I hate to sound like an old grumpy man. . . but it takes a special experience for me to sit down and write a review. I don't do it often - mainly because there are so few dining experiences that move me to the point that I have to let others know. Caracol was one of those experiences - in the best possible way. On our visit, Caracol was offering a 4-course dinner (2 appetizer courses, a main dish, and dessert) for $75 per person. We took the bait. Good move on our part. First course was a crab meat tostada. It was delightful. Plenty of fresh crab meat and spiced to perfection. And the tostada itself? So good! Probably due to the fact that Caracol grinds their own corn and flour in house. They don't just make tortillas, they make their own masa. Outstanding! Next came 2 shrimp tacos. Crunchy, melt in your mouth, well seasoned, just right. At this point, we were starting to get full, but there was plenty more on the way. Main course was a 7-ounce ribeye served with an authentic Northern Mexican cheese enchilada. The enchilada was filled with fresh Mexican queso blanco (no yellow cheddar in sight) and topped with a delicious rojo sauce. One of the best I've had. The ribeye was perfectly cooked to medium rare, and it was topped with a smear of what tasted like chimichurri. Scrumptious. And don't forget to taste their beans and rice. Wonderful stuff. By the time dessert came out, we were fairly stuffed. But when someone places a homemade cookie topped with Mango mousse in front of you - you've got to try it. WOW. So good. Dessert was served with Mexican hot chocolate prepared table side. Yes, they make their own chocolate at Caracol, and it is beyond delicious. The manager asked if we had ever been to Caracol and we said no. So they decided to bring us an order of churros on the house. Friends, it is no exaggeration to say that these churros were on a whole other level. Light, fluffy on the inside, served hot and fresh. Melt in your mouth delicious. My wife ordered the optional "Drink Pairings" - they brought her one specialty cocktail with each course. We shared them. We were afraid that with the fresh fruit juices would make the drinks too sweet for our tastes. Nope. Each one was a balance of sweet fruit flavors that were tamed by smoky, spicy chipotle, tajin, and other spices. We liked the drinks - a lot. If you are in the Galleria area of Houston, and the thought of another "Prime Steakhouse" meal sounds kind of boring, try something different. Try something that will challenge your perception of what real Mexican food is. Spoil yourself in a place with excellent service. Challenge your taste buds with unexpected flavors and spices. You will be so glad you did. read more

Service was excellent and we had outside seating which was very pleasant. We had a large group meal but were all served adequately and the water glasses were managed well. I did try the 32$ margarita.... Not worth it. Like a mimosa but had smooth tequila. The highlight of the meal was the beef taquito appetizer. I didn't get a good look at the menu for what it was. Best thing I tried. The shrimp was well cooked and the rice had some flavor but was overall something I didn't feel the need to finish. Not impressive. Some folks ordered the tuna tacos and steak. They were all eaten quickly. The steaks ordered medium were on the medium rare side so cooked appropriately. Oysters were good. Scallops were okay. Chocolate cake just okay. Churros were great. If I were dining here again I would probably just do dessert and appetizers. The flan paired well with their decaf coffee. They were out of the French toast. The flan was VERY good. Not the best thing and the table but it was good. read more

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​Phenomenal dining experience! ​We had an incredible time at Caracol. The crawfish was easily the best I've ever had, and their attention to gluten-free options was a huge plus. We sampled several appetizers and two desserts, but the standout was definitely the beef skirt steak--it was succulent and absolutely to die for. ​We spent over two hours just relaxing, talking, and enjoying the atmosphere. The flavors are phenomenal and the service makes it easy to lose track of time. We will definitely be back! read more

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We always frequent this location in the galleria for our Sunday brunch rotation. I like that options are always seasonal, so they add or switch dishes out based on what's in season. They have plenty of outdoor/indoor seating and are perfect for groups. There is something for everyone:salad, fresh seafood, chicken, pork, soup, tamales, desserts. Service is always attentive and efficient. Just slide your plates to the edge of the table when your ready for another round and they make sure to pick them up and replace your silverware. Be sure to stop by for their amazing Sunday Brunch Buffet. Enter freely, they've been approved read more

