• Home
  • popular
  • EVENTS
  • submit-new-event
  • CHARITY GUIDE
  • Children
  • Education
  • Health
  • Veterans
  • Social Services
  • Arts + Culture
  • Animals
  • LGBTQ
  • New Charity
  • TRENDING NEWS
  • News
  • City Life
  • Entertainment
  • Sports
  • Home + Design
  • Travel
  • Real Estate
  • Restaurants + Bars
  • Arts
  • Society
  • Innovation
  • Fashion + Beauty
  • subscribe
  • about
  • series
  • Embracing Your Inner Cowboy
  • Green Living
  • Summer Fun
  • Real Estate Confidential
  • RX In the City
  • State of the Arts
  • Fall For Fashion
  • Cai's Odyssey
  • Comforts of Home
  • Good Eats
  • Holiday Gift Guide 2010
  • Holiday Gift Guide 2
  • Good Eats 2
  • HMNS Pirates
  • The Future of Houston
  • We Heart Hou 2
  • Music Inspires
  • True Grit
  • Hoops City
  • Green Living 2011
  • Cruizin for a Cure
  • Summer Fun 2011
  • Just Beat It
  • Real Estate 2011
  • Shelby on the Seine
  • Rx in the City 2011
  • Entrepreneur Video Series
  • Going Wild Zoo
  • State of the Arts 2011
  • Fall for Fashion 2011
  • Elaine Turner 2011
  • Comforts of Home 2011
  • King Tut
  • Chevy Girls
  • Good Eats 2011
  • Ready to Jingle
  • Houston at 175
  • The Love Month
  • Clifford on The Catwalk Htx
  • Let's Go Rodeo 2012
  • King's Harbor
  • FotoFest 2012
  • City Centre
  • Hidden Houston
  • Green Living 2012
  • Summer Fun 2012
  • Bookmark
  • 1987: The year that changed Houston
  • Best of Everything 2012
  • Real Estate 2012
  • Rx in the City 2012
  • Lost Pines Road Trip Houston
  • London Dreams
  • State of the Arts 2012
  • HTX Fall For Fashion 2012
  • HTX Good Eats 2012
  • HTX Contemporary Arts 2012
  • HCC 2012
  • Dine to Donate
  • Tasting Room
  • HTX Comforts of Home 2012
  • Charming Charlie
  • Asia Society
  • HTX Ready to Jingle 2012
  • HTX Mistletoe on the go
  • HTX Sun and Ski
  • HTX Cars in Lifestyle
  • HTX New Beginnings
  • HTX Wonderful Weddings
  • HTX Clifford on the Catwalk 2013
  • Zadok Sparkle into Spring
  • HTX Let's Go Rodeo 2013
  • HCC Passion for Fashion
  • BCAF 2013
  • HTX Best of 2013
  • HTX City Centre 2013
  • HTX Real Estate 2013
  • HTX France 2013
  • Driving in Style
  • HTX Island Time
  • HTX Super Season 2013
  • HTX Music Scene 2013
  • HTX Clifford on the Catwalk 2013 2
  • HTX Baker Institute
  • HTX Comforts of Home 2013
  • Mothers Day Gift Guide 2021 Houston
  • Staying Ahead of the Game
  • Wrangler Houston
  • First-time Homebuyers Guide Houston 2021
  • Visit Frisco Houston
  • promoted
  • eventdetail
  • Greystar Novel River Oaks
  • Thirdhome Go Houston
  • Dogfish Head Houston
  • LovBe Houston
  • Claire St Amant podcast Houston
  • The Listing Firm Houston
  • South Padre Houston
  • NextGen Real Estate Houston
  • Pioneer Houston
  • Collaborative for Children
  • Decorum
  • Bold Rock Cider
  • Nasher Houston
  • Houston Tastemaker Awards 2021
  • CityNorth
  • Urban Office
  • Villa Cotton
  • Luck Springs Houston
  • EightyTwo
  • Rectanglo.com
  • Silver Eagle Karbach
  • Mirador Group
  • Nirmanz
  • Bandera Houston
  • Milan Laser
  • Lafayette Travel
  • Highland Park Village Houston
  • Proximo Spirits
  • Douglas Elliman Harris Benson
  • Original ChopShop
  • Bordeaux Houston
  • Strike Marketing
  • Rice Village Gift Guide 2021
  • Downtown District
  • Broadstone Memorial Park
  • Gift Guide
  • Music Lane
  • Blue Circle Foods
  • Houston Tastemaker Awards 2022
  • True Rest
  • Lone Star Sports
  • Silver Eagle Hard Soda
  • Modelo recipes
  • Modelo Fighting Spirit
  • Athletic Brewing
  • Rodeo Houston
  • Silver Eagle Bud Light Next
  • Waco CVB
  • EnerGenie
  • HLSR Wine Committee
  • All Hands
  • El Paso
  • Avenida Houston
  • Visit Lubbock Houston
  • JW Marriott San Antonio
  • Silver Eagle Tupps
  • Space Center Houston
  • Central Market Houston
  • Boulevard Realty
  • Travel Texas Houston
  • Alliantgroup
  • Golf Live
  • DC Partners
  • Under the Influencer
  • Blossom Hotel
  • San Marcos Houston
  • Photo Essay: Holiday Gift Guide 2009
  • We Heart Hou
  • Walker House
  • HTX Good Eats 2013
  • HTX Ready to Jingle 2013
  • HTX Culture Motive
  • HTX Auto Awards
  • HTX Ski Magic
  • HTX Wonderful Weddings 2014
  • HTX Texas Traveler
  • HTX Cifford on the Catwalk 2014
  • HTX United Way 2014
  • HTX Up to Speed
  • HTX Rodeo 2014
  • HTX City Centre 2014
  • HTX Dos Equis
  • HTX Tastemakers 2014
  • HTX Reliant
  • HTX Houston Symphony
  • HTX Trailblazers
  • HTX_RealEstateConfidential_2014
  • HTX_IW_Marks_FashionSeries
  • HTX_Green_Street
  • Dating 101
  • HTX_Clifford_on_the_Catwalk_2014
  • FIVE CultureMap 5th Birthday Bash
  • HTX Clifford on the Catwalk 2014 TEST
  • HTX Texans
  • Bergner and Johnson
  • HTX Good Eats 2014
  • United Way 2014-15_Single Promoted Articles
  • Holiday Pop Up Shop Houston
  • Where to Eat Houston
  • Copious Row Single Promoted Articles
  • HTX Ready to Jingle 2014
  • htx woodford reserve manhattans
  • Zadok Swiss Watches
  • HTX Wonderful Weddings 2015
  • HTX Charity Challenge 2015
  • United Way Helpline Promoted Article
  • Boulevard Realty
  • Fusion Academy Promoted Article
  • Clifford on the Catwalk Fall 2015
  • United Way Book Power Promoted Article
  • Jameson HTX
  • Primavera 2015
  • Promenade Place
  • Hotel Galvez
  • Tremont House
  • HTX Tastemakers 2015
  • HTX Digital Graffiti/Alys Beach
  • MD Anderson Breast Cancer Promoted Article
  • HTX RealEstateConfidential 2015
  • HTX Vargos on the Lake
  • Omni Hotel HTX
  • Undies for Everyone
  • Reliant Bright Ideas Houston
  • 2015 Houston Stylemaker
  • HTX Renewable You
  • Urban Flats Builder
  • Urban Flats Builder
  • HTX New York Fashion Week spring 2016
  • Kyrie Massage
  • Red Bull Flying Bach
  • Hotze Health and Wellness
  • ReadFest 2015
  • Alzheimer's Promoted Article
  • Formula 1 Giveaway
  • Professional Skin Treatments by NuMe Express

