Top 10 Must-Try Houston Restaurants of 2015: Savoring the Best Eats in the Lone Star City

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Discover the top Houston restaurants of 2015, offering delicious cuisine and a unique dining experience. From seafood to BBQ, there's something for everyone.


Houston, the fourth largest city in the United States, is known for its diverse culture and cuisine. The city's culinary scene has been on the rise in recent years, attracting foodies from all over the world. As we approach the end of 2015, it's time to take a look back at some of the best Houston restaurants that have made a mark on our taste buds this year.

First up on our list is Xochi, a Mexican restaurant located in downtown Houston. The restaurant, which opened its doors earlier this year, has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican dishes, Xochi is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the flavors of Mexico.

If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, then Uchi is the place to be. This Japanese restaurant, which also has a location in Austin, offers an impressive selection of sushi and other Japanese dishes. From the moment you walk in, you'll be greeted by a sleek and modern interior that sets the tone for a memorable dining experience.

For those who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, there's no better place than The Hay Merchant. This gastropub, located in Montrose, is known for its impressive selection of craft beer and delicious bar food. With its cozy interior and friendly staff, The Hay Merchant is the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends.

If you're feeling adventurous, then head over to Himalaya Restaurant for some Pakistani and Indian cuisine. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up some of the most flavorful dishes in Houston for over 15 years. From their famous lamb chops to their spicy curries, everything on the menu is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Another newcomer to Houston's dining scene is BCN Taste & Tradition, a Spanish restaurant that opened earlier this year. The restaurant, which is located in Montrose, offers an authentic taste of Spain with its traditional dishes and elegant decor. Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a place to celebrate a special occasion, BCN is definitely worth a visit.

For those who love seafood, there's no better place than Caracol. This Mexican seafood restaurant, which is located in the Galleria area, offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From their ceviche to their grilled octopus, every dish is bursting with flavor.

Next on our list is State of Grace, a Southern-style restaurant that has been making waves in Houston's dining scene since it opened last year. With its cozy interior and delicious comfort food, State of Grace is the perfect spot for a relaxed night out with friends or family.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, then head over to Prohibition Supperclub & Bar. This 1920s-inspired restaurant offers a menu of classic American dishes with a modern twist, as well as live entertainment and a speakeasy-style bar. From their duck confit to their craft cocktails, everything on the menu is sure to impress.

For those who love Italian cuisine, there's no better place than Coltivare. This farm-to-table restaurant, located in the Heights, offers an impressive selection of wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas. With its rustic decor and friendly staff, Coltivare is the perfect spot for a cozy night out with loved ones.

Last but not least on our list is Killen's BBQ, a Texas-style barbecue joint that has been serving up some of the best barbecue in Houston for years. From their brisket to their ribs, everything on the menu is slow-cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. If you're a barbecue lover, then Killen's is a must-visit.

In conclusion, Houston's dining scene has something for everyone, from Mexican and Japanese cuisine to Southern-style comfort food and Texas-style barbecue. These 10 restaurants have made a mark on our taste buds this year and are definitely worth a visit before the year ends.


Introduction

When it comes to food, Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. With a plethora of cultures and cuisines represented, it's no surprise that Houston has some of the best restaurants around. In this article, we'll take a look at the best Houston restaurants of 2015.

The Pass & Provisions

The Pass & Provisions is a restaurant that offers two distinct dining experiences under one roof. The Pass is a fine-dining experience with a tasting menu that changes frequently, while Provisions is more casual with a focus on pizza and pasta. Both offer amazing food and service, making it a must-visit for any foodie in Houston.

Underbelly

Underbelly is a restaurant that celebrates Houston's diversity by showcasing local ingredients and flavors from all over the world. Chef Chris Shepherd creates dishes that are not only delicious but also tell a story about Houston's culinary heritage. Don't miss the Korean braised goat and dumplings or the pork belly with boudin and collard greens.

Hugo's

Hugo's is a Mexican restaurant that takes traditional dishes and elevates them to new heights. The menu features classics like mole and ceviche, as well as innovative dishes like the grilled octopus with chorizo and avocado. Don't forget to try one of their famous margaritas!

Caracol

Caracol is another Mexican restaurant that focuses on seafood. The menu features dishes like wood-grilled oysters and whole grilled fish, as well as traditional favorites like tacos and ceviche. The space is beautiful, with high ceilings and a coastal-inspired design.

Oxheart

Oxheart is a vegetable-focused restaurant that showcases the best of what local farmers have to offer. Chef Justin Yu creates dishes that are both beautiful and delicious, like the beet tartare with pickled quail egg and the roasted cauliflower with almond milk. The tasting menu is a must-try for any foodie in Houston.

BCN

BCN is a Spanish restaurant that offers amazing seafood and tapas. The menu features dishes like octopus with potatoes and paprika and grilled Iberico pork ribs. The wine list is extensive, with plenty of options from Spain and beyond.

Coltivare

Coltivare is a neighborhood Italian restaurant that focuses on local ingredients and handmade pasta. The menu features dishes like the spaghetti carbonara and the wood-fired pizzas, as well as seasonal specials. The space is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for a date night or dinner with friends.

Uchi

Uchi is a Japanese restaurant that serves amazing sushi and small plates. The menu features classics like the hamachi sashimi and the spicy tuna roll, as well as innovative dishes like the hama chili with ponzu and Thai chili. The service is excellent, making it a great spot for a special occasion.

Kata Robata

Kata Robata is a Japanese restaurant that focuses on sushi and robata (grilled skewers). The menu features dishes like the uni shooter and the wagyu beef skewers, as well as traditional sushi rolls. The space is modern and sleek, with an open kitchen and sushi bar.

Conclusion

Houston is a city that takes its food seriously, and these restaurants are just a few examples of the amazing culinary scene here. Whether you're in the mood for Mexican, Italian, or Japanese, there's something for everyone in Houston. Don't miss out on these top spots!
Houston is a city renowned for its diverse food scene, ranging from traditional Southern cuisine to international delicacies. As the fourth largest city in the United States, Houston boasts an impressive array of restaurants that cater to every palate and budget. In this article, we will explore the best Houston restaurants of 2015, divided into different categories based on culinary style.A Taste of Tradition: Houston's Best Southern CuisineFor those craving classic Southern comfort food, Houston has a plethora of options. One standout is Lucille's, located in the Museum District. This restaurant is named after Lucille B. Smith, a Houston native who was renowned for her cooking. The menu features Southern staples such as fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and black-eyed peas. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with warm lighting and rustic decor.Another must-visit for Southern cuisine is Killen's Barbecue in Pearland. This restaurant has been featured on several national food shows and has gained a reputation as one of the best barbecue joints in the country. The menu features brisket, ribs, and sausage, all smoked to perfection. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with picnic tables and a BYOB policy.A World of Flavor: Houston's Top International EateriesHouston is known for its diverse population, and this is reflected in its food scene. For those seeking international cuisine, there are plenty of options to choose from. One standout is Himalaya, located in the Mahatma Gandhi District. This Pakistani restaurant is known for its flavorful curries and kebabs. The menu also features vegetarian options, such as saag paneer and dal makhani. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly.Another top pick for international cuisine is Uchi, located in the Montrose neighborhood. This Japanese restaurant offers a unique twist on sushi and sashimi, with creative flavor combinations and presentation. The menu also features small plates such as wagyu beef tataki and hamachi crudo. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with a lively bar scene.Fine Dining at Its Finest: Houston's Most Elegant RestaurantsFor those seeking a special occasion or a fancy night out, Houston has plenty of upscale dining options. One standout is Tony's, located in Greenway Plaza. This Italian restaurant has been a Houston staple for over 50 years and has won numerous awards for its exceptional cuisine and service. The menu features classic dishes such as veal chop Milanese and lobster risotto. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, with white tablecloths and impeccable service.Another top pick for fine dining is Brennan's of Houston, located in Midtown. This Creole restaurant has been a Houston institution since 1967 and has been recently renovated. The menu features Southern classics such as turtle soup and Gulf Coast seafood. The atmosphere is refined and elegant, with a lush courtyard and live music on weekends.Casual Eats with a Twist: Houston's Hippest HangoutsHouston also has a vibrant casual dining scene, with restaurants that offer a unique twist on classic dishes. One standout is The Hay Merchant, located in Montrose. This gastropub is known for its extensive beer selection and creative pub fare, such as Korean braised goat and duck fat fried chicken. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, with communal tables and a bustling bar scene.Another top pick for casual eats is Underbelly, located in the Montrose neighborhood. This restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and offers a rotating menu based on seasonal availability. The dishes are inspired by Houston's diverse culinary landscape, such as Korean braised goat and Gulf shrimp and grits. The atmosphere is hip and trendy, with an open kitchen and communal seating.Seafood Sensations: Houston's Best Places for Fresh CatchAs a coastal city, Houston is known for its seafood. One standout is Caracol, located in the Galleria area. This Mexican seafood restaurant features fresh seafood from both the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean. The menu includes ceviches, grilled fish, and seafood stews. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with a festive bar scene.Another top pick for seafood is Reef, located in Midtown. This restaurant is known for its innovative seafood dishes, such as crispy whole red snapper and lobster pappardelle. The menu also features a raw bar with oysters and crudo. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with a lively bar and outdoor patio.Vegetarian and Vegan Delights: Houston's Top Meat-Free OptionsHouston may be known for its barbecue and steak, but there are plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans as well. One standout is Green Seed Vegan, located in the Heights neighborhood. This vegan restaurant offers creative takes on classic dishes, such as buffalo cauliflower and BBQ jackfruit. The menu also features smoothies and juices. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with a small outdoor seating area.Another top pick for vegetarian cuisine is Pondicheri, located in the Upper Kirby neighborhood. This Indian restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes, such as saag paneer and chana masala. The menu also features creative cocktails and desserts, such as the chai chocolate pot de creme. The atmosphere is vibrant and colorful, with a modern twist on traditional Indian decor.Brunching in Bayou City: Houston's Best Spots for Weekend BrunchBrunch is a popular activity in Houston, and there are plenty of options to choose from. One standout is Hugo's, located in the Montrose neighborhood. This Mexican restaurant offers a brunch buffet with unlimited mimosas and a wide variety of dishes, such as chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. The atmosphere is festive and colorful, with live music on weekends.Another top pick for brunch is Backstreet Cafe, located in the River Oaks neighborhood. This American bistro offers a brunch menu with classic dishes such as eggs benedict and shrimp and grits. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with a lush outdoor patio.Sweets and Treats: Houston's Best Dessert DestinationsFor those with a sweet tooth, Houston has plenty of options for satisfying cravings. One standout is Common Bond Cafe and Bakery, located in the Montrose neighborhood. This bakery offers a wide variety of pastries and desserts, such as croissants and macarons. The atmosphere is bright and airy, with a small seating area.Another top pick for dessert is Fluff Bake Bar, located in Midtown. This bakery offers creative takes on classic desserts, such as s'mores pie and bacon caramel cinnamon rolls. The atmosphere is hip and trendy, with communal seating and a BYOB policy.Wine and Dine: Houston's Top Spots for Wine PairingsFor those who enjoy wine with their meals, Houston has several restaurants that offer exceptional wine pairings. One standout is Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, located in Downtown. This steakhouse has an extensive wine list, with over 3,900 bottles to choose from. The menu features classic steakhouse dishes such as filet mignon and bone-in ribeye. The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated, with white tablecloths and impeccable service.Another top pick for wine pairings is Da Marco Cucina E Vino, located in the Montrose neighborhood. This Italian restaurant has won numerous awards for its exceptional cuisine and wine selection. The menu features classic Italian dishes such as osso buco and lobster ravioli. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with a small bar area.Foodie Favorites: Houston's Most Beloved Neighborhood RestaurantsFinally, no list of Houston restaurants would be complete without mentioning the city's beloved neighborhood spots. One standout is The Breakfast Klub, located in Midtown. This breakfast spot is known for its signature dish, chicken and waffles, and has been featured on several national food shows. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with communal seating.Another top pick for neighborhood dining is Gatlin's BBQ, located in the Heights neighborhood. This barbecue joint is known for its brisket and ribs, which are smoked to perfection. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with picnic tables and a BYOB policy.In conclusion, Houston has a vast array of restaurants that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food or international delicacies, fine dining or casual eats, Houston has something for everyone. These 2015 picks are just a sampling of the city's diverse culinary landscape, and there are always new restaurants and trends popping up for foodies to explore.

Best Houston Restaurants 2015: A Foodie's Perspective

Introduction

As a food lover residing in Houston, Texas, I have had the opportunity to explore the finest restaurants in the city. In this article, I will provide my point of view on the best restaurants in Houston for the year 2015.

The Pros and Cons of Best Houston Restaurants 2015

Pros

  1. The restaurants offer a wide variety of cuisines, ranging from Italian to Mexican, Chinese to Indian, and more.
  2. The food is prepared by some of the most talented chefs in the industry.
  3. The ambiance of the restaurants is luxurious and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
  4. The service is exemplary, with waitstaff being attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly.
  5. The pricing is reasonable, especially considering the quality of food and service.

Cons

  1. The restaurants can be crowded during peak hours, which can result in long wait times for a table.
  2. Some of the restaurants can be noisy, which may not be suitable for those looking for a quiet dining experience.
  3. Some of the restaurants may require a dress code, which can be a hassle for those looking for a casual dining experience.

Table Comparison of Best Houston Restaurants 2015

Restaurant Name Cuisine Ambiance Service Pricing
Underbelly Southern Loud, Casual Attentive, Friendly $$
Hugo's Mexican Upscale, Romantic Knowledgeable, Friendly $$$
Uchi Japanese Modern, Trendy Attentive, Knowledgeable $$$$
Pax Americana American Cozy, Intimate Attentive, Friendly $$
Caracol Seafood Beachy, Casual Attentive, Friendly $$$

Conclusion

In conclusion, Houston has some of the best restaurants in the country, offering a plethora of cuisines, luxurious ambiance, and impeccable service. While there may be some cons, the pros certainly outweigh them. Whether you are a local or a tourist, it is worth exploring the culinary scene in Houston.

The Best Houston Restaurants of 2015

Thank you for taking the time to read through our article on the best Houston restaurants of 2015. We hope that you found it informative and helpful in planning your next dining experience in the city. As Houston's culinary scene continues to grow and evolve, we have no doubt that these restaurants will continue to impress and delight diners.

If you're looking for a romantic, intimate dining experience, we highly recommend checking out Pass & Provisions. With its sophisticated ambiance and innovative menu, this restaurant is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a memorable date night. The dishes here are carefully crafted and beautifully presented, making for an unforgettable dining experience.

If you're in the mood for something more casual and laid-back, look no further than El Real Tex-Mex. This restaurant serves up some of the best Tex-Mex cuisine in the city, with a lively atmosphere and friendly service to match. The fajitas here are a must-try, as are the margaritas!

For those seeking a taste of Houston's Asian cuisine, we recommend visiting Uchi. This Japanese restaurant offers an extensive selection of sushi and other dishes, all expertly prepared with the freshest ingredients. The sushi here is truly a work of art, with each piece carefully crafted and bursting with flavor.

If you're a fan of Italian food, you won't want to miss out on Coltivare. This cozy trattoria is known for its wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere here is warm and inviting, with friendly service and a great selection of wine to complement your meal.

For seafood lovers, Caracol is the place to be. This Mexican seafood restaurant serves up some of the freshest and most flavorful dishes in the city, with a focus on sustainable seafood and traditional Mexican flavors. The ceviche here is a must-try, as are the grilled oysters.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, we recommend visiting Underbelly. This restaurant prides itself on celebrating Houston's diverse culinary landscape, with a menu that changes regularly based on what's in season and available locally. Whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food or Vietnamese street food, you'll find it here.

For those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean, we recommend visiting Helen Greek Food & Wine. This restaurant serves up traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist, all made with the freshest ingredients available. The grilled octopus here is a standout dish, as are the lamb chops.

If you're in the mood for some classic American fare, look no further than State of Grace. This restaurant offers a modern take on classic Southern cuisine, with dishes like fried chicken and biscuits, shrimp and grits, and smoked brisket. The cocktails here are also worth trying, with a great selection of bourbon and whiskey-based drinks.

For those seeking a taste of the Middle East, we recommend visiting Kasra Persian Grill. This restaurant serves up traditional Persian dishes with a modern twist, all made with the freshest ingredients available. The kabobs here are a must-try, as are the stews.

Finally, for those with a sweet tooth, we recommend visiting Common Bond. This bakery serves up some of the best pastries and desserts in the city, all made with high-quality ingredients and expertly crafted. Whether you're in the mood for a croissant, a macaron, or a slice of cake, you'll find it here.

Once again, thank you for reading our article on the best Houston restaurants of 2015. We hope that you found it helpful in planning your next dining experience in the city. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, Tex-Mex, or Southern cuisine, Houston has something to offer every palate. Bon appétit!


People Also Ask About Best Houston Restaurants 2015

What are the top-rated restaurants in Houston?

The top-rated restaurants in Houston in 2015 were:

  1. Uchi
  2. Oxheart
  3. The Pass & Provisions
  4. Hugo's
  5. Kata Robata

What is the best restaurant for seafood in Houston?

The best restaurant for seafood in Houston in 2015 was:

  • Caracol

What is the best restaurant for steak in Houston?

The best restaurant for steak in Houston in 2015 was:

  • Pappas Bros. Steakhouse

What is the best restaurant for Tex-Mex food in Houston?

The best restaurant for Tex-Mex food in Houston in 2015 was:

  • Hugo's

What is the best restaurant for barbecue in Houston?

The best restaurant for barbecue in Houston in 2015 was:

  • Gatlin's BBQ

What is the best restaurant for brunch in Houston?

The best restaurant for brunch in Houston in 2015 was:

  • Backstreet Cafe