Dino’s — Restaurant in Houston

In town for the Maccabi Games, decided to take advantage of Houston’s robust kosher scene. Dino’s was our first stop, and all I can say is “damn!” Walked out of the Houston heat straight into Israel; felt like your typical Israeli food joint in Israel, complete with turquoise-colored appointments in the walls, Israeli bus station cafe veneer counter, and Israelis watching Israeli news and arguing about politics in Hebrew. Waiter was super friendly and knowledgeable about the menu items. Then the food came, and all I can say is “OMG the food!!!” Started off with the Arais dipped in tahina and harif, then into ribeye steak and Romanian beef in pita with a nice selection of fixes (including amba), and wonderfully fried chips. Finished it all off with proper Israeli coffee. The portions? We were stuffed, and even after spending hours walking around the Galleria Mall afterwards, we were still full. And the prices? Very reasonable, and I say this as a frugal middle class working guy.

Dino’s was fantastic; as somebody whom lived in Israel, especially Afula, and is a complete Israelphile with a zest for everything we love about Israeli food, Dino’s is legit and totally...

Small hole in the wall quaint spot... Houston's hidden gem to be honest. Don't expect anything grand when it come to the setting, however, we were mind blown by the flavors and quality of food we received. We ordered Ela's Romanian Kabob plate and the Thursday special. (Fish balls served with saffron rice and grilled potatoes) We also got a side of eggplant. Not sure what exactly the name is since I went up to the counter and just pointed and this red puree of goodness. Also ordered cabbage and mayo. It was a briney and creamy. Something so simple yet delicious. We went around 5pm on a Thursday so it wasn't busy. After talking to the waiter, there are like 15 different side dishes which I plan to try out. He also mentioned theres an 8 side dish platter to try them out which I definitely will order. The meat from the kabobs were extremely juicy and flavorful. Lot of love went into those. The fish balls... I WILL go back for those, however there are specials every day. We will for sure have to go every day of the week and catch the specials. I will update this review once I try more but I guarantee that this place...

There's a universal understanding when it comes to biting into a hulking, pita-wrapped bundle of spiced, slow-roasted, prime-quality meat, and it is that of joy. Suffice to say, that shawarma hits the spot.

I also indulged in arayes, which is pita bread stuffed with spiced meat (topped with hummus and a delicious mango-derived spice which is totally unique to itself). It was not only delicious but also incredibly comforting, bringing a warm sense of familiarity to the meal that reminded me of how nice it is to have family.

The staff noticed I was a bit out of my depth but welcomed me in warmly, treating me like a fellow food traveler eager to explore new flavors and for that I am most thankful.

I have a deep appreciation for kosher culture and the community, so trying authentic kosher dishes was a rare treat. Overall, it was a delightful culinary experience that I look forward to enjoying again. Or maybe a few dozen more times. Until next...