Top 18 paella in Houston
Paella in Houston has gained a substantial following, combining the traditional Spanish rice dish with Texan flair. Local chefs put their unique twist on this classic recipe, using fresh Gulf seafood, locally sourced vegetables, and authentic Spanish spices. Paella in Houston is a must-try for food enthusiasts seeking a fusion of global flavors. Join us as we delve into the city's vibrant paella scene and discover what makes this dish so special.
- 1. El Meson
- 2. BCN Taste & Tradition
- 3. Oporto Fooding House & Wine
- 4. Paella Chef
- 5. Costa Brava Bistro
- 6. Paella Fusion Texas
- 7. MAD
- 8. Barcelona Wine Bar
- 9. Arnaldo Richards' Picos Restaurant
- 10. Arturo Boada Cuisine
- 11. La Guitarra con Sazon
- 12. Flor De Cuba
- 13. The Lemon Tree
- 14. Doña Yesi
- 15. Spanish Flowers
- 16. Latin Bites
- 17. Frank paellas
- 18. Donde Juancho Latin Food
1. El Meson
Offers a variety of paella options, made to order with fresh ingredients

The restaurant offered a good selection of food and had a great location and ambiance. The prices were also reasonable, making for a satisfying dining experience. However, the lobster tail paella, which was recommended, was a major letdown.
Despite its appealing appearance, the paella failed to deliver in terms of taste. It was extremely watery, with the rice having almost no saffron flavor. The lobster tail, which should have been the star of the dish, was bland and unimpressive. Overall, the paella did not live up to expectations, bringing down the restaurant's rating.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
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2. BCN Taste & Tradition
Exquisite Spanish cuisine in a refined, intimate setting

Paella, a traditional Spanish dish, was served and two opinions about its taste were shared. The first observation was that the paella had an overly salty flavor, which may not have been to everyone's liking. However, the presentation of the dish was visually pleasing, and the seafood ingredients were undeniably fresh.
On the other hand, the second opinion raved about the delicious taste of the paella, highlighting the richness and authenticity of its flavors. The comment even drew a comparison to a personal experience in Spain, implying a strong connection to the traditional roots of the dish. Overall, the paella received mixed reviews, with a common agreement on its fresh seafood ingredients, but differing opinions on the seasoning and overall flavor profile.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
3. Oporto Fooding House & Wine
Features a diverse selection of wines and a lively ambiance

This establishment is a rare find in town, offering an authentic tapas dining experience. A group of friends and I visited, including one who had traveled from out of town. Our diverse order included chicken curry empanadas, paella, grilled octopus, lamb meatballs, Brussels sprouts, and a shrimp and crab pizza. Each dish was exceptional and well-suited for sharing.
During our visit, I personally tried the potato soup and the Portuguese paella, complemented by a berry cocktail. The flavors of my selections were enjoyable, and the outdoor porch provided a pleasant atmosphere. Our server was kind, making the meal even more enjoyable. I am looking forward to returning to this restaurant.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Hidden Gems
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4. Paella Chef

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Costa Brava Bistro
Tapas selection, imported Spanish wines, warm atmosphere

The paella dish we had for lunch was exceptional, offering a delightful combination of seafood and spices. The authentic flavors were evident, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience. It was a generous portion, filling and satisfying our appetites.
This paella dish is a must-try for anyone who appreciates authentic and delicious cuisine. The balance of seafood and spices created a perfect harmony of flavors. We were impressed by the generous portion, ensuring that we left feeling full and satisfied. This dish is a testament to the quality of the restaurant's offerings.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
6. Paella Fusion Texas

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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7. MAD
Authentic Spanish cuisine, cozy atmosphere, friendly service

MAD, a restaurant, is known for its excellent ambiance and decor, particularly in the bathroom. The paella served there is a must-try dish with rich, authentic flavors and perfect cooking. However, other portions served may be smaller compared to the paella. The wait staff, including Victor M., provide excellent service and are knowledgeable about the menu to give great recommendations.
On the other hand, there are some areas for improvement. For instance, the carbonara dish may not suit every diner's taste. Additionally, the paella rice can sometimes be sticky, which can affect the overall dining experience. Nonetheless, the standout paella dish and fantastic ambiance make MAD a restaurant worth visiting.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
8. Barcelona Wine Bar
Spacious outdoor patio, extensive wine list, charcuterie and cheese boards

