My coworkers and I decided to celebrate our end-of-year wins at The Upper Car Bistro, and let me just say--what an experience! First things first: the parking... whew. I'm convinced it doesn't actually exist. You're either street-parking and walking or surrendering to valet. I chose the walk, which turned into a mini adventure because the signage is basically a mystery. But once I finally found the spot and stepped inside, the vibe immediately made up for it--super chill, grown, and perfect for a relaxed night out. Since it wasn't a busy night, we were seated right away and able to just settle in and enjoy ourselves. Our server was juggling a lot (pretty sure she was both the bartender and the waitress), so things were a little slow, but she was kind, knowledgeable, and gave great recommendations--so definitely props to her. Now... let's talk about that Lavender Lace. An absolute 10/10. I'm already a lavender lover, and the combo of that soft purple color with gin? Chef's kiss. Smooth, pretty, and dangerously easy to sip. For my entrée, I went with the Crispy Asian Shrimp, and listen--delicious. Perfectly fried, not rubbery, not too hard, with a sweet-spicy kick and that little buffalo flavor that sneaks up on you. I'd order it again without hesitation. I'm giving this place 4 stars only because I want to come back and get the full experience before I hand out that fifth one. But trust--I'm definitely returning. Highly recommend checking it out, and who knows... maybe I'll see you there next time! read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - Crispy Asian Shrimp - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Hubby and I tried out Upper Kirby Bistro for Houston Restaurant Week (HRW) lunch and it was well worth the $25/person ticket. I got the Caesar salad, chicken fried chicken, and the peach cobbler. Hubby got the Asian shrimp, turkey leg, and the chocolate lava cake. Out of everything, the item most worth it was the massive turkey leg. It came with collard greens and dirty rice. We'd come again just for this dish, especially since the meat was so tender and flavorful. The other items were good, not great. Service was great and attentive. This place would be cool to check out again for brunch. read more

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This is probably my 3rd time at Upper Kirby , and tbh I think this was the first time I was truly amazed at the service and quality of food. Never had a problem before , but I would definitely say they have truly improved since the last time I was here. There are many ways you can park such as on the street , valet, or a parking garage down the block. We went on a Sunday afternoon , and it wasn't as busy tbh. However, I always make a reservation. The main room typically has a DJ , which I love. So let's move on to the food. I was quite surprised how fast things came out, but then again it was pretty slow. Started off with the oxtail empanadas! Truly flavorful but wish there was more for the price. I ordered the chicken and waffles as my entree. The waffles were okay, BUT the chicken was very flavorful and big. TBH , the chicken didn't need any condiments. My husband enjoyed the restaurant , so safe to say we will be back. read more

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I visited **Upper Kirby Bistro** for the first time on 3/17/26 during their all-day Tuesday Happy Hour. They advertised $9 Hennessy, Tito's, and Ketel One drinks, along with $6 appetizers, so I decided to give it a try. I ordered the bacon-wrapped chicken and fish tacos from the Happy Hour menu. The tacos looked great when they came out, but I couldn't tell what kind of fish was used. When I asked, I was told it was salmon--definitely not my preference. The waitress did offer to take them back, but since they were only $6, I declined and planned to take them home. Next, I ordered a Sidecar, assuming it would be made with Hennessy since that was part of the Happy Hour promotion. However, when I later reviewed my receipt, I was shocked to see the Sidecar was $18--and the tacos were charged at the regular $17 price instead of the $6 Happy Hour price. Unfortunately, the handheld payment kiosk made it easy to miss these charges in the moment. I had to call back to get a copy of my receipt, which is when I noticed the discrepancies. The atmosphere was nice, but the pricing felt misleading and disappointing. Because of this experience, I don't see myself going back. read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - The drink picture is when we first got our drinks. Does that look like $18 worth for a Sidecar? - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Finally came here for brunch after having it on my list for a while and for me it lived up to the hype! On arrival I opted for valet parking ($10) so I didn't have to walk far, but there was some street parking available. Upon entry, there were initially going to seat us in their secondary area (left side of the building across the courtyard) but I requested us to be moved to the main dining area and they were able to accommodate us. The main dining area has nicer booths, a bar, and also a DJ playing mostly R&B music. It was definitely a nice vibe. Service was surprisingly really quick throughout. Our waitress was checked in on us frequently, but also not too much. Our drinks and food were served really fast, which was appreciated. To start we had oxtail empanadas, which only came with two, but they were good! For my entree, I had the Five Central Slam and everything was cooked to perfection! From the potatoes, to the eggs, sausage, and bacon, I truly enjoyed my meal. I will note, the waffle that comes with it is essentially only half a waffle (two quarter pieces) so if you were looking forward to a whole waffle, you will have to add a side waffle. Luckily for me, my wife ordered chicken and waffles, so I just ate some of hers, although the waffle that comes with her entree is thinner than the one that came with mine. Speaking of her chicken and waffles, the chicken pieces that come with it are HUGE. Lastly for drinks, we just had water and a carafe of cranberry mimosa which was decent. This was truly a fantastic brunch experience. It's rare for me that black-owned restaurants live up to the hype, but I couldn't have been more pleased with Upper Kirby Bistro. I never thought about coming here for dinner, but now I am a little intrigued. I will definitely be back for brunch in the future and I highly recommend it to all! read more

