The Best New Restaurants in Houston, March 2025

"The team behind Amrina, the glitzy, modern Indian restaurant in The Woodlands, plunges into the world of Houston’s very diverse fried chicken scene with the opening of its new fast-casual Midtown restaurant. Located in the Mix development, Pok Pok Po delivers flavorful fried chicken with an Indian twist (Bonus: it’s gluten-free). Combinations include a fried chicken sandwich made with a tender fried chicken thigh tossed in its sweet and nutty tomato-based Delicious sauce and served on a brioche bun, fried chicken tenders and bites, loaded fries, and a Rice and Shine rice bowl with diner’s choice of chicken. The sides and sauces are standouts. Diners can choose between desi kimchi, basmati rice, or the completely irresistible Balle Balle fries — perfectly crispy fries topped with a sweet and spicy seasoning, plus sauces like the spicy green Naughty sauce made with mint and avocado and the Pok Pok Ranch, a yogurt-based sauce with hints of ginger. Dip into its sister restaurant Bol next door, which offers buildable Indian-style bowls and wraps made with flavorful proteins and fresh ingredients." - Brittany Britto Garley