Barbacana — Restaurant in Houston

Where to start? First, the interior of the restaurant doesn’t align with the vibe of the cuisine it’s trying to promote. It feels completely disconnected from the food being served. The decor is more suited for a casual coffee shop, and if that’s the direction they’re going for, it needs to be made cozier.

Additionally, there’s a charge to hold a reservation and a $15 valet fee. When I called to reschedule, I was told that the time I requested wasn’t available—but surprisingly, a time slot 15 minutes later was open. Imagine my shock when I arrived to find the restaurant nearly empty, with maybe three out of 50 tables occupied.

The kitchen was open, and I couldn’t help but notice that several cooks had long hair and beards but weren’t wearing any hair protection. Unsurprisingly, we found a long black hair in our carpaccio. As for the other dishes, the presentation and preparation left much to be desired. The bluefin tuna was drenched in oil, which was a terrible choice—every chef knows red fish pairs best with fruity, acidic sauces, not oil that masks its natural flavor. The potato pavé was dry, cold, and poorly presented. To top it off, the chicken we ordered arrived raw.

At that point, we decided to ask for the check and leave, but the staff tried to make up for the issues by offering dessert, which we declined—twice. While all the appetizers we ordered were eventually brought out, for some reason, one of them arrived at the very end—right as we were discovering the raw chicken.

And to top it all off, the place is not cheap. Even after they took off the dishes that didn’t meet basic standards, we were charged $150 with taxes. That’s pretty expensive for such a...

Barbacana is a true gem in Houston’s fine dining scene, offering an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends refined flavors, artistic presentation, and impeccable service. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm yet sophisticated ambiance, where historic charm meets contemporary elegance. The high ceilings, custom artwork, and open kitchen create a captivating atmosphere that enhances the overall dining experience.

Chef Christian Hernandez has curated a menu that showcases his extensive culinary expertise, with each dish reflecting a deep respect for ingredients and technique. The tasting menu is an absolute must-try, featuring beautifully composed plates like the Vermillion snapper crudo, cold-smoked red grouper, and the exquisitely prepared Texas Wagyu Denver steak. Every bite bursts with bold yet balanced flavors, highlighting the quality of the locally sourced ingredients.

The wine selection and craft cocktails are just as impressive, offering a diverse array of choices that perfectly complement the menu. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, providing excellent recommendations and ensuring a seamless dining experience.

Barbacana isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a memorable night out, this restaurant sets the standard for modern fine dining in Houston. If you appreciate thoughtfully crafted cuisine and top-tier hospitality, Barbacana is a must-visit destination. Highly...

Attended the soft opening and got to enjoy their inaugural tasting menu. The first of eight dishes, the Jicama Tetela, Prawn Carpaccio was the start of a delicious experience. The combinations of textures and flavors flowed nicely from one dish to the next. Some of the seasonings all of which were made in house, were new to me and honestly wanted some to take home! Every course was presented beautifully with generous portions. The husk cherry, stroopwafel with foie gras was the last course and a perfect way to close out the delicious and filling dinner. Hard to choose a favorite so I hope each one makes it to a future a la carte menu. The service staff were all friendly and en pointe always attentive without being being intrusive. We were seated at the counter with direct view to the kitchen and it made for an interesting backdrop to the great meal. The ambiance was thoughtful, casually refined with beautiful textures, colors and mural artwork. Located on the corner of Franklin and Travis near the theater and court districts, with pay parking lots and metered street parking. Looking forward to my next...