http://www.chow.com/boards/67 Thu, 06 May 2010 21:39:23 GMT Keep track of the lastest threads on Chowhound http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/783156#7341753 That location was mentioned in one of the Press articles as I recall; not too surprising since most of their writers (and those of the Chron) seem to live in either the Montrose or Heights. I've never been to that location. The Signature Cafe is a Safeway division/department and is in every store and I assume they all use the same recipe. I've been to the Bellaire store, which is where the off taste of the oil was worst, the one on W. Bellfort @ Kirkwood, which had very poor turnover and the chicken had been under heat lamps too long, and mostly the Meyer Park store on S. Post Oak, where I've been maybe a half dozen times. Again, not the best fc in town but it's a matter of convenience for me rather than driving all the way over to Scott St. brucesw Wed, 16 May 2012 02:23:15 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/783156#7341753 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/849384#7341733 It's on the menu of several restaurants so someone must be able to get it. I'd suggest you contact Louisiana Foods on W. 12th; they're a supplier to many seafood restaurants. Their small retail market is only open limited hours so I'd just call to ask about availability. http://www.louisianafoods.com/ p.s. - you do not want their Total Catch Market which is only on Saturday and specializes in Gulf Coast by-catch only. brucesw Wed, 16 May 2012 02:15:37 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/849384#7341733 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/849437#7341551 I was in Houston for business yesterday and our morning session ended rather early, leaving my law partner and I with and unexpected opportunity for a leisurely lunch downtown within walking distance of where we were, but not enough time to hop in the car and go eat anywhere else. Consulted Yelp and decided to eat at Treebeards without reading the reviews too carefully. Turned out to be a decent, inexpensive choice. Treebeards is essentially a Cajun food cafeteria. Had I read that it was cafeteria style, we would have likely picked somewhere that served fresh food. But truthfully, it was OK. I had red beans and rice with sausage, duck gumbo, and a bowl of fresh watermelon for desert. My parter had a large salad that had been pre-made, but was surprisingly fresh. She said that she enjoyed the salad. The beans and rice was very good, the gumbo average, and the watermelon quite good. Decent cornbread and they didn't charge you for butter (a pet peeve). Partner paid, so I didn't notice exactly what the price was, but it was very reasonable by my standards. Probably $12 - 14 or so each. We didn't have a lot of interactions (as one would expect) with the staff, but they all seemed to go out of their way to be helpful and were very friendly and well trained. Just glanced at their web site. Apparently they have several locations downtown. The one we ate at was at 315 Travis St. http://www.treebeards.com/locmenus/lm-mktsqr.php For those for whom price is a critical issues, here is a menu: http://www.treebeards.com/locmenus/lm-mktsqr.php#menu In summary, it's not a place I'd go out of my way to eat at again, but if I found myself in that part of downtown again and it was lunch time, I'd be glad to eat there again. Mike C. Miller Wed, 16 May 2012 00:32:18 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/849437#7341551 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/846083#7340958 There was this braised chicken in milk dish at Aries that I remember being incredible. 10+ years ago. Grilled Snapper at Tampico Primo's Carne Asada in early 80's Pasta and Fresh truffles at Tony's The first molten lava cake I ever had at Morton's many years ago. Toro sushi at Kata Robata Swiss chard and ricotta pasta at Giamcomo's. jscarbor Tue, 15 May 2012 19:58:27 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/846083#7340958 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848742#7336249 In Houston, with all there is to choose from? You bet. I have had a couple of great meals at El Real (and one so-so meal), and I love the tamales from Alamo on Navigation, but otherwise, most Tex Mex is boring. brucesw Sun, 13 May 2012 14:36:17 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848742#7336249 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848258#7333281 You can never tell with traffic around here. It should be better but downtown has few lanes so it tends to back up. If you're from a bigger city and you don't hit an accident, traffic shouldn't feel too bad to you but you don't have many alternative options. Please report backon Hay Merchant Here's a link to for real time traffic. http://traffic.houstontranstar.org/layers/ tlegray Fri, 11 May 2012 15:13:40 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848258#7333281 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/621099#7332310 For upscale but way out in pastureland, Karl's at the Riverbend in Richmond, TX http://www.karlsrb.com/documents/Menu-Karl's-at-the-Riverbend-20110908.pdf Lambowner Thu, 10 May 2012 22:33:41 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/621099#7332310 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848322#7330365 I know we have reserved the upstairs at Nino's before. I am pretty sure that it seats 30. I am pretty sure that Grappino di Nino (sp) which is behind Nino's and Vincent's can handle that many and they do a wonderful job. rondl Wed, 09 May 2012 23:56:46 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848322#7330365 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848342#7329973 Nundini isn't just a wholesaler. They have a pretty big retail store (where you don't have to buy by the case) and have 00 flour. Don't recall if they have Caputo, but you should call and ask. macktripper Wed, 09 May 2012 