Diners' Choice: Innovative restaurants in Houston

OpenTable

Updated September 05, 2024

Looking for the best restaurants that are fit for foodies in Houston? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Soto - Houston

4.9

4.9 (527)

$50 and over

Sushi

Montrose

About the restaurant

Soto offers sushi dressed to taste giving you a unique experience you won't forget. Chef Andy and team curated an award winning menu that also features two different Omakase'. Our bar carries an extensive Japanese whiskey and sake menu guaranteed to have something you will love. Stop in today for an upscale Japanese dining experience!

Top review

Jennifervip

Dined 3 days ago

we went for a late lunch. service was great- server was very attentive and food came out quickly. it was a nice quick lunch, would enjoy a longer meal with drinks next time. the uni truffle pasta was delicious.

Bandista

4.9

4.9 (210)

$30 and under

Cocktail Bar

Downtown

About the restaurant

Discreetly located within Four Seasons Hotel Houston, Bandista is an intimate, modern-day speakeasy, reminiscent of a 1920s lounge that dazzles with a decadent Latin vibe. Guests of the 20-seat bar and lounge enjoy inventive and artistic interpretations of classic and contemporary cocktails, as well as rare spirits from around the world. Bandista's eight bar seats provide a center-stage show of the cocktail laboratory, where guests connect with the city's most talented bartenders and other discreet guests.

Experience @BandistaHouston on Instagram

Top review

Janesha

Dined 6 days ago

The drinks and ambiance was very nice. Our bartenders Josh and Zach were very attentive and entertaining. I will definitely be returning! If you know, you know!!!

CASE Chocolates

4.9

4.9 (30)

$50 and over

Dessert

Southeast Houston

About the restaurant

CASE Chocolates is the world's first chocolate and cocktail speakeasy. Our tasting experiences take you through fine and unique cacaos combined with high-end spirits and cocktails. Our space is meant to spark delight and joy, and we can't wait to welcome you in soon!

Our promise is a one-of-a-kind journey through chocolates in an unforgettable atmosphere.

Pricing $68 per person

Top review

Kenyanisvip

Dined on Aug 30, 2024

CASE Chocolates is simply incredible. Highly recommend for date night. Cocktails were surprisingly super strong and delicious. The expertise behind creating infused chocolates was pretty impressive.

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Experience

Chocolate & Cocktails Tasting Experience

Amrina

4.8

4.8 (445)

$50 and over

Contemporary Indian

The Woodlands

About the restaurant

Located off the beautiful Waterway of The Woodlands, Amrina is a fine-dining eclectic restaurant. The menu is a testament to the artistry of Chef Jassi and his chefs, crafted with an unparalleled devotion to culinary excellence. From the opulence of oysters and caviar to an array of tantalizing vegetarian, meat, and seafood delights, every dish reflects the diversity and richness of Indian gastronomy. Steaks include succulent filet mignon, mouthwatering bone-in ribeye, ever-popular New York strip, and sumptuous A5 Miyazaki ribeye.

The restaurant has been honored Restaurant of the Year 2022 by several publications, including Eater Houston. Alison Cook of the Houston Chronicle, has hailed Amrina “one of Houston’s most exciting restaurants, with destination-worthy dining”. Amrina has also been awarded the Best of Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator.

Enjoy Happy Hour with colleagues, a date on the Patio, business in the Private Dining Room, or intimate experience at the Chef's Table!

Top review

KennysBvip

Dined 1 day ago

This place is a total gem! It takes all the Indian flavors to another level. The food is beautifully presented, and you can really taste the care they put into each dish. The vibe is relaxed but stylish, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or something a bit special. If you’re into Indian food or just want to try something different, this place is a must-visit! By the way Eddy was espectacular!! The best service ever! We will come back for more.

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Experience

Fantasy Hour - A Royal Happy Hour Experience

Experience

Chef’s Table Experience

Experience

Main Dining Tasting Menu $125

BORI - Montrose

4.8

4.8 (25)

$31 to $50

Korean

Montrose

About the restaurant

Bringing an original and unique dining experience to Houston, BORI introduces the first authentic South Korean inspired steakhouse by using the finest and highest quality meats for a complete exposure to the cultural flavor and essence of Korean taste. This clean and fun atmosphere is a landmark destination for local and international food enthusiasts in search of the best Korean food in town! BORI is one of the few restaurants that offers selections of A5 Wagyu from Japan, Dry‐Aged Steaks, Filet Mignon, & our favorite Marinated Boneless Short Rib. We are equipped with the best ventilation system in Houston, so you won’t leave the restaurant smelling like BBQ. The table servers are trained to ensure a perfectly cooked meal while maintaining a fun and eyecatching experience for the customers. BORI promises not only a luxury, fine dining experience but an entertaining one as well. We have the freshest ingredients and the friendliest staff to cater to your every need!

