Best Upscale Atkins Restaurants in Downtown Houston | Upscale & Atkins

7 restaurants in Best Upscale Atkins Restaurants in Downtown Houston | Upscale & Atkins

• Betelgeuse Betelgeuse — American · rated 5/5: This celestial-inspired hideaway hums with a rebellious spirit, offering a playful escape where unconventional comfort food takes center stage. Golden, crispy "Space Balls" and savory "Brick Sticks" emerge from the kitchen alongside burgers charred in the intense heat of a pizza oven, creating a menu that is as imaginative as it is indulgent. Every bite, from the tangle of fried spaghetti to the mountains of garlic-parm fries, celebrates a bold, high-energy dining experience that defies the ordinary.
• Platypus Brewing — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant gathering spot pulses with a unique fusion of Australian flair and local charm, where sun-drenched afternoons are best spent over overflowing brunch boards and the rhythmic shake of craft cocktails. The experience is anchored by an inventive beverage program that reimagines the classics, inviting guests to linger over a smoky Pigskin Old Fashioned or a refreshing, botanical-infused Pimm’s Cup in a space that feels both adventurous and effortlessly welcoming.
• Julep — American · rated 3/5: Julep captures the essence of a refined social sanctuary, where the air is filled with the savory aroma of truffle-dusted fries and the convivial hum of guests sharing artfully arranged charcuterie boards. The kitchen elevates classic comforts into elegant small plates, pairing the chilled, briny snap of fresh Murder Point oysters with indulgent bites like gooey baked brie and savory cheeseburger sliders. It is a stylish retreat designed for lingering, where every detail—from the salt-dusted jumbo pretzels to the crisp margherita flatbreads—celebrates the art of the perfect bite in a sophisticated, spirited atmosphere.
• La Calle Tacos — Mexican: La Calle Tacos captures the vibrant energy of a bustling Mexican thoroughfare, where the air is thick with the savory steam of slow-simmered birria and the zesty aroma of signature salsas. Guests can dive into crunchy chilaquiles drenched in rich sauces or savor hearty, overstuffed tortas that celebrate the soulful, sun-drenched flavors of authentic street-side comfort.
• Tacodeli — Mexican: This vibrant neighborhood haunt hums with morning energy, drawing guests in with the savory aroma of sizzling sirloin and spiced chorizo hitting the grill. Hand-pressed tortillas serve as the canvas for chef-driven creations, from the creamy, bean-and-bacon-rich Otto to the golden, egg-filled Jess Special and the melty Frontera Fundido. It is a sun-drenched space where the simple breakfast taco is elevated into a gourmet experience, blending fresh ingredients and bold textures for a perfect start to the day.
• Pappas Bros. Steakhouse — Steakhouse: Step into a world of timeless luxury where the clink of crystal and the warm glow of mahogany set the stage for a truly indulgent evening of refined dining. The air carries the enticing aroma of seared delicacies, from buttery foie gras and crisp fried oysters to decadent lobster-topped deviled eggs that elevate classic steakhouse fare to an art form. Whether savoring a tender octopus carpaccio or a chilled tower of jumbo shrimp, guests are treated to a masterclass in culinary opulence where every detail feels both grand and intimate.
• Luchi & Joeys - Underground Downtown — Mexican: This subterranean gem transforms the morning commute into a sensory journey, where the air is thick with the savory scent of spiced machaca and golden, griddled potatoes. Guests find a cozy refuge in the heart of the city, savoring hand-crafted breakfast staples like tender nopalitos and zesty chorizo that bring a touch of home-cooked warmth to the urban underground.