Houston's priciest plates: Where to dine like a Texan oil baron (or pretend to)
Ah, Houston. The city of space cowboys, sizzling fajitas, and apparently, some seriously swanky restaurants. But where, in this sprawling metropolis, can you truly experience fine dining that'll make your wallet weep tears of both joy (at the exquisite flavor) and sorrow (at the bill)? Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a journey to Houston's most expensive eateries.
The Contenders: A Steakhouse Smackdown
Houston loves its steakhouses, and these two contenders are the undisputed heavyweight champions.
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Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse: This old-school gem oozes elegance with its dark wood paneling and white tablecloths. They're famous for their USDA Prime cuts, cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Fun fact: Their wine list is longer than your average Texan's pickup truck, so bring your reading glasses (and maybe a small loan).
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Mastro's Steakhouse: Mastro's isn't just about the steaks (though those are pretty darned good too). They offer an extensive seafood selection, making this a great choice for that friend who always goes rogue and orders fish at a steakhouse (we all have one). The ambiance is swanky and modern, perfect for an evening of feeling fancy (even if your bank account screams otherwise).
The Dark Horse: A Fancy Frenchman Enters the Ring
- Le Jardinier: Now, Houston may not have any Michelin-starred restaurants (yet!), but Le Jardinier brings a touch of Parisian flair to the game. This Midtown spot focuses on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and boasts a multi-course tasting menu that'll take your taste buds on a whirlwind tour of France (without the jet lag). Be warned: This ain't your grandpappy's steakhouse. Here, you'll be expected to, well, expect the unexpected.
So, what's the verdict?
Honestly, declaring a single "most expensive" winner is tough. It all depends on what kind of experience you're after.
- For the classic steakhouse experience that'll break the bank: Vic & Anthony's
- For a modern spin with extensive options: Mastro's
- For a fancy French adventure: Le Jardinier
Pro-Tip: No matter which restaurant you choose, make sure to check their menus online beforehand. This way, you can avoid that awkward moment of realizing a single bite of their signature Kobe beef costs more than your rent.
Remember: A night of fine dining in Houston is an experience, not just a meal. So go forth, embrace your inner Texan oil baron (or at least pretend to), and prepare to be wowed! Just don't forget the antacids (those fancy French portions can be a doozy).
