"Barbacana fills a gap for those who want a tasting menu that doesn’t feel too stuffy. This fusion restaurant Downtown takes inspiration from Houston’s food scene. You’ll find nods to West African dishes and, of course, the main food group in Texas: beef. Like the Denver cuts of steak doused in suya spice or potato pavés with light dollops of cream cheese. The staff keeps the meal rolling casually. Between the spacious dining room that’s not always packed and the personal treatment you receive, dinner with a few friends can feel like an intimate dinner party." - Gianni Greene