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While Houston may not be the most outdoorsy city, it’s definitely one of the tastiest! My boyfriend and I are big fans of taking date nights out to explore all of Houston’s best restaurants. From incredible Mexican cuisine on Washington, sushi in The Heights, or just a good ol’ pizza joint downtown – there’s something for every type of taste bud in this diverse town.

I sure have enjoyed trying each spot on this list as we continue discovering hidden gems right here at home! Below are our favorite restaurants and bars in Houston!

Best Restaurants

Ume

Cuisine: Japanese

Location: Heights / 2802 White Oak Dr, Suite 500, Houston, TX 77007

From first dates to 1-year anniversaries, this sushi spot has been a constant for my boyfriend and I. The amazing food is worth every penny. It’s our go-to place for romantic celebrations!

Uchi

Cuisine: Japanese

Location: Montrose / 904 Westheimer Road, Suite A, Houston, TX 77006

Uchi is one of the best restaurants in Houston for happy hour! Get amazing food and drinks at an unbeatable price, you won’t want to miss this deal.

Handies Douzo

Cuisine: Japanese

Location: Heights / 3510 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX, 77007

For a small yet mighty dining experience, you’ll want to make sure and secure your spot at this restaurant. You won’t be overwhelmed by choices here. The menu is kept simple so that their famous hand rolls can take center stage!

Degust

Cuisine: Spanish & Mexican

Location: 7202 Long Point Rd, Houston, TX 77055

If you’re looking for a grand celebration, this is the choice! For my boyfriend’s birthday I splurged $500 and we were treated to an unforgettable feast. While our chef crafted divine dishes from their on-site garden, the sommelier walked us through each bottle of wine – truly giving us a foodie experience! Unfortunately, the service really wasn’t up to par, but the atmosphere was still lovely.

5Kinokawa

Cuisine: Japanese

Location: Heights / 3119 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007

5Kinokawa provided a fantastic dining experience that was even more intimate than Degust, and with prices that won’t break the bank! We were thoroughly delighted by both the food AND service – it’s sure to be an unforgettable night out.

Bludorn

Cuisine: French-Inspired, New American

Location: Montrose / 807 Taft St, Houston, TX 77019

At Bluedorn, the trifecta of delectable dining awaits! Expect top-notch food and service to accompany a perfect atmosphere.

MF Sushi

Cuisine: Japanese

Location: Museum District / 1401 Binz St #100, Houston, TX 77004

MF Sushi offers an amazing sushi experience, but the cost stacks up fast! If you’re looking for something more budget friendly, there are plenty of delicious alternatives – though, possibly, not quite as luxurious.

Kokoro

Cuisine: Japanese

Location: Downtown Houston / 409 Travis St #66, Houston, TX 77002 (Bravery Chef Hall) 

Looking for a different kind of date night? Try visiting some bars in Downtown Houston. Then snag an awesome and casual dinner together at this amazing Japanese restaurant that’s conveniently located inside a food hall!

Ostia

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Location: River Oaks / 2302 Dunlavy St, Houston, TX 77006

Date night just got an upgrade – Ostia is the perfect spot! Enjoy outside dining on their lush, inviting patio while taking in some mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired light bites. Plus, with all the gorgeous greenery you’ll be sure to feel like you’re worlds away from your everyday routine!

Doris Metropolitan

Cuisine: Steakhouse

Location: River Oaks / 2815 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77098

Every now and then, my boyfriend and I love to treat ourselves by stepping out for a romantic night at an exquisite steakhouse. Doris is one of the best restaurants for a steak in Houston.

Toulouse

Cuisine: French

Location: River Oaks / 4444 Westheimer Rd Ste E 100, Houston, TX 77007

For a sweet Sunday brunch, Toulouse is the place to be! Make it an even sweeter deal with half-priced bottles of rosé and chill out to some live tunes.

Musaafer

Cuisine: Indian

Location: Galleria / 5115 Westheimer Rd Suite C-3500, Houston, TX 77056

We celebrated our date night in grand style after I quit my job – Musaafer’s fine Indian cuisine left us swooning and wanting more! We both agree, it’ must be one of the best high-end, Indian restaurants in Houston.

If there was ever any doubt that we were sushi fanatics, this list should set the record straight!

Best Bars

After dinner, we love to keep the night alive! Depending on what we’re feeling that evening, some extra time together or a fun gathering with friends, one of our go-to spots is sure to satisfy.

Permission Whiskey

2920 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007

For how I eat well while traveling, read How to Eat Healthy on Vacation.