20:43:38 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848342#7329973 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848278#7328732 Interesting, thanks. I was thinking of checking with Sammy's Wild Game Grill. brucesw Wed, 09 May 2012 10:09:18 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/848278#7328732 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/839042#7327953 The sushi is great, but the small plates are what really blow you away. If there is anything with foie gras get it. If they have the 72 hour short rib, get it. Fried milk dessert is great. macktripper Tue, 08 May 2012 22:35:23 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/839042#7327953 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842374#7327041 hey sashigirl, good luck on the cupcake…and congrats on the new little one. :-). please update if you discover the secret. alkapal Tue, 08 May 2012 17:06:01 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842374#7327041 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/847772#7321895 We frequent the restaurant and I haven't seen any escargot on the menu other that the garlic butter variety, but that is hard to beat. Will have to participate in Escargot Day! Lambowner Sat, 05 May 2012 20:19:01 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/847772#7321895 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/677751#7321494 Just tried Classic's CFS and was not impressed. It's the first time so we may try them again to see if it was an off day. Delicious gravy though. Hubby likes their Fried Cat Fish Po-boy which is now an off menu item. tlegray Sat, 05 May 2012 15:40:16 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/677751#7321494 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/846857#7321366 Thhere's also this Eye-Talian place just north of the Woodlands. Looks good to me http://www.houstonpress.com/2012-05-03/restaurants/aldo-s-cucina-italiana/ James Cristinian Sat, 05 May 2012 14:17:04 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/846857#7321366 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/847583#7320176 Deli meats section. Got a pound of the Pastrami, vg. txpickyeater Fri, 04 May 2012 19:15:57 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/847583#7320176 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/840779#7312483 Thanks for the info and the link. I would love to get really good at making my own!! krsyindove Tue, 01 May 2012 16:38:53 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/840779#7312483 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/846800#7310973 thanks for the info. I'll try and stop by next time I'm in Stafford. caliking Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:50:04 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/846800#7310973 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/822417#7308802 Check out the list below although I am not 100% certain on the extent of the experience: Haven Latin Bites Cafe Sorrel Urban Bistro UrbanSwankGirl Sun, 29 Apr 2012 23:30:40 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/822417#7308802 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/769609#7308473 Next Saturday, the East End Street Fest will be on Harrisburg. This is right up my alley, small, I eschewed the I Fest mainly for the walking, (coming off an Achilles rupture), plus the ridiculous pricing, and went to Galveston instead. This looks good, small, local, food, drinks, live music, we're there. Anybody else? http://www.greatereastend.com/east-end-street-fest James Cristinian Sun, 29 Apr 2012 20:15:17 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/769609#7308473 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/845912#7307926 We actually ended up going to Chuys, which has a big vegetarian menu, and they happily made the veggie enchiladas without cheese (which my friend loved). Good to know all of their rice and beans are vegetarian too, even the charro. Thanks for the suggestion of Radical Eats - we'll check it out next time! Melissalg422 Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:42:25 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/845912#7307926 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/342193#7306771 I had lunch there yesterday with 5 others, and truly enjoyed the food and friendly treatment we received from Kaiser. Yes, he is a colorful character - he IS the reason we go there. Thanks to generous portions, I had the rest of my chicken tikka masala for lunch today. He directed all our servers himself (in spanish) and we held down a big table for more that two hours. We were never rushed, and I believe he even comped our shared desserts (the flan is really unique). When the bill came we divided it among the 6 of us, and even with gratuities, it was $18/person. It will be interesting to see if things run as smoothly when he is on vacation in the next two weeks - the first time since 1999 he's taken any time off. I understand how people can be put off by their experience there. This restaurant is deep in Indo/Pakistani territory, and its not a white-tablecloth kind of place, with obsequious servers and overly attentive busboys. Local custom prevails, and sometimes communication is, well, garbled. I see my friend Joydreamz upthread - I know her experience was less than favorable, but hope she'll give them another try. My suggestion to anyone who has not yet been there is to go, and make friends with Kaiser. He's a great fellow, and treats his friends like family. Mutual respect is a win-win in that cultural situation. Cheflambo Sat, 28 Apr 2012 18:53:17 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/342193#7306771 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/807998#7304393 The Voss store is just a few minute walk from my office. They are doing site prep work now. I'm looking forward to it. DoobieWah Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:17:31 