    Where to Eat Right Now

    Where to Eat Right Now: 10 (plus) hot new restaurants for April

    Eric Sandler
    Apr 10, 2015 | 12:52 pm

    As I noted in the introduction to last month's Where To Eat Right Now, Houston's post-holiday restaurants doldrums are over. March was a busy month in terms of openings, and the first week of April has already seen arrivals that demand attention from diners.

    While second locations typically don't make the list, the three on this month's roster are different enough from their originals either in terms of menu or geography that they're worth highlighting.

    After all, I don't suspect many Midtown residents made the drive to Webster to check out Jinya Ramen, but they'll probably consider a location in the neighborhood.

    Without further ado, here's this month's list of new restaurants to try. As always, these are listed in roughly the order I think you should try them, but this month's crop is strong from top to bottom. Go eat.

    Peska Seafood Culture
    The newly opened seafood restaurant near The Galleria, the first American outpost for the Mexico-based Ysita family, is built around a 30-foot long case of fresh seafood on ice. Diners mix items from the case with elements from the permanent menu to build a meal of shareable items.

    Highlights from a tasting including a rich lobster cappuccino and 20-year-old chef Omar Pereney's signature fruit and flower salad. I've heard mixed things about service hiccups during last week's friends and family previews, but the talented staff, led by Pappas Steakhouse vet Pete Contaldi and floor chef Robert Waltrip, should find their footing quickly.

