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Hugo's
Categories: Restaurants Mexican Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch Mexican, Breakfast & Brunch [Edit]
1600 Westheimer RdHouston, TX 77006
Neighbourhood: Montrose
(713) 524-7744
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11 am - 10 pm
Fri-Sat 11 am - 11 pm
Sun 10:30 am - 9:30 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Valet
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Classy, Upscale
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Houston's diversified city population is the inspiration behind our restaurants, from the ingredients we use to the international markets we serve. Most… read more »
222 reviews for Hugo's
Review Highlights
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"they even have "abuelita" style hot chocolate." In 34 reviews -
"Their guacamole is kick-ass and so is the tres leches." In 15 reviews -
"...the Callo de Hacha - pan seared scallops over sweet corn..." In 3 reviews
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222 reviews in English
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Review from Daniel S.
Houston, TX
4/21/2012
I have nothing bad to say about Hugo's. Beautifully crafted dishes. Simply amazing.
I've been here 3 times sine I moved to Houston 6 months ago and I've ordered something different every time. Good cocktails too! Try the Smoke on the Vine. -
Review from Lauren K.
4/12/2012
My boyfriend tried to take me here for my birthday, but we didn't end up going until 2 weeks later because that was the first time we could get a reservation. After we started eating, we completely understood why. We ate some of the best food I've had in Houston!
We started with peach sangria and tacos de papas. The sangria was a great way to start the meal - fresh and not too sweet. The taco plate came out with 3 small tacos and a side of tomatillo salsa. At first, we were a little taken aback by how small the serving was, but once we started eating, all was forgiven. The shells and potatoes were crispy and flavorful, and the salsa was so good we finished it with the onions and radishes that had fallen off the top of the tacos.
For the main course, I had the pollo asado, and my boyfriend had the barbacoa. My plate arrived with half of a chicken, and the dark meat was so tender it was falling off the bone. The white meat was a little dry, but the savory rub on the outside made it good enough that only the bones were left at the end. The barbacoa was equally flavorful, and we ended up with 2 cleaned plates.
The desserts were supremely decadent. The churros rellenos were rich and sugary, and came with Mexican hot chocolate perfect for dipping. The bread pudding was another great ending.
All in all, it was a great night. The service was friendly and attentive, and the food was off the charts. I'll definitely be back to try other items on the menu, and I especially want to taste their brunch options. -
Review from Vanessa B.
Chicago, IL
4/10/2012
I fell in love with Mexican food all over again here! I didn't have one disappointing dish. I started with the peach sangria which has fresh puree in it (heaven) and was the perfect end to a long day. For appetizers we had the octopus tacos, plantain empanadas, and the chicken taquitos. The octopus was cooked perfectly, nice and tender and none of the chewiness. Everything was seasoned perfectly, the octopus included. It had a great lime bite to it. The taquitos were great, but they were probably the least spectacular of everything. The empanadas were the start of the appetizer show. Sweet plantain combined with beans in a perfectly cooked empanada, who would've thought that combination would be delicious? I almost wished I'd saved it for dessert it was so good.
My friend ordered the scallop over cornbread and the scallops were cooked perfectly, seared on the outside and still nice and tender on the inside. They were like butter. I ordered the shrimp cooked in lime and garlic. I can't honestly remember if I've ever had shrimp that good. There was a cactus salad on the side which was also brilliant. I may not have tried it had I known what it was (I get weird like that sometimes) but I tried it and thought maybe it was some kind of great sweet pepper before I asked so even with the knowledge I just kept enjoying it. Fantastic meal overall! -
Review from Mayra R.
Houston, TX
5/14/2012
I went to Hugo's for the first time today, for Mother's day brunch with my mom and dad, and had a great experience! We didn't have to wait to be seated, the service was great! The food was delicious, very authentic. My mom who is extremely hard to please at restaurants, and especially Mexican restaurants, really liked this place. It has my mexican mom's seal of approval. Some of the highlights in the meal, the corn bread pudding, the carnitas, the quesadillas with corn mushrooms, the mini churros, and the tres leches cake!
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Review from Andrew S.
Houston, TX
5/21/2012
The food was fantastic, and I had a great time. The only reason this isn't a 4 or 5 star review is that the valet stole all of the loose change out of my cup holder (a lot of it). This place needs to hire a reputable valet company, it completely ruined the great impression I received after dining there.
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Review from Lexie V.
