Xochi

Howdy, Houstonians! If you’re seeking a Mexican culinary experience that transcends the ordinary, one that’s celebrated not just locally but nationally, then you simply must discover Xochi. Located in the vibrant heart of downtown Houston, Xochi is far more than just a restaurant; it’s an immersive journey into the rich, complex, and indigenous flavors of Oaxaca, Mexico. Spearheaded by the acclaimed James Beard Award-winning Chef Hugo Ortega, Xochi offers an unparalleled dining adventure that captivates both the palate and the imagination.

In a city as passionate about food as Houston, Xochi stands out as a true gem. It’s a place where traditional Oaxacan techniques and ingredients are elevated to fine dining, resulting in dishes that are both deeply authentic and exquisitely presented. From the moment you step in, you'll feel the sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance that makes it perfect for everything from a special occasion to a memorable night out with loved ones. As one delighted diner shared, bringing family here led to them "falling in love" with the place, a testament to its universal appeal.

Xochi's reputation is built on its dedication to unique flavors, particularly its celebrated moles, and a service staff that goes above and beyond to ensure an exceptional experience. This commitment to culinary excellence and outstanding hospitality has earned it numerous accolades and a devoted following among Houston's discerning diners. This article will guide you through what makes Xochi a premier destination for Mexican cuisine in Houston, detailing its prime location, the sophisticated services it offers, its extraordinary culinary highlights, and why it's a perfect fit for our local community.

Xochi is magnificently situated at 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010, USA. This prime location places it on the ground floor of the luxurious Marriott Marquis Houston, directly across from the popular Discovery Green Park in downtown. This strategic positioning makes it incredibly accessible and convenient for a wide range of visitors, whether they are Houston locals, business travelers, or tourists exploring our city.

Being in downtown Houston, Xochi benefits from excellent connectivity. It is easily reachable via major roads, and for those utilizing public transportation, numerous options are available within walking distance, including METRORail stops. The proximity to key attractions such as the George R. Brown Convention Center and Minute Maid Park makes it an ideal dining choice before or after events.

For parking, Xochi offers valet parking during dinner hours (Monday-Saturday starting at 4 PM) and Sunday Brunch (11 AM - 3 PM), which is a great convenience in the bustling downtown area. While valet is not available for weekday lunch or Saturday day, ample street parking and nearby parking garages are accessible, ensuring that guests have various options for their vehicles. The vibrant surroundings of Discovery Green also add to the appeal, offering a pleasant environment to enjoy before or after your meal.

Xochi, as an upscale Mexican restaurant led by a James Beard Award-winning chef, offers a sophisticated range of services designed to provide a premium dining experience:

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy an exquisite meal in an elegant and vibrant setting, perfect for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings.
• Lunch, Dinner & Weekend Brunch: Xochi serves lunch and dinner throughout the week, with a special brunch menu available on Sundays, offering a diverse array of Oaxacan-inspired dishes for different times of the day.
• Extensive Bar Program: Featuring an impressive selection of mezcals, tequilas, and Mexican craft beers, alongside creative cocktails and sangria, providing perfect pairings for their unique cuisine.
• Private Dining & Events: Xochi can accommodate private parties and events, offering a sophisticated space for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or special occasions. Their team is equipped to handle various event sizes and requirements.
• Expert Recommendations & Attentive Service: The staff, notably servers like William and Juan, are praised for being "super professional and attentive," offering "recommendations for a variety of flavors" and ensuring a seamless dining experience.
• Chef's Tasting Menu / Prix Fixe Options: For those looking for a curated culinary journey, Xochi often offers a Prix Fixe menu, described as "a must-try! Masterfully executed, beautiful presentation, and delicious!!"
• House-Made Delicacies: A commitment to authenticity means they produce many items in-house, including various moles, different colors of corn for tortillas, and even house-made chocolate from cacao beans.

Xochi distinguishes itself through a collection of remarkable features and culinary highlights that make it a true standout in Houston's dining scene:

• Award-Winning Chef Hugo Ortega: The restaurant is helmed by James Beard Award-winning Chef Hugo Ortega, the first Mexican-born chef to win this prestigious award. His expertise and passion for Oaxacan cuisine are evident in every dish, bringing a level of authenticity and innovation rarely found.
• Exquisite Moles: A signature of Oaxacan cuisine, Xochi's moles are consistently praised. Customers rave that "The moles are all so flavorful and tasty!", offering a deep dive into the diverse and complex flavors of this traditional Mexican sauce.
• Phenomenal Service: The staff receives consistent accolades for being "super professional and attentive." Specific mentions of servers like William and Juan highlight the personalized and knowledgeable service that enhances the entire dining experience.
• Unique Oaxacan Specialties: Xochi goes beyond typical Mexican restaurant offerings, featuring distinctive dishes like "Robalo" (raw striped bass with creamy avocado and plantain tostada) praised for "fantastic presentation and delicious flavor," and "Memel" (toasted masa pancake with roasted pork and assorted vegetables and cheese) that makes the "mouth so happy with every bite."
• Out-of-This-World Pulpo: The "grilled octopus with purple potatoes and green chorizo" is described as "out of this world," with tender octopus and a unique flavor balance from the chorizo.
• Artisanal Cocktails and Sangria: The beverage program is a highlight, with reviewers noting that "The cocktails and sangria were great too," perfect for complementing the rich flavors of the food.
• Sophisticated Ambiance: Located in the Marriott Marquis Houston, Xochi offers an upscale and vibrant atmosphere, suitable for fine dining, special occasions, or simply an elevated culinary experience.
• Commitment to Authenticity: The restaurant prides itself on incorporating indigenous Oaxacan ingredients and traditional preparations, including house-made masas, quesillo (Oaxacan cheese), and even edible insects for an adventurous palate.
• Must-Try Dishes: Customer recommendations include the "taquitos dorados" and "cooked oysters" as appetizers, and the "barbacoa" as a main dish, all described as "a must."

For those eager to experience the culinary delights of Xochi, here's how you can get in touch:

• Address: 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010, USA
• Phone: (713) 400-3330
• Mobile Phone: +1 713-400-3330

Xochi strongly recommends making reservations, especially for dinner and weekend brunch, due to its popularity. Reservations for parties greater than 6, or on holidays, typically require a direct call to the restaurant. For the most up-to-date hours of operation, menu details, and to make a reservation, visiting their official website is highly recommended.

For us Houston locals, Xochi represents a pinnacle of Mexican fine dining that truly enriches our city’s diverse culinary landscape. It is perfectly suitable for locals because it offers an authentic, yet elevated, Oaxacan culinary journey that goes beyond what many might expect from a Mexican restaurant. The presence of a James Beard Award-winning chef, Hugo Ortega, ensures a consistent standard of excellence and innovation that makes every visit a special occasion.

The deep, complex flavors of their moles, the unique preparation of dishes like the Robalo and Pulpo, and the consistently "phenomenal" quality of the food speak directly to a local population that appreciates genuine culinary artistry. This is not just Tex-Mex; this is a celebration of one of Mexico's most diverse and rich culinary regions, presented with sophistication and flair.

Moreover, the exceptional service, with attentive staff like William and Juan, creates a welcoming and personalized dining experience. This level of hospitality, combined with the elegant ambiance of its downtown location across from Discovery Green, makes Xochi ideal for everything from a romantic date night to celebrating family milestones or entertaining out-of-town guests. For Houstonians seeking to explore the nuanced depths of Mexican cuisine in a sophisticated setting, Xochi is an indispensable and highly recommended destination. It truly offers a taste of Oaxaca right here in our own backyard.

Xochi

1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010, USA