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/807998#7304393 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/845331#7300884 Still waiting on that Galveston report, James! Meantime, The Pelican Grill in Seabrook is the featured "off the rails" restaurant on "Restaurant: Impossible" tonight. Lambowner Wed, 25 Apr 2012 22:06:15 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/845331#7300884 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/845646#7299035 I second Perry's. texasredtop Wed, 25 Apr 2012 01:06:46 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/845646#7299035 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/845879#7298277 After visiting the shops on 19th Street, the family had worked up a thirst. A stop at Juicy In The Sky took care of that. I love this place. Wonderful fresh drinks made on the spot. I had Cilantro Lemon Limeade ($3.50). The lime and lemonades are sweetened with organic agave. You also have the option of honey or maple syrup. I appreciate the fact they hold back on the sweetness level--you can have your drink made sweeter if you wish. Husband had the strawberry lemonade; daughter raspberry lemonade. The drinks were 14 oz.. Juicy's menu of drinks is extensive, and it is all real fruits and vegetables. No nasty powders. Listed under basic juices (14 oz), I want to return for the Scarlet O'hara (watermelon and Thai chili pepper $4.50) or how about The Hammock (tangerine, pineapple, grapefruit)). Daughter likes the Chihuahua ($6.50 for 24 oz). It consists of apple, jicama, 3 chilies, cilantro, lime and oregano. They also offer smoothies, milkshakes, and super shots (noni or wheatgrass). The place is pretty hard to find. Address is 238 W. 19th shortly before you hit Yale. The building is painted turquoise. Juicy is down a long hall from Bespoke Design. There are only about three tables. You can phone in an order if you are in a hurry. We are heading back to North Carolina in a few days. I wish I could take Juicy In The Sky With ME. Panski Tue, 24 Apr 2012 19:16:25 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/845879#7298277 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842440#7290988 They have crawfish for $4.99 now! Lambowner Fri, 20 Apr 2012 22:20:14 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842440#7290988 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/436206#7290473 Alas, I was but a lowly stockboy/dishwasher. Took the gig for the free food and good conversation. tadhg555 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 18:31:27 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/436206#7290473 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/534932#7290335 I like Raja foods pujabi/papadi chaat, the best and good quantity, I havent tried Bunsi chaat yet, but heard abt it. I have tried Bombay sweet and Shiv sagar chaat did not like either of them. Though, Bombay sweet has best samosa and paneer pakoda. I dont like Shiv sagar food. If you are like me Chaat fan then must try Raja foods' Pujabi chaat. goofi Fri, 20 Apr 2012 17:34:49 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/534932#7290335 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/825283#7289987 Thanks brucesw! I haven't actually tried any of these yet. We tend to eat in more often than not, as we both love to cook. But I am looking forward to trying some Ethiopian especially, that is a food we both really like. And it is good to know that although it looks a little scary, the strip center on Fondren and S Braeswood has some good stuff in it. serac Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:18:29 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/825283#7289987 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/844962#7287219 Star Pizza still there - two locations. I like the place, the wait for a fresh pizza can take some time so order salads and sit near a tv or try the lunch buffet. Chuys is still on Westheimer and has now spread to the 'burbs. Westheimer is the first and best. I don't recall seeing a 911 Hot Plate. Last Concert is still there and a night club at night. I don't see it as a kid place really. 59 diner has also expanded to other locations. I don't know about Chinese Cafe, but since you were here, the New Chinatown has sprouted and proliferated on Bellaire between 59 and Beltway 8, generally. Hundreds of Chinese places. Others can better suggest migas, not a breakfast person! Although the rustic Los Dos Amigos on Washington is popular for their breakfasts and I like their lunches! Welcome back, Dad! Lambowner Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:33:54 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/844962#7287219 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/839582#7287187 All of the grocery stores that serve the Meyerland area will have Kosher departments and will carry some Batampte products. Kroger Signature, W. Bellfort @ S. Post Oak - I've bought them here before but store is undergoing major remodeling and saw a lot of empty shelves on a visit earlier this week. Didn't look for the pickles. HEB - S. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock - older, dumpy store with small Kosher dept. I've bought the mustard there before but try to avoid the store at all costs. Belden's - N. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock, great local, one-of-a-kind store, biggest selection of Kosher pdts in town but a bit pricier. Also, probably the Randall's on S. Post Oak @ W. Bellfort. I know they have a kosher department but I've never checked it out. As far as others there are two Russian delis in the Meyerland area that make their own 'lightly brined cucumbers' that I like better than Batampte; I've had some Batampte that were really brackish:: The Russian General Store - Hillcroft @ S. Braeswood Golden Grains - on Birdwood, a mostly residential street a couple blocks north of Beldens. Small stores means home-made products may not always be in stock. Meyerland is off the southwest corner of Loop 610. brucesw Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:21:22 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/839582#7287187 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/822906#7282391 Nice, thanks. Karen1440 Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:00:14 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/822906#7282391 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/844194#7281315 Sorry it has taken me so long to respond. We are traveling in our RV and the internet connection has been useless. The tour does leave from Clinton. Mama Ninfas sounds like a good possibility. We will also look into Brady's Landing. Thanks. Panski Mon, 16 Apr 2012 23:30:51 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/844194#7281315 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/843259#7278755 Not to lapse into cliche, but the book (Like Water for Chocolate) was better... For some reason, the book seemed to make more sense, and each chapter began with a wonderful recipe. I bought it back when it first came out, and still refer to it from time to time. And that brings up a good point about Mexican hot chocolate. Traditionally it was usually made with water, not milk, and it often still is. The difference is similar to eating a milk chocolate candy bar vs a dark chocolate candy bar. The hot chocolate made with water is much darker, with a stronger chocolate flavor. In fact, my favorite method is Mexican chocolate and water, topped with some sweetened whipped cream. When you sip, you draw that hot dark rich chocolate up through the cool sweet cream. It's my idea of heaven in a cup. In fact, I'm salivating just thinking about it. Jaymes Sun, 15 Apr 2012 23:06:22 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/843259#7278755 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/843942#7276955 I am looking for someone who can come in for a few hours and cook some meals for the week to put in the fridge or freezer. koek Sat, 14 Apr 2012 21:22:31 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/843942#7276955 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/843885#7273598 I'm not super familiar with the area right by the Galleria, but a short(ish?) cab ride away for Tex-Mex is the El Tiempo on Richmond. Escalante's would be even closer (only a mile, though it's kind of a rough walk, since you have to go under the freeway, etc., so a cab would probably still be a good idea). But I've never been, so can't personally recommend it, and I've heard mixed things about it. Can't help much with barbecue since my preferred place is out of the loop and currently on hiatus. I think the general consensus around here is that Houston barbecue doesn't really compare to the Central Texas variety, but that said, I do think it can be worth trying if you're looking for a taste of the Texas style (though I'm not a hardcore barbecue aficionado). Maybe someone else will have thoughts on convenient places. mjust Fri, 13 Apr 2012 03:40:04 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/843885#7273598 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/843626#7272048 Thanks, everyone! stitchbug Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:59:39 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/843626#7272048 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842311#7267749 I saw this thread linked to on EaterHouston. Around here fish sandwich suggests catfish po’boy probably to most people. Within the range of what you’re looking for? If so, lots of cajun places will offer one. I haven’t ever had one as I much prefer oyster po’boys. The best would be at Calliope’s, downtown on Jefferson, just east of 59. Probably limited to catfish, though, but they do use the most appropriate bread, softer than a French baguette but still crusty, not just a typical sandwich roll which some places use. You can find this type of sandwich in Galveston at Shrimp 'n Stuff and Benno's on the Beach. I prefer the latter. Another possibility would be the ubiquitous u-buy, we-fry places. Despite the similar names, they’re all individually owned and will vary in quality and choice, with the two most common probably catfish and tilapia. Also, they may do only meals, not sandwiches. I used to go to a good one on Fountainview just north of Richmond when I worked in the Galleria area but that was a couple of decades ago. The one I go to sometimes now is J&J Seafood, on Woodhollow, just off Stella Link, just inside Loop 610. You can see the sign from 610 as you approach Stella Link from the east. Two basic choices, redfish and catfish, but sometimes more. I’ve been in when you also had the ready availability of flounder and tilapia and you can select any fish in the fish market but you’ll pay more and wait longer for it to be cleaned and fileted, etc. Also, not sure if they do sandwiches and there’s no dining facilites on premises. Get the bread of your choice, etc., first, probably. The sides are forgettable but you could use the tartar sauce and cole slaw to dress a sandwich. Right up Stella Link is Wild Kitchen which specializes in burgers and fish, with a choice of cajun style or London fish ‘n chips style. The menu does list sandwiches but I don’t know what bread they use. The fish choices listed on the menu are cat, tilapia, flounder and cod! I just tried their London style plate once and wasn’t impressed so I only get the burgers here but to each his own. Also I thought I remembered having pollock but that was several years ago. There’s a Seller’s Brothers just a block away if you need to get bread for a sandwich from J & J and around the corner on S. Braeswood is 3 Brothers Bakery with awesome challah rolls and kaiser rolls. I bet a fish sandwich on a 3 Bros kaiser roll would be awesome. I think I’m going to plan on that next time I go to J & J. J&J and Wild Kitchen are on Yelp so you can get