HONEST REVIEWS FROM SARA AND CONTRIBUTORS
Eat
Every spot we have reviewed, rated simply: Worth a Stop, Worth the Drive,
or Worth the Trip.
A Sweet Factory
A Sweet Factory, a hidden spot in Houston on Westheimer Road, serves gooey kanafeh and fragrant Arabian pastries.
Bering’s
Bering’s is the kind of Houston staple that makes browsing feel like an adventure, warm, whimsical, and full of treasures across every aisle.
Crescent City Beignets
Crescent City Beignets, now on Westheimer Road in Houston, serves classic beignets in a lively plaza. Friendly staff and a vibrant vibe make it great for out of town guests.
Droubi’s Bakery & Deli
Droubi’s Bakery & Deli, a flavorful spot in Houston on Hillcroft Street, serves juicy chicken shawarma and buttery mamoul pastries.
Dunkin’
Dunkin’ in Westchase delivers what it’s best known for: quick, reliable coffee and convenient drive thru service.
Fadi ’s Mediterranean Grill
Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill, a beloved spot in Houston on Westheimer Road, serves fresh Levantine dishes with warm pita bread.
Java Pura Coffee Roasters
Tucked inside a row of unassuming office style buildings near Chimney Rock, Java Pura is one of Houston’s most meaningful hidden gems. This isn’t a café, it’s a working roastery, a coffee lab, and a hub for true bean obsessives.
Kabob Korner
Kabob Korner, a bustling spot in Houston on Hillcroft Avenue, serves chicken shawarma and Pakistani chai.
La Argentina Gelato & Coffee
La Argentina Gelato & Coffee is a small, tucked away spot offering South American, style gelato and baked treats. While its reputation has generated quite a bit of buzz, this particular visit left room for improvement.
Lopez Mexican Restaurant
Lopez Mexican Restaurant, a spacious spot in Houston on Wilcrest Drive, serves shrimp fajitas with classic beans and rice.
Mr. Wish
Fresh, juicy, bright, and made with real ingredients, Mr. Wish offers a refreshing break from the heavy, creamer based milk teas found at many shops.
Nazif’s
Nazif’s, an authentic spot in Houston on Westheimer Road, serves crunchy kibbi and creamy rice pudding with Turkish tea.
Old Saigon Cafe
Step into the magic of Old Saigon Cafe, a hidden gem on Houston’s Westheimer Road that serves up vibrant Vietnamese flavors.
Richmond’s Air
When Houston’s chilly winters strike, Richmond’s Air is the go to for reliable heating and air conditioning services across the city.
Seiwa Market
Seiwa Market is a tidy, well organized specialty grocer focused entirely on Japanese products.
Thai Orchid
Thai Orchid brings bold heat, vibrant flavors, and a menu that stretches beyond traditional Thai fare into memorable Laotian and Cambodian dishes.
Zeyad Bakery & Sweets
Indulge in Palestinian delights at Zeyad Bakery & Sweets in Houston, a hidden gem serving creamy baklava and savory spinach pies.
Amy Hieu Hair Salon
Amy Hieu Hair Salon is a trusted neighborhood spot in Alief known for its natural approach to hair coloring, warm customer service, and an experienced stylist who genuinely cares about preserving hair health.
Blenders
Blenders, a cozy spot in Houston’s Alief on Bellaire Boulevard, serves bold Vietnamese iced coffee and Thai iced tea with tapioca.
Fresh Dental Care
Fresh Dental Care in Houston’s Alief on Bellaire Boulevard offers patient focused service for families and kids.
Magic Cup
Beat the Houston heat at Magic Cup in Alief, a clean and spacious café on Bellaire Boulevard serving creamy milk tea, smoothies, and fresh fruit juices.
Mama Yu
Mama Yu, a family run spot in Houston’s Alief on Dairy Ashford Road, serves flavorful chicken satay and fragrant nasi goreng.
Viva Juice Coffee & Tea
Viva Juice Coffee & Tea in Houston’s Alief, a cozy café on Bellaire Boulevard, serves sweet, chewy coffee milk tea with tapioca. Sip a coffee milk tea for a sweet pick me up.
Three Brothers Bakery
Step into old fashioned charm at Three Brothers Bakery in Houston’s Braeswood Place on South Braeswood Boulevard.