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Whewwww , I really wanted to enjoy tonight !! Appetizers- chicken rolls 8/10 oxtail empanadas -1/10 ( super dry inside , no flavor $12) Dinner - chicken fried chicken 6.5/10 The broccoli was so good , mash was good as well but the chicken was dry , over fried , bread crumbled immediately. NY steak -8.5/10 it was good . Cooked very well . Dirty rice was good , spicy Bread - lol we ate more bread than anything . Drinks - all I can say is drink before . Customer service - TERRIBLE . While there is someone walking around checking on everyone , the actual waitress was just all over the place . She barely came over to the table . When she did we were pretty much done . I spent over $100 for 2 ppl and I feel it was a waste . The vibe is great especially next door . It's just very busy and understaffed . Tik tok suggested ... read more

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I always have a good experience. And maybe me being one of few there for lunch. I was so surprised more people weren't there for HRW. The portions were more than expected and 3 courses were a great surprise. The salad was really good the flavors of the Caesar dressing wasn't too spicy and the lettuce was crisp. The turkey leg plate was a Star. The turkey leg was tender and the dirty with greens made me want to take a nap in the car. The cherry limeade was refreshing and the staff were very attentive. Will always come back. read more

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This has been on my Houston list for some time and I'm glad I finally came. I love the vibe of this place as well as the customer service. Our server was really kind and helped us with any modifications for the menu. They didn't rush us out the door and the food was really good. I'll definitely be back when I visit Houston again. read more

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Five star! My food was delicious. The service was excellent. The ambiance is very chill. We went for an early dinner between 4pm and left at 7pm. Afterward it seems to turn into a club like atmosphere. read more

Second time at upper Kirby was for restaurant weeks lunch special. They offered a four course dining experience. To start I had the gumbo and my friend opted for coconut curry wings. Second were the crispy Asian shrimp; so large crispy but still juicy. For our entree we went with the chicken with mashed potatoes. I had broccolini as my side and she chose spinach. Final round was dessert, molten chocolate cake & peach cobbler. The kitchen brought our dessert out like 2 mins after our entrees arrived. That was odd considering they were both warm desserts served with ice cream. After our server came by to check on us he gladly replaced them with no issue. EVERYTHING WAS GOOD!! AMAZING CUSTOMER SERVICE Side note the server made me a custom mock-tail that was both delicious and beautiful. read more

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Wow, wow, wow! We were all truly impressed with this restaurant, the food and the amazing service by Victoria is top shelf! It is a Black-owned restaurant. The R&B music was great. I love how the restaurant looks. We were looking for a good restaurant to dine at after a long day of airline delays and long lines at the car rental company. We decided to stop by and try out this place. We were happy with our choice to dine here. Everything that came out of the kitchen was delicious and piping hot. My sisters and friends decided to order all of the appetizers from the happy hour menu to try them all. I opted to order a meal from the dinner menu. I ordered the Fannie Mae chicken dinner which came with 4 pieces of buttermilk fried chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, collard greens, Texas toast and a pickled pepper. Oh my goodness, I didn't want my dining experience to end at Upper Kirby Bistro. This was the perfect way to jumpstart our weekend! Shoutout to the chef/chefs that are definitely on point in the kitchen! Thank you to the owners for amazing food and service. I will definitely be back when I visit Houston again. read more

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The food was delicious and the DJ kept the vibe going all night! Portions are huge, and the atmosphere is perfect for the more mature crowd looking to enjoy good music, great energy, and a fun Sunday spot. Definitely recommend checking it out! read more