Top review

Quoc

Dined 6 days ago

It was my wife birthday. Thank you for the memorable experience.

Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen - Vintage

4.7

4.7 (49)

$30 and under

Mexican

North Side

About the restaurant

Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen is an exciting concept kitchen that strives to bring elevated Mexican cuisine to a modern audience. The menu reflects the rich variety of Mexican cuisine, with a plethora of options to suit any craving. Each dish is made to order using fresh, local and sustainable ingredients. The restaurant strives to provide a traditional and modern interpretation of all family recipes. Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen offers special happy hour pricing Monday through Friday with appetizers and drinks. Start with an appetizer. Order the street corn, spicy chicharron, ceviche costeno or the pork belly in salsa verde. For entrees, get the risotto Mexicano, pescado a la veracruzana or the lamb shank. Not feeling that hungry? Guests can order tacos, quesadillas or fajitas a la carte. Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen is good for families, small and large groups or just a night out on the town.

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined on Aug 27, 2024

Always love coming here! Had a great evening celebrating my mom’s birthday and the food was all delicious as usual. Thank you!

True Food Kitchen - Houston

4.5

4.5 (1422)

$30 and under

American

Galleria / Uptown

About the restaurant

True Food Kitchen is a chef-driven restaurant and scratch bar that was founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, the pioneer of integrative medicine, to provide food that tastes great and is good for you. At our table, delicious dining and conscious nutrition go hand in hand, without sacrificing flavor, creativity or indulgence. Our expertly trained chefs craft flavor-forward dishes, handcrafted cocktails and freshly pressed refreshers so you can enjoy epic food experiences that aren’t just good for you, but good to you. Join us in Houston for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. Located in Uptown Houston neighborhood at BLVD Place, home to other concepts such as: Whole Foods Market, North Italia and One Medical Anchored Shopping Center. New flavors, new combinations, new obsessions. Come see us for something completely new and delicious.

Top review

Johngene

Dined on Aug 25, 2024

The service was excellent. Our waiter gave us a complimentary glass of wine. The food was indeed very health.

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Experience

Fall Menu Tasting Event

PostScript HTX

4.5

4.5 (38)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Southeast Houston

About the restaurant

PostScript is a modern American restaurant offering dinner, lunch and weekend brunch. Creative, memorable cuisine is brought to life in a unique and elegant venue.

PostScript offers options for large groups, celebrations and corporate events. The venue features two private dining rooms, including a large private room with bar and patio.

Top review

Miles

Dined 6 days ago

We had such an amazing time celebrating my friend’s birthday. Our server Elián was spectacular and truly made the night u forgettable. Additionally, the amazing managers Johnathan and Amir took special care of our entire table to ensure we had a great night. A huge thank you to the entire staff for helping us make an incredible memory. Cheers to finding a new great Houston gem. ❤️❤️❤️

The Fish

4.4

4.4 (233)

$31 to $50

Japanese

Montrose

About the restaurant

Proudly serving Houston since 2002, The Fish stands as Midtown's top destination for Japanese cuisine and sushi, boasting a vibrant social atmosphere. With an extensive menu featuring mouthwatering dishes such as Yuzu Shrimp & Noodles, Thai Chili Yellowtail, and Blue Crab Fried Rice, our dedicated and welcoming staff are here to exceed your expectations and ensure a memorable dining experience.

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined on Jun 29, 2024

We had the mamas roll and black widow. Both were very good. The miso cod and the edamame were else excellent.

Derby Restaurant

4.1

4.1 (31)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Willowbrook

About the restaurant

At Derby, we pride ourselves on delivering not just exquisite flavors but also an exceptional bar experience. Indulge in our diverse menu featuring locally brewed beers, expertly crafted artisanal cocktails, and a carefully curated selection of premium spirits. Come join us and discover the perfect blend of culinary excellence and automotive passion at Derby Houston.

Open to the public. All ages are welcome in the restaurant.

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined 6 days ago

Took my husband for his bday meal and he loved it. He loves cars and the food was delicious.

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