    Jackson Street Barbecue
    It's a St. Thomas reunion at this downtown barbecue restaurant that brings together Reef chef Bryan Caswell with talented pitmaster Greg Gatlin. Fans of Gatlin's temporarily closed barbecue joint will recognize his distinctive flavor in the brisket, ribs and sausage that emerge from Jackson Street's massive, wood-fired Oyler smokers.

    Fans of Gatlin's will recognize his distinctive flavor in the brisket, ribs and sausage that emerge.

    Caswell brings some of his distinctive sides to the party in the former of Reef's fried mac and cheese. While hardcore barbecue fanatics typically order meat a la carte, the jalapeno cheese biscuit is so good that it should have everyone opting for sandwiches. Pro tip: Pay $50 to park at the restaurant before Astros games and receive a $50 gift certificate to eat at the restaurant that day.

    Between Gatlin's barbecue and a solid selection of craft beer, it's certainly tastier than stadium nachos.

    Anejo
    Whether or not Houstonians embrace chef Michael Pellegrino's vision for perfect Tex-Mex remains to be seen, but the chef has given diners something to think about at this restaurant that replaced Arturo's Uptown Italiano. Upscale ingredients and a la minute cooking preparations define the Anejo experience.

    Sure, places like El Tiempo serve lobster tails, but only Anejo poaches them in butter that's infused with ultra-premium Casa Dragones tequila. The queso uses a blend of three actual cheeses (no Velveeta allowed) — and the spinach enchiladas actually taste like spinach. The menu also features prime steaks and Gulf seafood to increase its appeal.

    Save a little money during happy hour from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. when house margaritas are half off.

    Pizaro's Pizzeria Napoletana - Montrose
    The wait for Houston's best Italian-style pizza to arrive inside the Loop has ended, and the early results are very promising. Two massive, jet-black, wood-fired ovens ensure that Pizaro's Neapolitan pies reach the 80 seat dining room quickly.

    This location features a little more style too, but it maintains the BYOB-status that makes it an appealing option for an inexpensive date night.

    Commonwealth
    Former Artisans chef Michael Sanguinetti has stepped out on his own with this Southern-inspired newcomer in the former TQLA space on Washington Ave. The menu features Southern dishes with French touches like seared Gulf snapper over saffron risotto, fried green tomatoes and a mix of raw and roasted oysters.

    My visit shortly after the restaurant opened had a couple of disappointing, underseasoned dishes, but the overall first impression was a positive one. I'll be back soon to try the recently introduced brunch menu.

    The Republic Smokehouse & Saloon
    The latest concept from the Landmark Houston Hospitality Group (Hearsay Gastro Lounge, Mr. Peeples) brings both traditional Texas barbecue and some more eclectic fare to the former Blackfinn space in Midtown. Pitmaster Cedric Williams brings years of experience from celebrated barbecue joint Williams Smokehouse to the barbecue side of the menu, which features all the usual meats as well as turkey and chicken.

    Executive chef Matt Knotts uses the smoker to good effect, too, particularly with both duck and quail. Check it out Saturday when it celebrates its grand opening with live music and drink specials. One word of warning: I've seen pictures where the barbecue is trimmed of all bark and fat prior to serving. Make sure to request that the restaurant doesn't do that.

    Jinya Ramen Bar - Midtown
    After opening in Webster last fall, the California-based ramen chain has arrived inside the loop. Inside the long, narrow space, diners will find a mix of small booths and long community tables. Both pork and chicken stock-based ramens are available with a variety of toppings.

    Word is already spreading that Midtown has a new late-night dining destination.

    Start with the signature tonkotsu black that features a whole marinated egg and a kick from black garlic oil. Spicy chicken ramen also delivers plenty of heat. With service until 11 p.m. during the week and 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, the word is already spreading that Midtown has a new late-night dining destination.

    Hugs & Donuts
    The eagerly awaited donut shop from Jason Hill and Matt Opaleski of popular food truck H-Town StrEATs has finally opened at the corner of 19th and Shepherd. While Hill is an occasional presence, Hugs & Donuts is mostly where Opaleski brings his skills as a trained pastry chef to the fore. While the shop serves plenty of traditional glazed donuts and sausage kolaches, whimsical flavors like a lemon meringue donut and everything kolache with smoked salmon continue the H-Town StrEATs ethos of always keeping the menu interesting.