Ashland, OR
3/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Hugo's was fantastic! It's in a funky, eclectic part of Houston, probably the hipster section, I'd guess? Anyway, the place itself is quite grand with very high ceilings , exposed brick walls, and big ol' cowboy chandeliers that provide perfect, dim lighting. It is an authentic Mexican restaurant with several classic Mexican dishes made from unique ingredients.
Our waiter was great: he was very open and honest about his recommendations and what he didn't recommend; how often does that happen?! Much appreciated!
So, my boss and I decided to be adventurous and to try new things. So we started off with grilled grasshoppers; they arrived in a bowl and looked like-- yep! BUGS. Vile. They came with blue tortillas, delicious guacamole, and a habanero salsa. Clearly, I piled the toppings on thick to mask those pesky grasshoppers. What can I say? They were definitely crunchy... but I still had this psychological issue that I couldn't get past: I was eating bugs, and by choice no less! The more I thought about it, the most I could barely stomach them even though they tasted perfectly fine. So I stopped at one grasshopper taco!
Next were the beef cheeks: to die for! This is my first time trying this and it was so fork-tender, you practically needed a spoon. Simply fantastic and served with a complex authentic mole sauce that paired beautifully.
We all split the mango, bleu cheese and avocado salad and found it exquisite, especially the watercress which was a lovely touch. We also had the potato tacos and we all agreed they were divine and we'd order them again in a heartbeat.
My entree was goat meat steamed in a banana leaf. I quite liked it-- it was basic and not really seasoned much, but it was very tender and also served with tortillas, habanero salso and guac and I made some pretty tasty goat tacos.
My dining partner got the tenderloin steak (BORING!), and here I must be honest: it was amazing, way better than what I ordered. She practically licked her plate clean and i don't blame her one bit.
For dessert, our waiter encouraged us to get the flan. I'm not a big flan fan, but my dining partners were and they were blown away and proclaimed it the best flan they'd ever have, so if you like flan, order this! We got the churros too which were very good, but nothing special.
Last, the red sangria was great and hit the spot! -
Review from Charlie N.
Sunnyside, NY
4/3/2012
This place rocks! Had the bartender create me an 'off the menu' drink with tequila, jugo fresco and habanero pepper. It popped! So good.
For starters had the duck tacos...succulent. For the main, grilled quail with salsa verde. BAM! Great spot. Nice decor. Good service. I agree with another reviewer...not Tex-Mex...this is closer to the real deal, but gourmet version. -
Review from S C.
Truckee, CA
It's not Tex Mex, people, it is Mexican food and it is DELICIOUS.
Did not have reservations, landed in Houston and drove straight here based on reviews for best margarita. Yum, it delivered. However, waiter did lead me astray by up-selling me and I did not like it as much as the original margarita.
Parked on the street or they have valet. Wait was short.
We had two kids with us and the home made taquitos were fought over. Freshly wrapped and fried with good quality chicken meat inside.
I had a scallop dish that was plate lickable. Ice cream was crazy good.
We go out of our way to try local, non-chain restaurants and this delivered.
If I had one recommendation, encourage the wait staff to work as a team. -
Review from J G.
Dallas, TX
3/13/2012
I ate here a few years ago and on this trip I made it a priority to go again. Easily one of my favorite restaurants I've ever been to. The 4 hour drive and Houston traffic is bearable just b/c I can go to Hugos.
The vibe is cool. The decor is cool and the food is fantastic. Margaritas are the way they should be made and their sangria is damn good too.
I could ramble on and on about everything we ordered but the reader would get tired of reading the word "great" over and over. -
Review from Scott L.
3/8/2012 2 Check-ins Here
If you're looking for ordinary tacos and burritos, this is not the place for you. If you are looking for some very good, higher end Mexican Food and drinks, then this is the place you want to go to eat and drink.
I've been here a couple of times and each time I've gotten one of their specials and they have been wonderful. The last time I got a Pork Shank. The meat was fall off the bone tender and everything on the plate was so fresh and tasty.
One of these days I may get around to trying something from the huge selection on their regular menu, but if their specials are any indication I'm sure the dishes on the menu will be great. The peanuts they bring to your table when you sit down are very good and the Margaritas and Mojitos I've had have been great. I also had the Ensalada de Casa and that was also pretty good, but next time I'll have to try one of the other soups or salads.
The people I dined with also really liked their Cevices and I understand I really need to try their Mole. Hugo's is definitely not cheap, but given the quality of the food I think it's pretty reasonable. Once again, this is not your run of the mill taco joint. This is one of my favorite places in Houston and next time back I'll have to go back to Hugo's. -
Review from Tina S.
