1. Bludorn
Montrose
Houstonians love a hot new restaurant, but a hot new restaurant with a hot new chef whose love story includes the daughter of Houston restaurant royalty? It’s no surprise that Bludorn, opened on August 21 by chef Aaron Bludorn with his wife Victoria Pappas (daughter of Pappas Restaurants’ founding partner, Chris Pappas), is currently the most desired ticket in town. Specializing in American cuisine with French technique and Gulf Coast ingredients, emerging menu favorites include squash blossoms with ricotta, basil and pepper jam; a show-stopping tableside lobster pot pie for two; and pastry chef Alejandra Salas’ delightfully Instagrammable baked Alaska dessert. Meticulous service and a robust beverage program — with input from barman Darryl Chan of Cafe Boulud and master sommelier Jack Mason, he of the Pappas Bros. wine program — contribute to what can feel, quite refreshingly, like a good ol’ pre-COVID new restaurant experience.
Dining status: Reserve a table for dine-in or call for takeout. Limited outdoor seating available on a walk-in basis.