directions and other comments. Calliope's on there too of course but they also have a website. dexmat Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:40:45 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842311#7267749 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/836724#7264415 Made a reconnoitre trip yesterday (aware it would be almost certainly closed on Easter). Didn't leave a lot the wiser. After crossing the Intracoastal Waterway bridge, one of the houses on the right had a large mobile crawfish boil trailer parked outside, and there was a Repka's temporary banner on the building itself. It wasn't completely clear whether the enterprise is based there, or somehow operates out of the mobile trailer. All in all, not much the wiser. But I guess the Repka's brand is in situ, just not sure if it's in that building (which appears more residential) or somewhere else. bishopsbitter Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:26:39 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/836724#7264415 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842191#7263184 Oh Im sure its NOT trying to be a "Central Market" ... I've heard TJ's prices are quite good on many items. (I've ony visited one -- in New York City -- so I would not judge them based on the prices I saw there). Since the TJ in the Woodlands will open first, I suspect a lot of us will make a trip up there to check it out, and expect to find basically the same things in the new stores on Alabama, and Voss. And. as much as I love Central Market, they've seen a lot less of me since the opening of the HEB @ Bunker Hill. They are equidistant from my home, but when shopping with a budget for basics, the HEB gets my business -- same food, same source, but usually at least 15% lower prices. When I just want the foodie "experience" I'll visit River Oaks. Cheflambo Sun, 08 Apr 2012 16:28:53 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842191#7263184 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842750#7259300 I have a friend in town and need to find a restaurant and bar for dinner and drinks on Easter Sunday evening. Any idea what will be open? SamirasTable Fri, 06 Apr 2012 01:02:54 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/842750#7259300 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/777440#7255054 I wander by every now and then (especially if I stop by Penzey's), but today they had the best selection of Rancho Gordo beans that I've seen there. It's also very convenient to buy Anson Mills grits and cornbread in small amounts. And of course the lard. Richard L Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:15:17 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/777440#7255054 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/841756#7252930 It's a BIG salad. I will tweek it a little next time though to remove some of the sweetness. Maybe dressing on the side. Haven't been next door. Keep thinking I'll go and I always leave the restaurant so full I cannot think about any more food. lol The Brisket House opened today in Deer Park. It is the same one as on Woodway. Driving by at 1:30 people were parking across the street and walking over there crossing four lanes of traffic on Center Street. It's going to be awhile before we'll go but I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully half the city went today and the crowd will die down soon. texasredtop Tue, 03 Apr 2012 02:11:44 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/841756#7252930 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/90286#7244497 When I'm in Tomball I have to eat at Mel's Country Cafe 24814 Stanolind Road 77375 Great hamburgers. Red Robin is good especially with all the french fries you can eat. Air1stCav Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:43:51 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/90286#7244497 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/822200#7244445 Gabby's 3101 N. Shepherd, Houston 77018 713-864-5049 is good and has all the pork ribs you can eat on the weekend. Makes a big baked potatoe also. Hillow Hollow 8038 Fallbrook, Houston 77064 281-469-5323 also one on Washington Ave. Also makes great Chicken Fied Steak. Air1stCav Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:26:36 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/822200#7244445 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/840991#7239331 Yes, I'll give Dolce Vita the edge at this point. More options, sturdier crust, great patio. Fantastic small plates. Lambowner Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:53:57 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/840991#7239331 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/840986#7238551 Wow, what a terrific dinner here Saturday night.. A very generous helping of North African couscous w/lamb and chicken grilled meats, green pepper and tomato. GF had a large portion of a nicely seasoned salmon and veggies.. Wonderful dining room, terrific value, nice wine list ($30 and up) prompt and friendly service. Spk with the very humble and kind owner who made his rounds visiting customers.. Subtle sound of live piano played for diners till 10pm. Middle Eastern/Spanish/Med fusion done right. Everthing from hummus to steaks and seafoods, paella, etc. Will be back! bornie Tue, 27 Mar 2012 01:06:32 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/840986#7238551 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/840746#7238260 Philippe is a great French with a Texas twist. The Houstonian is close to the Post Oak/Galleria/Uptown area. Here's some suggestions. TexMex - Sylvia's Enchilda Kichen on Woodway Steakhouse - Papa's on Westheimer Brazilian Steakhouse - Chama Gaucha on Westheimer Delicatessan - Kenny & Ziggy's on Post Oak Continental - Masraff's on Post Oak pyescamilla Mon, 26 Mar 2012 23:02:08 GMT http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/840746#7238260