Houston, Texas, is a city renowned for its rich and diverse culinary landscape, and when it comes to Mexican cuisine, it's a culinary playground waiting to be explored. During our recent trip to Houston, we embarked on a gastronomic adventure in search of the most delectable Mexican food spots.
From sizzling street tacos and mouthwatering enchiladas to zesty salsas and indulgent desserts, our journey through Houston's Mexican food scene promised a feast of flavors that would tantalize our taste buds and leave us craving for more.
Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and authentic tastes that make Houston a paradise for lovers of Mexican cuisine.
Hugo's (1600 Westheimer Rd)
Hugo's in Houston, TX, offers a remarkable trifecta of exceptional food, impeccable service, and an inviting ambiance that beckons diners from all corners. Our visit for dinner on a quiet weekday revealed a dining establishment that goes the extra mile to ensure a delightful experience.
As we arrived, the convenience of valet parking added a touch of elegance to the start of our evening. Stepping indoors, we were immediately captivated by the restaurant's inviting atmosphere. It exudes a warmth and charm that sets the stage for an enjoyable meal. The service, in particular, stood out as a highlight of our visit, with attentive and friendly staff ensuring our needs were met throughout the evening.
As we perused the menu, we were delighted to discover a plethora of vegetarian options, catering to various dietary preferences. Our culinary journey began with a taste of their fresh and flavorful salsa and guacamole, setting the stage for what was to come. The chips, unfortunately, were eligible for refills only.
The plantain empanadas, while enjoyable, leaned slightly towards the sweeter side, offering a unique twist on a classic dish. Our adventurous spirits led us to sample TACOS DE RAJAS Y PAPAS, which introduced us to the rich flavors of poblano peppers that lent a delightful complexity to the dish.
One of the highlights of the evening was the PLATO DE VEGETALES, featuring a butternut squash puree that left an indelible mark on our taste buds. Paired with perfectly prepared brussels sprouts, it was a dish that showcased the kitchen's creativity and commitment to crafting memorable flavors.
With a menu brimming with vegetarian options, fresh salsas, and innovative dishes, it's a destination that beckons us to return and explore more of its culinary treasures. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply a lover of exquisite Mexican cuisine, Hugo's is a dining destination that promises a memorable and satisfying meal. We look forward to returning and uncovering more gems from their extensive menu.
Teotihuacan (1511 Airline Dr)
Located just a stone's throw away from Downtown Houston, Teotihuacan is a Tex-Mex haven that captivates diners with its exceptional cuisine. During our visit, we found ourselves in the heart of Tex-Mex heaven, where fast and friendly service, reasonable prices, and a diverse menu awaited us.
Upon being seated, we were promptly greeted with refreshing ice water and an enticing assortment of chips accompanied by both a green and red sauce. The red sauce, in particular, stood out with its warm, spicy kick that added an extra layer of flavor to our dining experience. While the chips were delightfully crisp, they left us yearning for a bit more depth in their taste.
The star of the show, undoubtedly, was the food itself—fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. The skirt steak, prepared with finesse, showcased tenderness and a remarkable depth of flavor that left a lasting impression. However, it wasn't just the steak that stole the spotlight; the tacos and enchiladas we sampled were among the finest we've encountered in Houston.
A noteworthy mention goes to the homemade tortillas, a true testament to the restaurant's commitment to authenticity. If your chosen dish doesn't come with these delectable tortillas, we wholeheartedly recommend requesting a side order to savor alongside your rice and beans.
Teotihuacan proved to be a Tex-Mex gem in Houston, offering a diverse menu with options to suit all palates, whether you're a fan of meat, fish, or vegetarian fare. The combination of excellent service, reasonable prices, and memorable flavors makes it a dining destination that we're eager to revisit. When you're in the mood for Tex-Mex excellence, Teotihuacan in Houston should be at the top of your list.
Caracol (2200 Post Oak Blvd #160)
Caracol in Houston, Texas, is a culinary gem that transports diners to a world of Mexican seafood delights. From the moment I stepped through the door, I knew I was embarking on a gastronomic journey like no other. This restaurant promises an exceptional dining experience, and it certainly delivered.
To kickstart my culinary adventure, I decided to begin with one of their renowned margaritas, and I must say, it lived up to the hype. Our server's promise of the smoothest margarita was no exaggeration; it was a well-balanced and delightful start to the evening.
As we ventured into the small plates section of the menu, we couldn't resist trying the ceviche de coco and chicharron de calamar. The ceviche was a refreshing masterpiece, featuring lime-cured red snapper with a touch of coconut cream—a harmonious blend of flavors. On the other hand, the chicharron de calamar delighted our palates with its crispy texture and rich flavor profile, leaving us craving more.
Moving on to the large plates, we selected the callo de hacha and costillas de res. The callo de hacha was an absolute standout, with perfectly prepared scallops complemented by roasted cauliflower. Equally impressive were the costillas de res, featuring flawlessly braised short ribs accompanied by a delectable mole sauce. The inclusion of mashed plantain added a delightful Mexican twist to this classic dish, offering a unique and satisfying twist on traditional polenta.
To conclude our dining experience on a sweet note, we couldn't resist indulging in the pastel de chocolate criollo. This delectable dessert arrived as a chocolate sphere, requiring a gentle tap with a mallet to reveal its hidden treasures. Inside, a light and fluffy coconut mousse awaited, adorned with a delightful coconut streusel that provided a delightful contrast in texture.
Caracol far exceeded my expectations, delivering exceptional food and attentive service in an inviting atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner for two or a memorable evening with friends, Caracol proves to be the perfect choice. If you find yourself in Houston, make sure to seize the opportunity to savor the world's finest margarita and indulge in the remarkable culinary creations at Caracol.
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