These are the hardest reservations to make in Houston.
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Conceptualized by Michelin-star chef and culinary director Alain Verzeroli, this NYC based French restaurant has made its name in the Houston dining scene. Le Jardinier, which translates to “the gardener,” is inspired by the precision and craft of French culinary techniques that transform an ordinary vegetable into a dish that evokes awe. Focusing on harvesting and utilizing each ingredient at its seasonal peak, La Jardinier’s minimal, but curated, menu ensures that each dish is not only presented, but prepared, to perfection. Make sure you book in advance to try their citrus cured ora king salmon topped with 10g of royal kaluga caviar or their crustacean ravioli served with bamboo shoots and lobster tuile. 5500 Main St. Ste. 122, lejardinier-houston.com
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Dreaming of creamy house-made hummus and open fire-baked pockets of pita? Then you better get your reservation secured at the recently opened modern Israeli hot-spot Hamsa. The Hamsa is an ancient middle-eastern amulet symbolizing the Hand of God, and is a sign of protection in many faiths. This tranquil restaurant is tucked away amongst an oasis of greenery and serves traditional dishes you might expect if traveling the mediterranean. From whole grilled branzino, to an array of freshly chopped baba ganoush and pickled vegetables, to a nutty Baladi eggplant dish perfect for vegetarians. With over 100 wines, emphasizing bottles from Israel and Lebanon, to choose from, Hamsa has shaken up Houston’s Israeli cuisine scene. 5555 Morningside Dr. Ste 100, hamsahtx.com
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It’s no wonder this premier sushi and Japanese tapas restaurant is always booked. Kata Robata’s warm and simplistic wooden interior creates a perfect ambiance for enjoying the some of the highest quality cuts of fish flown in from Japan multiple times a week. If all the tables are booked, do not worry! The sushi bar is arguably the best seat in the house where you can dine and watch as four-time James Beard Award nominee and restaurant owner Manabu “Hori” Horiuchi and his team of skilled chefs create beautiful rolls. For the ultimate experience, make a reservation for an omakase, or chef’s tasting menu. 3600 Kirby Dr Ste H., katarobata.com
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Reminiscent of Europe’s picturesque al fresco dining, this French-inspired restaurant’s reservations are highly sought after. Luckily, La Table has four timelessly decorated dining areas including a spacious bar and intimate garden patio where you can enjoy seasonal signature dishes and vibrant cocktails like their lilac hued La Table G&T. Led by chef Artem Orlovskyy, La Table’s modern menu includes French cuisine classics such as Filet De Boeuf Au Poivre, Salade Lyonnaise, and Gâteau Marjolaine, as well as a Texas Wagyu burger, a red wine braised beef short rib ravioli, and fresh east coast oysters. 1800 Post Oak Blvd., latablehouston.com
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With Sunday evening lines spilling out onto the sidewalk, and patrons patiently killing long-wait times sipping crisp glasses of wine at the bar, getting a reservation in advance at Coltivare is a must. The popular and lively red brick Italian restaurant is revered for its thicker crust oven baked pizzas and stand-out service. Its back garden creatively integrates home-grown ingredients with outdoor dining for a true farm to table experience. Whether you’re looking for a fun and hearty family dinner or a romantic date under fairy lights, you need a reservation at Coltivare. 3320 White Oak Dr., agricolehospitality.com
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For years, Steak 48 has been the spot to celebrate and enjoy a night on the town. Houstonians flock to this hot steakhouse for its robust menu and upscale ambiance. The Mastro brothers debuted this luxe restaurant in 2016, and with its dark modern interior and extravagant lighting, prime grade steaks and fresh seafood, and attentive staff, it's no wonder that it has remained at the top of patrons’ lists. So next time you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary or just feel like spoiling yourself, make sure you book your table at Steak 48 in advance. 4444 Westheimer Rd., steak48.com
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Originally located in an unassuming former historic Felix space, Uchi Houston has skyrocketed and since upgraded the space to an urban design with a striking entryway. At Uchi you will get nothing short of perfection, from the level of detail given to seating design to the preparation and immaculate presentation of unique sushi. Chef and owner Tyson Cole is a James Beard Award winner and one of the few American sushi masters, and his countless accolades and world-wide training speak for themselves. Cole pushes the boundaries of the traditional sushi experience, and has understandably won the loyalty of Houston’s sushi lovers. 904 Westheimer Rd. Ste. A, uchihouston.com
Photography by: Eaters Collective ESmxug33C0c/Unsplash