HO2007 - Houston Dining Guide

Amici

Amici, or "friends" in Italian is the new culinary venture by Jeff Vallone (of the famous family behind Tony's) and executive chef Bruce McMillian. Serving "contemporary Neopolitan" cuisine in bustling Sugar Land Town Square, the menu changes often to highlight fresh local ingredients and uniquely Italian flavors. The elegant décor features works by local artists, hardwood floors, and vibrant Mediterranean colors.
Amici
16089 City Walk, Sugar Land, Texas 77479
(281) 242-2800

Aquarium Restaurant

An underwater dining adventure, Aquarium Restaurants offer delicious seafood specialties in a unique setting — guests are seated around elaborate aquariums filled with more than 100 species of colorful fish and marine life. The mouthwatering menu includes items such as Crab & Shrimp Wontons, Sixteen Spice Tuna, Rib-Eye Steak and Thai Pepper Shrimp. After a leisurely meal, enjoy aquarium exhibits and the interactive touch tank Stingray Reef. It's fun for the whole family!
Aquarium Restaurant
• 410 Bagby St. Houston, Texas 77002, (713) 223-FISH
• 215 Kipp Ave. Kemah, Texas 77565, (877) AT-KEMAH

Arcodoro Ristorante Italiano

Chef Elfisio Farris brings the rich culinary legacy of Sardinia to this charming restaurant, located in the heart of the Galleria. Here you'll find hundreds of happy diners, many who've traveled from all over the world. The cuisine draws on specialties of Italy, while including touches of Spain, North Africa, and the Americas. Arcodoro's veal medallions sauteed with a reduction of Vermentino di Gallura, one of the island's finest white wines, and scallops honors the land, the sea and the vine. And the Costata d'Oro, an aged rib eye marinated in Sardinian wine, garlic, rosemary, and balsamic vinegar, is not only a runaway favorite, but was also recently praised as "Best Steak" by the Houston Press.
Arcodoro Ristorante Italiano
5000 Westheimer Rd. (at Post Oak Centre), Houston, Texas 77056
(713) 621-6888

Benihana

Welcome to the longest running dining show in the world. Take a seat at the Teppanyaki grill and watch as your personal chef entertains you with a laughter-filled dining experience. The preparation will dazzle your eyes, tease your taste buds, and leave you hungry for a mouthwatering meal you will never forget. Enjoy the freshest fish in town at Benihana's sushi bars and then choose from such hibachi grilled favorites as prime sirloin, tender chicken, and fresh seafood. At Benihana, enjoy an experience at every table! For more locations, please call (877) Benihana (236-4426).
Benihana
• 1318 Louisiana St., Houston, Texas 77002, (713) 659-8231
• 9707 Westheimer Rd., Houston, Texas 77042, (713) 789-4962
• 1720 Lake Woodlands Dr., The Woodlands, Texas 77380, (281) 292-0061
• 2579 Town Center Blvd., Sugar Land, Texas 77479, (281) 565-8888

Bob's Steak & Chop House

Upon entering Bob's you’ll see why it’s considered one of the premier steakhouses in the country. Located in Houston's vibrant Galleria area, Bob's serves only the most flavorful and tender Prime Midwestern corn-fed beef, and proprietor Ed Toles provides guests with outstanding service in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Bob's is perfect for entertaining guests or customers in a style that will truly impress, with an extensive wine selection from around the world. Bob's also offers private rooms for special occasions or meetings. Open 5-11 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
Bob's Steak & Chop House
1801 Post Oak Blvd. (near the Galleria), Houston, Texas 77056
(713) 877-8325

Downing Street Ltd.

