La Union Restaurant

The old phrase "don't judge a book by its cover " fits Saldivia's…read more From the outside, it looks like a little mom n pop place. But from the inside.... I picked up a customer of mine and he said let's go to a small South American place just down the street. From the outside, didn't look like much. From the inside, much bigger and certainly a South American flair. World Cup is going on so all the TVs had that on. Tons of wines sitting out , mostly Malbecs, my fav. Just a great vibe. But on to the main course. We both had the steak picanha. Med Rare. On my. Good Lord. This was awesome. I generally don't eat steaks out as they are overpriced and not cooked to my liking. The chef did an awesome job. Med Rare - spot on. Perfecto. I've been to Argentina many times in business and eaten many great steaks, this can be included in that. I know, I know...people swear by Pappa's Steak or Taste of Texas, but this small, unassuming place tops them all. And a fantastic SA wine list. Please give them a try. Will not be disappointed.

Came here for lunch and got their Monday lunch menu special. While waiting for my soup, I was…read moreserved half of a warm baguette. Yummy! The lunch menu came with a choice of either soup or salad, which I got the lentil soup. The soup was thick and hearty. It was very good. My steak was cooked perfectly and well-seasoned. The sides were well-seasoned too. The size of the steak, to me, was sufficient and considered big for a lunch menu. I had a triple chocolate tres leches after my steak. It was the perfect ending. I received warm and excellent service throughout my lunch. The restaurant is big and suitable for all party sizes. There is plenty of free parking in front of the restaurant, so that is a plus point.

3.4 mi•Chinatown, Sharpstown

Inside

Entrana, medium rare

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Decor/Ambiance

El Quetzal Bakery & Restaurant

4.5(28 reviews)

El Quetzal is a family-owned Guatemalan bakery and restaurant. The building is separated into the…read morerestaurant side and then there's the bakery side. Parking is one way, but plenty of parking available. The restaurant side has plenty of spacious seating. You place your order at the register and they give you a number to place at your table. They deliver your food to you. They have a good variety of their aguas frescas. I do recommend the melon and horchata. Recommend trying their tamale - the chuchito con salsa y queso. I also enjoyed their beef garnachos and the camarones. Their chaomein is not exactly the chaomein you'd expect from a Chinese restaurant, but I guess you could say it's their take on it. The bakery side is definitely like a little convenience store - carrying bottled sodas, clothes, and other snacks. Their breads and pastries are baked fresh daily at 5am. If you visit during the holidays, there are special treats specific for that holiday. (I was told there will be a special bread for Easter.) Highly recommend taking home a slice of their tres leches or tres leches in a cup. Not extremely sweet as other places make them, and I like it that way. Unfortunately, if you don't know Spanish or if you're not familiar with the Guatemalan culture, you'll most likely feel lost. I wished there were descriptions of what all the breads and pastries were. The employees are really nice and friendly, however there might be a language barrier if you can't speak Spanish.

Food, Service, Ambiance…read more.... Mix garnachas, beef and chicken, love it. Atole of bananas, delicious..... BAKERY: Miniature sweet bread, great for my breakfast. Crispy cookies with sesame seeds, great crunch flavor..... Gelatins that are works of art--I want them as decorations, but they're edible and delicious... Nice place of Guatemala with a lot of tradition and culture .....

Desserts

Garnachas

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Menu 3/25

Mi Pueblito

3.9(406 reviews)

4.4 mi

Ask for Jesus who is going to give you the best service, I love the food!!! I totally recommend...read more

Must come every time I'm in Houston!! Full bar, mojito, cosmo, café Colombiano, limonada de coco to…read morequench your thirst. Arepas, empanadas, tostones if you're feeling snacky! Chuleta, soup, bandeja de paisa, bisteque if you're hungry! So. Many. Good. Choices. If you're down to try more, there's so much on the menu you might want to explore! Service is always welcoming and friendly & don't forget to stop by the bakery on the way out for delicious deserts & plaintain chips are a MUST get fresh and delish! Enjoy!

