Now on Resy: Pondicheri, MAD, Triola’s Kitchen, and More Local Favorites
From a critically-acclaimed Indian restaurant to a destination for real-deal Spanish cuisine, these are just a few of the beloved Houston spots that are now bookable on Resy. Right this way.
Note: This list will be updated regularly with new additions each month, so be sure to check back often. For Houston’s newest restaurant openings, head here.
MAD Houston River Oaks/Galleria
Ignacio Torras and Luis Roger brought real-deal Spanish food to town in 2014 with their BCN Taste & Tradition, but they’ve definitely upped the ante with this vividly colorful, art-filled restaurant showcasing Spain’s best — from el Bulli-influenced modernist dishes to wood-fired seafood and meats, to an encyclopedia of authentic paellas.
Pondicheri River Oaks
If you like Indian food so much you sometimes wish you could have it three times a day, this one’s for you. Award-winning chef Anita Jaisinghani (of Indika) opens at 9 a.m. for masala eggs and coconut pancakes, then keeps going well into the evening with her perfectly crafted menu of rich curries and thalis, which are largely vegetarian and gluten-free.
Monarca Modern Mexican Cocina Creekside
Come to this upscale establishment for stylish Mexican fare that sidesteps the clichés from chef Sebastian Royo. Steaks and fish from the Josper oven, imported from Barcelona, really stand out — and after dinner, sneak into GUS, the restaurant’s hidden speakeasy, for a shot of rare mezcal.
Triola’s Kitchen Greater Heights
You’ll definitely want a seat at this come-hungry Italian spot from chef Frank Triola of Azzarelli’s fame. House specialties like veal-stuffed Papa’s mushrooms, lasagna with the chef’s special red sauce, and chicken Triola (stuffed with sausage and mozzarella) anchor the menu — and wine lovers, do take note: Triola’s is BYOB, and there’s no corkage fee.
Tom’s Watch Bar – Houston Central Business District
You don’t have to be a Rockets fan to enjoy this supercharged sports bar — the first Texas location of a popular nationwide chain — but it wouldn’t hurt (Tom’s is one of the team’s corporate partners). There are plenty of other sports on the multiple hi-def screens, too, though, and the food is just what you’d expect — nachos, wings, burgers, etc. — done right.
Oporto Fooding House & Wine Houston Midtown
Make a note of this stylish Portuguese restaurant and wine bar from Shiva and Rick Di Virgilio (of De Gama), where you’ll find lots to love, from the warm and airy dining room to the array of savory Portuguese dishes (including a BBQ take on the famous piri piri chicken) and selection of underrated Portuguese wines.
Sal y Pimienta Kitchen CityCentre
There can’t be many better guides to the rich food and wine landscape of South America than Uruguayan-born restaurateur Gianfranco Percovich (of the late Tango & Malbec), and this “Salt & Pepper” restaurant proves the point with Peruvian-style ceviche, Argentine-style pastas, and a grilled grass-fed Uruguayan filet mignon that puts Wagyu to shame.
Weights & Measures Montrose and Midtown
Bring your friends to this spacious modern American restaurant and bar in a converted 1950s-era warehouse, so you can order plenty of the enticing menu offerings, which range from shareable appetizers to Neapolitan-style pizzas, and uncommon pastas like the signature H-Town chorizo carbonara.
MEZZA GRILLE Galleria
If you can’t find something you want on the menu at this Galleria area favorite, you’re not hungry. The accent is definitely Middle Eastern, but local restaurant veteran Mike Tibi also offers salads, pastas, tacos, a burger, a vegetable platter, and so much more that the only problem is making a choice.