A retreat as sophisticated as a private club, but with a warm friendliness that welcomes you on your first visit — and every visit thereafter. This casually elegant haven offers an extensive by-the-glass wine list, a superlative selection from the 90-plus single-malt Scotches, 24 different vodkas and more than 40 bourbons. Select fine handmade cigars from the 400-square-foot walk-in humidor.
Downing Street Ltd
2549 Kirby Dr., Houston, Texas 77019
(713) 523-2291

Grotto

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, entertaining atmosphere that will transport you to the cozy setting of a trattoria in the Old Country. From the vivid antipasti display to a variety of spectacular entrées and made-from-scratch pastas, Grotto's soulful Neapolitan-influenced menu is sure to please friends, clients and business associates alike. With its winning combination of impeccable service, superb cuisine and unsurpassed passion for detail, Grotto is the perfect dining destination.
Grotto
• 4715 Westheimer Rd. (at Loop 610), Houston, Texas 77027, (713) 622-3663
• 9595 Six Pines (Market Square), The Woodlands, Texas 77380, (281) 419-4252

Guadalajara Hacienda

Part of the reason for Guadalajara's popularity is its atmosphere. Colored lights lend a festive air, ceiling fans give a rustic charm, and scores of tropical plants create the feeling of a cool oasis. The same attention to detail is found in the kitchen, which creates the Tex-Mex standards that Houstonians demand, but with a quality and an innovative touch that stand out among others. Special dishes including the Roasted Cream of Poblano Soup or the Piernitas, a dish of charbroiled quail legs stuffed and wrapped in bacon, build on the basics and surpass them.
Guadalajara Hacienda
• 27885 I-45 N., The Woodlands, Texas 77380, (281) 362-0774
• 9799 Katy Fwy., Houston, Texas 77024, (713) 461-5300
• 2925 Southwest Fwy., Houston, Texas 77098, (713) 942-0772

Jimmy G's Cajun Seafood Restaurant

Located near Bush Intercontinental Airport, Jimmy G's specializes in expertly prepared Cajun fare, such as oysters on the half shell, boiled shrimp and crab fingers. Named one of the top 50 restaurants in America by Esquire magazine, it offers authentic Cajun cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Indulge your craving for gumbo, jambalaya, or stuffed red snapper fillet at Jimmy G's.
Jimmy G's Cajun Seafood Restaurant
307 N. Sam Houston Pkwy., Houston, Texas 77060
(281) 931-7654

La Griglia

With a lively, festive atmosphere, La Griglia offers guests a delicious display of Italian dining. Colorful Italian murals and busy mosaics provide a playful ambiance, while fresh fish, creative pastas, chicken, beef and fresh vegetables tempt guests with an array of fabulous choices. A great people watching spot, La Griglia has a wonderful outdoor patio and a beautiful, well-appointed dining room. With inventive cuisine, attentive service and a casual, energetic atmosphere, La Griglia is one of the most popular restaurants in Houston.
La Griglia
2002 W. Gray St., Houston, Texas 77019
(713) 526-4700

Landry's Seafood House

Classic seafood with fresh fare from the sea and spectacular scenery, Landry's Seafood House echoes the sights and sounds of a 1940s seafood house. Its mouth-watering menu has the best of everything from irresistible appetizers such as Oyster Bar Trash, a combination of blackened shrimp and crabmeat, to fresh salads and its world-famous seafood specialties, such as freshly prepared Gulf snapper, stuffed flounder or Shrimp Fresca. For those who desire non-sea fare, Landry's offers tempting steaks and chicken delicacies. Come taste why we've been pleasing guests for more than 60 years!
Landry’s Seafood House
• 22215 Katy Freeway, Katy, Texas 77450, (281) 392-0452
• 8816 Westheimer Road, Houston, Texas 77063, (713) 975-7873
• #1 Kemah Boardwalk, Kemah, Texas 77565, (281) 334-2513
• 5310 Seawall Blvd., Galveston, Texas 77551, (409) 774-1010
• 1212 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380, (281) 362-9696