2.8 mi•Chinatown, Sharpstown

Arepa con queso; Empanada

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Live Music Friday Nights

Bananas Restaurante

3.0(16 reviews)

This is the sh**, and as Gwen said, this sh** is bananas, B A N A N A S…read more So this is a cute little Latin restaurant that can get pretty popular and pretty crowded. It's definitely underrated I would say. They definitely know what they're doing around here and make some good products - including a good seafood menu. Only in here once as of yet, but I'm looking forward to the second time for sure. And it's close to Chinatown if you're looking for a change from Asian food.

The food has a very homemade taste. I stopped by to try their baleadas. The customer service is…read moregreat, the girls look mean and snobby but are very friendly and helpful. My baleada was the sencilla* option, which was with beans, egg, cheese, and crema. I added a coffee to my order when I arrived to the restaurant because it smelled like fresh brewed coffee. The coffee was fresh and not watered down like most places. The price was very reasonable. I paid not more than $4 for my baleada and coffee.

Storefront

Camarones caribeños

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Pollo frito

La Cazuela De Marina

4.3(27 reviews)

4.3 mi

Excellent service and food! I had a coupon and decided to use it. The location has a simple…read moreinterior, but very welcoming. The bathroom was clean. They had 2 hand sanitizer bottles out, but no soap. It is a small issue, but an easy fix. I ordered the Small Bandeja Paisa. It turned out to be a very popular item, because I saw 3 other people order it after I arrived. It is a great, simple meal, with quality ingredients. The only thing I regret is not telling them how to prepare the egg. My egg came out well done, but I prefer over-easy. I especially enjoyed the unexpected complimentary appetizer of a cup of stewed lentils. I will be back! :-)

nos dejaron encantados!!…read more the food was amazing - came here after being told another restaurant had an hour and a half wait. staff and service were perfect. ended up ordering lots of sides because they were DELICIOUS. the amazing prices were just the cherry on top to a great time!

Fried whole tilapia with rice, salad and French fries.

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La Fogata

4.2(240 reviews)

1.5 mi•Fondren Southwest

Amazing service, amazing food. Probably the only restaurant I would even consider to eat Colombian…read morein Houston. Inside is a little outdated, but the empanadas are to die for.

2025 I went back with my colleagues. The food is better for…read moreme this time around. I ordered the same dishes. There is no cheese on the plantains this time. At least 5 years ago The food was okay. It was my friend's and my first time. We ordered the empanada (the outside is hard, not soft like the other ones I'm used to), plantains (never had it with cheese before), bandera montañera, fajitas de pollo, and mango drink with milk. The staff was friendly and accommodating.

Bandeja Montanera Lunch ($14.95)

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The Original Marini's Empanada House

4.5(1k reviews)

4.4 mi•Westchase

Growing up in Houston, I would always see Marini's whenever my family and I drove by the old…read morelocation. As I got older, I would pass by it myself and always wanted to stop in...but life kept being life and I just never seemed to have the free time. I was finally able to stop by yesterday! I absolutely loved how the decor starts from the outside...it immediately draws you into the experience. The inside is vibrant, full of life and just feels welcoming. I was warmly greeted as I walked in. I headed toward the register and on my left I saw something that immediately caught my eye: Alfajores. Now, Alfajores are these wonderful sandwich cookies that are especially popular in Argentina and Uruguay. They're unique because they're traditionally made with cornstarch rather than just flour, giving them that wonderfully tender texture. They're filled with dulce de leche and often coated in shredded coconut. Some are even perfumed with lemon zest, depending on the region. I knew immediately that I'd be getting some. I ordered the Gaucho and the Chicken Diablo. The service was cordial and sweet: big smiles and a genuinely warm demeanor. The young lady told me my order would be ready shortly. She gave me an exact number of minutes, but I honestly forgot how many she said! I then turned around and, lo and behold, it all clicked. It was called "Marini's" because of the owners. To my surprise, there was a painting of a face I recognized. Years ago, my family and I attended a church called Centro Familiar Cristiano. Marcelo Marini! He has the kind of face you don't forget--very recognizable and distinctive. I thought it was lovely to discover that he was one of the owners. I only wish I had known years ago that this was his family's business. I absolutely loved how the restaurant is decorated. The writing that guests have left on the walls gives the place so much heart and personality. I've never been to Argentina, but Marini's gives me the impression of being a little getaway...a small glimpse of what it might feel like to experience Argentine culture. The young lady who took my order brought everything out with another smile. The Gaucho was fabulous. It was well seasoned and I loved the added detail of the olives. The chicken was shredded, tender and well seasoned too. The crust was crispy without being greasy. I also really enjoyed the chimichurri and the red sauce, which had a pleasant little kick of heat. And the Alfajores were spot on: tender cookies, rich dulce de leche filling and that coating of coconut that gives them such a wonderful finishing touch. I really enjoyed my visit to Marini's. Next time, I need to eat inside so I can fully enjoy the atmosphere while I eat-maybe with a glass of Malbec.

