Discover a bit of Japanese nightlife culture in Houston's Memorial City. This izakaya serves a selection of Japanese small plates that pair well with a craft beer, sake, or wine. The relaxed setting makes this perfect for post-work drinks with colleagues or friends. Embark on a culinary journey as you snack on bites like hotaruika ozizuke, wasabi shumai, and hiyayakko. For those who prefer something classic, the udon or soba noodle soups are excellent as well; try the tsukimi udon made with yamaimo, egg yolk, green onion, and fish cake.
Warehouse 72 is a modern American diner that exudes a casual, laid-back charm as well as chic vibes. The decor includes whimsical artwork, exposed-brick walls, ceiling lights, and comfortable leather seating. Begin with an appetizer such as Fried House-made Mozzarella or Black Truffle Arancini, and work your way through mains like Lemon Roasted Chicken and Layered Lasagna before wrapping up with Opera Cake or ice creams. You can also try the hearty four-course menu and try some of their refreshing cocktails or elegant wines.
This health-nut paradise has been taking care of Houston's hearts for many years. Those with artistic spirits are particularly attracted to the somewhat Bohemian atmosphere featuring the world of Hobbits. You can choose to dine outdoors on a deck, which is extremely popular in fair weather. A few sinful menu options are available, such as a hefty hamburger, but vegetarian choices like spinach and mushroom enchiladas are the true crowd-pleasing items. Even the desserts manage to be tempting without overwhelming the body with fat and calories.
Located on the outskirts of Houston's colorful Montrose area, the Empire Cafe is a delightful spot for enjoying a brunch date, meeting friends for dinner, or ending the evening with coffee. Sit on the patio after ordering one of the inventive specials displayed proudly above the cakes at the dessert bar, and the busy Westheimer traffic doesn't seem quite so oppressive. Although the dishes are less inspired than the specials, their wide variety of consistently delicious cakes, the bold coffees, and the bright camaraderie are the reasons to visit this delightful and humble inner Houston cafe.
From nicely priced happy hour sushi delights to incredible Horiuchi Manubu-crafted Japanese creations, Kata Robata’s exquisite offerings are meant to exceed expectations. The serene, modern atmosphere of this restaurant is the perfect setting to enjoy a freshly-brewed Japanese beer or smooth sake accompanied by scrumptious delights. The grilled snapper collar, Russian Osetra Caviar, and the richly-flavored layered Horse Mackerel makes up the restaurant's specialities.
Imagine a fresh-baked, moist pita wrapped around a huge portion of juicy, spiced slivers of delicately seared, tender lamb with plump tomato, firm cuts of red cabbage, and fresh chili sauce. If you haven't had the pleasure of eating Middle Eastern food, go to Arpi's for a Lebanese shawarma - the hamburger of the Middle East. Although served commonly as street food on the other side of the world, West Houston's Arpi's is a beautiful modern deli that authentically cooks the meat on a specially designed spinning oven for hours - just like in Turkey or Lebanon. The chicken and beef shawarmas are also delicious, but the slightly crisp lamb is absolutely stunning. Save room for smooth gelato for dessert to make a perfect meal. -Adam Rosen