Backed by two Michelin-starred chefs, Molihua makes its grand debut in Houston.
Owners and Michelin-starred chefs Ho Chee Boon and Hideki Hiwatashi
Allow us to introduce Houston’s newest elevated Asian dining destination, Molihua, sitting inside the Blossom Hotel. Guaranteed to be the city’s hottest reservation this summer, this Asian-inspired eatery is spearheaded by none other than Michelin-starred chefs Ho Chee Boon and Hideki Hiwatashi. Bringing over 35 years of culinary expertise to the table, Boon’s impressive career has sizzled at some of the world’s most renowned Asian restaurants—think Hakkasan Global, Turandot in Moscow, Breeze in Bangkok and East Ocean Hong Kong. Hiwatashi’s culinary history is just as hot, boasting 30 years of rigorous Japanese culinary training specializing in the art of kaiseki cuisine from all over the world, including 13 years at the prestigious Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto (earning the restaurant not one but two Michelin stars during his run).
Just off the main dining space, the bar is an ideal place for pre- or post-dinner drinks
“It brings me great joy to introduce Molihua to Houston’s dynamic epicurean scene, where we hope to enchant guests with a harmonious fusion of traditional Japanese and Asian flavors within a stylish ambiance,” says chef Boon. “Our commitment to using carefully sourced, high-quality ingredients ensures that each dish boasts a unique flavor profile, setting us apart in the realm of culinary excellence.” Rife with a rich assortment of savory cuisine, the menu beckons with unexpected twists to traditional dishes served à la carte. Indulge in an array of decadent maki rolls, hot plates for the table, sashimi, nigiri and more. “I became a chef not only out of my love for food but for the power food has to bring people together. Molihua is more than what is on the plate, but a way for all of us to connect and further our understanding of one another.” As for our go-to order? It has to be the Aburi Nigiri Moriawade, made with Chutoro and Nama wasabi; salmon and shio koji; hotate and kizami wasabi; unagi and sansho pepper; topped with hamachi and truffle koji.
Throughout the culinary process, Molihua is dedicated to treating ingredients with the respect they deserve and preserving the integrity of each element
As if that’s not enticing enough, the restaurant’s alluring interiors are just as dazzling. Paying homage to its namesake—which means “jasmine” in Chinese—the space embraces the city’s upscale aesthetic while staying true to its roots. In the dimly illuminated dining area, custom floral displays hang from the ceiling, while plush booths coated in rich, red hues and warm wooden tabletops are thoughtfully woven together to create a welcoming essence reminiscent of its Japanese heritage. At the center of it all, the lively sushi bar adds an extra layer to the already immersive experience while complimenting the dining room and bar’s luxe design elements. Reservations are now available for the summer season, and a lunch menu is set to debut shortly. Kanpai! 7118 Bertner Ave.
Photography by: PHOTOS BY BRIAN KENNEDY