This place has been on my radar for a long time and finally stopped today. That was best decision I…read moremade all day. The place was tucked off in plaza I had to get up in there and was so pleasantly surprised. So cozy and cute. They have a great selection of empanadas and all the ones I had were sooooooo good. The spinach was a little juicier than I anticipated but everything was made so fresh. The Tia Maria and eggplant were my favorites and the sauces were a great addition in flavor. The dessert empanada sweet potatoes was top tier. The filling was just sweet enough, definitely want to taste the others, especially since they make their own fruit fillings. I can see how they've been around for so long. New customer alert !

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Empanadas

Pollo Campero

2.7(33 reviews)

1.3 mi•Westwood

Pollo Campero is a chain fast-food restaurant serving Mexican style chicken that was located near…read moremy hotel when I was visiting Houston. I ordered online for pickup and used their website, which has very good eye appeal and is straightforward to use. After placing my order, I went to the restaurant for curbside pickup. However, after following the directions in the curbside pickup area, I was told to go inside to pick up my order--what's the point of having a curbside pickup area when the service was not offered? I entered the restaurant and it is clean, with tables closed off in consideration of social distancing measures. There is a large bottle of hand sanitizer on the counter and the lady told me to wait a few more minutes, as they are still preparing my order. Overall, the staff were professional, but not too friendly. They serve Pepsi products at Pollo Campero, as well as some Mexican drinks such as Horchata and Mango juice. In time, my order did come out and it was well packaged. I brought it back to the room, and there was certainly value in the amount of food! I ordered the four piece meal with drink and empanedas, which is more than ample for one person! The roasted chicken was juicy, while the fried chicken was very tender, but not as crispy as I expected. The empanedas came with a good sauce and has a good filling inside, while the yucca fries were okay. The coleslaw and rolls were on the bland side. Overall, the meal was acceptable in taste, and generous in quantity. As this is a chain fast-food establishment, variations in service is something to be expected, and this place certainly met mine.

I miss eating at this chain. I spent a lot of time in Guatemala and loved eating at these fast…read morefood places. There are now several in the U.S. and try to eat here when I am in a city that has them. It isn't the greatest food but really good for fast food. If you are not a fan from before they were in the US, you may not understand the great following it has in Central America. You should give it a try.

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Sabor Venezolano

3.4(169 reviews)

