Cullen’s Upscale American Grille: Downtown South

Truly upscale dining can hard to find in the Bay Area, so Cullen’s is a welcome addition to the scene. A place like this, with its striking modern turrets, low lights, dramatic swooping partitions, and plush chocolate-colored banquettes, is more natural in River Oaks, not straddling the culinary wilds of Pasadena. Let’s hope it’s the beginning of a trend. Still a relative newcomer, Chef Paul Lewis’s operation seems to be finding its feet; the prime rib, served with onions, mushrooms, and sweet potato, is a tender, juicy delight. The equally excellent meat in the short rib ravioli reveals itself through the fresh semolina casing in a slow, complex surprise. Some diners have found the Chicken Fried Ribeye to be a bit salty, but that might be a matter of taste. And if you enjoy having a drink to complement your meal, Cullen's has you in mind—drinks are half price 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. every day, except Thursdays—when the deal lasts until 11 p.m.!  You’ll never drink so cheaply in a place like this. Cullen's is closed on Mondays.

Cullen’s Upscale American Grille
11500 Space Center Boulevard
Houston, TX 77059
(281) 991-2000
www.cullenshouston.com

La Madeleine: A Night in Provence

A night at La Madeleine is like a night in Provence: cozy, rustic, and delicious. The French farmhouse-style menu has won a legion of fans, featuring an array of soups, salads, crepes and quiches. Regulars rave about the soothing qualities of the Tomato Basil Soup. Crepes are both sweet and savory, with the Chicken Crepe Riviera with rotisserie chicken, broccoli, garlic and tomatoes and a creamy pesto sauce getting top marks. Stop in for breakfast to sample a sumptuous array of egg dishes, pastries and sides, alongside robust freshly brewed coffee. Vive la France!

La Madeleine
929 W Bay Area Blvd
Webster, TX 77598
Neighborhood: Clear Lake
(281) 316-2774
http://www.yelp.com/biz/la-madeleine-french-bakery-webster

Coffee Oasis: Good Coffee, Good Food, and Live Music!

“Come, Sit, Relax” is the message on Coffee Oasis’ website, and guests return again and again to do just that. Whether you’re meeting friends for a chat and a bite, or you need a quiet place to get some work done, Coffee Oasis has everything you need—comfortable chairs and sofas, free Wi-Fii, board games, regular live music, and of course, an array of coffees and specialty drinks. Besides great java, Coffee Oasis’ menu includes a variety of breakfast items, deli sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, and yummy treats for dessert.

Beyond the relaxing, laid back atmosphere, the café hosts special events throughout the week—visit every Wednesday at 8 p.m., for Open Mic Night, check out the café on Sundays for Bluegrass Jam from 3 – 7 p.m., and on Fridays try your hand at game night—learn to play the classic board game Go from 7 – 11 p.m.

Coffee Oasis
4650 NASA Road 1
Seabrook, TX 77586
(281) 532-1439
www.coffee-oasis.com

Signature Bistro: A Class Act

Recently taken over by a two sisters, this old house, converted into a chic New American eatery, is a hidden gem of the Bay dining scene. The atmosphere inside—black linens, simple art on the warm-colored walls, good tableware—is just enough to announce you’re in a place with ambition. And the food lives up to it. 

At lunch there's the Texas Kobe Burger, made of thickly marbled prime Japanese beef, grilled to perfection and served with succulent mushrooms. For dinner, the Lobster Ravioli is a delicate balance of sweetness, richness, and texture, while the Texas Striped Bass, sauteed in sauvignon blanc sauce, is a light, savory masterpiece. Cornish Hen dazzles with tenderness, and the apple brie salad features strong but nuanced cheese. Everything is locally sourced so it’s at the peak of freshness. Delicious tapas are served in the bar from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. every day except Sunday, when brunch is a creative success. Signature Bistro boasts an extensive wine list, and there’s engaging piano music in the evenings. 

Signature Bistro
1918 Nasa Parkway
Seabrook, TX 77586
(281) 474-4455
www.signaturebistro.com

Restaurant Reviews Are On The Way…

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