Caracol - Fresh oysters & scallop shooters - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Best happy hour in town! Check everything I got on a Friday happy hour 3-6:30pm Service is excellent, very single item was delicious and on point! This place always makes me want to go to oaxaca!! I recommend the Zacahuil is like a tamal but with mushroom and it's on a banana leaf that gives the tamale a soft and moist finish. read more

Caracol - Hugo Rita - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

Overall a good experience, really great service but just okay food. Cute spot and walkable to the galleria Saturday happy hour is a great addition but if you order off the normal menu, you'll get chips and salsa. read more

Caracol - Papas Martajadas - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

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The brunch buffet here is HANDSDOWN a banger. Although it is on the pricier side, you are definitely getting your moneys worth with the food. You get unlimited oysters, lamb chops, ceviche, and just so many more meat and seafood options. Let's also not forget about the unlimited guac they have on deck. The food doesn't taste like it's been sitting out for awhile like how typical buffets do. It tastes as if just fresh and made for individual tables. The flavors are amazing, and taste authentic. The dessert table just left me lost for what I should try. My favorite thing was the creme brulee and tres leches. Service was amazing there was always someone there to clear the tables and check in on us to make sure we have everything we need. Already planning my next trip back on a Sunday. read more

Caracol - Brunch buffet - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

Loved the breakfast buffet. Unlimited oysters? Ceviche for days? Loved it! Service is amazing. The second i finished a plate it was gone. Everyone was very professional. Classy sea vibes. Really feel this is a great place to have a fun dressed up brunch. read more

Caracol - Oysters and scallops - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

Amazing food, excellent service, and inviting bright modern decor. I can't believe it took me so long to finally eat here. I have been to all of Chef Hugo's properties over the years, and it's always excellent. The margaritas are insanely good, and every plate of food was beautiful and exciting. There are so many items on the menu, I would have to come here 20 more times to try all of it! Anyway, yes I have to come back, because there are so many plates I want to try. read more

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I have been wanting to try this, so my husband ordered their Thanksgiving meal. The turkey and ham were good, but I was disappointed in their brussel sprouts. Jalapeno cornbread and tiramsu was FIRE. I think the price was high for the portion, but I guess it beats cooking when you're tired. I have to try their happy hour or brunch! Definitely will put on my list to try. read more

Stopped in for a nightcap & a lil snack! I tried their oysters which were good, a lil small but very tasty! I also need some hot sauce & some crackers or bread but I worked it out! read more

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During my process in hunting a place down to host a work dinner event, I landed on Caracol with their unique coastal Mexican charm. It's in the Post Oak area and their valet is complementary, which is super nice. We arrive during lunch and we loved how everything was so bright in the restaurant, and our server was such a gem! She did such a great job, introducing the menu to us, recommending us dishes, and just a kind person in general! I only remembered to take a photo of one of the appetizers, but we ended up doing their two for 30 appetizer and each ordered an entrée which was more than enough food! The two appetizers we ordered was the tuna tostada and the ceviche. The tuna tostada was definitely a smaller portion than I was expecting. It was only three tiny tostada chips. However, it was phenomenal and the same can be said about the ceviche! This place is definitely a bit upscale so I guess you're paying more for the quality than the quantity. For my entrée, I chose to get the fried fish tacos, which had such an amazing coleslaw in it and was very crispy! Overall, it was such a great lunch and the service was amazing. We are very excited to host a dinner event there soon as well! read more

Caracol - CEVICHE DE CARACOL - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

Extraordinary plates, well designed, executed perfectly. Extraordinary service and beautiful layout which you want to be there all day. read more

Caracol - Chicharron Calamari ... 5/5. Tiradito... very very good. Soft in acidity and creamy sauce! 5/5 - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

