Tacos aren't just for Tuesdays in Texas, the first state in the U.S. where Latinos make up 40.3% of the population, outnumbering non-Hispanics, according to 2020 data from the Census Bureau. Houston, boasting an even higher percentage at 44%, is one of the major cities in The Lone Star State where Latin American restaurants proudly showcase the rich culinary heritage.
From the heart of the city to the vibrant enclave of Chinatown, Houston boasts a seemingly endless array of culinary options. Spoiler alert: to the surprise of no one, the most predominant Latin American dining choice is Mexican or Tex-Mex cuisine.
This is The Latin Times' list of the best and most sophisticated Latin American restaurants, whether you are a traveler visiting the 'Energy Capital of the World' or you simply want to update your dining options.
Top 5 Latin American Restaurants in Houston
1. Mexican food restaurant: Hugo's
The James Beard Award-winning chef, Hugo Ortega, who is also at the helm of the Mexican restaurants Xochi and Caracol, showcases his expertise in traditional dishes with a modern twist. Recognized among the 24 Best Restaurants in Houston, according to Conde Nast Traveler's Guide, Hugo's presents the seasoned perspective of the chef on Mexican and Latin American dishes.
Fresh, inventive, and delightful, the distinctive touch of this renowned Mexican culinary maestro permeates every aspect. Offering a range from age-old 'tamales' and the iconic 'tacos' filled with 'birria' to options like Chilean Sea Bass with butternut squash purée, broccolini, and pipián verde, there's something to suit every palate.
- 1600 Westheimer, Houston, TX
2. Salvadorian Food Restaurant: Gloria's Cuisine
Founded in April 1986 in Dallas, Gloria and Jose Fuentes transformed their passion for Salvadorian cuisine into a lifelong career. Over the last 37 years, Gloria's Latin Cuisine, renowned for its fresh ingredients and innovative recipes, has expanded across Texas, providing signature dishes in locations such as Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, and San Antonio.
The menu showcases Salvadoran delights like 'Pupusas'—handmade corn 'tortillas' stuffed with cheese, pork, or a combination—along with 'Yuca Salvadoreña', featuring fried yuca, garlic butter sauce, and 'curtido,' alongside some Mexican dishes. 'Tamales' are always among the Texan favorites for starters.
- 2616 Louisiana St. Houston, TX
3. South American Food Restaurant: Chimichurri's Grill
Chimichurri's merges the cuisines of Peru, Argentina, and Brazil in this steakhouse designed by Tony Vasquez and Ronald Perez to delight diners with perfectly grilled proteins. With its lounge-like atmosphere and an exquisite wine selection, it is the perfect setting for special occasions and romantic dinners.
Chimichurri's South American Grill features a menu that includes traditional Argentinian 'empanadas,' Peruvian 'cebiche,' and Venezuelan 'arepas.' For a more comprehensive taste, there's the Argentinian 'Parrillada,' featuring grilled steak, pork, chicken, and Argentinian chorizo.
- 1660 West Lake Houston Pkwy, Suite 104, Kingwood TX
4. Mexican Food Restaurant: Tatemó
Chef Emmanuel Chavez showcases the versatility and richness of 'masa' at his exclusive, reservation-only restaurant. While the selection of dishes is constantly evolving, patrons have the opportunity to indulge in delights such as 'ceviche' adorned with Tiger Milk made from corn, the beloved 'quesadilla,' and a dessert featuring 'masa' cakes paired with a light corn mousse.
According to the Tatemós website, their mission is to restore the cultural and nutritional value of maize in Houston, Texas. They achieve this by highlighting the diversity of heirloom corn sourced from various landscapes and suppliers in Mexico, which is then transformed into 'masa' products like 'tortillas.'
- 4740 Dacoma St Ste F, Houston, TX
5. Mexican Food Restaurant: Cochinita & co.
Ranked among the top 25 restaurants in Houston by the Houston Chronicle and recognized as a James Beard Award Semifinalist, Cochinita & Co. is a captivating showcase of Mexican cuisine.
Chef and founder Victoria Elizondo, a DACA recipient, shares her perspective:'Cochinita & Co. has given me the opportunity to bring Mexico to me and share my love for our rich culture in a city as diverse as Houston, TX. The dining menu features Mexican 'tacos' and salad bowls as the starring options.
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