    Milk on tap and locally roasted Katz Coffee ensure the beverage side is well taken care of, too.

    Spring Water Cafe
    Houston's big three bagel shops are now a big four thanks to this west Houston newcomer. Owner Bob Orzo moved to Houston from Queens and he brings years of experience making bagels to NYC standards. Spring Water's menu keeps things simple with a mix of breakfast and lunch options

    Bravissimo! Italian Kitchen
    One of two concepts launched within the massive complex that houses Cullen's down in Clear Lake, Bravissimo is a fast-casual concept that serves classic, red sauce, Italian-American food. Think a heaping bowl of spaghetti topped with five massive meatballs, decadent nine-layer lasagna or two hands-required chicken parm sandwich.

    David Coffman's menu isn't revolutionary, but it is satisfying. The leftovers I brought back from a tasting to the CultureMap office disappeared in about half an hour.

    Local Pour - The Woodlands
    Admittedly, the River Oaks location isn't anyone's idea of a culinary destination, but Local Pour is stepping it up with its second location in the brand new Hughes Landing section of The Woodlands. Former Haven chef Randy Evans worked with corporate chef Pablo Gomez on the menu. Evans' influence can be seen in a menu that name checks local suppliers like 44 Farms (steaks and hamburgers) and Atkinson Farms (strawberries for a salad).

    Combined with a wide selection of beer, wine and cocktails, the new food makes Local Pour a legitimate destination for lunch and dinner. A patio that looks out onto Lake Woodlands should serve as a prime lunch spot, at least until the weather heats up.

    Looking for more new restaurants to try? Consider the picks from March, February, January and December.

    Commonwealth's dishes are Southern inspired with a French accent.

    Commonwealth poached tuna
      
    Courtesy photo
    Commonwealth's dishes are Southern inspired with a French accent.
    unspecifiedseries568795462
    news/restaurants-bars
    series/where-to-eat-houston

    head north

    Family friendly Garden Oaks restaurant coming soon to Magnolia

    Eric Sandler
    May 30, 2025 | 5:00 pm
    d'Alba food spread
    Photo by Becca Wright
    A selection of dishes from d'Alba.

    A family friendly Garden Oaks restaurant is coming to Montgomery. D’Alba Craft Kitchen & Cocktails will open a new location this summer near the intersection of FM 2978 and FM 1488.

    Located in the former Philipose’s space at 32823 FM 2978 Rd, d’Alba owner Daut Elshani tells CultureMap that he’s been looking for a location in The Woodlands/Woodforest/Magnolia area for about a year. He sees a lot of similarities between the growing northern suburbs and Garden Oaks, the neighborhood where d’Alba has been a neighborhood favorite since it opened in 2021.

    “The recipe is there with young professional couples and young families that have the same demographics that fit what we’ve done in Garden Oaks to make the first one so successful,” Elshani says. “In the last year I moved to the suburbs myself. Seeing how lively it is, you’ll get some deja vu of how the Heights developed in the late twenty-teens.”

    Slated to open in September, area residents will find the same formula that led d’Alba to win Best New Restaurant in the 2022 CultureMap Tastemaker Awards. A meal at d’Alba may start with shareable items such as spinach and artichoke dip, campechana, or the signature balloon bread — a puffed-up, baked pita served with basil-garlic pesto and truffle honey drizzle. Entrees include pizzas, pastas, salads, and heartier mains such as blackened salmon, a cheeseburger, and confit chicken thighs — all of which are made from scratch.

    The restaurant also offers a popular happy hour and a lively brunch. Elshani thinks the area’s relative dearth of Italian-inspired restaurants will work to his advantage.

    “[Compared to] Zanti in The Woodlands and Amalfi in Woodforest, we’ll be in the middle of them with a more casual atmosphere and the same time of quality at a lower price. We’re definitely excited about it,” he says.

    Currently, Elshani is performing renovations to convert Philipose’s into d’Alba. Changes include installing large doors that can be opened during nice weather, getting rid of the outdated drop ceiling, upgrading the lighting, and dividing the room to improve energy and flow.

    “We’re stoked and super excited about getting this up and running,” Elshani says.

    A selection of dishes from d'Alba.

    d'Alba food spread
      
    Photo by Becca Wright
    A selection of dishes from d'Alba.
    news-you-can-eatopeningsd'alba craft kitchen and cocktailsmagnoliathe woodlands
    news/restaurants-bars
    series/where-to-eat-houston
    CULTUREMAP EMAILS ARE AWESOME
    Get Houston intel delivered daily.
    Loading...