Piola

4 out of 5 Stars

Website

3201 Louisiana StHouston, TX 77006 

(713) 524-8222

If pizza's actually partied, Piola is where they would rave.

Midtown's newest pizza joint seriously delivers (in flavor). As an international chain (ew) with locations in Chile, Honduras and even Turkey - I was shocked and surprised with my satisfaction of their thin crust pie.

If you've driven by, you may have been blinded by the colorful lights, but rest assured your eyes adjust once you settle in.

I arrived for my 8pm reservation on a Friday night and avoided a 30 minute wait. Piola is small but packs a crowd, so be prepared.

A full bar awaits you complete with several Brazilian specialty drinks (mostly fruit based). I went with an average Chianti as I salivated at my ideal menu.

SO. MANY.  PIZZAS.

ALL. LOOK. AMAZING.

Convinced I was already going to be a regular patron before my lips even touched a slice, I went ahead and ordered a more basic pizza - The Moderna topped with peppery arugula. If you can't make a solid plain pizza - I want nothing to do with you.

Lucky for Piola - they aced the test; delicate, thin, salty, cheesy perfection! Some may say Piola's pies skew soggy - but I'm not complaining. I ADORED MY PIZZA.

I also checked out the Gnocchi Pompeii - the simpler of 2 gnocchi dishes offered. It was your basic plate of pillowy carbs in a sub par tomato sauce.

I'd recommend foregoing the gnocchi for other parts of the menu still yet to be explored by me. Stay Tuned!

I loved Piola's high energy atmosphere. The only thing cheesy about this spot is their pizzas. Some have said it's a little club like - but I disagree. Although it's in the middle of midtown, once you are inside, Piola's much more Miami Beach.

 

Bonus: It's open till 1AM!

Bottom Line: Dolce Vita fans will find happiness with Piola's pizza in a more upbeat, casual setting. Your goth vegan, cousin will be sure to hate it.

Luigi's Pizzeria

5 out of 5 Stars

Website
3700 Almeda Rd
Houston, TX 77004
(281) 793-3333

Part 1:

I want to throw someone a daytime b-day party at Luigi's!

Say hello to
-BYOB (and no corking fee)
-Bocce Ball
- outdoor patio
-awesome service
-decent pizza
-great prices

I had good vibes the second I stepped into this tiny pizzaria. You can order by the slice or by the pie at Luigi's which is a big plus when you come here with just one person and can't do leftovers. My friend and I ordered two slices of the caprese pizza (mozzarella and basil), one slice of mushroom and olive and 2 sodas to share. The total? Drumroll......$10.50 between the 2 of us...unheard of!

The thin slices could have been a little crispier, but we had no problem polishing off both varieties. I noticed they have excellent daily specials (in this case, eggplant parm, salad and breadsticks for around $7).

So our plan was to complete our meal with gelato (they have nutella!!!) but our time crunch killed that. In light of our limited time to dine, Luigi's was super speedy and the staff was superb. The guy at the register where we placed our order could not have been more friendly.

Bonus-you can see in to their kitchen (love that).

Luigi's: awesome atmosphere, with A-OK pizza.

So who's bday is coming up??? We've got the location settled!

Part II:

Well, I finally threw someone a "Welcome to Houston" party at Luigi's and I'm still OBSESSED with it (hence the bump up to the coveted 5 star rating).

The pizza, service and ambiance (if you are going for casual food provided by the cutest family ever) CAN'T be beat.

It has definitely gotten busier since April resulting in a longer wait...which only speaks to how solid the establishment is.

I highly recommend their "Caprese Pizza" which is margarita upgraded with buffalo mozzarella as well as their white pizza with mushrooms. They also serve up some mean wings and a SOLID eggplant lasagna special if you aren't hankering for a pie.

The hard sell: I bring every out of town guest HERE. The consistent response post food coma and a round of bocce ball: "Can we come back next time??".

That should tell you everything you need to know.

 

Brennan's

5 out of 5 Stars

Website
3300 Smith St
Houston, TX 77006
(713) 522-9711

"Be our guest, be our guest, put our service to the test...."