Came here for Houston Restaurant Weeks because it's always a win. Drinks were solid both alcoholic and non alcoholic. They always get this right. Service was top notch. Parking was in the garage behind and validated for free. Yay for a covered spot in this heat. Place is beautiful and the ambiance was on point per usual. The appetizers were all great. The potato taquitos were amazing. The squash soup was good too. Brisket enchiladas were tasty. The arrachera made me sad. It had this weird smoky burnt flavor like they had added smoke flavor on top of it. It was too much like it was too close to the burning wood as it was being cooked. My friend didn't even finish her meat and when she told the guy why, they comped it which was a really nice gesture. Passion fruit flan was delicious too. Overall a great meal and place and it wasn't crazy loud. read more

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We had the most amazing meal and service here 9 years ago, and I still remember it and realized I never reviewed it! Happy to see they are still open, I would definitely check it out again when we come back to Houston! read more

Caracol - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Excellent service, great atmosphere, Delicious guacamole and fresh seafood. There's valet and self parking garage right above the restaurant, which the restaurant validates. read more

Caracol - From my table. - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Fresh seafood, wonderful service, another great restaurant from the Hugo's group. Duck with mole was DELICIOUS, would go back for that alone. The ceviche and tostadas were lovely. My least favorite dessert menu I've seen from this group so far, but that doesn't take away from how delicious the food is. There is a parking garage to park in around the corner and they validate parking inside the restaurant. read more

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Absolutely fab happy hour! Caracol never disappoints! Highly recommended you give them a shoutout..

Been here for happy hour and really enjoyed it so I thought I try out their Thanksgiving couple dinner set. Was really disappointed with the amount of protein that came for the price. Received only couple slices of ham and turkey which were really good. However, the sides were plenty but wasn't proportion to the proteins. The best side hands down was the jalapeño corn bread. The Brussels and sweet potato were okay. The tres leches were phenomenal! Would definitely order that again by itself. Overall, dinner was good but not sure for the price. Will come back for happy hour! read more

Very delicious buffet but be ready to pay a hefty price. Nice views to enjoy the various food options. Service could be a tad bit more attentive but this was my first time donor counting this restaurant out just yet. read more

I came here again on NFL Draft night ordering the Chicken Enchiladas of the Day. Very delicious, great flavored chicken filling, great tasting cheese, great tasting red sauce n cream sauce on top as well as soft corn wraps. It was a bit sweet, tart and smoky all in one. The enchiladas weren't too greasy or wet like some can be either. The black beans were thick and savory while the rice was fresh and buttery like a pilaf almost. The service this time was good enough I can say. read more

Went there on a Sunday for their brunch buffet. I always love breakfast food and love buffets because I can taste different dishes and not get stuck with just one main entree. And unlike some buffets where the food get cold just sitting there, the food was always freshly made and warm. And for desserts, also a wide selection to choose from. Even though it was a brunch buffet, the service was great. Always attentive and cheerful. read more

Amazing...just amazing...service food drinks, every single thing was fantastic! They have valet and a garage available. The ambiance was pampered, not pestered. Highly recommended. The grilled oysters & the pina colada margarita (which I didn't know was even a thing) were my stand outs for the meal. read more

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I had been begging my fiancé to have a date night and it turned out this is just what we needed! The food was incredible and that were very helpful with the menu. All of our food was fresh and very flavorful. My fiancé had been here a handful of times before and had had similar service. We will be back! read more

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We got the campechana, the ostiones asados, and the mariscos Al ajillo. The campechana was super fresh and served with chips, definitely satisfied my ceviche craving. (8/10) The ostiones asados were a bit too cheesy in my opinion, I felt like the toppings overpowered the flavor of the oyster instead of complemented it. (5/10) The Mariscos Al ajillo was very tasty and the seafood was fresh and they have a generous portion, enough for 2. (8/10) Overall, it is on the pricier side but it was worth a try for houston restaurant week. The service was good and the staff were very attentive. Also, the parking is garage parking. read more

