Le Colonial Houston

"With outposts in Chicago and Atlanta, this high-end restaurant in the River Oaks District serves modern Vietnamese dishes in a striking dining room. Pan-seared chicken dumplings spiked with a black vinegar sauce, cha gio — crispy rolls filled with Gulf shrimp, pork, mushrooms, mint, and cilantro — and its delicately wrapped banh cuon make for great starters to share before digging into the crispy, garlic-glazed whole snapper, prepared for two. Don’t eat and run — Le Colonial’s second-floor late-night lounge has a full bar." - Brittany Britto Garley

"This River Oaks District restaurant serves up modern Vietnamese fare in a posh two-story space. Le Colonial’s pho noodle soup is made with wagyu oxtail broth, while the shaking beef incorporates caramelized filet mignon. Take to the large wraparound patio and enjoy views of the district while you dine." - Megha McSwain

"Though this spicy beef carpaccio salad sort of feels like cheating, it's worth the order. This meaty dish comes with rare prime beef tenderloin, served with farm greens, and a sweet chili and agave dressing for flavor in every bite." - Katie Holtman, Brittany Britto Garley

"At Le Colonial, soups and curries are vibrant and colorful, but few dishes cause a head-turning moment like the Ca Chien Saigon, or crispy red snapper. The fish, decorated in a spicy garlic glaze, is presented whole, then fileted tableside." - Megha McSwain

"This River Oaks District hotspot boasts a lunch special featuring a choice of two courses for $25 with a complimentary soft drink or iced tea. Choose from house favorites like chilled shrimp rolls, crunchy salad, and spicy organic tofu curry." - Megha McSwain