New Houston Restaurants Worth Trying Right Now

Houston’s food scene keeps getting better with exciting new spots opening every month. Whether you crave bold flavors, cozy vibes, or something totally different, these fresh restaurants deliver memorable meals.

I’ve rounded up the newest places that deserve your attention and your appetite.

1. March

Chef Felipe Riccio brings Mediterranean magic to Montrose with a menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients. You’ll find wood-fired dishes that taste like summer vacation, even in the middle of winter.

The roasted vegetables alone make the trip worthwhile. Pair them with housemade pasta, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable dinner that feels both fancy and comforting at once.

2. Osso & Kristalla

Greek taverna vibes meet Houston energy at this dual-concept spot in the Heights. One side serves hearty meat dishes while the other focuses on fresh seafood and mezze platters.

I love how they’ve created two distinct experiences under one roof. The outdoor patio connects both spaces, making it easy to sample a little bit of everything with your crew.

3. Hamsa

Israeli cuisine shines bright at this Midtown newcomer where hummus is made fresh daily. Every dish tells a story through spices, textures, and colors that pop off the plate.

Try the shakshuka for brunch or the grilled kebabs for dinner. The warm pita bread arrives at your table straight from the oven, perfect for scooping up every last delicious bite.

4. Lucille’s Hospitality Group – Late August

Southern cooking reaches new heights at this Museum District beauty from the team behind Lucille’s. Fried chicken remains the star, but seasonal sides steal the spotlight with creative vegetable preparations.

The cocktail program deserves equal praise with drinks that complement the rich, comforting food. Save room for dessert because the pastry chef works absolute wonders with classic Southern sweets.

5. Kâu

Modern Korean flavors take center stage at this stylish Rice Village spot. Banchan arrives in colorful little dishes that make sharing with your table feel like a celebration.

The Korean fried chicken has a crunch that echoes through the dining room. Bibimbap bowls come sizzling hot, mixing crispy rice with fresh vegetables and perfectly seasoned proteins for balanced bites.

6. Bloom & Bee

Garden-to-table dining becomes reality at this charming Bellaire spot surrounded by actual gardens. Fresh herbs and edible flowers garnish dishes that taste as good as they look on Instagram.

Brunch here feels magical with natural light streaming through windows. The menu changes with the seasons, so repeat visits always bring new surprises from the kitchen and the garden outside.

7. Kau Ba

Vietnamese street food gets a modern upgrade at this sleek EaDo destination. Banh mi sandwiches come loaded with creative fillings that honor tradition while adding unexpected twists.

Don’t skip the pho, which simmers for hours to develop deep, rich flavors. The casual atmosphere makes it ideal for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner with friends who appreciate bold tastes.

8. Indianola

Texas barbecue meets global influences at this innovative smoke spot. Brisket still reigns supreme, but the sides take inspiration from cuisines around the world for unexpected flavor combinations.

The pitmaster knows how to handle oak and mesquite like a true artist. Indoor-outdoor seating lets you enjoy your meal while watching the smokers work their slow-cooked magic all day long.

9. Zanti

Lebanese home cooking comes alive at this family-run Galleria-area restaurant. Recipes passed down through generations create flavors that transport you straight to Beirut with every forkful.

The mixed grill platter feeds a crowd with juicy meats hot off the charcoal. Vegetarians find plenty to love too, from creamy baba ganoush to crispy falafel made fresh throughout service.

10. Gratify

Plant-based eating never tasted this satisfying at this vegan paradise in Montrose. Even dedicated meat-eaters leave impressed by how creative vegetables can be when treated with respect and imagination.

The burger fooled my carnivore friend completely. Smoothie bowls provide Instagram-worthy breakfasts packed with nutrients, while dinner entrees prove vegan food can be hearty, filling, and absolutely delicious.

11. Kin Dee

Regional Thai cooking goes beyond the usual pad thai at this authentic spot. Northern and southern Thai dishes rarely seen in Houston appear on a menu that educates while it satisfies hunger.

Spice levels are no joke here, so speak up if you prefer milder heat. The curry selection showcases different regional styles, each with distinct flavors that reveal Thailand’s incredible culinary diversity.

12. Lupa

Roman-style pizza al taglio brings a slice of Italy to the Washington Avenue corridor. Rectangular pies get sold by weight, letting you sample multiple varieties without committing to a whole pizza.

Toppings change daily based on what looks best at the market. The crust achieves that perfect balance between crispy and chewy that makes Roman pizza so addictive and worth the trip across town.