When it comes to brunch, Houston is a gold mine. Flavors from the South, Mexico, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Vietnam, and more blend together in Houston’s multicultural menagerie. Jillian here today, and with a fierce love of brunch and a conviction to eat my way through Houston’s dining scene, I’ve rounded up my favorite morning gems.
Benjy’s in the Village
Image: Benjy’s Yelp Page
Set in a gorgeous modern dining room, Benjy’s is a Rice Village staple. The farm-to-table concept features interesting menu items like cured salmon toast, beef carnitas and gulf shrimp and grits (so Texas). I can rave on about the delectable selection of morning cocktails that varies from the classic blood orange mimosa to a Wino’s Tumble (aka an amazing fall spiced sangria). Brunch is served Monday-Saturday from 10:45 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Hugo’s
Image: Hugo’s
Come to Hugo’s with nothing short of a big appetite. The upscale Mexican restaurant is known for romantic, authentic dining every night of the week. If you think dinner at Hugo’s is delicious, brunch will blow your mind (and taste buds). Saturday brunch is served from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. with a traditional Mexican menu, featuring huevos rancheros, carnitas and barbacoa. Sunday brunch (served from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.) is a game changer—think loaded buffet with traditional dishes and decadent desserts at only $33. Live music from Hugo’s house band, Viento, will have you swaying to the rhythm with a bloody mary in hand. Hugo’s had me at “all you can eat enchiladas.”
Bistro Menil
Image: Bistro Menil
Chic and refined, the ambiance at Bistro Menil is unparalleled. Open Friday-Sunday for brunch (10 a.m.-3 p.m.), the intimate restaurant serves upscale must-haves like eggs lyonnaise and salmon with potato latkes. The “Julia’s Eggs” is Chef Greg Martin’s ode to culinary genius Julia Child. The restaurant is overflowing with brioche buns, fresh croissants, and creative cocktails. Don’t forget to walk over to the Menil Collection for a dose of inspiration after brunch.
Helen Greek Food & Wine
Image: Helen Facebook Page
Bring your friends—you’re going to need them. Helen Greek Food & Wine has an interesting and delicious brunch menu made for sharing. The semolina pancakes, featuring braised cherries, Greek yogurt and whipped cream are a dream in their own right. For a Greek go-to, try the dakos & eggs with Cretan bread and chickpeas.
Down House
Image: Downhouse Instagram Page
Comfortable and charming, Down House is a gem within the Heights. Down House was actually my first dining experience in Houston, so call me a little biased. I love the vintage décor, deep colors and quirky appointments. The service is always outstanding and the locally sourced food is nothing short of mouthwatering. I, for one, get a kick out of the “Social Club” card you need to sign up for in order to drink in the Heights’ dry neighborhood. If you’re looking to feel sophisticated while chowing down on comfort food, Down House is your place.
Have a favorite brunch spot that didn’t make the list? Share it in the comments below!