Vibrant, Lucille’s, and 1751 Sea and Bar: Now on the Resy Hit List

Because there’s no more waiting for a wholesome, healthy meal. This gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free eatery is now taking reservations on Resy. For dinner dig into a hearty plate of braised beef in guajillo and pasilla mole, or go light with a gingery fish crudo dressed in yuzu. Whatever you order, you’ll feel good in the stylish dining room. 

Because we love a taste of history, and chef Chris Williams has got it. His menu is influenced by the recipes of his great-grandmother, Lucille B. Smith, inventor of the hot biscuit mix. The buttery chili biscuits are, of course, a must-order, but Williams is at his best when he innovates: try his smothered duck confit and his braised lamb neck pasta to see for yourself.

Because this seafood-and-gin specialist from the team behind barbecue destination the Pit Room racked up more end-of-year awards than just about any other new Houston restaurant. And it’s easy to see why. From the six sought-after seats at the oyster bar to the cured seafood on the 1751 Charcuterie Board, the offerings at this restaurant give it a character all its own.

Because there’s no post-holiday comfort like a big pot of soup. Venture to Hong Kong City Mall, indulge in a Shabu Zone meal, then go shopping for groceries and tchotchkes. Part of the appeal here is the couture slant — each diner gets her own pot in which to combine broths, veggies, noodles, and freshly sliced Wagyu beef.

Because the pizzas — whether they’re topped with smoked trout roe or basic pepperoni — have mesmerized local food lovers. Houstonia magazine’s Timothy Malcolm recently pointed out that readers might be missing the swoon-worthy gelato, which he claims is better than versions he’s had in small Italian towns. The moral of the story? Save room for dessert.

Because luxe is in, and there’s no declaration of over-the-top intentions quite like a $400 plate of fajitas. In its defense, the platter includes 24 ounces of Wagyu ribeye and gold flake tortillas. But Colorado-based chef-owner Troy Guard doesn’t settle for getting attention with stunt dishes. The locally sourced menu is best when focusing on fresh ingredients like fire-roasted carrots.

For reservations, call the restaurant at (346) 326-0789.

Because you may remember Vanarin Kuch from “Top Chef: Just Desserts,” and now you can get up close for a taste of the chef’s talent. His perfect pastries are deeply Houstonian and proudly represent hometown flavors: pho-inspired kolaches stuffed with beef, croissants flavored with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, and chicken tortilla quiche, just to name a few.

Walk-ins only.

Because even vegans deserve to enjoy steak and sushi. The Medium Rare Vegan Steak Roll is suspiciously convincing, and the faux-fish Sexy Roll is exactly as advertised. The rest of the menu leans toward Chinese American food, so get ready for vegan versions of salt-and-pepper shrimp and General Tso’s chicken.

Walk-ins only.

Because one of the Houston area’s most overlooked chefs, Hilda Ysusi, just debuted a new menu, and it’s her best yet. Ysusi combines flavors in ways that might flail in the hands of other chefs. Her luau pork, for instance, expertly blends pork confit with a purée of roasted bananas, spicy honey, and tangy tomatillo pico de gallo; it’s bound to create an unexpected new craving.

For reservations, call the restaurant at (713) 389-5628.

Because you love J. Alexander’s, and this new comfort food palace comes from the same owners. You can’t go wrong with meaty crab cakes or a certified Angus steak, grilled in the 1,600-degree Montague broiler for a spot-on sear. But don’t overlook the Asian-inflected salads either, like the ahi tuna one with cilantro vinaigrette.