Mutiny Wine Room, Tongue-Cut Sparrow, and El Topo: Now on the Resy Hit List

Because one of the coolest reservations in town just happens to be a cocktail bar. Tongue-Cut Sparrow is a speakeasy that could serve as a setting for a scene from “The Great Gatsby.” A staffer brings out hot towels before you order, so the relaxation begins even before you sip your first cocktail — perhaps the Batida, made with pandan and passionfruit. Beers and wines aren’t excluded either, with everything from local brews to bottles of Champagne.

Because wine obsessives and food lovers alike will find something to love at this new wine bar. Guests are invited to unwind in an airy space over a glass or two and a collection of small plates. But while the jerk octopus may beckon, it’s only a preamble to one of the best new dishes in town. That’s the cacio e pepe risotto. It’s not to be missed.

Because devotees of this cult taco truck no longer have to chase the mobile eatery — or settle for a petite menu. The tacos are still carefully made with farmers market ingredients (think 44 Farms beef served with pickled onions, herbs, and epazote aioli), but now there are also sandwiches, grits, and daily pastries like croissants and morning buns. 

Because Chinatowns all over the world are suffering due to misguided coronavirus fears and we need to show support. Right now, we’re especially stoked to put our money where our mouth is at this clay pot specialist. Start with a sizzling stew of beef ribs, chicken, or frog — then turn it into a comforting hot pot full of veggies and noodles.

Walk-ins only.

Because this upscale soul food spot is newly rebooted and worth a visit. Formerly Jaxton’s World Flavors, the new spot centers its cuisine around a wood-burning oven. Everything is kissed by fire, including curried chicken wings, vegetable fried rice, and steak au poivre. 

Because this restaurant in the historic Strand District serves something few others do: farm-to-table Gulf Coast Italian cuisine. That’s a mouthful, but one worth swallowing. This is the kind of place that not only makes its own mozzarella (try it in the Riondo Caprese), but also gets its seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, practically steps away from the kitchen.

Because the Museum District location introduced us to the best Korean fried chicken in town, and this new branch builds on that with a full menu of Korean-Italian fusion. Try the bulgogi ragu, which piles the marinated meat on top of braised beef shoulder, scamorza cheese, and penne. Don’t forget to crunch into some spicy wings.

Walk-ins only.

Because regular collaboration dinners are keeping the buzz alive at this beloved Austin import. The clean Japanese bites of chef de cuisine Chris Davies have lately been complemented by top-flight visiting chefs from around the country, so it’s worth keeping an eye open for the next special event. Until then, pay a visit for small bites at the Sake Social Hour from 5 until 6:30 p.m.

For reservations call the restaurant at (713) 522-4808.

Because another food truck has found a steady location indoors at Sawyer Yards. The dumplings are worthy of star billing, particularly the pan-fried pork variety, but bring home an order of red chile wontons for later. The best deal is the $8 chile-garlic noodle special, a hearty portion of glass noodles topped with chicken crumbles, pickled mustard greens, and cilantro in a spicy sauce.

Walk-ins only.

Because there’s finally a churrascaria with a central location in Houston. Given our status as a meat town, we just wonder what took so long. Diners can hit the salad bar, but keep in mind not fill up the plates too much in anticipation of an onslaught of Brazilian-style skewered meats — everything from lamb to classic bacon-wrapped chicken.

For reservations call the restaurant at (281) 501-9045.