Not only was it the only Houston spot to earn a semifinalist nod in the 2016 James Beard Awards' Best New Restaurant category, but Helen Greek Food & Wine was lauded this year as well, with chef William Wright nabbing another semifinalist nod for Rising Chef Star of the Year. Long story short, Helen Greek has some serious street cred. Come here to indulge in Houston's first-ever all-Hellenic wine list, curated by the always masterful Evan Turner; then indulge in Mediterranean fare that will transport you to the mountains and islands of Greece — by way of the Gulf Coast, of course. Share plates of beautifully charred octopus swimming in pickled red onions, capers and thyme oil; feta-brined chicken kissed with spices; fennel-scented mussels in ouzo and white wine; and a build-your-own local pork gyro that'll satisfy at brunch, lunch and dinner.