Remember that awesome scene from Beauty and the Beast, where all the inanimate objects show off their hospitality skills to sweet lil Belle?

That's exactly what dining at Brenna's feels like. This is a perfect celebratory restaurant - as they take care of everything starting with  setting the mood....

Come to Brennan's expecting the highest class in service, without feeling like you have to point your nose in the air (you are getting a taste of NOLA after all).

I was welcomed to the restaurant for SUNDAY BRUNCH by the nicest staff of valet drivers EVER and was seated immediately due to our reservation.

The meal kicked off with complimentary, "fresh from the oven" muffins and biscuits (I preferred the fluffy biscuit). I enjoyed my light bites as I perused the "how do you choose - it all looks so good" menu.

When I dine for celebratory purpose, I don't mind splurging a little. You definitely get the best bang for your buck splurging at Brennan's for brunch. You can't walk out of here for less than $50 per person but you WILL walk out with a FULL and satisfied belly.

Their brunch menu is typically 3 courses of your choice: starter, entree and dessert (including tableside banana's foster!) averaging at $35 a meal (plus tax, tip, and a libation if you like to party at brunch like me). Don't be cynical, my fair yelper - each course is of the up-most quality AND quantity - TRUST.

The starters ranged from soups, salads and other NOLA inspired apps. Seeing as though I have commitment issues when it comes to food, I highly recommend the "1-1-1" which is a sampling of every soup on their menu including their famous Turtle Soup. My brother has claimed to almost drive to NOLA for this soup alone before Brennan's reopened post fire.

The turtle soup was delicious and surprisingly reminiscent of a great fire roasted tortilla soup, however I prefered the creamy corn and crab soup. Gumbo was featured as the third soup, which was also fabulous (even though I'm not generally a gumbo gal). Overall, the trio of soup (served in 3 miniature tea cups) was excellent without being overwhelming.

Good luck picking an entree - as they ALL read AMAZING. I finally selected the craw-fish cakes with poached eggs as this seemed the most unique. The dish was served on a bed of chopped sausage and roasted sliced peppers with two cakes (think crab cakes made of craw-fish instead) topped with the most perfectly poached eggs. I wish I took video of me cutting into the poached eggs and watching the yolk dance (yes dance) so elegantly over the cakes. Meanwhile the craw-fish cakes were crispy on the outside and moist, meaty and savory on the inside - a pleasure (although I could only eat half).

I also tasted my mom's shrimp and grits which were awesome and my brother's gulf coast fish encrusted with pecans - perfection. I wanted to try the blue crab scramble with caviar and their egg's benedict dishes that kept appearing at neighboring tables-excellent.

I can't believe I have not even started on the service - what really takes Brennan's to 5 stars - they treat you like royalty. Prime example: when our 5 entrees came out, 5 waiters brought each plate out to us simultaneously. Meanwhile, a NOLA style quartet complete with horns would walk around the dining room playing jazz for the guests - did I wake up in the French Quarter?

There are a number of STUNNING dining rooms to be seated in, each unique with its own decor and design. My table happened to be in the front room to the left donning hard woods, brick walls, dramatic curtains hung around HUGE windows and the most comfortable / plush and gorgeous chairs. I would sleep in this room if I could - BEAUTIFUL.

I hope everyone reading this has a chance to be Brennan's guest for brunch - a delightful experience.

Don't run out to the valet (yes it's mandatory - but what's another $5 when you are swanking it up already) before picking up a few pralines by the door "for someone else". You will get that joke when you read the napkin you fold your pralines in.....

....so make your reservation and go already! You can always find an excuse to celebrate - like reading my 100th review!

Ibiza

5 out of 5 Stars

Website
2450 Louisiana St # 200
Houston, TX 77006-2381
(713) 524-2951

The Event: Lady's Night

The Mission: An excuse to dress up and indulge in fun cocktails and fancy food

Location: Ibiza, Spain (in our dreams)

The Real Location: Ibiza in Midtown

I love how the moment you walk in to Ibiza, you can tell you are in a classy establishment (see cool wine wall) without the cheesy ritz factor you see in a lot of other upscale restaurants. They are clearly letting their food speak for itself - respect.