Afandim Restaurant
Embark on a unique culinary journey at Afandim Restaurant in Houston’s Chinatown, where authentic Uyghur cuisine shines on Bellaire Boulevard.
Cafe 101
Cafe 101, a colorful spot in Houston’s Chinatown on Bellaire Boulevard, serves fragrant lychee pearl tea and udon shrimp.
Chez Beignets Quan Ong Tre
Chez Beignets Quan Ong Tre in Houston’s Chinatown on Bellaire Boulevard serves hot, fluffy beignets and strong chicory coffee in a bustling, festive atmosphere.
Gelato Cup
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Gelato Cup in Houston’s Chinatown, a longstanding spot serving pistachio and dark chocolate gelato.
Golden Dumpling House
Golden Dumpling House is the definition of a hidden gem, small, unassuming, and deeply rooted in the craft of traditional dumpling making.
Honey Bee Teahouse & Fast Food
Honey Bee Teahouse & Fast Food, a hidden gem in Houston’s Chinatown on Bellaire Boulevard, serves cold, satisfying milk tea in playful cups.
House of Bowls
Savor authentic Hong Kong style cuisine at House of Bowls in Houston’s Chinatown, a cozy spot on Bellaire Boulevard serving creamy shrimp chow fun, curry Singaporean noodles, and eggy French toast.
JL Foot Spa
Unwind at JL Foot Spa, a cozy upstairs retreat in Houston’s Chinatown plaza on Bellaire Boulevard. This budget friendly spot offers a one hour foot and body massage for just $20, complete with complimentary green tea.
Juicy Box
A Taiwanese dessert and juice bar in Chinatown serving shaved snow, fruit bowls, and cool, refreshing treats.
Kamalan Bakery
Discover soft, airy breads at Kamalan Bakery in Houston’s Chinatown, a clean and organized spot on Bellaire Boulevard.
Kung Fu Tea
Satisfy your boba cravings at Kung Fu Tea in Houston’s Chinatown, a lively spot on Bellaire Boulevard serving frothy iced milk tea with perfect tapioca pearls.
Red Circle Ice Cream
Treat yourself at Red Circle Ice Cream in Houston’s Chinatown, a trendy spot serving creamy soft serve with crispy churros and bubble waffles.
Six Ping
Six Ping, a tidy bakery in Houston’s Chinatown on Bellaire Boulevard, serves moist coconut bread and flaky croissants.
Tea Bar & Organics
Tea Bar & Organics, a lively café in Houston’s Chinatown on Bellaire Boulevard, serves hot honey milk tea in cute mugs.
Yomie’s Rice X Yogurt
Yomie’s Rice X Yogurt brings a unique concept to Chinatown with its lineup of creamy, rice based and yogurt based beverages.
Caffè Bene
Discover a unique coffee experience at Caffè Bene in Downtown Houston, nestled in the Houston Pavilions on Main Street.
Koffeteria
Koffeteria brings an artistic, vintage charm to EaDo, a neighborhood known for its creative energy and urban edge.
Whit N Wingo
Whit N Wingo is the kind of vintage shop that immediately pulls you in with its color, charm, and treasure hunt energy.
Beans Cafe CoffeeHouse
Unwind at Beans Cafe CoffeeHouse in Houston’s Energy Corridor, a cozy spot in a lively plaza on Dairy Ashford Road.
Blue Willow Bookshop
Dive into a world of stories at Blue Willow Bookshop in Houston’s Energy Corridor, a cozy independent bookstore offering a curated selection of titles.
Terry Hershey Park
Terry Hershey Park is one of Houston’s most beloved green escapes, an expansive, tree lined sanctuary tucked right into the bustle of the Energy Corridor.
Tree House
Cool off at Tree House in Houston’s Energy Corridor, a cute café on Dairy Ashford Road blending frozen yogurt and coffee.
Verbena Coffee
Verbena Coffee is a warm, wood toned retreat tucked into the Memorial/Energy Corridor area, a neighborhood café that has quickly grown into a beloved local staple.
Acacia Food Mart
Embark on a culinary journey at Acacia Food Mart, a Fondren Southwest gem bringing authentic Turkish and international flavors to Houston.
Casian King Food Truck
Casian King Food Truck, a vibrant mobile eatery in Houston’s Fourth Ward, serves Cajun Asian fusion like lobster fries and shrimp scampi.