League City, TX
3/16/2012
First let me say that we didn't think about reservations. Reader: MAKE A RESERVATION or try and survive a fairly long wait. (it was late and a weekenight, so we didn't wait longer than 30m. they told us 45-1hr).
VALET- they have it. otherwise you parallel park on the street.
SIGN: we missed the small name sign on the first pass, and it is at an intersection.
NOISE: Didn't think this place was any more noisy than any other place.
It was CROWDED at the bar!
KID FRIENDLY- they do offer a small selection of kids meals on their coloring menu. We did not order from this.
SERVICE: great. our waitress was very helpful with explaining sauces and meats.
FOOD: As others have stated, this is not a "normal" Mexican resturant. ie: NO fajitas and NO chips and salsa upon being seated. They do have some peanuts on the table in some sort of spicy flavor mix. Too spicy for myself and son. Husband won't eat open peanuts.
Our son had the rabbit which was fairly tasty. He didn't like the jimica salad but the mashed potatoes it comes with were very good.
I had the sauteed shrimp. Honestly, I was expecting to be wowed. Presentation was good, they had 2 shrimp heads on the plate. I love shrimp. These were large and cooked well, but the flavor was subpar. Served with some sort of pickled okra (I didn't care for) and white rice w/peas and cilantro. (Rice was ok).
My husband had the Filete a la Oaxaqueñ a wood grilled beef tenderloin with mole negro and wild mushroom tamal. We decided it was ok also. The sauce I think was tasty! The meat was "ok." Tamales were bland, but the texture was good.
DRINKS:
Holy cow this place has a crazy list of tequila. We stuck with sangria and margaritas.
Red: Didn't care for. I know someone on the list said it's fantastic, but I didn't think so.
White: Has peach nectar in it. Like a tangy bellini. Husband liked it, i would like it less tart.
Gran Respado Margarita: Nothing special BUT they use LIME JUICE and not sweet and sour.
There IS a $28 margarita on the menu, but we decided to pass.
PRICING: Most entrees are priced mid 20's to 30.
FINAL STATEMENT: While it was an adventure to try somewhere new we didn't think the food was so great that we will put it into our regular rotation.
I hope this review has been helpful for you :) -
Review from Saba E.
2/20/2012
Hugo's was a tasty experience, but I prefer quiet ambiances rather than loud ones. Hugo's was prompt with service, but that was impressive since it was Valentines Day.
There was a prix frix menu for Valentines Day, but I guess that is expected for a busy day of the year.
I enjoyed our appetizer, salad, but unfortunately, this went downhill for me after that. I didn't really enjoy my Chile Relleno stuffed with mushrooms. It was spicy and unappetizing to even look at.
Dessert, for me, was unappealing. So many strawberry-flavored-centric options and I didn't enjoy much except for the chocolate cookie.
I was glad my husband enjoyed his sirloin steak and other accompaniments.
Maybe I'll return for Brunch next time and not Dinner. -
Review from Sam A.
Houston, TX
3/5/2012
There's not much more that I love more than a drink in one hand and some delicious Mexican food in front of me. Normally, I wouldn't go out to an excessively expensive place like Hugo's. But of late I've met a lady friend who enjoys overly priced dinner and who am I to say no when she's paying.
It was a great night, the team and I had just pulled through on a tough case and got a surprisingly great result. The lady-friend asked me out to dinner. I brought us in my vintage vehicle and they hit me up for a car wash. In a place like Houston, I'm appalled at needing to valet your car everywhere you go much less being greased over to wash my car.
The highlight of the evening was the liquor. With a beer in one hand and margarita in the other, I was in heaven. The remainder of the evening was a disaster. The service was mediocre, the food was bland and dry, and the prices were outrageous. Thank god my lady friend was paying because otherwise the "world's best margarita" was really just average really.
By the ratings, it seems that Houstonians love overpriced and overhyped pretentious restuarants that serve subpar and low quality food. Maybe the team should get out of contract work and open up a restaurant. -
Review from Matthew G.
San Antonio, TX
1/18/2012
Crickets, Scallops, and veggies! Oh My!
- The char-grilled crickets are a must! Throw them in a tortilla with some guacamole and salsa and it's appetizer that mutes the crunching of charred crickets in your mouth.
- The scallops on cornbread will inspire you to the point of writing some kind of hyku about the concept of scallops and cornbread
-The veggie platter my friend ordered was quite wonderful and colorful. The nutrients and vitamins one gets from this plate are a wonderful recovery from the work-out one gets from opening the 300lb door one has to open to enter and exit the restaurant! -
Review from Padraig M.
