Houston’s restaurant scene is always booming with new delicious spots to try! So, which new restaurants are actually worth the hype? Here’s what we recommend.
❌ Skip: Dandelion Cafe’s Original Location — Visit New Heights Digs
Okay, don’t get me wrong, I love Dandelion Cafe’s original Bellaire location. The City Cast Houston team even had a team lunch there! But, there’s something extra special about their new spot in the Heights. For me, the patio is reason enough to visit and enjoy the spring weather. While you’re chilling on the patio, enjoy their signature chicken and waffles and a mimosa — they come in a variety of flavors ranging from blueberry to hibiscus honey.
- 😎 Make the most of the sunshine: Houston’s Top 5 Patios for Spring [City Cast Houston 🎧]
✅ Definitely Visit: Pok Pok Po
Here’s how City Cast Houston Host Raheel Ramzanli’s visit went: “I was really intrigued by Pok Pok Po because of the promise of South Asian flavors in a fast-casual chicken joint. I visited when it first opened and by far the best item we tried was the chicken tenders! They weren't the biggest, but they were so juicy and packed with South Asian spices. The naughty sauce was really good, with just enough kick. The loaded chic fries were a skip for me because they were kinda dry. The atmosphere was fun, and the service was quick. I would definitely visit Pok Pok Po again!”
The Octopus Anticucho at Alora Restaurant and Bar. (Laura Isensee / City Cast Houston)
✅ Visit: Alora Restaurant and Bar
City Cast Houston executive producer Laura Isensee enjoyed Alora, but suggests being mindful of portion sizes: “When I heard Houston had a new Peruvian and Vietnamese restaurant, I knew I had to try it! I went with two friends who are always up for a foodie adventure. We shared the green papaya salad to start. For entrées, one friend ordered the pasta a la Huancaína, which leaned more on the Peruvian side. Another ordered a seafood stew, and I got the octopus anticucho — grilled octopus with a Huancaína sauce, crispy lotus root and choclo.
“I LOVED the creativity and the flavors — fresh and not too heavy. But the portion sizes for the entrées were hit-or-miss. One friend had leftovers while my octopus felt more like an appetizer. Dessert was definitely a highlight: the kem xoi — a sticky rice dessert with toasted coconut ice cream! I would go back with friends for at least appetizers and cocktails.”