Haute Pets Mobile Grooming Salon
Treat your furry friend to Haute Pets Mobile Grooming Salon, a premium service based in Houston’s Fourth Ward that travels to suburbs like Sugar Land.
Sweet Lola Yogurt Bar
Sweet Lola Yogurt Bar, a cute boutique in Houston’s Fourth Ward near Midtown Plaza, serves creamy royal pear yogurt with fresh toppings.
Berryhill Baja Grill
Berryhill Baja Grill, a lively spot in Houston’s Galleria on Westheimer Road, serves cheesy spinach enchiladas and fish tacos.
Bouchée Patisserie
A dreamy, candy land meets Paris patisserie nestled inside the Post Oak Hotel, Bouchée Patisserie is a visual and culinary escape.
Cafe Dolce Gelato
Tucked near Nordstrom in Houston’s Galleria, Cafe Dolce Gelato is a charming Italian inspired spot for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Cliff’s Hamburger Grill
Travel back in time at Cliff’s Hamburger Grill, a beloved old school burger joint in Houston’s Galleria/Uptown area.
Coffee Mill
Coffee Mill is one of those charming, blink and you’ll miss it cafés tucked quietly into the bustle of the Galleria area.
Common Bond Bistro & Bakery
Common Bond’s Galleria/Uptown location feels like stepping into a soft, pastel washed retreat, warm, open, and effortlessly welcoming.
Dandanah Cafe & Grill
Dandanah Cafe & Grill, a rare find in Houston’s Galleria on Westheimer Road, serves hawawshy meat pies and Lavazza café lattes.
Dish Society
Dish Society in Houston’s Galleria, a bustling spot on Westheimer Road, serves unique Nutella French toast and skillet potatoes. A Houston brunch favorite.
Dumplings & Noodles by Cooking Girl
Dumplings & Noodles by Cooking Girl is a lively destination for noodle lovers and dumpling fans.
Flower Child
Flower Child in Houston’s Galleria/Uptown is a vibrant spot for healthy, vegetarian friendly meals with a West Coast flair.
French Riviera Bakery Cafe
French Riviera Bakery Cafe, a charming spot in Houston’s Galleria on Westheimer Road, serves crispy croissants and tuna salad sandwiches.
Fruit Frenzy
Fruit Frenzy, a colorful spot in Houston’s Galleria on Post Oak Boulevard, serves almond milk tea with firm tapioca pearls.
Grady Park
Discover Grady Park, a tranquil urban retreat in Houston’s vibrant Galleria/Uptown area, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Harvest Express
Harvest Express, a vibrant spot across from Houston’s Galleria on Westheimer Road, serves delicious chicken wraps with unlimited toppings and Harvest Sauce.
Harvest Organic Grille
Harvest Organic Grille, a rustic spot in Houston’s Galleria on Post Oak Boulevard, serves vegan red lentil patties and green detox juice.
L’Occitane En Provence
Explore luxurious skincare at L’Occitane En Provence in Houston’s Galleria, a chic boutique on Westheimer Road offering premium beauty products.
Mazajj Organic Coffee
Step into Mazajj Organic Coffee in Houston’s Galleria/Uptown for a cozy escape filled with authentic chai and warm vibes.
Milk Mustache
Step into the sugary charm of Milk Mustache, a whimsical cookie shop tucked into Fountain View in the Galleria/Uptown area. This isn’t your average dessert spot, it’s a full sensory experience.
Minuti Coffee
Step into Minuti Coffee in Houston’s bustling Galleria/Uptown area for a warm, Italian inspired coffee experience that feels like a mini vacation.
Moxies
Dive into the vibrant scene at Moxies, a Galleria/Uptown hotspot that pulses with energy in Houston’s nightlife.
Nordstrom Ebar Artisan Coffee
Savor a fragrant honey almond latte at Nordstrom Ebar Artisan Coffee, a cozy spot in Houston’s Galleria on Westheimer Road. A delightful pick me up for Houston coffee lovers.
Nordstrom Houston Galleria E-Bar
Nordstrom Houston Galleria’s E Bar, a cozy coffee nook downstairs in the Galleria, serves honey almond lattes and iced peach tea.
Tasti D Lite
Tasti D Lite, a delightful spot in Houston’s Galleria on Post Oak Boulevard, serves creamy mocha almond fudge and green tea soft serve.