Houston, TX
2/20/2012
Overall, a really nice place. More 3.5 stars than 3 or 4. Cocktails were great!
Ceviche was fantastic. we should have just had two servings of this and called it a night, would have been enough.
Pulpo was nice, but the tomato-based sauce was overpowering.
My carne asada was really good.
We also had the baby pig Yucatan-style, and this is why its not a top star place. The dish was extremely disappointing. It was dry shredded pork, from a bad taco place.
Deserts looked fantastic. We will be back. -
Review from Lasairiona M.
Missouri City, TX
1/14/2012
Meh. Surprised this place has such great reviews!
We had lunch here today, a big group. I asked for a selection from the business lunch menu, I ordered the carnitas, I was told it didn't come with rice, I ordered rice.
The carnitas was pretty oily/greasy, and a little bland. The rice was just ok.
My dessert churros were over-cooked. Service was a little slow and unpleasant, the food wasn't great, definitely not worth the $30 (+valet tip) that I paid for it.
I doubt I'd go back! -
Review from Colleen C.
Chicago, IL
11/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
I was ready to roll. In Texas, for Mexican-inspired cuisine. I'm happy. I'm relaxed, it's the day after Thanksgiving, and we're enjoying a late lunch. Outside. In November. This means a lot to someone hailing from the northern half.
And, you are woefully understaffed with one server for the entire large restaurant plus patio. I felt bad for the poor gal. Running to and fro, it just wasn't timed well. We waited 20 minutes for sodas. Another 10 to order. The brunch menus were included in the big menus, so we perused those and were then told we could not order from them. So, don't include a menu that is not offered in the presentation to diners, that is my advice.
I ordered the Oxtail Soup, it was good...a bit salty, but good. My pal's house salad also good. Not amazing, but good. Fresh enough. My veggie platter was a mix of corn pudding (tepid), stuffed poblanos (soggy), quinoa (good) and various zuchinni. It wasn't the best thing I've eaten, but fairly healthy...if not overcooked and underseasoned. My lunching partner's enchiladas were standard, and thus overpriced.
The patio has cool birds on it that are more like dressed up pigeon beggars in sleek suits. We liked them, you may not. There were also two very loud, brash, annoying dudes yelling into their speaker phones on the patio. A well-run restaurant would address this issue for the enjoyment of other diners. At this price point, pleasure should be key, and loud annoying men should be talked to. By a manager. They were THAT annoying. I have a high tolerance, too.
Overall, I just cannot say I'd be back. It shows big, and delivers quite small. Especially for the money. For Mexican food.Listed in: Houston Tourist
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Review from Cee B.
11/27/2011
Upscale Mexican with exceptional cocktails, desserts, and lovely brunch setting even for a $30-ish buffet.
Good for a fancy-ish but casual dinner or brunch.
I've been to Hugo's throughout the years, but I first came to truly appreciate Hugo's when I realized last minute that some of the restaurants in the area were closed for dinner on a Sunday night and it was still open for walk-ins. This place reminds me of a less scenic Javier's in Dallas. But it's nice. It has grasshoppers in an attempt to look like authentic Mexican, which might impress some people. I have no idea.
Valet only. I get it but resent it. I'm risk averse when it comes to towing.
First, margarita, on the rocks & with no salt. For me, at least. They do it right here with all the natural juices. They also have a frozen margarita option.
The $30-ish weekend brunch buffet makes you feel a little upscale as you eat more than you normally would. Eggs over cornbread, lamb chops, chile rellenos, etc. You can get pitchers of the typical brunch drinks. It's a nice setting but tends to get crowded.
Dinner - I recommend the red snapper, bacon-wrapped quail, & lamb barbacoa.
The Tres Leches was perfectly soft and soggy like I like it. The desserts here are fantastic so definitely bet on Hugo's being your last stop for dessert...save room for it.Listed in: Competent (or at least…, B-fast, Texicans Unite
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Review from Miriam G.
Austin, TX
3/17/2012
Make a reservation, get a margarita and the carnitas, have a foodgasm. That is all.
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Review from Andy R.
Houston, TX
5/5/2012
Love the menu here. Good quality mex/mex food with seemingly fresh ingredients. Have yet to find a bad thing on the menu.
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Review from Debs C.
Had a bite of a friend's red snapper entree this past Friday night and was immediately filled with jealousy.