Magnolia Bar & Grill

Rated one of the top 10 restaurants by Houston Chronicle readers and one of America's top 50 by GQ magazine, the Magnolia Bar & Grill is devoted to the preservation of good Southern Louisiana Cajun-Creole cooking. Ceiling fans, plantation shutters, fresh greenery, and a 40-foot mahogany bar lend a genteel ambiance. Tangy raw oysters on the half shell, cornmeal-fried catfish, seafood gumbo, and crawfish étouffée are just some of the specialties, as is the live entertainment offered on the patio in good weather.
Magnolia Bar & Grill
6000 Richmond Rd., Houston, Texas 77057
(713) 781-6207

Nino's Italian Restaurant

Nino's has offered family hospitality, as well as family traditions, since 1977. Though it has witnessed changes in culinary trends, the grand, but still charming, restaurant has become more creative in the kitchen. Specialties include Veal Vincent, topped with artichoke hearts and lemon butter; Bistecca Pepe Nero, black pepper-crusted New York strip; and Linguini alla Marinara, with sautéed shrimp, artichoke hearts, olives, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Nino's pioneer spirit launched two other venues, Vincent's, a casual bistro next door, and Grappino di Nino's, a grappa bar and special event venue for private parties.
Nino's Italian Restaurant
2817 West Dallas St., Houston, Texas 77019
(713) 522-5120

Pesce

From the tasteful design and elegantly appointed dining room to the unparalleled cuisine, Pesce is truly a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Renowned Chef Mark Holley has created a carefully crafted seafood menu featuring a melting pot of flavors. Fresh fish selections, crab cakes, Maine lobster, and filet mignon tempt guests to journey on a culinary adventure. Pesce is the perfect place to hold your next social event in our private banquet room. Reservations are recommended.
Pesce
3029 Kirby at W. Alabama, Houston, Texas 77098
(713) 522-4858

Picazo Restaurant, Bar & Grill

Picazo is downtown's newest restaurant. We have an international menu featuring authentic Spanish, Italian, Mediterranean, Mexican, and USDA Prime steaks. We offer more than 300 wines. We are right across from Minute Maid Park and within walking distance from the George R. Brown Convention Center and Toyota Center. We have a warm, inviting dining room, a huge patio, and private dining rooms. We offer fine dining service at casual dining prices.
Picazo Restaurant, Bar & Grill
1421 Preston (at La Branch), Houston, Texas 77002
(713) 236-1300

Rainbow Lodge

Houston's original lodge restaurant celebrates 30 years with a new location! Regional Wild Game and Gulf Coast seafood dishes complement this cozy log cabin on White Oak Bayou conveniently located inside Loop 610. Stellar cellar! Insider tip: Try the Food and Wine Safari — the nightly tasting menu. A Houston hot spot for quick lunches and comfortable Sunday brunches that feature 99-cent mimosas. Sunday Suppers start at 5 p.m. Wrap up the weekend with super specials and half price wines by the glass.
Rainbow Lodge
2011 Ella Blvd. (at TC Jester), Houston, Texas 77008
(713) 861-8666

Rainforest Cafe

"It's a Jungle in Here — a truly Wild Place to Shop and Eat!" Rainforest Cafe offers entertainment as well as exotic beverage and menu items served in an authentic rainforest environment. Visitors will be treated to a feast for all the senses: lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, simulated rainstorms, and animatronics. Rainforest Cafe’s menu includes a variety of specialty items from seafood, beef, and chicken to pastas and pizza. If you're interested in a lighter fare, try a unique salad or sandwich. There’s an award-winning kids' menu for younger guests. Don't forget dessert! The house specialty Sparkling Volcano lights up any meal and can be shared by two or more!
Rainforest Cafe
• 5310 Seawall Blvd., Galveston, Texas 77551, (409) 744-6000
• 5000 Katy Mills Circle, Katy, Texas 77494, (281) 644-6200