Our party of 4 was immediately seated (thanks to our reservations at http://www.opentable.com). Although the restaurant was hopping, our cocktails were delivered as soon as we ordered them.

Following a toast for a fun evening, we opened our menus. To the left, an exciting assortment of small plates, soups, salads and pizzas (all reasonably priced). To the right, an impressive range of large plate entrees. My group had an assortment from both sides and were POSITIVELY SATISFIED with EVERY order.

Small Plates Highlights:
Ceviche: FRESH, FRESH, FRESH with a focus on shrimp in a lime sauce but not too limey (this is key). It was served in a martini glass with a perfect amount of airy and crisp shrimp toast to nosh on. LOVED it.

Pizzas: Both the pancetta / arugula as well as the goat cheese were excellent and made with quality ingredients. Served thin and surprisingly large. I highly recommend this as a starter.

Large Plate Highlights:
Pan Seared Pasta - WOW. If you were on a carb free diet - this plate is how you break it. Penne pasta cooked to perfection soaked in oil, cheese and truffle (all the good stuff). This dish was rich and orgasmic (yeah, I went there).

Moroccan Shrimp - a gorgeous plate featuring several large shrimp, on a bed of cheesy polenta and spinach on the side. I always appreciate variety in a dish to to keep my taste buds guessing. The shrimp were smothered in a sweet and spicy glaze. Fabulous.

We concluded our meal with complimentary cotton candy lit with celebratory sparklers (since we fibbed and said it was one of our b-days). I have no regrets lying to our waiter and I'd do it again - totes worth it.

Do not come to Ibiza in a hurry. Don't get me wrong, our dinner was timed perfectly but this restaurant is designed for you to enjoy your meal and your company the way you would in Spain .

Between the atmosphere, meal and service, Ibiza was an absolute pleasure for our girl's night out - and perfect for a date or special occasion.

Once the weather cools, I'd love to dine there patio style.

Ibiza, thanks for putting a taste of Spain in our backyard. We love you.

Vincent's

5 out of 5 Stars

Website
2817 W Dallas St
Houston, TX 77019
(713) 528-4313

Why can't all Italian restaurants measure up to the class that is Vincent's?

I finally found my way back after a 3 year hiatus (inexcusable on my part).

I am consistently charmed each time I enter the Vincent's / Grapino's / Nino's trifecta (same owner). As I stepped out of my car (which was a breeze to park), I was welcomed to jazz music (often performed live in the courtyard).

Indoors, I felt as though I had been whisked away to Tuscany (and while I have not been, I have seen "Under the Tuscan Sun" enough times to assume this is what it's like). I realize this is a slight exaggeration - but trust me, the ambience is unique.

The menu at Vincent's is spectacular - I wanted it all! Somehow, even the most basic pasta dish makes my mouth water here. I ended up splitting the penne ala vodka and red snapper topped with fresh crab meat and mushrooms.

Proclamation: The red snapper at Vincent's is my favorite red snapper ever. The filet has a very light breading and the fish melts in every bite. The dish also comes with garlic infused spinach that would make even the pickiest 8 year old happy.

The penne was also pretty great (excellent cream sauce), although I would have liked to see more ingredients in the dish (both for texture and presentation purposes).

Let's talk service for a minute. Our waiter was magnificent - friendly, articulate and knowledgeable. He always came by at the right time and truly made our dinner a pleasure.

Vincent's just gets it. They somehow made a fine dining establishment casual and classy all at the same time.

The decision has been made for you - Go. To. Vincent's.

Nit Noi

3 out of 5 Stars

4703 Richmond Ave # A
Houston, TX 77027-6616
(713) 621-6088
For all locations see Website.

I've lost that loving feeling.

I once named Nit Noi not only my favorite thai restaurant, but my favorite restaurant...of all time.

When my flights home from college came in too late to allow me to stop here upon arrival, then my parents knew to have it waiting for me in the fridge. It had to be my first meal home.

My love affair with Nit Noi was intense to say the least.