Food envy, it's real people!
I took a look at my one sad and lonely looking lobster taco and my plate of enchiladas and mentally kicked myself for not ordering the red snapper. Only after I polished off an entire order of their churros dessert did I start to feel better again.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/19/2011 ROTD 5/1/2011
I decided to make a reservation here to celebrate a birthday after reading all the reviews. Yes, I… Read more »
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Review from Adri A.
4/15/2012
ok so Im a mexican and I was born and raised on taquerias and authentic stuff.. I will say that the food is really yummy,however it is overpriced for what it is.. We had the cochinita pibil, the seafood cocktail thing, and sopa trio , 4 specialty drinks. I judge a place based on the simple stuff like appetizers and cocktails made with fresh ingredients and executed with care. The drinks were very good and balanced- worth the 10-12 bucks a piece. I just know that homemade tortillas,sopes, and salsa were tasty but not mind blowing as I kind of expected after reading all the reviews. I guess if you have never been to mexico or didnt grown up with a great taqueria in your hood - then you will think this is the best authentic stuff ever ;-).. just my 2 cents ! I would return to sit at the bar and get some apps and drinks because the ambiance was cool but I definitely see how people can get fooled by all that when writing a review of this place.. kinda like their sister restaurant down the street-backstreet cafe .. of which I have an honest food review of as well!
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Review from Patrick B.
Houston, TX
2/13/2012
My girlfriend is PICKY. So I'm always apprehensive about dropping $$$ for dinner with her. She loved everything we got from Hugo's. From the apps to dessert. Everything was fresh and delicious. Will be going here as much as I can afford from now on.
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Review from Ben M.
Houston, TX
11/15/2011
I'm not really sure how to rate this place. The service was good. The atmosphere was fun. My wife's dish (red snapper of some sort, as suggested by other people here) was really good. Dessert was steller (Churros), valet parking was easy... but my dish (the Barbacoa) really wasn't that good. In fact if I had to choose a "pay what you like" for this dish I might have paid like 5 bucks for the fact that it fed me... not the 23 dollars I actually paid.
So sadly, I give it only 3 stars because it seems like the menu options are HUGELY hit and miss, and while everyone said to try the snapper, I don't like fish all that much, but really enjoy lamb, so I wanted to try that. I have to admit I'm kind of disappointed. If my dish had been anywhere near what my wife's dish was like, this would be sitting on a 4 star, maybe even a five star, but the fact that my dish was so... forgettable just makes me kind of feel like I should have saved my money and eaten at Subway for a week.
If you do eat here make sure you go on a recommendation of what to have. (The snapper seems to be a good choice) Or go with one of the nightly specials. After my experience I wouldn't be too adventurous with this menu. -
Review from Linda O.
Campbell, CA
12/13/2011
I was visting my sister in Texas (from Cali). And wasn't expecting anything special - but i was craving some authentic Mexican food!
The interior design was soo nice !
And then after we recieved our orders I was AMAZED - The best Mexican restaurant I have been to so far ! ( oh, and i have been to many)!
I would definetly want to return there next time im in Houston!
( The nopales were DELICIOUS!) -
Review from alexandria g.
Pasadena, TX
12/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love, love, loooove Hugos! Kind of sounds like hugs, which makes me like it even more. I've been here exactly two times, and both for Sunday brunch, so my review will be based solely on that.
The atmosphere of the restaurant during brunch is very fun--lots of people, lots of talking. So if you're looking for something quiet, this is not exactly the place to go. The live band is fun little authenticity to add in as well. It's always packed, but even so, me and my SO didn't have to wait to be seated.
Once that is done, it's just a get up and go to the food line. This is where it gets very different that your Golden Corral or Ihop for breakfast. No scrambled eggs here! So if you're not into trying a lot of new things, Hugos may not be the place for you. This is definitely a place where you grab a bit of everything until you find something to like. They have a selection of cold as well as hot appetizers. Some which may be a hit or miss for some (A LOT of misses for my SO while I was able to find quite a bit that satisfied my tastes.) While Hugos does have place cards naming the items you'll soon be stuffing into your mouth, sometimes they get left behind or knocked off by hungry patrons. So my tip of getting those hot fried ...things with spicy chicken on the inside of the pockets are DELICIOUS, may not be as useful as if I knew the proper name.
The main meals are very different as well. I tried and didn't enjoy either of the egg based meals. One of which was some sunny side up egg on...fried cornbread? Maybe? The other was in some other sort of meat concoction. EITHER WAY! I would personally stay away from both! I happened to like the tamales, ribs, and the oxtail soup. The soup was also my super favorite!
