Houston's dining scene never sits still, with new hot spots popping up at every turn. Right now is the perfect moment to mix things up and explore new dishes and restaurants worth adding to the rotation.
Belly of the Beast
Chef Thomas Bille of Belly of the Beast in Old Town Spring was honored as Best Chef Texas at the 2025 James Beard Awards. He was the only Houston-area winner and shared the achievement with his wife and business partner, Elizabeth. botbfood.com
Mayahuel
Mayahuel, the newest must-try restaurant in Autry Park, takes its name from the maguey plant. Chef Luis Richards, named Latin America's Best Pastry Chef by The World's 50 Best Restaurants, partnered with Houston-based Culinary Khancepts to launch the restaurant and cocktail bar. The menu includes oysters with caviar, tuna tostada, aguachile, tacos, and main dishes like cochinita, sea bass, and brunch plates including chilaquiles and shakshuka. mayahuelrestaurant.com
Succulent
Veteran restaurateur Shawn Virene of a'Bouzy recently opened Succulent in Regent Square. The concept draws on Napa Valley influences, with menus highlighting seasonal produce from the West Coast and local farms. Executive Chef David Buckley leads the kitchen, emphasizing sustainable sourcing and classic preparation techniques. The restaurant features indoor and outdoor dining, private event spaces, and a to-go program with curated picnic baskets, charcuterie, and wine pairings for nearby Regent Park. succulentfinedining.getbento.com
Boo's Burgers
Boo's Burgers, founded by Joseph Boudreaux, began in 2020 as a Houston pop-up inspired by cookouts, corner joints, and cultural mashups from his upbringing. The concept quickly gained a loyal following for its focus on simple, well-executed food rooted in community. Boo's first brick-and-mortar location has opened in the East End, serving 44 Farms beef burgers, shroom sandwiches, and signature sides. The counter-service space combines old-school character with a modern edge, staying true to its Houston identity. boosburgershtx.com
Barbacana
(facing page) Chef Christian Hernandez, who has worked in acclaimed restaurants in Houston, New York, and Mexico City, now leads Barbacana, a downtown restaurant showcasing his vision of Houston dining. The menu reflects Texas foodways, Gulf Coast ingredients, and international technique, offered through a chef tasting menu and a la carte options. Signature dishes include buttered onion tart with crab, Wagyu carpaccio with pecans and pickled strawberries, donburi with Koshihikari rice and mushrooms, and dry-aged duck breast with pistachio dukkah and Medjool dates. barbacanatx.com
The Board Room
Bringing fresh vibes to CityCentre, The Board Room blends charcuterie, wine, and culinary expertise in a bright, welcoming space. By day, it offers fresh grab-and-go meals; evenings feature full-service dining, charcuterie boards, curated wine, cocktails, and artisanal retail from local vendors. theboardroomhtx.com
Latuli
Latuli, from Allison Knight and chef Bryan Caswell, blends Texas Gulf Coast roots with global flavors in the Memorial neighborhood. The menu highlights local seafood, ranch-raised beef, and globally influenced dishes, complemented by curated wines and refined cocktails. The restaurant features a warm, elevated design, and spaces for intimate or large gatherings. latuli.com
Milton's
Milton's in Rice Village offers elevated Italian classics with handmade pastas, Josper Grill-fired meats, and shareable appetizers like Tigelle Platter and truffle garlic knots. An inviting atmosphere and a curated cocktail and wine program complement the menu items. miltonandlees.com
Lee's
Located in Rice Village, Lee's complements its neighbor Milton's with expertly crafted cocktails blending classic and modern techniques. Small, globally inspired bites by Siegel-Gardner and Chef Kent Domas echo the bar's vibrant energy and Milton's Italian American roots, creating a flavorful experience that pairs perfectly with the creative drink menu. miltonandlees.com
Alora
Alora blends Peruvian and Vietnamese cuisines, offering innovative dishes like Shaking Lomo Saltado and Aji de Gallina spring rolls. The Montrose restaurant pairs bold, global flavors with creative cocktails in a lively, vibrant atmosphere. alorahtx.com
Leo's River Oaks
Adjacent to one of the most iconic theaters in Houston, Leo's delivers an elevated dining experience with New American cuisine, prime steaks, seafood, live music, elegant Art Deco design, curated wines, and delicious cocktails. The restaurant creates a supper club atmosphere ideal for date nights or dinner out with friends. leosriveroaks.com
March
This fall, Michelin-starred March unveils The Levant, a six- or nine-course tasting menu inspired by the Eastern Mediterranean. Dishes highlight Levantine flavors, techniques, and ingredients, complemented by tailored wine pairings from the region, immersive sensory details, and March's signature Snack Tile opening ritual. marchrestaurant.com