Then there was the bulldozing incident. Some high-rise had the audacity to come in and bulldoze the entire strip center Nit Noi inhabited in the Rice Village. There was promise that one day Nit Noi would come back and live on the first floor of this building, but that day still has not come.

I have resorted to becoming a patron of the Richmond location. I keep coming back hoping it will once live up to the amazingness that Nit Noi on Bolsover was....and it has never been the same.

Enough with the drama. Here are my recs (knowing they are notch down from the goodness they should be):

1.Soft Spring rolls - an excellent noodle to veggie ratio with no thick helping of green lettuce - bah!

2. Crispy spring rolls - these may still be the best spring roll you will ever have. Thicker. Better Filling. Amazing flaky, fried batter. These should be punctured with a fork for 2 minutes before consumption.

3.The Pad Thai - used to be sweeter and creamier than any other Pad Thai in the land. It's still edible, but doesn't hit the spot it once did.

4. Pad See Yu - the big boy version of Pad Thai. Less sweet, more grill flavor.

5. Eggplant - sweet, glorious eggplant.

6. Their peanut sauce. Still the best.

Obviously upon reading my descriptions, you can see the memory of the original location still rests in my heart.

A big plus to any Nit Noi is price. I can come here with 3 friends, split one order of Pad Thai and 6 soft / crispy spring rolls and come out under $10 with tip and plenty full.

Another plus: the food always comes quickly and the restaurant is always clean.

To be honest, if you want to try Nit Noi, I would suggest trying the Woodway and Voss location (as it is a better reminder of Bolsover). Unfortunately, it is out of my way.

High-rise folks: I am still waiting for my Nit Noi. What's the status, Gladys???

Nouveau Antique Art Bar

4 out of 5 Stars

Website
2913 Main St
Houston, TX 77002
(713) 526-2220

Houston, we have a winner!

Things I look for in a bar:

Ambiance? Check
Strong drinks? Check
No Cover / No Line? Check
Douche-bag / Pretentious Free? Check
Nice bartenders? Check
PARKING LOT! CHECK!!!! CHECK!!!! CHECK!!!!!!

I had a great experience at Nouveau Antique Art Bar from the moment we parked the car in its own private lot.

I was curious how this bar would fare on a Tuesday night and was surprised by the amount of cars present outside.

We proceeded to walk in to what I instantly proclaimed "a fantasy wonderland of amazingness" (all while jumping out of excitement). I followed up by saying "I WILL have my next birthday party here." (which is not till December).

Tiffany lampshades in all sorts of shapes, sizes, designs and colors dawned the ceiling and walls of this eclectic drinking establishment. I couldn't pick my favorite if I tried. There were plenty of antique couches and booths, but we chose to sit at one of the several cocktail tables near the bar.

Flat screens lined the walls of the bar area so your man can watch the game while you still feel like you are on an intimate date (this bodes well for my situation).

I was also surprised by the HUGE space. I would love to feel the vibe of this bar on a packed Saturday night. This would make a great space for live music performances (I hope they look into this).

Bonus! They are a supporter of the local arts scene and will give you a drink on the house before or after an event or a performance (that day) when you present your stub. EXCELLENT!

Bravo, Nouveau Antique Art Bar! I look forward to seeing you evolve!

Van Loc

4 out of 5 Stars

Website
3010 Milam St
Houston, TX 77006
(713) 528-6441

Van Loc - So pho-king good! I'm sure I'm not the first person to come up with this, but I couldn't resist.

A friend was in the mood for "soup or noodles" for lunch, so naturally I thought pho.

We started with the veggie soft spring rolls - which met my expectations.

I ordered the beef pho. Some pho tends to be way too greasy. Not here, perfect broth - very flavorful. They had the perfect noodle to broth ratio. A happy yelper here!

My friend, who "pho-ed" for the first time, went with the veggie pho which came with a vegetable based broth, plenty of YUMMY veggies, (including various asian shrooms, baby corn and water chestnuts) and glass noodles (LOVE). They forgot to include tofu, but rushed it out to her immediately. We both agreed everything about her bowl was wonderful, but my broth was better.

Next time, I am going to be annoying and see if I can get the beef broth pho with veggies and glass noodles to get the best of both worlds OR would that be a "pho" pas?

