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Italian food and empanadas in Houston

A kitchen that manages to serve Italian staples and empanadas without the menu feeling like a disjointed collection of leftovers.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
Maldo's Steak & Ocean image 1
Maldo's Steak & Ocean image 2
Maldo's Steak & Ocean image 3
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Elegant steakhouse with an upscale yet comfortable atmosphere and thoughtfully designed interior. Live jazz and DJ music create a relaxed, energetic vibe complemented by a high-end lounge and secret oyster bar. Tables are spaced for intimacy, making it suitable for romantic evenings and fine dining experiences.

Dishes like Linguine Pescatore and blackened salmon show strong presentation and flavor. The pasta comes with a rich, flavorful sauce. Starters include wild mushroom rigatoni and birra tacos.

Golden, flaky empanadas come stuffed with shrimp and melted queso asadero. They serve with morita mayo and pickled red onions, making the shrimp empanadas stand out as an appetizer.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the steak and seafood."

"The Italian food here is top-notch, with amazing service."

"The shrimp empanadas were golden, flaky, and stuffed with shrimp."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features premium liquor options and excellent appetizers.

2

The restaurant has a lounge open Thursday to Saturday from 10 am to 2 am.

3

Parking is available, but be cautious as security may be lacking.

02
La Argentina Gelato image 1
Ice cream shop

Bright, modern space blends South American ambiance with a European gelateria style. Atmosphere stays cozy and inviting, perfect for relaxing or casual brunches. Offers generous samples and a variety of gelato flavors with a creamy texture and unique tastes.

Tiramisu stands out with its rich flavor. Ice cream also pairs well and is popular to take home.

Argentinian chicken and cheese and onion empanadas stand out for their flavor. They pair well with coffee and offer a delicious taste that invites buying extras to take home.

People are saying

"I thought the gelato here was the best I tried in Texas."

"I thought their coffee was prepared as it should be."

"I had to take home the amazing Italian food, especially the gelato and tiramisu."

Good to know

1

The shop closes at 9 PM.

2

Expect to be asked to leave at 8 PM on busy nights.

3

Entry is easy when heading south on Jones Road, with a left turn lane for easy access.

03
Quotes image 1
New American restaurant

New American restaurant offers live DJ and guitarist, creating an energetic and engaging atmosphere. Elegant interior with private event rooms and outdoor patios supports both lively gatherings and intimate celebrations. The vibe blends class and authenticity, making it a standout dining experience.

Pasta dishes stand out with creamy Cajun seafood and seasoned oxtail Mac and cheese. The seafood pasta and blackened chicken creole pasta offer rich, meaty flavors.

Jerk oxtail empanadas stand out with their rich flavor and hearty filling. They offer a unique taste unlike typical empanadas.

People are saying

"I thought the food and drinks were delicious."

"The oxtail empanadas are indescribly good and tender."

"The pasta here is seasoned to perfection and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

The daily Happy Hour runs from 11 AM to 7 PM with a special menu.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

3

The happy hour menu features a variety of culturally inspired options.

04
Upper Kirby Bistro image 1
American restaurant

Multiple rooms create distinct spaces including cigar lounge, hookah lounge, and family room. Warm, inviting atmosphere blends party energy with a chill vibe. Live bands, DJs, and dance lessons add dynamic entertainment throughout the week.

Chef special scallop risotto stands out with excellent flavor. The menu includes oxtails and pastas, with chicken Alfredo also featured among the entrees.

Oxtail empanadas stand out with their freshness and seasoned filling. They are small but often the highlight of the night.

People are saying

"Rene made the food and drinks an incredible night."

"You have to try the oxtail empanadas; they're so fresh and seasoned."

"The Italian food here is amazing, with awesome staff attention."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Wednesdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available for $20, but street parking is also an option.

3

Crawfish is served on Saturdays starting at 2pm until sold out.

05
El Muelle image 1
Restaurant

Large, clean space with multiple screens and an outdoor area creates a lively setting. Atmosphere blends family-friendly vibes with live mariachi music and a relaxed sound level. Bar area offers skilled bartenders crafting well-made drinks, making it a solid spot for watching games.

Shrimp pasta stands out as both tasty and affordable. The chicken pasta offers a hearty, satisfying meal.

Shrimp empanadas show mixed results with some finding them great and others disappointed. Fish empanadas come alongside other dishes like chicken fajita and mojarra tilapia, all noted as awesome.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious and tastefully prepared."

"You have to try the shrimp empanadas; they were great."

"The shrimp pasta here is delicious and a great deal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted at this restaurant.

2

Expect to wait a little before being seated during peak hours.

3

Menu prices at the restaurant may differ significantly from those listed online.

