Shout out to Houston’s restaurant scene because we’re getting national attention again! Several Houston restaurants and chefs were named as semifinalists for the coveted James Beard Awards. So, where should you visit before they (hopefully!) become big winners later this year?
Ema
The City Cast Houston team is a huge fan of Ema, a semifinalist for Best New Restaurant. This cozy Mexican bakery tucked inside the Heights is a great escape for a quick breakfast or lunch. I’m still thinking about the Hoja Santa French Toast I inhaled during our team lunch. City Cast Houston Host Raheel Ramzanali raved about the suadero chilaquiles, made with brisket, black beans, eggs, and salsa. And, you can’t go to Ema without getting some of their pan dulce – the sweet Mexican bread that made them famous in H-town.
The Trad, one of ChopnBlok's popular dishes. (Brooke Lewis/City Cast Houston)
ChopnBlok
Prepare for a flavorful adventure at ChopnBlok! Ope Amosu, the chef behind the popular West African restaurant, is nominated for Best Chef in Texas. You really can’t go wrong with any dish, but first-timers should try one of their popular plates like the Trad, a tomato-based jollof rice dish with chicken and plantains. If you’ve already visited them at POST Houston, stop by their new brick and mortar location in Montrose to take in the vibrant space and sit at their cozy bar.
Le Jardinier
Hurry up and make a reservation at Le Jardinier, a French restaurant inside the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, that’s getting a lot of buzz after making the Michelin Guide. Their sommelier Andres Blanco now has received a nod for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service. Whether you’re on a luxurious date or toasting a celebration, order their red-wine braised short ribs or tea-spiced duck a l'orange also adored their dessert menu! Right now, you can order their culinary canvas dessert inspired by the museum’s ‘Gauguin in the World’ exhibit.
Jūn
This Heights restaurant is oh-so Houston, paying homage to both chefs' diverse backgrounds. At Jun, you can dive into plates with both Latin and Southeast Asian influences. Chef Evelyn Garcia has been nominated for Best Chef in Texas. Their menu is full of tasty items that allow you to go on a cultural adventure. Take their fried chicken, made with shrimp paste, ginger, thai chili, herbs, or their pork ribs with five-spiced sweet soy, celery, and peanuts.
