Favorite Houston Restaurants

Taking a cue from one of my favorite bloggers, Bailey McCarthy of Peppermint Bliss, I thought I’d include a list of some of our favorite Houston restaurants before we move on to another Culinary Mecca.  Here goes…

Best Ladies Who Lunch

Located next to a nursery on West Alabama, It’s hard to out charm Tiny Boxwoods, quaint, French decor and delicious cuisine.  I recommend the latte and chocolate chip cookies to complete your meal. Don’t mind the cranky person at the counter… and just beware if you go on the weekend, it can be kind of a cluster (but worth the wait!)

Runner up: Ouisies Table – try the crab cobb salad – amazing! 

Best See and Be Seen

RDG + Bar Annie in the Galleria area opened a couple of years, and serves as home to beautiful people looking fabulous. Oh - and the food is nice too.  In 2009 we dined here during Restaurant Week and were sat at a table next to one of Houston's biggest socialites, Lynn Wyatt…

Runner up: Philippe (go just for the beautiful decor – the good food is a bonus!)

Best Romantic

Mockingbird Bistro – though pricey, this little gem consistently delivers amazing food and service in a lovely River Oaks location. 

Runner Up: Michelangelo's – Lee and I were engaged after eating here in 2004…it will always be very special to me, (and there’s an awesome tree that sits in the middle of this Montrose area restaurant!)

Best Comfort Food

Zelko Bistro, located in the Heights, is a charming, unpretentious, delicious little spot.  The shrimp and agave grits are amazing, and the wine selection isn’t bad either.

Runner up: Benjys – the risotto, usually on some kind of rotation, rarely disappoints.

Best Tex Mex

I could literally eat at El Tiempo 5 times a week, and unfortunately for my waistline, we’ve gotten close.  Located in several inner loop locations,  get the fajitas and skinny margaritas and you won’t be disappointed.

Runner up: El Real – try the queso con carne! 

Best Happy Hour Food

Canopy – this light, bright Montrose spot has amazing Happy Hour items like mussels for a great value!

Runner up #1 : Flemings – Located in the Upper Kirby area, the 5 items for $6 till 7:00 p.m. weekly HH special has some great menu items like ahi tuna and kobe sliders.

Runner up #2: Oporto's -  This unassuming restaurant (located in a strip mall) in the Greenway Plaza area has delectable tapas at $3/piece making this place very appetizing during the Happiest of Hours.