A while back, I shared my personal list of must-visit restaurants in Houston, highlighting the places I go back to again and again.
On that list was Theodore Rex, which for a long time was one of my absolute favorites. However, the Houston food scene is always evolving, and a recent visit showed me just how quickly things can change.
This time, I’m diving into two recent experiences: a disappointing update on an old favorite and the exciting arrival of a new contender that has already shot to the top of my list.
Disappointing Change
Theodore Rex used to be a top-three restaurant in Houston for me and a staple on my recommendation list. It was a place I would recommend without hesitation.
However, they recently did a big overhaul of their menu, and unfortunately, it’s just not good anymore. The new dishes lack flavor and aren’t memorable at all.
It’s a real bummer to see a once-awesome restaurant go from a definite go-to spot to a place I probably won’t return to, especially considering it’s not a cheap meal.
New Contender
On the other hand, a new restaurant called Baso has been an amazing experience. It immediately rocketed into my top three in Houston.
Baso serves Basque food, a unique style from the region between Northern Spain and Southern France.
The chefs use local Spanish ingredients but cook them with French techniques, with a big emphasis on cooking over a fire. The food was incredible and memorable.
Some standout dishes were:
- Grilled Oysters
- Fire-roasted Prawns
- The best pork chop I have ever had in my life
Baso is a smaller place, perfect for a special occasion. Just be sure to make a reservation, as you’ll definitely need one to get a table.
Conclusion
This experience shows how a restaurant’s reputation is always on the line. Theodore Rex, once a personal favorite, fell short with a single menu change. In contrast, Baso arrived with a strong concept and excellent food, quickly earning a top spot.
It is a reminder that in a competitive food city like Houston, consistency and quality are everything. While it’s sad to see a favorite decline, it’s also exciting to discover new places that raise the bar.
Thanks for reading!
If you enjoyed this, click here for more of my thoughts on the Houston food scene.