In the bustling food and beverage scene of Houston, restaurants are constantly innovating to attract customers and gain attention on social media platforms like Instagram. One trend that has emerged is the creation of Instagrammable dishes and cocktails that not only look stunning but also taste delicious. These visually appealing creations not only encourage customers to share their experiences online but also showcase the creativity and skill of the chefs and mixologists behind them. Here are some of the most noteworthy and mouth-watering offerings in Houston that are deserving of a post on your feed.
Bandista’s Ritual at the Four Seasons Hotel Houston is a standout cocktail that goes beyond the ordinary. The bar’s interpretation of the classic El Diablo is elevated with fresh purple carrots, poblano chile liqueur, and Patrón El Cielo tequila. What sets this cocktail apart is the unique finishing process using a classic milk punch method. The cocktail is presented in a skull-shaped decanter, accompanied by a pop of rosemary smoke and a lit-up piece of palo santo wood to ward off negative energy, creating a true sensory experience for the drinker.
Kanpai Club and Hando offer cocktails that not only taste great but also come in eye-catching cups that make for perfect photo opportunities. The Audacity, served in a koi fish cup, features mezcal, sherry, passion fruit, pineapple, lime, and five-spice orgeat, while the Sweet Gin Music, served in a puffer fish cup, balances sweet and spicy flavors with Roku gin, génépy, shishito and habanero peppers, and lime. These cocktails are not only visually appealing but also deliver on taste and creativity.
Roswell’s Saloon in Montrose is known for its crazy cocktails that are as fun to drink as they are to look at. The Lithium Crystal Shot, with its glow-in-the-dark appearance, is a house shot made with vodka, Ramazzotti Aperitivo Rosato, lemon juice, simple syrup, and edible neon dust. The Fire in the Sky cocktail, inspired by a science fiction movie poster, features mezcal or tequila, almond syrup, chile liqueur, lime juice, and Hellfire bitters, topped with a vapor bubble created with a Flavour Blaster gun.
Le Jardinier in the Museum District offers a seasonal crudo that not only tastes exquisite but is also a feast for the eyes. The intricate plating and attention to detail make this dish a work of art, with each version reflecting the flavors of the season. From scallops with radishes and beets in spring to bass cured with citrus, cucumber, mango, and buttermilk in summer, the seasonal crudo is a delightful sight that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to French cuisine.
Pacha Nikkei in Westchase serves up a clasico ceviche that combines Peruvian and Japanese influences for a unique and flavorful dish. Made with Peruvian mahi-mahi, leche de tigre, aji limo, cancha, choclo, red onion, cilantro, and sweet potato puree, this ceviche is a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The use of traditional Japanese dashi in the leche de tigre adds a smoky twist to the classic Peruvian dish, creating a harmonious fusion of culinary traditions.
In Asiatown, Hui Lau Shan delights mango lovers with its Mango Chewy Ball dessert, featuring pureed mango, mango ice cream, and chewy tapioca balls. The dessert not only tastes heavenly but also looks stunning with its vibrant colors and playful presentation. The chain’s dedication to using fresh mangoes and creating visually appealing desserts has made it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts and Instagrammers alike.
MaKiin in Upper Kirby offers a Dessert Wonderland that is a true masterpiece inspired by Thai culture and the tree of life. This elaborate dessert features lychee rosewater sorbet, mango gel, raspberry gel swirls, edible moss, and a dark chocolate tree topped with a cotton candy cloud. The attention to detail and creativity in the presentation make this dessert a showstopper that is as delightful to eat as it is to admire.
Money Cat, also in Upper Kirby, surprises diners with a seasonal Bonsai Tree dessert that changes with the time of year. The dark chocolate tree, piped into shape and surrounded by seasonal bites like strawberry miso mousse and matcha cake, is a whimsical and artistic creation that reflects the restaurant’s love for Japanese culture. Each bonsai tree is uniquely designed, making it a special and memorable dessert experience for guests.
Lastly, Jūn in the Heights takes the concept of an Instagrammable restaurant to the next level with its beautifully curated bathroom. Chef Henry Lu and co-owner Evelyn Garcia have transformed the restroom into a sensory experience, showcasing a collection of items from Garcia’s travels and thrifting adventures. Each piece in the bathroom holds a rich story, adding a touch of surprise and wonder to the overall dining experience at Jūn.
In conclusion, Houston’s food and beverage scene is not only about great flavors and innovative dishes but also about creating memorable and visually stunning experiences for customers. From elaborate cocktails to artistic desserts and even Instagram-worthy bathrooms, these restaurants are raising the bar when it comes to combining culinary excellence with aesthetic appeal. So next time you dine out in Houston, be sure to capture these delightful creations on your feed and savor the experience both on and off the plate.