“Top Chef” alum Evelyn Garcia and co-owner Henry Lu’s international roots and innovative cuisine are on full display at this James Beard Award-nominated hotspot. Why Tristen loves it: “Run by two great friends of mine, JÜN is in a great location and serves fun, flavor-packed cultural dishes that pull from Salvadoran, Mexican, and Chinese traditions. My favorite dish is the aguachile and rice cakes topped with yellow miso béchamel and mushrooms—[it’s] bold, vibrant, and unforgettable.”

James Beard-nominated chef Ope Amosu’s fast-casual restaurant is a landmark destination that The Houston Chronicle describes as “setting a new standard for West African food.” Why Tristen loves it: “I used to live across the street from ChòpnBlọk, and I’m so proud of what Ope is building. He’s putting Nigerian food on the map here in Houston and deserves every accolade he’s getting. My go-to order is the buka stew and suya—soulful, spicy, and full of heart.”

Come to Uchi Houston for innovative, Japanese-inspired cuisine, thanks to James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole. Why Tristen loves it: “One of the very first restaurants I ate at when I moved to Houston, and still one of my favorites. I’ve been to multiple Uchi locations across different states, and the consistency is always there. [They have an] incredible fish selection, beautiful plates, and one of the best happy hours around.”

Prolific sushi chefs Patrick Pham and Daniel Lee came together to open this destination for pristine handrolls and sashimi with three locations across Houston. Why Tristen loves it: “My quick lunch spot of choice. Handies Douzo in the Heights gives you the best part of a sushi experience with their hand rolls. The menu is straightforward, service is fast, and you can be in and out in 20 minutes with what I call a good high-end lunch.”

An opulent two-story space filled with carved wooden columns and brocade paneling sets the stage for regal Indian feasts from chef Mayank Istwal at the MICHELIN-Starred Musaafer. Why Tristen loves it: “Musaafer embodies what I love about restaurants that turn cultural food into a luxury experience. Their approach to Indian cuisine feels like a MICHELIN-Starred tasting menu; intricate, lavish, and deeply thoughtful. Add in the stunning décor and knowledgeable staff, and it’s always memorable."

Asian American diner food like Pandan French toast and char siu Benedict are in the spotlight at chef Nick Wong and Lisa Lee’s cheery, light-filled restaurant. Why Tristen loves it: “Agnes & Sherman is a fairly new spot that’s quickly made a name for itself. It’s a Chinese bistro with playful twists on familiar dishes. Think BLTs and wraps made with scallion pancakes. The portions are huge, the price point is approachable, and the flavors punch above their weight.”

Chef Ford Fry was inspired by his childhood visits to the San Jacinto Inn to create this comfort food destination known for dishes like its fried chicken and biscuits. Why Tristen loves it: “I’m not a big brunch person, but La Lucha wins me over every time. Their fried chicken and oysters are reason enough to make it a weekend tradition with friends.”

This modern steakhouse from Troy Guard is where stunning design, local wagyu cuts of beef, and seafood dishes inspired by Guard’s Hawaiian upbringing all come together with ease. Why Tristen loves it: “Run by my former mentor and boss, Troy Guard, Guard and Grace is a restaurant that means a lot to me. I first knew it in Denver, but the Houston location is truly special; gorgeous space, wood-fired menu, and one of the most consistently excellent dining experiences in the city.”

Owner Alba Huerta has racked up accolades—including a James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program—for her top-notch cocktails incorporating unusual ingredients like marigold leaves. Why Tristen loves it: “I feel like this is one of the very best cocktail programs in the US. The drinks are innovative, perfectly balanced, and paired with an atmosphere that makes you want to linger all night. With an ever-changing cocktail list, it’s hard to pick a favorite, but that’s the beauty of Julep.”

Grab a seat at the neon-lit bar or in the Bangkok-themed dining room of this MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant. You’ll get knockout Thai food from James Beard Award-winning chef Benchawan “G” Jabthong Painter. Why Tristen loves it: “Some of the best authentic Thai food you’ll find in Houston. They don’t hold back on spice, and I love how they execute the classics while adding local touches you rarely see elsewhere. It’s bold, unapologetic, and done at the highest level.”

Chef Adrian Torres has led an exciting revamp of this modern Mexican restaurant from Local Foods Group, including the addition of a five-course tasting menu. Why Tristen loves it: “Chef Adrian Torres is one of Houston’s rising stars. He was just recognized by StarChefs, and the accolades are well deserved. His modern Mexican cooking is inventive, intimate, and an incredible representation of where Houston dining is headed.”

BCN Taste and Tradition is where you go for the ultimate Spanish fine-dining experience, thanks to Barcelona native and chef Luis Roger. Why Tristen loves it: “BCN has been a consistent top restaurant in Houston for more than a decade, and for good reason. It’s some of the best Spanish food I’ve ever had outside of Spain, and after traveling there myself, I can say it truly stands up. They’ve earned every bit of their long-standing recognition.”

Chef Christian Hernandez brings decades of fine-dining experience to this sustainable spot. The Downtown Houston restaurant includes both a la carte and tasting options. Why Tristen loves it: “Located downtown, Barbacana is a technique-driven kitchen with fantastic seasoning and a focus on high-quality ingredients. Don’t sleep on the lunch menu, it’s a hidden gem, it’s innovative, affordable, and paired with a strong wine list.”