and sticky tables of bowling alley old have been replaced with posh curtains and plush furnishings, creating a lounge-like atmosphere that only the least serious of bowlers could appreciate. But that's part of what makes Lucky Strike so awesome: There are no serious bowlers here. It's all slightly tipsy novices, which makes the atmosphere light, especially once the drinks start flowing. Just make sure you wear your trendiest pair of bowling socks and head over to the city's chic little bowling

Shopping

Looking for place to buy great gifts and even great home furnishing or accessories. It has a little bit of everything.
27 locals recommend
Kuhl-Linscomb
2418 W Alabama St
27 locals recommend
Looking for place to buy great gifts and even great home furnishing or accessories. It has a little bit of everything.