06
The Lymbar image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant with quirky, colorful decor and a tree centerpiece creates an elegant, cozy atmosphere. Live piano and saxophone music adds energy but can be loud, especially near the bar area. Seating is close-packed and intimate, suitable for celebrations but less so for quiet dinners.

Pasta dishes stand out with creamy mushroom sauce and fresh ingredients like asparagus and tomatoes. The Gemelli with chicken and grilled shrimp and the carbonara priced at 14 dollars offer rich, comforting flavors.

Empanadas feature a thin crispy skin with fillings like spinach and beef that stand out. Varieties include Monte Cristo with a tart, slightly sweet flavor and meaty aftertaste.

People are saying

"The food here is exciting, flavorful, and unique."

"I really enjoyed the empanadas here."

"The Italian food here is a flavor bomb, truly delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted bar snacks.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy times to ensure seating.

3

Parking is free for the first three hours at a nearby lot.

07
The Nomad image 1
Restaurant

Elegant space with warm modern lighting and thoughtful design creates a classy, lively atmosphere. Loud music and DJs set a vibrant tone suited for a younger crowd. Close tables and photo opportunities add to the energetic, social vibe.

Reserve Pasta stands out with its large portion and excellent taste. Other dishes include honey truffle chicken, mac and cheese, cowboy caviar, empanadas, and lobster pasta, all satisfying the table.

Empanadas come with perfect seasoning and a rich, satisfying flavor. They pair well with dishes like catfish etouffee and mac and cheese.

People are saying

"The atmosphere here is so chill and cozy, perfect for selfies."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was amazing."

"The empanadas here were so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Valet parking costs $20, while self-parking is available for $10.

3

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all bills.

08
Saldivia's South American Grill image 1

Rustic decor with dark wood accents and wine bottles on walls creates a cozy, old-school atmosphere. Live piano and singing add to the authentic South American vibe. Spacious booths invite relaxed, family-style dining with pleasant music enhancing the experience.

Pasta stands out with its delicious and tasty flavors. The ravioli, including milanesa and spinach varieties, draws positive attention from kids.

Hearty beef empanadas offer authentic, flavorful bites with a traditional touch. They pair well with fresh salads and showcase the diverse Uruguayan cuisine.

People are saying

"I loved their great wine selection."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and meat, was cooked to perfection."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on Fridays and Saturdays due to live music.

2

The restaurant offers reasonably priced daily specials for lunch.

3

Expect long wait times for the bathrooms during busy hours.

09
Kiss image 1
New American restaurant

Speakeasy-style design with a club-like atmosphere features a live DJ and band that keep energy high. The patio offers a downtown view and the space includes photo-worthy decor like a Prince picture. Music and ambiance draw a lively crowd, though some find the vibe too loud for dining.

Seafood pasta dishes stand out with shrimp and lobster featured prominently. Creamy lobster ravioli topped with microgreens and spicy options like Cajun chicken pasta add variety to the menu.

Oxtail empanadas stand out with their generous size and rich flavor. They pair well with fusion appetizers like boudain eggrolls.

People are saying

"The DJ kept the energy up with a great selection all night."

"The Italian Food here is great, and the service is always attentive."

"You have to try the oxtail empanadas; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, Kiss hosts cinema night with special movie screenings.

2

Thursdays feature $5 Lemon drops and $5 Lamb chops during happy hour.

3

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills for parties of two or more.

10
Tequila 45 mexican restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with chic Day of the Dead decor and lively colors creates an upscale, bright atmosphere. Live Mariachi music and a full-service bar energize the space, encouraging dancing and socializing. Specialty margaritas and a well-curated drink menu complement the vibrant setting.

Chicken Alfredo stands out with rich flavor and creamy texture. Seafood pasta offers fresh shrimp, fish, and mussels with a mild kick. Pastas overall are exceptional and flavorful.

Seafood empanadas stand out with bursting flavor and perfect cooking. The Tulum Empanadas and Fajita dinner also offer a delicious variety worth trying.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and outstanding."

"The seafood empanadas here are perfection."

"I thought the chicken Alfredo was the best Italian food I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with special menu items.

2

Live music performances occur on Fridays featuring local bands.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

11
Mamajuana Cafe image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant combines modern and rustic decor with a lively atmosphere featuring live music and dancing. The space includes a busy bar area and a speakeasy that adds a club-like vibe. The environment feels cozy yet chic, attracting guests who enjoy energetic evenings with music and socializing.

Oxtail fettuccine stands out with its tasty and flavorful profile. It draws repeat visits for dinner.

Empanadas come in a trio appetizer that stands out for its flavor. They pair well with other starters like Mixed Skewers and the Mamajuanan Roll.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The empanadas here are amazing, thanks to Devon's attentive service."

"The oxtail fettuccine here is out of this world."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Live Latin music starts at 9 PM on Thursdays.

3

Salsa dancing takes place every Thursday night.

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