First time at Upper Kirby Bistro place is nice it had a jazz vibe to it. It was not busy I heard it gets busy. The staff was really nice very attentive to the guest. The mimosa was ok I dont like dry champagne. The oxtail and grits were good I would rate it 7/10 the oxtails were very fatty and the grits didnt have the type of loving I needed. I had to doctor them up. All and all the place is cool I shall return. read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - Oxtail & Grits - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

Saw on social media that they were having a $6 special on frozen drinks during the month of July with a provided code so I inquired about it with our server. The sever was confused but said she would ask about it and she came back with the drink that I asked for. When she brought the check, the drink was showing regular price so I brought it to her attention and it was corrected. The crispy Asian shrimp was very good but too expensive, only 4 shrimp for $26. It was a nice place to try but I don't think I will go back again. read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

Food,service and atmosphere was great! I had the fried chicken and was so good will return, also it's part of 5 Central which has a cigar bar, lounge and hookah read more

While in Houston visiting, I looked for several restaurants that I thought would be good to try that wouldn't disappoint. Upper Kirby Bistro was one that didn't come close to disappointing. They scored high marks. I met with a friend in the mid morning before the brunch crowd proper showed up. I started with a watermelon mimosa that was not only refreshing, but was also just a plus for something different. For starters, we shared the biscuits with gravy. Although they were delicious, there was a faint smoky flavor to them that I detected. There wasn't enough sausage in the gravy to add any kind of smoke, so I was curious as to what it was that made the gravy smoky. My friend ordered the fried catfish and grits, and she ate it all in silence and without complaint. That was all I needed to know that the catfish and grits were delicious. I had oxtails with grits and greens. My inner Jamaican loved the oxtails and my inner Southern totally approved of the grits and flavorful greens. Service is top. I can't say enough about how pleasant our server was. One thing to note is that parking in the area may be come a bit much. Having arrived for a 10:15 AM seating, I could easily get a spot across the street. However, by the time we were leaving around noon, the crowd was coming in and parking along the street was lessening. They have valet, though, but warning just in case you decide to go late in the day when the restaurant packs out. I know I will go back when I'm in town again. It will still be for the earliest seating. read more

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It's unfortunate the review is so low. We hosted a HNOMA (National Organization of Minority Architects - Houston) event here a few years ago. It was my first time and really enjoyed the fellowship. Since then, I've come for a couple of work lunches and it's always been a pleasant dining experience. Our office frequently orders here for lunch-n-learns and it's always a big hit! Today we wanted to support a black-owned business for Juneteenth and ordered food to-go. Alicia was sweet, attentive (greeted us right when we came in), and made an expresso martini while we waited for our order. Yummy! Thank youuu! read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - Expresso Martini - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

We were looking for soul food spots around the area and decided to trust social media . We landed on Upper Kirby Bistro. It was in the middle of a rainy Saturday afternoon. The place wasn't packed and we were seated right away. Waitress was pleasant not pushy and professional. The food came out at a normal time, they had a live DJ entertaining guests and he played good old R&B from the 2000s. The food was great. I had the soul food dish all was great, but would have preferred more than 1 lonely piece of a bit rubbery oxtail. He had catfish and grits. I shun grits. I tasted his, my goodness the explosion of flavor in my mouth was unbelievable. This place nailed it! Compliments to the chef! Drink of choice? A carafe of elevated mimosa. Ran to the ladies room came back to a surprise. DJ giving me a shootout for my birthday and the whole restaurant clapping for me. Honey bunny made me . Was offered a great strong shot on the house and a shot glass as birthday gift. The place seems smalls but it's not. It has a bunch of different rooms to accommodate big groups as well as intimate events. I would love to go back there in the evening it must be simply beautiful. Upper Kirby Bistro is such a vibe, subtle class, my type of spot. Will 100% return. Reason I didn't give 5 stars? Parking is a bit tricky. They have valet but...that's a whole other story. read more

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All food items from the lunch menu were delectable! No complaints! I was hoping to enjoy their brunch I heard so many raves about but that's only offered on the weekend! Not hard to assume, I will be back for that too! The atmosphere is moody and the instrumental jazz and r&b was a nice vibe! read more

