So, this summer I have enjoyed some decent food and some good drinks. The drinks have probably been more a part of this summer than others, so for this post I will do the top 5 places to check out in Houston.
Also, these are all places that I've only been to for the first time this summer. So, there may be others that would out rank some of these, but I have been to before, so they do not receive mention on my summer 2009 list.
1. Benjy's
I went to the Benjy's in Rice Village. The atmosphere was light and artsy, and was a decent place to meet for business. I had an $8 glass of shiraz, which was pretty good quality, given it was one of the cheaper glasses. However, what was really amazing was the Crunchy Chicken. There were two huge slices of nut encrusted (pistachio, almonds, pecans maybe?) chicken breast, as well as delectable vegetables, including potato au gratin, asparagus, carrots, and some sweet potato as well. The vegetables were covered with a sweet yellow sauce which I imagine to be the corn reduction. I would definitely recommend it to anyone. I definitely had more than enough to take home at least half, and it was still enjoyable a second time.
Also, if you have a sweet tooth you should try the Mom's Chocolate Cake. I split this, and both servings came out in a very presentable manner. The chocolate cake was moist and rich, and it was covered with a light warm chocolate pecan sauce. And this was all served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Definitely worth trying.
2. Gingerman's
If you're looking for a good pub and a place that serves all sorts of beers, then Gingerman's is definitely your stop. It's quite rustic and located in Rice Village. It's close to several other fun night locale's and has seating inside, on the porch out front, and in the back. Girls, just watch out for the restrooms! This makes my #2 because it's just a fun place chill and chat with friends.
3. Onion Creek
There are 4 "Creek" family restaurants, however I have only been to Onion Creek. I have heard it described by numerous people as "Austin-esque" so I will leave that description. Again, there's a lot of outdoor sitting, not as much inside, but their happy hour is pretty decent, and their food prices are good, too. You can order anything from a hot dog for a little less than $3, to individual pizzas. This is a great place to chill after work. The good news is, if you make a wrong turn, and run into another creek restaurant, it will probably have directions posted outside to where you're going. Also, a good mention about this is that they have steak night, where an outdoor vendor comes and serves up food.
4. Under The Volcano
This is an island inspired bar with interesting mixed drinks. It is dark and fairly loud, but again, a great place to just chill. I enjoyed my yellow drink that started with a P (Christine, perhaps you can help on this one). However, their signature drink, the Strawberry Basil Margarita was extremely strong, and nobody in our group wanted to finish it. Reading reviews, there are some rave comments about a frozen rum and coke, which now I feel like I should go back and try. I also had the special for the night, a Prosciutto and mozzarella sandwich, which was actually very good. It was about $4, and also had basil and tomato on it as well, which are some of my favorite paired flavors.
5. Spec's Deli
So, traditionally this is not a place to list on a list like this, but if you have never been to the downtown Spec's you've got to check it out. The deli is super fresh, and really cheap, (check out the deli menu link). I got a sandwhich for under $5 and could only eat half of it. The week before I went and just bought alcohol with a friend (together around $200 worth) and was not carded. However, when I went to get my sandwich (keep in mind, all I bought was this sandwich) I was carded twice. So you do have to be over 21 to buy this sandwich. I believe I had the "Baby" Turkey sandwich which is only $3.99. So, definitely worth trying if you're in the mood for a fresh from the deli taste.
Honorable Mentions: Chuy's (this would probably warrant on the list, however I have been here before, but their atmosphere and green sauce are definitely worth mentioning), The Tavern on Gray, All of Washington Ave., McCormick and Schmicks Seafood Restaurant downtown, and Front Porch Pub in Midtown.
