Best Mexican: Xochi
For a while now, Houston’s march toward authentic Mexican food has been stuck in the admittedly tasty mix of refried beans and enchilada sauce. As the Tex-Mex crazed have begun to venture in search of cuisine from Mexico’s 31 states and especially the D.F., they’re thankfully finding more and better opportunities. Many of those restaurants are owned and run by restaurateur Hugo Ortega. The chef and culinary icon has given the city a lot to look forward to, but our choice for that first footfall is Xochi, in downtown Houston, across the street from Discovery Green.
For one, the place is gorgeous, abundantly elegant decor-wise, with a nice view of the park and its stirrings. Then there are the refreshing cocktails synonymous with this jewel in Ortega’s crown. Mezcal, tequila and sangria-based concoctions which taste great and maybe look even better. The menu here is Oaxacan-inspired and is heavy on moles of various flavors and hues. From the marvelous tlayudas (think of them as Mexican appetizer pizza pies) to scallops in a rich mole verde to tacos de cabrito or langosta and a prized plate of pato crujiente (that’s crispy duck, and it’s a wonder on a plate, friends), there’s something for every adventurous palate. And, for those who don’t want to stray too far from their Tex-Mex leanings, yes, you can get a plate of enchiladas at Xochi, too.
1777 Walker
713-400-3330
xochihouston.com
This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2024.
