The wait is nearly over for the opening of Houston’s newest luxury steakhouse. Toca Madera will open in early June, restaurant group Noble 33 announced.
First revealed last year, Toca Madera describes itself as a modern Mexican restaurant with a high-energy atmosphere that includes nightly live entertainment such as musicians, DJs, and fire performers. The massive, 14,000-square-foot restaurant will be located at The Pavilion at The Allen, which is part of the complex that’s anchored by The Thompson Hotel (1755 Allen Parkway). With almost 400 seats, the restaurant will offer a number of venues for eating and drinking, including an outdoor patio that looks onto Eleanor Tinsley Park, two bars, a lounge, and a member’s only club.
Design firm Monochrome created a space that features custom woodwork, velvet upholstery, and lots of plantlife. A nest-like sculpture called The Bird’s Nest separates the lounge area from other sections of the restaurant.
The Bird's Nest will be located in the lounge.Courtesy of Monochrome
Toca Madera notes that it uses sustainable, organic ingredients, but most diners will be looking to feast on prime and wagyu steaks from America, Australia, and Japan. Available in a range of sizes and cuts, the options include the usual filets and ribeyes as well as the signature Tomahawk + Bone Marrow that’s served flaming and sliced tableside. Other notable items on chef Christian Brennen’s menu include Sashimi Mexicano (ahi tuna, cucumber, avocado, pomegranate, chile de árbol, and leche de tigre) and A5 Wagyu Tacos dressed with jalapeño slaw, pickled horseradish, cilantro, and kizami wasabi.
Toca Madera serves tacos made with A5 wagyu.Photo by Alonso Parra
Photo by TJ Perez
The Tomahawk + Bone Marrow is served flaming and carved tableside.
The beverage program features an extensive array of agave spirits along with a rotating wine list. Selena fans will likely want to order the Como la Flor, which is served with edible flowers and “rose air,” according to a release.
Houston will be Toca Madera’s fourth location, joining outposts in West Hollywood, Scottsdale, and Las Vegas. Noble 33 also has plans to bring Meduza Mediterrania, an Eastern Mediterranean concept, to Houston. It will be located above Toca Madera and include a rooftop patio.
“Bringing a Noble 33 concept to Texas has always been a goal of ours, so we are beyond excited and ready for the June opening of Toca Madera,” Noble 33 CEO Mikey Tanha said in a statement. “Houston marks Toca Madera’s fourth and largest location — a testament to the city’s international flare and palate and we can’t wait for all to enjoy the Toca Madera experience.”
The restaurant is opening near an area that has become dense with steakhouses over the past two years. Nearby options include live fire concept Andiron, Houston-inspired Georgia James, and Turner's Cut, the upcoming luxury concept from B&B Butchers owner Berg Hospitality. Steakhouses are popular downtown, too, where diners will find choices such as Guard & Grace, Vic & Anthony's, Pappas Bros., Toro Toro at the Four Seasons hotel, and more.
Evan LeRoy is coming to Houston this weekend. Photo by Briana Balducci