Top 5 Midtown Houston Restaurants

I've worked in Downtown Houston for over nine years, which has given me a lot of time to explore Midtown restaurants, bars, and businesses. These are the restaurants I would take an out-of-towner to experience the full breadth of the Houston food scene.

1. Cuchara - Mexican - Disclaimer: this is not a Tex-Mex restaurant. As long as you know that going in, you will have a lovely time. Located at 214 Fairview St, the restaurant is next door to a wine bar and across the street from another restaurant and bar. At first glance the entrees might seem pricey, but these are things you would never cook at home because of the ingredient lists and cooking times. I haven't had a bad meal here, which is saying a lot. You also can't go wrong with one of their seasonal margaritas.
2. Oporto - Portuguese - Conveniently perched on West Gray near a ton of bars, Oporto has tapas and larger plates to satisfy your hunger. The address is 125 W Gray St and street parking is available for a small fee. Their happy hour is great to get their carafes of wine at a decent price, along with reduced-price appetizers.
3. Thien An - Vietnamese - This place is great for a quick lunch or takeout, but I recommend coming before noon or after 1 p.m. to avoid the lunch rush. I order three items here: bahn mi (homemade bread and only $3.25), veggie spring rolls, and the omelet (no pork/shrimp sub veggies). It's at 2611 San Jacinto with ample parking.
4. 13 Celsius - Wine Bar - This one is in a kind of odd section of Midtown, but completely worth your time. At 3000 Caroline, this wine bar has one of the best wine lists in the city and will let you sample before you commit. They also have half glasses available so you can make your own flight or just drink a ton of different wines in one sitting.
5. Mongoose vs. Cobra - Beer & Cocktails - Located at 1011 McGowen St, this bar has lovely cocktails (they change frequently) as well as an extensive draft beer list. All of the beers are small batch and listed on the wall with ABV and other info. I love the industrial vibe and the lighting is perfect.