5.1 mi

While it's possible I'm among the minority, I'm incredibly happy with the offerings here. In the…read morelast couple of years since moving from NYI, I haven't found many legit Venezuelan options until recently here at Sabor Venezolano. I'm pleased to report that the food lives up to the name and most everything was quite sabroso and very Venezuelan. The place is bigger than it looks from the outside, but seating is really limited to solo diners and small groups. There are counter seats toward the back and small cafe tables in the front. There are some refrigerated items for grab and go while ordering is done at the counter. I'd recommend calling ahead of time for faster pickup. If you're able to order in Spanish, do it. The food gets a thumbs up. Much of the menu is Venezuelan specific which includes cachapas, arepas, tumbarachos, patacondes, and tequeños. While they have a "menú Mexicano" that features quesadillas, tacos, burritos, and tortas, I'd avoid it if at all possible. The arepas might appear to be smaller, but they're packed. I personally loved their jamón y queso guayanés, in which the latter is a thick slab of gooey cheese. A similar arepa is their mechada y queso guayanés, which is equally tasty and I appreciate that they have cazón (#1) as an option. The pelua (beef + cheese) and reina (shredded chicken with avocado) will be my perpetual favorites and the cachapas with tequeños are also particularly hearty. The food is a bit pricier than most Venezuelan fare I've had previously, foodflation never surprises me anymore. Given how often I'm in the neighborhood, I already know that I'll be here more often than not. __________ (#1) Nothing like a little shark to get your day started.

Solid Venezuelan food…read more If you are craving tequeños, an arepa, empanada, or such victuals, this is a solid spot. Counter service, order and they bring your food to your table. Ambiance is an ethnic strip mall restaurant, with Latin flavor. Salsa music playing, people coming and going is it what is. I'm a fan.

Inside

Carne Guisada (Platillo)

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Outside

Parrilla Colombiana

4.1(58 reviews)

5.2 mi•Gulfton, Braeburn

The food is really good!!! The employee is very nice as well. The place is clean good vibe and…read moremusic

This place rocks! Too many yummy options…read more I am going to have to come back! Very nice staff. Speaks English too.

Simple inside

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Outside

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5 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Kelly P.

8 years ago

Foods good but a Little bit on the greasy side. I would really enjoy it more if it didn't smell like piss in the very back sitting area of the restaurant. The ladies are super nice and friendly but can make rude comments to people they already know. At the end of the day they are working and it shouldn't matter if they know a client. Aside from that prices are ok. A little bit over average but I mean if you like your meal it's worth it. Would recommend for the pupusas and breakfast mainly! read more

Ashley B.

115

7 years ago

Food was great! Great prices! The only reason for 4 stars was that it takes a while for food to come out, but food does come fresh and hot. Also tip is included in total. read more

Bems B.

9 years ago

Ayer fui a comer y fue mal servicio, mala calidad de comida, y el personal burlandoce y un mal servicio al cli3nte,

Tommy S.

9 years ago

Food is very greasy. Food is okay. Water is not free. Place looks very old and run-down. Wouldn't come here again

Nancy W.

4 years ago

Las pupusas estaban ricas, me encantó la ensalada de fruta. La mesera fue muy amable.

La Union Restaurant - latin - Updated October 2026

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I've aways seen this place passing by otw home so I had to at least try their takeout…read more Ordered: Fajita Mix- steak, chicken and 3 shrimp with rice, refried beans and 3 flour tortillas. I'd definitely order this again it was good portions. Tilapia frita- whole fried tilapia on a bed of rice and side salad. I assumed they came sided with plantains based on pictures but you must ask for plantains!!!!! Fish was greatly cooked, great crisp and still soft and flaky inside. (I will order again with plantains!!) 1 pupusa side with pickled cabbage and salsa. Had a good amount of cheese. It was iiight, it's not a Salvadorian pupusaria, you know? 1 Agua pipino limon ... IT WAS YUMMMY!!! Total-$41

Had a wonderful lunch. Spices are a little different than texmex. Very warm and earthy flavors…read more I had the 3 Enchilada plate, my son had the fajita. They don't do free chips and salsa but their chips and salsa are hand made. The salsa has nice thick junks of vegetables rather than just watered down pre-made bland salsa. Enjoyed lunch and will return.

La Fogata

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(240 reviews)

Amazing service, amazing food. Probably the only restaurant I would even consider to eat Colombian…read morein Houston. Inside is a little outdated, but the empanadas are to die for.

