Theodore Rex

This restaurant was where Oxheart used to be. The chef is the same (James Beard awardee, Justin Yu), but the name has changed and the menu as well. The location reminds me of Fillmore St in San Francisco, vibrant but a bitch to find parking. It was not easy to get reservations and as soon as we entered, I understood why. It is tiny. I soon found out that it only seats 28 people.

As much as my first impressions of this restaurant may seem negative, the food experience is the exact opposite. The food is absolutely amazing. This is easily one of the best meals I have in Houston. Should there be someone who is willing to campaign for a Michelin rating, this restaurant should definitely get a star (or 2).

D had his usual Bordeaux and I tried an unfiltered Prosecco, which surprisingly was good.
Tomato Toast – thick slice of browned pain de mie that’s brushed with tomato water and topped with tomato fondant and a salad of fresh tomatoes

This is one of the more famous dishes on the list. And for good reason. The picture does not do it justice. This is one beautiful and delectable dish.

‘Yellow Edge’ Grouper steamed in collard green parcels, with Japanese turnips, and green tomato sauce vierge
Roasted Texas Wagyu dressed with fermented radish and beefy bits, charcoal grilled-greens

This was D’s entree. The chef suggests that this is cooked medium rare. We usually get our steaks cooked medium but this was a good exception.

Paris-Brest filled with sweet Swiss cheese cream, honey caramel

This is an amazing dessert which paired well with their coffee whose brand I forgot to get. The Swiss cheese had an almost nutty quality to it that prevents it from being too sweet.

As mentioned, if you’re a foodie, this restaurant won’t disappoint. The food is a bomb. If you’re looking out to wine and dine and expect a rowdy company, you might want to rethink this because I cannot overemphasize how small this place is. Come here to appreciate how much food can be taken to a whole new level by creative genius. Just don’t forget to make a reservation a few weeks before….

Theodore Rex, 1302 Nance St.
Houston, Texas 77002

 

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