Everybody has great things to say about the dessert, and I'm not much different. I love that they have a basket full of croissants (delicious and fluffy!) and the mini cakes and pastrys are delicious. Honestly, I am not a fan of their hot chocolate, but it may have been too tart for me... Still, mostly good, and I can gorge myself a second time around!
I'd say Hugos is a must try! An expensive one, granted. $27 for something that you may not enjoy is a bit steep, but at least you can say you've gone once! -
Review from Cameron B.
Houston, TX
3/3/2012
It's the real thing. Prices get a big steep, but this is Haute Mex. My favorites are the bar food, as you get a broad sample of flavors. The duck mole tacos simply cannot be beat; Hugo's knows their mole.
We like to come during happy hour, as the drink prices are very reasonable. Note that you have to ask for the happy hour prices, which I found a bit annoying; first time we went, we showed up in the middle of happy hour and asked for margaritas, and got Hugoritas for $7.50 a pop. Six hugoritas later, our check was a bit different than we expected (only reason not 5 stars). They were good margaritas, but it's the principle; during happy hour, you should always ask the client before serving them the more expensive version. Also FWIW, the happy hour mojitos are pretty darn good. A bit more soda than I'd like, but closest I've had outside of Miami. -
Review from David A.
Los Angeles, CA
1/5/2012
Although I am very particular about the Mexican food that I eat, and my standards are almost unreasonably high, Hugo's passes the acid test with flying colors. This place is a fine dining establishment and is not exactly the cheapest place in town, but if you are looking for a place for a special occasion, this is some of the best Mexican food I have ever eaten anywhere. The cabrito al pastor fried taquitos with crema, guacamole and a margarita are a great way to begin your dinner here. Whatever you are going to order here, rest assured it will be prepared correctly using ingredients of the highest caliber. What region of Mexico is this guy from? I don't know exactly where he hails from, but the food is like a combination of D.F. style and Sonora style with some Tex-Mex influences layered in for good measure. I bow down to you, Hugo.
Listed in: Houston, we have no problem!
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Review from Rachel E.
San Francisco, CA
11/4/2011
We had dinner at Hugo's on Sunday night. The restaurant was quiet when we arrived (that soon changed!) and it's a really pretty space. It felt very upscale. We ordered some margaritas to start, I had the regular, Boyfriend had the different type of tequila with a smoky flavor, and we ordered our main courses. I had the carne brava (which kind of sounded like a fancy word for fajitas) and Boyfriend ordered the seafood and rice in broth dish.
The food took a long time in coming out, but the steak was cooked really nicely and the few bites Boyfriend allowed me to have of his food were tasty. (Probably the biggest testament to the deliciousness was how unwilling he was to share!)
Service was very attentive throughout. I'd give it 4 stars except I thought it was pricey for what we got. -
Review from Eric H.
9/3/2011
~~~~Vegetarian review~~~~~
I was not impressed at all... I was excited about this place because they had a separate vegetarian menu, but that's the only thing that made Hugo's stand out.
I opted for the avocado and mango salad as a starter. Given that it was billed as an avocado and mango salad for $9, I would have thought there would be more than 3 thin slivers of mango and a few chunks of avocado. The salad was pretty typical and uninspiring, despite how much flavor mango can add to a salad.
For my entree, I tried the Chiles Rellenos, which was pretty good, but a bit too hot both on the spice-level and temperature level. When I asked the waiter if it was spicy, he said it wasn't spicy at all. I think the verde sauce that was poured on top of the dish was what made it more spicy than I liked. The stuffing of the Chiles Rellenos was actually quite pleasant, with sweet kernels of corn and other vegetables. Because the dish was too spicy and also pipping hot, I had a pretty uncomfortable dining experience with this entree and didn't really get to enjoy the flavors.
For dessert, I wanted to try the tres leches cake (as mentioned in other yelp reviews), but was told that they prepare the cake on the weekend and that by Monday, it usually runs out. Given that we were dining on a Tuesday, they did not have any more tres leches. This is a pretty pathetic excuse.
I don't think I'll be back here, though I am tempted to try other things on their vegetarian menu. We'll see if that happens.
A few other notes:
+ We had pretty good service for a group of ~10+ people
+ I didn't try a margarita but found it cool how they shake the drink in front of you (everything is already poured into the shaker)
+ Valet parking was complimentary (plus tip) and was annoying "we-have-a-huge-parking-lot-but-still-want-you-to- valet-because-we're-obnoxious" style of valet you sometimes find in Houston. -
Review from Shell P.