The Cheesecake Factory
Indulge in Houston desserts at The Cheesecake Factory in Galleria/Uptown, where rich chocolate cake and a vibrant international ambiance await.
The Oceanaire Seafood Room
The Oceanaire Seafood Room is a long standing Galleria favorite, known for its sleek, submarine inspired design, large corner windows overlooking bustling streets, and over two decades of reputation as a premier seafood destination.
Thierry André Tellier Café
Thierry André Tellier Café, tucked in Uptown Park, delights with flaky almond croissants and delicate petit fours.
Yogurtland Houston
Yogurtland Houston, a vibrant spot in Houston’s Galleria on Westheimer Road, offers a plethora of frozen yogurt flavors like dutch chocolate and coconut.
Kolache Shoppe – Greenway
Kolache Shoppe in Greenway is the definition of a warm, comforting morning stop, tucked quietly into a cozy corner of Houston’s inner loop.
Luce Ave Coffee Roasters
Discover Luce Ave Coffee Roasters, a minimalist haven in Houston’s Greenway area, where coffee is an art form.
Tiff’s Treats
Tiff’s Treats, a popular spot in Houston’s Greenway on Weslayan Street, bakes fresh cookies like chocolate chip and butterscotch.
Abdallah’s Bakery
Abdallah’s Bakery, a cozy spot in Houston’s Gulfton on Hillcroft Street, serves falafel wraps and lemony spinach pastries.
Alpha Dessert Juice Cafe
Cool off with a sweet treat at Alpha Dessert Juice Cafe on Hillcroft in Houston’s Gulfton area, a vibrant spot showcasing Pakistani culture with murals and creamy kulfi.
Foam Coffee House
Foam Coffee House brings a fun and unexpected pairing to Gulfton: a neighborhood café built right beside a car wash.
Pangea Bar & Grill
Transport yourself to a sultan’s palace at Pangea Bar & Grill, a glowing Mediterranean gem in Houston’s Gulfton neighborhood.
Saffron Persian Cafe
Saffron Persian Cafe, an upstairs spot in Houston’s Gulfton at Hillcroft Plaza, serves Afghan mantu and Persian kebabs with fragrant rice.
The Afghan Village
Explore Afghan flavors at The Afghan Village in Houston’s Gulfton area on Hillcroft Street, offering dishes like mantoo and Uzbaki rice.
Amorino Gelato
Amorino brings a touch of European indulgence to Highland Village, offering artisanal gelato and sorbet crafted with premium ingredients, many imported from around the world.
Bayou City Seafood and Pasta
Dive into the bold flavors of Bayou City Seafood and Pasta, a casual Highland Village spot that brings Cajun and Creole vibes to Houston.
Sprinkles Houston Westheimer
Sprinkles Houston Westheimer in Highland Village is a beloved dessert destination, known for its iconic cupcakes and 24/7 ATM cupcake machine.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport - IAH
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in the IAH Airport Area on JFK Boulevard is a major hub, but flight delays and outdated facilities can frustrate.
Nom Mi Street
Nom Mi Street, a colorful food truck in Houston’s MacGregor near the University of Houston, serves toasty vegetarian banh mi and fusion fries.
Chicken Station
Savor juicy, charcoal cooked chicken at Chicken Station in Houston’s Magnolia Park, a casual East End spot serving Peruvian style dishes with crispy yucca and sweet plantains.
Gyro King
Gyro King, a bright yellow food truck near Houston’s Medical Center on South Main Street, serves juicy chicken and rice with creamy white sauce.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Saddle up for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in the Medical Center, a iconic Houston event with petting zoos, carnival rides, and boutique shopping.
M&M Grill
M&M Grill, a casual spot in Houston’s Medical Center on Fannin Street, serves moist chicken soft tacos and cheesy enchiladas.
Koryo Bakery
Koryo Bakery in Houston’s Memorial on Gessner Road offers mini cakes, breads, and almond cakes. A local Houston spot for pastry enthusiasts.
LA Crawfish
LA Crawfish in Memorial brings a lively blend of Cajun heat and Vietnamese comfort food to one tucked away corner inside 99 Ranch Market.
Shipley Do-Nuts
Satisfy your donut cravings at Shipley Do Nuts in Houston’s Memorial area, a 24 hour spot conveniently located off the freeway.