SIP CODES | march 2010
OK, I once again forgot to write an introduction. Is it because I stayed up after the Super Bowl watching reality (bad) television on VH1? Or is it the impending wedding I’m supposed to be planning looming in the back of my mind? I’m not going to lie, it’s everything. And I’m not a planner either. I don’t plan where I go to eat so I can write about it. I go eat and then, if the experience is good, I write about it! I have anxiety. I’m a leg shaker now. I’m usually the calm, collected type. Gone! Ever since I’ve had this task of planning. When it comes to trying to coordinate ceremony and reception venues, the date is the tricky part. I’m hoping by the time you have this in your hands, reading this rant of an intro, I have a date. And I can return to just eating and writing about it in peace.
Zoës- 4000 Washington 713.861.9637 www.zoeskitchen.com
I knew it wouldn’t be long before I converted someone over to Zoës’ “dark side” that they call the “gruben.” I call it the “dark side” because once you taste it, you’ll be addicted. I took my fiancé for lunch one day and he tried it; next thing you know, we’re back two days later for dinner per his suggestion. This delicious take on the Reuben sandwich is grilled turkey, swiss cheese, their famous slaw and spicy mustard served on rye for a mouth-watering concoction. Who am I kidding? It’s better than a Reuben! The cheese melts with the turkey and the lightly toasted bread warms the slaw which goes nicely with the spicy mustard. It’s no wonder it’s a Zoës’ favorite.
RA Sushi- Highland Village-3908 Westheimer Road 713.621.5800 www.rasushi.com
This sushi spot pleasantly surprises me with each visit. They’re very innovative with their sushi combination and creations. Each dish is paired with its own sauce. On this visit we were all about the new items on the menu. We started with the Kaisen Ceviche. Japanese-style cooked shrimp, scallops and squid chilled and mixed with fresh tomato, avocado salsa served in a spring roll shell. Fresh and full of citrus, this dish is simple but tasty. We also had to try the “RA chips and salsa.” The name alone intrigued me. Spicy tuna tartare is mixed with cucumber, avocado and fresh salsa and serves as the “salsa” in the middle of the bowl. Wonton chips surround the “salsa” for dipping. I love this concept! We got a hefty serving and of course, I had to eat it all! Feeling only a little bit room left, we delve into the Crispy Onion Albacore and Seared Tuna in the RA Tapas. These small plates of thinly sliced sashimi are a true testament to just how fresh your product must be to pull this off. Both served with micro greens, the seared albacore comes with a garlic ponzu sauce and is topped with crispy onions and wontons, while the seared tuna has a creamy soy dressing, topped with sesame seeds and Japanese rice cracker bits. The quality is consistent as well, we went back a week later to have the same meal and it was flawless.
W Grill- 4825 Washington Avenue 713.861.9933 www.wgrilltogo.com
This inconspicuous little drive-through spot is like a diamond in the rough. Since their revamp, they’ve focused on the food. Lately, I can’t get enough of their granola cup. For all you raisin-phobes, their granola is sans raisins. You can add fruit if you’d like. I usually get strawberries. (Mom would be so proud.) The key is the yogurt. I have no idea what kind of yogurt they use or the flavor but it’s awesome. Next time you’re looking for breakfast, drive thru and pick one up. They serve coffee as well so it really is a one-stop-shop.
Boheme- 307 Fairview @ Taft 713.529.1099 www.barboheme.com
Tucked away on Fairview and Taft next door to Dean’s, this quaint bar is at the intersection that’s become quite the friendly pedestrian area for the neighborhood. Dim lighting, mismatched vintage furniture, bottle chandeliers and art make for aesthetically pleasing pieces to look at while having a drink or snack. I’ve been a few times now and I still can’t manage to digest all the visual stimulation. With a plethora of beverages to choose from as well, it might be a while before I can wrap my head around those and share them with you. I’m getting back into sangria, keeping my fingers crossed for warm weather and sunny days so I can enjoy them on their patio. Fruitless, their sangria is just for drinking. No fruit bits to snack on in this one. Personally, I don’t like my fruit to be sangria soaked. Just a couple blocks from home, hanging out here is long overdue. Still, I’m excited for a “new” place that has a lot of character it almost feels like you’re in Europe. Oh, one can dream…
Honorable Mention:
Shandy’s Cafe- 5814 Memorial Drive 713.426.2675
This spot deserves an honorable mention because every time I visit the food and service is fantastic. I’m not talking “smiling hostess at the door waiting to greet you and brighten your day” fantastic. But I don’t need that, personally. That can be painful at lunch. They’re quick and attentive which is what I need at lunch. They’re consistent in quality, and it shows when the majority of customers are regulars. I even see the same faces again and again. The food is simple not fancy, but the quality is delicious.