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Service was fast, waitress (BALSAM M) was not friendly didn't smile or anything. Looked as though she didn't even want to be there. Ambiance was nice. Food was okay. Wings were good, but very small. The ONE oxtail I did have was delicious if I come back I'd probably get the oxtails and grits instead. The jalepeno cornbread was very dry I almost wanted to dip it in my drink. read more

The ambiance was great, and the service was great. Dined for the first time for Brunch on a Saturday. The food however was not delightful. The soul food plate comes with grits, a cornbread muffin, fried chicken, collard greens, and oxtail. The cornbread was dry like Popeyes biscuits, the collard greens tasted like vinegar and the chicken was SALTY and overcooked. I wouldn't recommend this restaurant or return back. read more

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We went to Sunday brunch. The food was good. It was prepared well. It may have been a bit salty for some. The decor and ambiance is such that I would not go back for brunch. The music is too loud to have a conversation with your friends. The seating options are eclectic, but not what I would desire for brunch. Parking is less than ideal. Our server was pleasant, but the service was very slow. read more

This place has such good food and amazing vibes! Service is okay, it's honestly never been spectacular. The reason I probably won't be going back is the shady valet service that they run. Parking is very limited which is understood but if the sign says $10 valet, meaning you park and get my car that's what's expected. NOT $20 and now it's self park. My car has also been broken into while being parked DIRECTLY in front of the restaurant. I just feel that a little more could be done to protect the customers that come to spend money. read more

I've been here several times for brunch and I always enjoy everything. The service was great at the bar. I will definitely be back! read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - Brunch menu - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

Great service, great drinks, and great food-- what more could a girl ask for?! Well done, UKB! Our server was so sweet and helpful. Her recommendations were spot on. We enjoyed the Upper Kirby Smash and the Hand Over Fist. I ordered the Jerk Salmon Caesar, and loved it however the hubs' Fannie Mae's chicken entree was fried beautifully & taking names. The sides were great as well, and I don't play about mac and cheese and greens. All in all, we enjoyed our early dinner here, and will return! read more

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Now upped Kirby bistro is definitely one of those restaurants that the food quality depends on which chef is clocked in for the day lol. The first time I went there I loved it! I got the chicken and waffles which were good, but not my favorite. And my friend got the oxtails and grits which were delicious !!!! The 'spiked' mimosa carafe was also really good. Now the 2nd time I went there was a for A birthday brunch and no one really seemed to enjoy their food. Everything was either too salty or not salted enough (except for the oxtails and grits, that was still perfect lol). They also hmm w sus a limited menu since it was a small group, which was a little wild considering how small the original menu is lol. But our server was able to let us have the regular menu so Shoutout to her! On you birthday they do give you a feee bottle of champagne with the purchase of any drink!! So keep that in mind for any celebrants!!! In terms of the vibe. If is your classic black-owned restaurant. Great music and a safe space! I highly recommend sitting on the patio! There's more decor, and hookah is available if you're into that! But the way this summer head is looking ?!? Do it at your own risk lol. Biggest pro: oxtails & grits Biggest con: limited menu read more

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We came on a Sunday afternoon around 2pm for brunch and enjoyed our experience! The service was great. We were greeted immediately when we walked in and because there were not many people, we were sat immediately without a reservation. Once we sat down, our waiter came and checked in on us shortly afterwards and was quick to take our orders. She continued to check on us throughout our meal and helped us with any requests we had. The food was pretty good. We had the chicken and waffles and the breakfast sandwich. The chicken and waffles was good, my only critique is that the chicken could have been fried a little harder. My friend had the breakfast sandwich and said it was probably the best meal he had in a while. The restaurant is cute with a lot of seating insides and some outdoor seating as well. They have dark colors which could make the place a little moody, but because we were there during the day and there is plenty of lighting, it did not seem dark at all. read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - Chicken & Waffles - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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This is my first time here and they really set the bar high! I was so impressed by the service I received from Colby & Aisha ! So sweet & really went out of their way to make a special request drink for me that was even better than I anticipated! Plus the all day happy hour on Tuesday & Wednesday was the most pleasant surprise! I tried several items and not one disappointed in even the slightest. I'm so disappointed my friends couldn't make it so we will be returning later tonight for the steak dinner special! I am beyond impressed with the venue, menu, and the phenomenal pricing. Not to mention the ambiance was perfect & the music set the tone for a great time. If I could give 10 starts I would. 10/10. read more

