When you talk about regional Mexican cuisine in Houston, the conversation inevitably turns to Hugo's. One of Houston's finest restaurants since 2002, chef Hugo Ortega's eponymous venue has been a critical hit from the get-go, a reason why he has been a James Beard Foundation finalist in the Best Chef Southwest category for the last five years. What's wonderful about this restaurant is its adherence to Mexican culinary traditions. It takes you on a journey through Mexico's vast geography with dishes like cochinita pibil (slow roasted suckling pig) from the Yucatan or huachinango a la Veracruzana (whole snapper from Veracruz). There are deep, richly flavored moles that hail from Puebla or Oaxaca; tart ceviches one might find in the Baja; not to mention killer churros and hand-churned Mexican drinking chocolate. A bountiful and undeniably fantastic Sunday buffet brunch is one of the city's best. Delicious cocktails utilizing Mexican spirits and a thoughtfully curated wine list complete the picture.