Caracol - Mariscos al Ajillo - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Another great Houston Restaurant Weeks dinner. Thanks to Jason D. and Zain R. for including us in your annual tradition. I've been to Caracol several times for their Sunday brunch but never for dinner, so I was really excited to experience HRW here. We came with a group of 9 and were promptly seated with our reservation. Tip: happy hour is Mon-Fri 3:00-6:30pm with good deals on cocktails, beer, wine, and bites. So of course we came a little early before our reservation to enjoy this! Caracol's HRW dinner menu ($55) is a little different: rather than selecting your choice of dish for each course, they have 3 prix fixe menus that have each course's dish pre-selected. The first focuses on meat, the second on seafood, and the third for vegetarians. If you want to swap any of the dishes for another, I believe there is a small upcharge. There is an optional wine pairing that comes with 3 different wines for an additional $33. I went with the Nuestro Estilo ("our style") menu, the one focused on meat. First course was the same across all of the menus, elote soup with plantain empanadas. I enjoyed the corn flavor of the soup and dipped the cheese-filled empanadas in it, which made for a good pairing. My second course was fish quesadillas. For quesadillas, these were actually much smaller than I expected. They were basically mini-empanadas with a bit of fish, served with tomatillo salsa. It did come with a small side salad though. My friends' shrimp & octopus ceviche did look like a more generous portion however, and came with a side of tortilla chips. My third course was carne asada with mole. I am a big fan of mole, so this was part of the reason I went with this menu. The carne asada cut was strip steak, so was not as tender as I would've liked and a bit tough to cut. You do have the option of upgrading your cut of meat to tenderloin for an additional $20. The mole sauce was on the lighter side in terms of boldness. I did appreciate the scalloped potatoes and spinach that were served with this course. The final course of dessert was chocolate & chipotle cake served with coffee-cinnamon ice cream. The cake was very fluffy and had the consistency of a mousse. It was on the richer side, so the ice cream balanced it well. I really liked the coffee flavors in the ice cream. Maybe the caffeine boost we need after this grand tour of food! Service was a little slow. While our HRW dinners had 4 separate courses, each one came out quite far apart from the others. After we all had finished each course and the plates were cleaned up, we waited at least 15 minutes before the following course came out. Also, even though the menus indicated no split checks, our server Victor agreed to split them but warned it would take about 5 minutes. It took much longer than this. He seemed confused on how to split the checks, but we all got the HRW dinner so I'm not sure why it took so long. At least 20 minutes to get the checks split, and then another 15 to get our cards back. Our entire dinner lasted over 2.5 hours. Caracol (and Chef Hugo) proved themselves again in the quality of their food. While I enjoyed this HRW dinner, I'll surely be back for brunch where I can sample a variety of their offerings (and be it my only meal of the day). read more

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I really hate that I forgot to post this review. I had my birthday there a couple of years ago service is great food was great ambience is great. I love their happy hour. Chef Hugo and his concepts are just amazing. read more

A trip to Caracoal is always an adventure. The Ostiones Asado are a must try and you can't go wrong with the variety of dishes. Happy hour is the way to go! read more

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My husband and I really enjoy the food, the staff and the ambiance of Caracol. We are currently trying the tasting menus from different regions of Mexico. read more

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We had lunch during HRW and it was a delicious menu! Even my picky spouse loved his dish (brisket enchiladas). My shrimp tacos were amazing (not enough tortilla for how much shrimp they give you!), and the swordfish sandwich was devoured gladly by my friend. Margaritas were also well made and service was attentive. Very good experience. read more

I got the tlayuda de vegetales, which was done well, with nicely seasoned vegetables and a large serving size. The guacamole, salsa, y totopos however was a let down. The guacamole was underseasoned and wasn't finished between a group of 3. The salsa was pretty good. read more