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Recently visited this cute little gem and the fact it is a black owned business was definitely a plus. I loved the vibe. We were a party of 8 and the food was really good. Everyone seemed to love their choices. I can speak for the fish tacos that were very flavorful, my favorite part was the coleslow on top. Very fresh with a burst of flavor. I was also pleasantly surprised by the well seasoned asian crispy shrimp. Very crunchy with a spicy kick. I definitely recommend. The owner was very hospitable. He actually gave the table a bottle of champagne for no reason but to thank us for patronizing his business. I look forward to visiting again read more

Came here from out of town baded on a locals recommendation as a nice vibe spot for a Sunday. Had the razzy rum limeade and some truffle fries I enjoyed both. read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

I came to visit 2/8/2025 and was serviced by a waitress named Saja She was absolutely great not only was she very familiar with the food menu and cocktails her service was amazing she was very attentive. the music was a great vibe as well she suggested for us to visit for brunch and i definitely will be back! Saja was amazing read more

Great food. Delicious. Ordered the turkey leg and chicken fried chicken with a brownie and peach cobbler with ice cream for dessert. Rene was hostess/server extrordinare. Great service, food and ambiance. Very classy and intimate venue. Highly recommend. read more

Dined in for brunch on a Sunday at 12:15 pm with party of 4. I picked brunch for the oxtails! They only take reservations Parking is limited Valet is $20 This area was the old red room bar The bistro is located behind the five central building The restroom connects to the hookah lounge, bar, and cigar room We were seated immediately on a private room area Jasmine was our waitress and very tentative We ordered: Soul food plate: comes with 3 chicken wings, 2 oxtails, yams, collard greens, cornbread, and cheesy grits. Every thing was very good! Oxtail and grits: we substituted the grits with yams, yams made the plate a little too sweet, it should be placed separately Shrimp and grits: good Crab cake Benedict: good Peach and watermelon mimosa: super good and dangerous! read more

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Love the ambiance! I definitely will be back! Professional service. Shrimp & Grits were pretty good 8/10, but the collard greens tho!!!!! 11/10 I will be back to try the oxtails per recommendation. read more

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A great pre birthday turn-up to the real turn up!! Celebrating with the bff Almeria Leveston and the crew!! Side note...I've had this restaurant on my list for a while...but I never have to go back :) The food looks way better than it taste!!! read more

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Barely found somewhere to park Alcoholic beverages were mid Steak was over cooked Eggs were over cooked no seasoning Service was 7/10 read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

Food was either good or meh. De little over priced for what it was. Cocktails were great. Dessert was solidly good. We had a burger, pizza, fried chicken, crispy shrimp, Brussels sprouts, Mac & cheese. The burger & fried chicken were very good. The Asian shrimp were good, but 4 shrimp for $28, not worth it. I'd pass on the Brussels sprouts. They were missing the sweetness that makes them delicious. Automatic 18% gratuity was added for a party of 4. Service was good, but I'm tired of places that add in the gratuity We also had to park a block away, or pay $20 for parking. Ambiance is ok. It is very loud. There's one restaurant with four lounges attached. Clearly it's a place to hang out all night for some. Not my scene. read more

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Upper Kirby Bistro is a nice restaurant. The Parmesan bites were really good!! I really want to go back for those. My aunt said her burger was just okay. Overall, the food was good! Tiktok: JeTara_Je Instagram: JeTaraJe read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Came here on a Saturday morning around1pm. Amazing food as service! Our waiter was named Mahi and he was very friendly and informative with food and drinks selection. I got the chicken and waffles which was delicious, the shrimp and grits were flavorful and delicious. My husband got the the eggs Benedict which was also really good. We ordered two pitchers of the mimosa and they bought out small cups with different flavored juices. My brother in law got the ox tail and said it was really good. The jalapeños muffins were not spicy as we were expecting but I thought it was still good. Overall great experience! read more

Upper Kirby Bistro - New American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Truffle fries not that good, Brussels sprouts 5 star great, appetizer happy hour shrimp amazing- plump and very flavorful, lobster mac and cheese was not my favorite. They tried to make it can't and there wasn't much lobster so not a dish I would order again. The catfish sliders were fried perfectly and seasoned well so a 5 star item. Adult beverages were above average. Customer service was EXCELLENT. I wish I remembered our servers name. I believe he was from Ethopia. He deserves a raise. Extremely helpful and attentive. The ambience is above average. Nice spot to meet friends and have a bite and a few beverages. read more

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