The restaurant offers a variety of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. One standout item on the menu is the seafood paella, which is packed with fresh ingredients and full of flavor. Another must-try is the Salvaje rice, a delicious and highly recommended dish. For those with a sweet tooth, the authentic cheesecake is a fantastic option.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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9. Arnaldo Richards' Picos Restaurant
Authentic Spanish recipes since 1980, family-owned restaurant

The paella dish I enjoyed was nothing short of fantastic. Its rich flavors and generous portion made for a satisfying meal. The star of the show was the perfectly cooked rice, packed with an array of delicious seafood.
If you're looking for a must-try dish, I highly recommend the paella. Its rich and savory taste, combined with an ample serving, make for a truly exceptional meal. The rice was expertly cooked, and the seafood added a depth of flavor that made this dish truly unforgettable.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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10. Arturo Boada Cuisine
Authentic Spanish cuisine, Friendly staff, Cozy ambiance, Full bar available

Arturo Boada Cuisine offers a remarkable seafood paella that is a must-try for any seafood lover. The flavors are rich and well-developed, making for a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience. The seafood included in the dish is fresh and adds a great deal of taste and texture.
The seafood paella at Arturo Boada Cuisine is one of the best I have ever had. The spices are perfectly balanced, adding depth and complexity to the dish. The paella is cooked to perfection, with each grain of rice separate and al dente. The mix of seafood is generous and well-chosen, making for a delicious and memorable meal. I highly recommend trying this paella for yourself.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegan Options
11. La Guitarra con Sazon
Uses traditional Spanish methods for cooking paella over open flames

Paella was a remarkable dish during the meal. The rice was cooked just right, providing a perfect texture. The mix of seafood in the paella was delightful and added great flavor. It was such a satisfying dish that it will definitely be ordered again.
The paella stands out as an absolutely delicious choice. The seafood used was fresh, enhancing the overall taste. The flavors were perfectly balanced, making each bite a true joy. It is highly recommended for those looking for a satisfying and tasty dish.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
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12. Flor De Cuba
Family-owned and operated with a cozy atmosphere

The paella dish I tried was truly exceptional. It was generously portioned and featured an enticing array of fresh seafood. The seafood was cooked to perfection, with each morsel being flavorful and succulent. The paella's combination of seasonings and ingredients created a symphony of flavors that were perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying.
Overall, the paella was a delicious and enjoyable dish. The seafood selection was impressive, with a variety of shrimp, mussels, and other shellfish. The flavors were expertly blended, resulting in a savory and delectable taste. I would highly recommend this paella to anyone who is looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
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13. The Lemon Tree
Family-owned restaurant offering traditional Spanish cuisine in Houston

The Lemon Tree is a restaurant offering a diverse range of Peruvian dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. During a recent visit with family, the service was commendable, featuring a particularly attentive waitress. The food was delicious, with a menu that offered numerous options. Appetizers and entrees were enjoyed by all, leading to anticipation for future visits to try more of the menu.
Highly recommended at The Lemon Tree is the seafood paella, which has gained a strong reputation. In addition to this dish, popular choices include lomo, pollo saltado, and tacu tacu, all of which are delicious Peruvian dishes. The restaurant's offerings also extend to appetizers and juices, both of which have received positive feedback. Overall, The Lemon Tree is a great destination for those looking to explore Peruvian cuisine.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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14. Doña Yesi

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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15. Spanish Flowers
Cozy atmosphere, Live Spanish guitar music on weekends, Family-owned and operated

I recently tried the paella at a restaurant, and my experience was mixed. On one hand, I was a bit disappointed as the dish did not deliver the authentic Spanish flavor I was expecting. However, someone else who tried the paella at the same place had a very positive experience. They found the paella to be excellent, full of seafood and having a delightful taste.
In summary, we had differing opinions about the paella. While I found it lacking in authentic flavor, another diner was impressed by the seafood-packed dish and its great taste. Overall, it seems that the paella may be worth trying, but individual experiences and tastes may vary.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Dinner
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16. Latin Bites
Uses traditional Spanish cooking techniques and ingredients, warm and inviting atmosphere

Latin Bites is a restaurant that offers an impressive paella dish. The seafood in their paella is fresh and adds to the overall delicious taste. The flavors are expertly balanced, making each bite a true delight. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of authentic and well-prepared paella.
The seasoning in Latin Bites' paella is spot on, enhancing the natural flavors of the seafood and rice. The dish is packed with a variety of seafood options, providing a satisfying and filling meal. The quality of the ingredients and the care taken in the preparation process is evident in every bite. Overall, the paella at Latin Bites is a standout dish that is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
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17. Frank paellas

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
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18. Donde Juancho Latin Food

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch