Travel the World with Houston Cuisine

When people think of Texan cuisine, the first thought that pops into their head is usually barbeque. Big slabs of meat with savory marinades. While barbeque is indeed a staple in any Texan town, Houston has a wide variety of delectable cuisine to choose from. The beauty of living in Houston is the ability to travel the world with your taste buds, experiencing food from around the globe, without ever leaving your city.

Japan – Uchi

The Wall Street Journal dubbed Uchi as having the “best sushi this side of Japan.” While not native to Houston, this Japanese restaurant also has locations in Austin and Dallas, with plans for opening up a Denver location as well. The Houston branch has a special charm, though, occupying the building that was once home to the historic Felix restaurant – paying homage to Houston’s ethnic food roots. Chef de Cuisine Lance Gillum is a Houston native, committed to creating plates that make you feel at home. Executive Chef and co-owner Tyson Cole spent years studying Japanese cuisine in Tokyo and working at the top sushi restaurants in Austin and New York. His commitment to Japanese cuisine paid off, resulting in numerous awards, including being named “Best Chef Southwest” by the James Beard Foundation in 2011. No matter what you order, you can rest assured that everything you order is incredibly fresh, sustainable, and created by people passionate about Japanese cuisine. Just make sure you get enough of the Walu Walu to go around!

Mexico – Hugo’s

Also located in the Montrose neighborhood is some of the finest Mexican food you will ever taste. Executive Chef Hugo Ortega takes pride in creating fresh, earthy, gustatorily complex dishes, authentic to his home country of Mexico. At Hugo’s, everything from tortillas to moles are made entirely from scratch, and it is obvious with each bit you take. Even some of the cheeses are homemade! The menu is fairly expansive, so picking a favorite is challenging. Under pressure, I’d say you must try the Ceviche de Huachinango and the Carnitas de Pato. Both are spectacularly unique and undeniably delicious.

If you’re seeking libations, Hugo’s wine program has won awards. The eatery also features a large tequila menu and a variety of cocktails. Southern Foodways Alliance recognized Chef Hugo Ortega’s unmatched skill with the 2017 Craig Claiborne Lifetime Achievement Award. Bonus: Hugo’s offers catering! If you really want to wow guests at your next event, Hugo’s is the place to call.

France – Étoile Cuisine et Bar

If you’re longing for Paris, head down to Étoile for some French cuisine to satisfy your taste buds and liven up your soul. Chef Philippe Verpiand is committed to serving food and creating an atmosphere that make you feel as though you’re truly in France. For a starter, don’t miss the Raviolis Aux Champignons. The white truffle oil is the perfect pairing to these scrumptious mushroom raviolis. And, of course, you can’t dine at a world-class French restaurant and not order dessert. Yes, they have a wonderful Creme Brûlée, but my heart belongs to the Pastilla Au Chocolat Noir – trust me. Also included on the dessert menu is a wide selection of digestifs. Bon appétit!

If you need any advice or recommendations about the Houston area, contact us.