9/24/2011
The food at Hugo's is amazing! The service is usually quite good, but varies more than the food. I also don't generally like places with valet-only parking, but the food at Hugo's makes me forget all other concerns.
I suppose Hugo's is more authentic Mexican, compared to all the Tex-Mex choices in Houston. But it is fresh, modern, and really high quality food as well.
As a vegetarian, I'm pleased with the number of options on the menu. Even when I came for Houston Restaurant Week, the service and food was top-notch. I actually savor every bite at Hugo's--it's not the type of place you rush through a meal. This has to be one of the best restaurants in Houston. I only wish I could eat here more frequently, but alas, my budget does not allow. -
Review from Jasmine J.
Houston, TX
11/13/2011
The food here is delicious. It was really refreshing to encounter a menu that was innovative, yet authentic. I was particularly impressed by the guacamole and the plantain empanadas (both came as part of an appetizer). The entrees were also impressive.
For me, good food only gets a restaurant to four stars. Excellent service pushes it to the next level. The staff was friendly and attentive. I never had to ask for water or move a dirty plate out of the way. One member of our party (there were 12 of us) spilled her water, and I didn't even notice until three servers had already wiped it up and brought her a fresh glass - and all this on a busy Friday night.
Hugo's is definately not cheap, but the food and quality of service remind me of restaurants in a much higher price range. This is a great place for a date or special occasion! -
Review from David B.
Houston, TX
2/7/2012
Really enjoy Hugos. It's in a great spot in town, a friendly atmosphere, and great food. The duck mole is a dish I keep going back to. Also check out their Sunday brunch buffet with live music. It's a huge spread of authentic mexican dishes and a relaxing way to kickstart the day. Hands down the best authentic Mexican restaurant in Houston.
-
Review from Amber S.
Houston, TX
8/30/2011
I love Hugo's. The margaritas are fantastic, and I've never had anything bad here. It's also a great place to take an out-of-town guest or client, because it's a great representation of the best Houston has to offer (food-wise) with local flair. Upscale Mexican just isn't so much the thing in other cities, so this is a rare jewel in my opinion.
Hugo's, if you are reading, the octopus appetizer needs a different dipping sauce in my opinion. I think you paired smoky with smoky, and it was a little tough. But I really like octopus and would probably eat it again.
I've had several seafood specials here that were all fantastic. You probably cannot go wrong. -
Review from Levi J.
Bryan, TX
2/2/2012
In a state that makes such a whole lotta noise about its Mexican food, its interesting that you can count the number of actual Mexican restaurants on one hand throughout the state. This right here is Mexican food, the real deal. If your impression of Mexican food is limited to shady street taco trucks, or greasy Tex-Mex joints patronized by folks who should probably say "yes" to salad, then you need to check this place out. This is modern regional cuisine, and it rocks. My go to dish is the rabbit in banana leaves, with layers of subtle nuanced flavors...delicate and assertive at the same time. Great wine selection, skewed naturally toward Iberia and Latin America.
Yet another reason Houston rocks. -
Review from Doris D.
Houston, TX
1/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
We always love to go to Hugo's for special occasion or feel like splurge on weekend's dinner. Please make sure you make reservations since this place is always packed. We don't really like Mexican or Tex-Mex food but Hugo's is definitely not your typical Mexican food but rather fusion Mexican with a twist on it. Menu is expansive and tough to make a choice indeed:)
-
Review from Haroun K.
6/30/2011
Hugo's was all about the up-sell. When we valeted our car, they tried to up-sell a car wash. Ok.
The restaurant inside is lovely, with a really positive vibe. Almost immediately we were being pushed over and over again to order drinks (and then more drinks). It was relentless. It was like buying a car, you didn't feel like you could trust the merit of any recommendation. I will say that the waiter was tireless in ensuring we were satisfied, and even hooked us up with a birthday dessert with "happy birthday" written, but his hard sell routine was frustrating.
The food? Well, our group enjoyed the pulpo appetizer, and I thought the vegetable plate - quinoa, roasted pepper, a few salads, corn pudding - was pretty damn good (though it reminded me of ethiopian food for some reason), but the hallibut special, one of the red snapper plates, and the lobster taquito didn't really get high marks. It wasn't that the food was bad, rather, it was that our expectations were high and not completely met. Based on what we tasted, it is a fine place, but just not a great value. -
Review from Jim M.
Houston, TX
5/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
Been here a few times for the Sunday brunch, and strangely impressed.
A) The idea of upscale Mexican should be confusing but somehow it isn't. One could perhaps get the sense from time to time that something sinisterly imperialistic is going on, but no more so than any other upscale restaurant in Houston, if you pay attention to the staff.
B) A live band in the loft should be louder than music over a PA system, and make conversation utterly impossible, but it doesn't. It was actually ver pleasant.
C) They have an enormous ceramic crock of slow cooked pork gently simmering in its own fat. Do I actually have to go on beyond this, because if I do, I gently suggest your priorities are not entirely what they ought to be.
D) However if that isn't enough to win you, the poached eggs over cornbread are really very nice.
E) The dessert spread is celestial.
This is four stars instead of five because my cup of coffee was convenience store quality, my bloody mary was townie bar quality, and it is entirely annoying to be eating at the hipster end of Westheimer only to find that the entire restaurant has been laid siege by the ladies who lunch set who all live 10 miles to the West.
And no, that isn't just working class snobbery. The valet blocks of THE ENTIRE PARKING LOT during Sunday brunch, meaning if you don't want them to touch your car, you have to find parking in Montrose on a Sunday afternoon and then walk back. And worse still, it means that your path to the door is inevitably being blocked by the flashiest vehicle currently on the lot which inevitably has some enormously huge engine which is spewing out heat and fumes while it fails to cool down in the Houston sun. I'm sorry, but having an E class AMG blocking the front door doesn't make Hugo's a cooler place to eat, it makes it hotter -- and let's face it, Houston really doesn't need things to be any hotter. -
Review from Monica K.
8/8/2011 4 photos
RESTAURANT WEEK ONLY!
Hugo's really put some thought into their restaurant week menu. Actually, I should say "menus" - plural - because they created 3 ballsy fixed menus to choose from, each designed with an alcohol pairing in mind (optional for $25). You can sub out which type of pairing you want with which menu, but you can't mix and match for individual courses.
FYI the menu posted on the Houston Restaurant Week website isn't entirely correct.
The "Vino Blanco" menu:
1st - Squash Blossom Salad: Not good. Plain mache greens & squash blossoms tossed in what tasted like pure lemon juice. Did NOT contain avocado or squash ribbons as indicated on HRW menu.
2nd - Seared Scallops in Hibiscus Mole: Three honkin' sea scallops, perfectly seared and naturally sweet. The mole sauce was rustic and dark, with a hint of that chocolate bitterness without the sweetness. Roasted fennel was good but the bed of grated cauliflower tasted steamed and unseasoned.
3rd - Texas Goat Cheese Cheesecake: Awesome cheesecake! Not too dense, and you can taste the goat cheese just enough to make it interesting without being "weird".
**
The "Vino Rojo" menu:
1st - Bacon-wrapped Quail w/ Tomatillo sauce: A hearty, winning appetizer. This is a 1st course, NOT an entree as listed on the HRW menu.
2nd - Braised Oxtail in Oaxacan Mole: Perfectly tender oxtail served on the bone. It's a pretty small portion and served without veggies. An elegant dish, but the mole was pretty bitter and overpowering.
3rd - Chocolate Crepes w/ Chocolate Mousse Filling: OMG that mousse - it was amazing!! Creamy, dreamy, chocolatey, perfect mousse. I scraped the last of it out of the too-thick, chewy crepes.
Red Wine Pairing - First two are VERY full-bodied. Dessert wine is a relatively dry, sparkling rose.
**
The "Agave Menu":
1st - Crab Tostadas
2nd - Duo of Suckling Pig
3rd - Dark Chocolate Chipotle Cake
We didn't get this menu, but honestly it sounds the best. Plus the pairing is a delicious-sounding succession of tequila cocktails!
As always, atmosphere & service were great. Although some aspects of our meal were hit-or-miss, I give Hugo's major props for taking advantage of HRW to showcase the creativity and style that they are known for! -
Review from mary f.
Cypress, TX
7/25/2011
We decided to visit Hugo's this past mother's day, and the place was packed. I was very excited to try their brunch menu after reading all the great reviews on yelp. The food was ok, but nothing to write home about- definitely not worth the price tag or a drive across town. Service was excellent at least and our waiter earned his tip on every level. He made excellent wine pairing recommendations and really knew his stuff.
If you want to do a little people watching, this is definitely the spot. Ive never seen so many sugar daddys and mamas packed into one place.
