Squable, Hu’s Cooking, Decatur Bar & Pop-Up Factory, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because Justin Yu and Bobby Heugel, the team behind Better Luck Tomorrow, have hit the Heights again with this modern European restaurant in the former Southern Smoke space. The cheesy Dutch baby pancakes, savory pork schnitzel, and luxe Southern doughnuts are already winning rave reviews.

Because the name may conjure vintage comedy routines, but the creative Szechuan- and Taiwan-inspired dishes here are nothing to laugh at. Spring for dishes like the sweet-skinned duck and braised pork with fried, shredded potato, which are particularly noteworthy.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (713) 660-0200.

Because chef Evelyn Garcia has expanded her residency through January 2020, and she’s added an a la carte menu of Southeast Asian delicacies. Bring a gaggle of friends and order the whole menu; dishes are meant to be shared and you’ll want to try everything.

Because the cocktail menu at this historic log cabin is aptly old-fashioned. The bill of fare now includes a dedicated section with six varieties of the drink—try the Texas Old Fashioned, featuring local Bourbon and sarsaparilla bitters.

Because beloved restaurant Carmelo’s, along with sister spot B.B. Pizza, has found new life as a modern red sauce Italian joint. Fans of New York-style chicken Parm and fried calamari will be pleased with the menu of greatest hits, in addition to the elegant surroundings and attractive plating.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (281) 531-0696.

Because Houston finally has a great izakaya—stocked with beer, plum wine, and the tastiest skewered meats this side of the Pacific, natch. The shopping center location may be hard to find, but it makes the Japanese pub grub feel like even more of a hidden treasure.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (713) 334-5464.

Because the chocolate-and-cinnamon babka (yes, together) is to die for and reminiscent of a treasured New York City deli. Among other highlights, the marbled cake arrives at the table warm and studded with pecans. Just try to resist the treats here.

Because Ronnie Killen can’t seem to stop growing his delicious brand. The latest outpost for the Cordon Bleu-educated country boy includes not only classic steakhouse dishes, but Texas-flavored treats like smoked barbecue short rib and chicken fried steak, too.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (281) 485-0844.

Because Houston has a Moroccan restaurant for the first time in almost a decade. This casual eatery is the place for tajines, spicy homemade merguez sausage, and, on Fridays, fancy plates of couscous.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (832) 669-2222.

Because one of the best taco trucks in Houston (Tacos Tierra Caliente) now has a secret second location inside an Exxon station. Pro-tip: whether you order barbacoa, lengua, or shrimp, dress it in some of the signature (addictive!) salsa verde.

Walk-ins only.