Pupuseria Maribel

3.2

(13 reviews)

Quaint little pupuseria cafe. What is not to like? Such a chill and homey vibe. The lady who took…read moremy order was super sweet and all smiles. I ordered two pupusa revuletas, and they were delicious! Definitely greasy but in a good way. The curtido that came with it was the PERFECT accompaniment. The portion was just enough to top every bite, and the flavor and crunch really boosted the overall eating experience. So yum! I'll be back.

I love this place!! I've had a lot of Pupusa's and soup Mariscada! Hands down the best in town! If…read moreyour in Houston anywhere and you want some genuine Seafood Soup and or Pupusa I strongly recommend!!

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Good food- great service! Will definitely go back. And the ambience is nice and quiet.read more

Very inviting atmosphere with lots of authentic traditional salvadorean options. This restaurants…read moreis very clean the mural inside is beautiful!

Taqueria El Charro #3

3.7

(51 reviews)

Definitely one of my favorite- if not my favorite- enchiladas yet. And I've tried some from Austin…read moreto Rosenberg to Houston. Everything on this plate was delicious. The rice was so flavorful, the beans soaked with a bit of the verde sauce, and the enchiladas were just divine. You could literally taste the flavor on just the tortilla for the enchiladas- mix in the delicious shredded chicken and the verde sauce... 10/10. The salsas that came with the chips were also super yummy and the red one had flavors of tamarind in it that made it uniquely distinct from others I've had.

I so enjoy coming to this spot, but today it wasn't all that great, the Menudo was made without…read moreseasoning, the tripe was tender, but the juice was plain, red in color, but plain. The waitress brought out the usual Jalapeños, cilantro and onions and two shakers (one was menudo seasoning and the other was oregano and ground bay leaves) I ordered the Laredo plate, but the Guisada lacked the delicious sauce.

Latin Delight

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This place was such a pleasant surprise that I invited a group of friends to meet me there a few…read moreweeks later. The edamame falafel was so moist & delicious. We had yuca fries, empanafas, the cheese (both fried & cold). All were good. The best thing for me was the sandwich they make with flattened, fried plantains that serve as the bread. I loved it & ordered it both visits. It's called a patacon. The restaurant is small but clean & has plenty of tables. There's usualky a game on the tv. Our server was very sweet.

Went in to try for the first time. Got a breakfast combo. The owner was nice and friendly. Food was…read morehot and pretty good. Will stop by again.

El Tiempo Cantina

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I come regularly for Doms fajita Wednesdays. You get 1pound…read morefajitas for 2, chips n queso, 2 beans (charros or refried), 2 rice (Spanish or poblano), choice of flour/corn or both tortillas, and a dish of toppings (cheese, sour cream, lettuce, guacamole, pico). All included in the Wednesday special that I personally think is worth the price. Cute over festive decor inside, all the services I've received were fast from nice people. Oh! * HH is $1 off margaritas! still better than Daikin park prices lol SYOY

Went to El Tiempo Cantina in Stafford YX during lunch because I got a coupon on the back of my HEB…read morereceipt for BOGO. For the good things lots of parking available at this location. The hostess was nice and friendly. The restaurant was dark but it seemed clean. We got red sauce and green sauce and chips for free and quickly. Down side we were greeted by a waiter that was pushing alcohol and more alcohol at lunch. Told him we wanted lunch he again he tried to push some appetizers. Lunch plates were a nice size, meaning lots of food. But food was sort of boring not much flavor. Talked a bit ate a bit then asked for to go box. Again waiter pushed alcohol, dessert or more food to go. Pls restaurant stop telling you wait staff to up sell the customer it's not appreciated. I came I ordered

Taqueria Mexicano Grill & Bar

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This place is awesome love the bar area very nice and overall clean, feels like back home eating…read morehere! Overall 10/10 food is good, servers are serving, and the ambiance is nice!

Food was ok, nothing special. Service was prompt and friendly. I went at about 11:30am, it was…read morevery crowded and loud. Seemed clean and well organized. Would I go again? Probably not just because the food was just ok and there are restaurants I like better.

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