Caracol - Tlayuda de vegetales - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

Such a fun HRW menu. The corn soup and empanada were a cute paring. The cream of the soup complimented the empanada so well. The fish was mild in flavor and very flakey. The broth it came with added the salt component and it was all so very fun. Loved the play on flavors and the desserts were out of this world. Like so good. We got 5 desserts and none missed. Probably the best restraurant menu I've been to in a long time. read more

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We stopped here for happy hour. Our second visit. Service was amazing and the food was some of the best I've had! Very flavorful! The patio is nice and the place is very romantic. Would be a great date night. read more

Caracol - Ceviche trio, quesadillas, taquitos. - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

Wonderful evening, made all the better by our great server Steve! The drinks were so fun (Paloma for my friend, naughty but nice for me), and our red snapper ceviche was so good as a starter (completely forgot about the chips). Pulpo hot starter was nice with tortillas (Steve was kind enough to give us 4 though it normally came with 3), and the crab tostadas were out of this world (huge lumps of very fresh crab!). My entree of duck leg was great with a relatively mild mole (they brought out habanero sauce to spice it up), and we finished with a Dulce de lèche cheesecake. Would definitely come back! Easy validated parking in the garage next door and complimentary valet to make your life easier. read more

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Ceviche de chile Camaro - lime cured red snapper - flavorful and delicate. Comes with warm tortilla chips. If you're looking for heat ask for the house hot sauce then use it sparingly. read more

Caracol - Jalisco gin and tonic - delicious - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

I highly recommend making a reservation. Everything was soo tasty. And the service was great and fast. I had someone in my party who is vegan and they have a separate vegetarian/vegan menu which was really nice. They had plenty of options. Vegan or not vegan the eggplant was delicious. As well as the steak. Tuna tacos. We didn't have one bad thing! read more

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Great food, amazing service. We love to stop in for drinks and desserts (my favorite part of their menu). Great bartenders (we love Alex)! Love the vibes read more

Caracol - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

In a sea of Houston Tex-mex, I wanted to try something a little more traditional. I found Caracol just across the street from the Galleria, where I was staying. It was about a 10 minute walk and it was difficult to find in the office building in which it was located. I later found out the sign is more facing the parking lot than for people walking. I didn't have a reservation, and wanted to sit at a table, but all of the tables were "taken" (even though empty) so my only option was at the bar. I will say when I left, there were still open tables. It worked out though as the bartender was great! I was on the companies dime so I had to be a little mindful of price. This place was on the pricier side. I started with a margarita and was just looking for a plain-ol' marg. There was only one that fit the bill and it was nothing special, and also quite small. I wasn't starving so I tried the lobster taquito which came with a pretty nice piece of lobster and some other stuff on a non-fried flat tortilla. It was delicious, but calling it a taquito was a bit much. I also ordered the wood grille ribs which were super meaty and fall off the bone good. There was a BBQ sauce that had some Mole notes and it was great to dip my meat into it. For a rib appetizer, it was worth it IMHO. They had a pretty awesome tequila collection too. I was sitting where the scotch was locations, so I couldn't see everything, but the red Clase Azul Mezcal bottle caught my eye, but not my wallet. All in all, it was a good dinner, but I think it's a one-and-done type of place for me. The manager talked with me a bit which was nice. The bartender and food servers were awesome. The main mis-step was not letting me sit at a clearly open table and the size of the margaritas. read more

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Ambience is very nice and clean and modern. Service was good kind of hard to get our servers attention at times. Not pictured are the drinks which were amazing. My favorite was the coco rita. The ribs and the crab fried rice were the best thing I ate. read more

Caracol - Guacamole, Salsa y Totopos - Seafood Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Great, service, lively atmosphere as well as great food. Good variety menu and very easy to go outside your comfort zone and try something you haven't tried before. It was a great experience. We will definitely be back. read more