Eat your way in Houston on this foodie adventure

Houston has earned itself a spot in the “Top 5 in the country” on more than one foodie list, and it’s now been named the most affordable getaway this year.

Priceline just discovered what we Houstonians have known for a long time: Houston is a really great city. The travel company named Houston the No. 1 most affordable getaway this year and a trending Memorial Day destination. Indeed, the diversity of Houston’s population creates a veritable melting pot of cultural events, activities and restaurants. With food tourism on the rise as travelers seek fine dining that they might not be able to access in their hometowns, Houston has earned its number one spot. The city’s food offerings are extensive and award-winning, and they’re cheaper than what you’ll find in other foodie cities like New York.

In honor of Houston’s most recent distinction, I’m sharing some notable new Houston restaurants that will please all types of travelers and even the most discerning palates.

Girls’ Night Out in Houston

When traveling with girls, you’ll want to visit River Oaks, an upscale neighborhood known for its upscale boutiques, beautiful homes on live oak-shaded streets, and chic restaurants, many of which attract groups of affluent women . . PostScript, which is celebrating its first anniversary, is a rosy celebration. From the moment you pull up to the rose-colored building, you’ll notice the hue emanating everywhere: from the flowers that frame the patio to the splashes of the agate bar top to the piano centered in the dining room, PostScript dripping with femininity. . The food and cocktails are so good that they attract both men and women, and the newly added happy hour has created a fun and lively atmosphere that is not to be missed. Be sure to order the Beluga martini and shrimp tempura, then sit back and relax for a few hours under bird-themed chandeliers.

Steaks with the Downtown Houston Guys

Arguably one of the nicest new restaurants in Houston, Andiron delivers on every front. It serves wood-fired steaks and seafood cooked to your liking, with garnishes like anchovies or black truffle butter, and everything melts in your mouth. The open kitchen gives you a window into the robata style kitchen which serves the best filet you have ever tasted. Start at the exquisite bar with its Cipollino marble top reminiscent of the smoke billowing beneath your cocktail. Then head to the dining room and immediately order the caviar tartlets – they are buttery, flavorful and transcendent. After your meal, do your group a favor and insist on chocolate roulette, a feast for the eyes and mouth that is absolutely Instagram-worthy.

Perfect Thai fare for a date night in Houston

Houston’s first truly elevated Thai restaurant is a marvel of taste and design. Opened by two multi-award-winning Thai chefs, one of whom has won the Ultimate Chef Challenge multiple times, MaKiin is a lesson in attention to detail. Let’s put it this way: Chef Bell said she recently discovered ways to “reduce the preparation of some of the signature dishes to ‘only’ 8 hours.” The restaurant sits at the base of a prestigious condo building in River Oaks, but when you walk in, you might as well be in Bangkok. Between the architectural details, extremely unique cooking methods, and over-the-top presentation, this isn’t your typical Thai restaurant. Bonus: Every menu item is labeled for gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian diners.

Food for the Whole Family in Downtown Houston

Families love to flock to downtown, a hub of activity where entertainment, restaurants and shopping come together around green spaces designed for playing and picnicking. You can take the kids bowling, watch a movie and work up an appetite before heading to Northern Italy’s newest venue, right in the heart of downtown. Pizza, pasta, grilled branzino, braised ribs, the portions are generous and everything is delicious. Whether you eat in the dining room or choose a table outside, be sure to wander around the side of the building and take a family photo in front of the red sports car mural.

Dinner and Show in Houston

If you’re looking for something completely out of the ordinary and a great way to spend an evening in Houston, spend an evening at the new Ciel Restaurant & Lounge. The atmosphere is otherworldly: a giant statue of Zeus takes center stage, oversized artwork fills the walls, and colorful lights create a lively atmosphere. Japanese and French cuisine dominates the menu and the fusion results in unique dishes, all delicious, including sushi and Australian wagyu. The servers contribute to the fun atmosphere, not only with their extensive knowledge of the menu, but also by encouraging them to join in the fun when the music gets louder and the artists take the stage. It’s a place where food meets sparklers, dancers and DJs – a guaranteed good time in H-Town.

Upscale Italian in River Oaks

When Zanti opened in The Woodlands, north of Houston, demand was so great that a second location was a no-brainer. Zanti Cucina Italiana, recently opened in River Oaks, embodies everything you want in upscale Italian cuisine. Fresh pasta? Certainly! Gourmet pizzas? Absolutely, presented at the outbreak, no less. Branzino, halibut and salmon? Oh my God, yes! Cocktails, wine and the delicious carajillo digestive complete your meal and will ensure you leave satisfied. When you do, you’re in a charming neighborhood where you can finish your meal or explore nearby entertainment.

Accessible (and fun) wine pairings in the woods

The beauty of Sixty Vines is that it’s full of energy, happy chatter and friendly servers who won’t condescend when you ask a question about wine. This is the place to visit when you want a little education on your vacation, but also want to relax and just enjoy the experience. Sixty Vines’ wines (all 60 of them, hence the name) are offered on draft, promoting sustainability and eliminating bottle waste. The restaurant offers seasonal menu items that complement the wines, and the staff will be happy to help pair them with you. When you know your travel plans, be sure to check the website for any special events: Sixty Vines hosts winemakers using sustainable methods, introduces new carbon-neutral wines, and offers educational experiences for wine drinkers.