Wow - I swear I'm not usually this corny.

Bonus - super easy parking for a midtown spot.
Bonus - CHEAP, we got out  of there for under $20 w/ tip for both of us

Shoeshine Charley's Big Top Lounge

4 out of 5 Stars

Website
3714 Main St
Houston, TX 77002

What a cool place!

Good Crowd. Live Music. Friendly Service. Eclectic Decor.

Sounds like the perfect mix of ingredients for a great bar.

I frequented Big Top for the second time Christmas evening. This is what I witnessed:

-Great live band singing holiday tunes and giving CDs away for free
- patrons dancing in front of the stage
- a midget romancing every woman in the room

Did I mention there is no cover for live entertainment...EVER?

You can't help but  feel like you are in a whimsical bar you only see in indy flicks while at Big Top.

If you are into shuffleboard, they got one of those in the back too!

Great, no frills kinda bar when you just want to get a lil weird.

Les Givral's Sandwich & Cafe

4 out of 5 Stars

2704 Milam St
Houston, TX 77006
(713) 529-1736

Top 5 cheap awesome eats in Houston.

I'll splurge on dinners, but for lunch - I like to keep it well under $10.

And if I'm at Les Givral's I can keep it under $5!

Let's start with the food:
Many LIVE for the bar-b-q pork sandwich, but I LOVE the shredded chicken sandwich which is CRAY-CRAY bc chicken never does it for me.

The french bread on this sandwich is always fresh, crispy and amazing - and whatever butter/mayo they add on it is perfection. I always add soy sauce and rooster to complete the flavor sensation - yeah, I just said that.

I always get either a shrimp spring roll or egg roll to accompany my meal. They are par for course - but keep me happy.

They also have a great ice coffee drink that is not too bitter and super refreshing.

The place is always packed, but the line moves quick. I am also impressed with the cleanliness and customer service. All the guys at the counter are as chill as can be.

I swear they have the same songs on loop there, but I don't mind a lil Lupe Fiasco and Amy Winehouse remix at lunch!

I deduct 1 star for the Pho soup - too greasy! But hey, that just makes your meal decision that much easier!

13 Celsius

5 out of 5 Stars

3000 Caroline St
Houston, TX 77004
(713) 529-8466

MY FAVE WINE BAR!

As my friends have started to grow older, so is their tolerance for night life. The best compromise to get them out of their homes is a wine bar. And if the stars align in my favor---that wine bar is 13 Celsius!

I have gone during the following occasions:
-on a date
-a private engagement party
-weeknight wind down with friends
-as the main event on a Saturday night

Each trip has been a great success - all thanks to 13 Celsius.

They have a great wine selection and are HAPPY to let you try a glass or bottle before you commit. In fact, my friend tried several, and waiter did it with a smile on his face (can't say that for many establishments).

I am also super pleased with their meat and cheese plates - great options and accompaniments.

Paninis are also very delicious.

Then there is the service - exceptional - especially from Corey!

Great atmosphere!

Lankford Grocery & Market

2 out of 5 Stars

88 Dennis St.

Houston, TX 77006

(713) 522-9555

A Flop.

Before I continue, know that I appreciate and support local, small establishments as well as a good burger.

Let's start with the food: I ordered a cheeseburger with onions and mushrooms. The waitress looked at me like I was nuts, so I should not have been shocked to receive my cheeseburger without any of my requested toppings.

The burger was drrrrrrrrrrrrrrrryyyyyyyy. I will say that my friends enjoyed their specialty burgers (firehouse and soldier). Regardless - if you can't master the basics...you should be shamed.

We also split tater tots (ya tots!) and onion rings. Both were overly cooked and heavy. I saw people ordering the fries - they looked like they were from soggs-ville.

If you still go and get a side - onion rings are your best bet.

As for service:

My first impression: I watched a waitress exclaim "MOVE!!!" to a patron. In her defense he was in the way and she had a tray of food - but pleeeease.

I also had to ask for mayo THREE times.

If you are looking for a quaint, hole in the wall burger joint...move on over to Bellaire Broiler Burger instead.