simply the best

Best of Houston – Food Edition


Here are my favorites around town. Please take into account, I haven’t been everywhere so there very well could be better out there. I just haven’t found it yet.

Sandwich – Bahn Mi at Tropical Smoothie and Sandwich

I’ve had good bahn mi sandwiches before, most notably at Les Givral. But this sandwich ups the ante with a fried egg on top. Combine that with the fresh cilantro, jalapeno and carrots and you’ve got my favorite sandwich in town.

Dessert – Apple pie at Heights West

Simply put, the best apple pie I’ve ever encountered. I won’t spoil the surprise, so please go to Heights West and check out this awesome creation.

Chile con queso – Tony’s Mexican Restaurant

This will be a hotly contested category. Everyone has a favorite, but to me Tony’s is the best. The queso is creamy and delicious with a hint of spice. It’s also the perfect texture, something I think is key when determining a good queso.

Burger – Rancor Burger at Petrol Station

Let me get this out of the way first. This burger is not good for you. I wouldn’t recommend eating more than 2-3 a year, if that many. But when you do, you’re in for a treat. It starts off with an awesome homemade bun. Then, you have your ½ lb patty with cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles and a fried egg. I see a trend here with me and these fried eggs. Anyway, I get my Rancor with mayo, tomato, pickles, onions, bacon, cheese and the aforementioned egg. No room for lettuce here, my friend.

Chicken Sandwich – (tie) The Yardbird at Armadillo Palace and The Clucker at Miller’s Café

Each is distinct – the Yardbird comes with Mayo, avocado, cheese and bacon; the Clucker is dressed with BBQ sauce, with everything else optional. I prefer mine with grilled onions, bacon and swiss cheese. Both are delicious in their own way. Try them and you won’t be disappointed.

Brunch – Cadillac Bar

This is obviously personal preference. There are many great spots for brunch, but for sheer number of options, Cadillac Bar can’t be beat. Ever since my favorite brunch spot, Jalapenos, closed a few years ago, Cadillac Bar has been there to pick up the slack. They have a little bit of everything, from typical breakfast fare such as waffles, omelets, bacon, eggs benedict and chilaquiles to enchiladas, tacos, quesadillas and desserts like tres leches, flan and an assortment of postres and cakes.

Pizza – Pink’s

With apologies to my runner-up Raia’s, there’s something special about Pink’s. Can’t put my finger on it, but it’s plain awesome. However, Raia’s thin crust is to die for.

Ice Cream – Mexican Vanilla at Amy’s

Sure, the place is run by dirty hippies who would probably rather be playing hacky sack, but their ice cream is something from Heaven. Creamy, smooth, delicious. But please remember to keep the hairnet on, dreads…

Steam Table – Simo’s Diner

Simo’s is old school. Nothing fancy, just straight up goodness. Their steam table includes salad, entrée, 2 sides and bread for anywhere between $5.50 and $7.50. They have awesome chicken fried steak, baked chicken and turkey & dressing. But what really sets them apart is they menu selection, which includes a solid gyro. Give Simo’s a try – you’ll like it.

Breakfast Tacos – Balderas Tamale Factory

A hidden gem on the Northwest side at Jones Rd. and Grant Rd. Their eggs are buttery, the cheese is melty and has the perfect amount of salt, and the tortillas are phenomenal.

Chinese Buffet – Hunan Chef II (I-10 Location)

Everything is fresh, nothing is ever left waiting to be filled (food or drink) and it’s always crowded. That equals a winner for me. But beyond that, the food just tastes better – it’s seasoned well and you don’t feel like you’re eating spoonfuls of MSG.

Grocery Store-Prepared Food – HEB

Hands down the best place to stop when you need to pick something up on the way home, but don’t have the time to wait anywhere else. They have a great selection, from steak to chicken dishes and fish as well. The sides are fresh and they have many healthy options as well. Did I mention it’s only $5.99 to $7.99 for an entrée and 2 sides?



So there you have it. Any comments?