Simposio Ristorante Italiano

Simposio's Northern Italian style of grilling meats and vegetables rubbed with a variety of herbs and spices offers health-conscious diners simple, nutritious foods, without heavy sauces and coatings. Simposio offers freshly made hand-rolled pastas, succulent veal and lamb chops, a wide array of fresh seafood, and assorted specialty meats, including venison, rabbit, ostrich, and pheasant.
Simposio Ristorante Italiano
5591 Richmond Ave. (at Chimney Rock), Houston, Texas 77053
(713) 532-0550

Sullivan's Steakhouse

Sullivan's specializes in steak, but proudly serves a range of other dishes. Favorites include fish and lobster, with a prime rib special on Sundays and an "All You Can Eat" stone crab claw feast on Mondays. In addition to the restaurant, Sullivan's has a crowded piano bar that stays open through the night and a "Ringside" bar with live local bands Wednesday through Saturday nights into the wee hours.
Sullivan's Steakhouse
4608 Westheimer Rd., Houston, Texas 77027
(713) 961-0333

Vargo's

A Houston landmark for 42 years, Vargo’s is nestled on nine wooded acres just moments from The Galleria. Our romantic, awe-inspiring setting is enhanced by a private lake, magnificent gardens, graceful swans, and strolling peacocks. Whether you’re planning a large party or an intimate meal, Vargo's offers superb food, elegant service, and a legendary storybook setting.
Vargo's
2401 Fondren, Houston, Texas 77063
(713) 782-3888

Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse

With its prime location downtown, Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse features a blend of high-quality food in an intimate atmosphere. The menu offers USDA Prime grain-fed beef, including rib eye, New York strip, porterhouse, and filet mignon. For those with a taste for something other than beef, Vic & Anthony's offers lamb and veal chops, live Maine lobster, Australian rock lobster, red snapper, tuna, and chicken. In addition to the breathtaking main dining room, Vic & Anthony's offers three private rooms as well as its Piano Lounge & Bar. For a memorable meal, a sophisticated event or cocktails with class, Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse is sure to please.
Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse
1510 Texas Ave., Houston, Texas 77002
(713) 228-1111

Vincent's

The Mandolas opened Vincent's restaurant in 1984 as a more casual dining experience. Vincent's has become famous for the wood-fired rotisserie that displays their spit-roasted lemon and garlic chicken. Authentic pizzas, homemade Foccacia breads, and fresh roasted garlic are cooked in the wood-burning pizza oven. The menu includes veal, seafood, chicken and pastas, desserts and breads. Vincent's also serves on lunch the patio and offers a new private function area for your special events.
Vincent's
2701 West Dallas, Houston, Texas 77019
(713) 528-4313

VÍN Restaurant

Enjoy culinary excellence at Houston's Bayou Place, as VÍN (pronounced vine) delivers sleek and sophisticated dining to the downtown Theater District with warm dark-wood accents to plush red leather booths, dramatic modern light fixtures, and a menu of contemporary American cuisine with Southern European influence. Savor fine food with the perfect wine and outstanding service. Serving lunch and dinner daily, with a full menu of appetizers and salads, entrées of seafood, beef, lamb, and duck, and a tasting plate of "The World’s Tiniest Desserts."
VÍN Restaurant
530 Texas Ave. (at Smith), Houston, Texas 77002
(713) 237-9600

Willie G's Seafood & Steak House

Willie G's, in Houston’s Galleria area, has established itself as America's premier seafood house for more than 26 years. The extensive menu boasts the freshest Gulf Coast seafood with a New Orleans flair. In addition to making the top 10 list in the seafood house category, Willie G's is celebrated for perfectly prepared, tender and juicy Certified Angus steaks served in a unique style. Willie G's offers guests a distinguished yet comfortable dining experience — a handsome atmosphere with rich, dark wood and granite interiors adorned with beautiful artwork and wall coverings. Enjoy Willie G's extensive wine list. Banquet facilities available.
Willie G's Seafood & Steak House
• 1605 Post Oak Blvd., Houston, Texas 77056, (713) 840-7190
• 2100 Harborside Dr., Galveston, Texas 77550, (409) 762-3030