Netflix chef's modern Mexican restaurant opens in Houston.
Get ready to mark your calendars and make your reservations, because we just had an absolutely unforgettable experience at Mayahuel, Houston's newest modern Mexican restaurant, nestled in the vibrant Autry Park in Midtown. We were incredibly fortunate to be invited to their family and friends soft opening, making us some of the very first to savor their exquisite brunch before they officially open to the public on July 18th.
From the moment we stepped through the doors, the restaurant's atmosphere enveloped us in an experience all its own. We were warmly welcomed by exceptionally polite hosts who guided us to our table, setting the tone for the impeccable service to come. The modern decor, with its sleek lines, tasteful art, and inviting lighting, created an ambiance that was both chic and comfortable, perfectly complementing the culinary journey ahead. The true heart of Mayahuel immediately captivated us: an expansive, open kitchen right at the center of the restaurant. There are no walls, no glass barriers – just Chef Luis Robledo Richards and his talented team, orchestrating culinary magic right before your eyes. It truly felt as though we were part of the creative process, witnessing the artistry firsthand.
And speaking of Chef Luis Robledo Richards, his presence elevates Mayahuel to a league of its own. For those unfamiliar, Chef Richards is a world-renowned Mexican chef, celebrated pastry chef, and chocolatier behind Mexico City's esteemed "Tout Chocolat." His impressive resume includes stints in Michelin-starred kitchens in Paris and serving as Executive Pastry Chef at iconic establishments like Le Cirque in New York. He was even named "Best Pastry Chef in Latin America" by the World's 50 Best Restaurants and has graced your screens as a judge on the Netflix series Sugar Rush: The Baking Point. At Mayahuel, his philosophy shines through, with a deep reverence for seasonal ingredients and heirloom corn imported directly from Mexico, truly "honoring time, place, and process" in every dish.
Our culinary journey began with delightful sips of their Elderflower Infused Spritz and the "Acapulco," their sophisticated take on the classic tequila sunrise. These handcrafted cocktails were the perfect prelude to what followed: freshly made Conchas that were, quite simply, beyond this world – light, airy, and bursting with authentic flavor.
The entire menu read like a poem, with each description painting a vivid picture that made our taste buds tingle. After much deliberation, we settled on the Mexico City-Style Eggs Benedict and the Enfrijoladas de Pollo. Each plate was a revelation. The freshness was undeniable, and we could distinctly taste every single ingredient, a testament to the quality and thoughtful preparation. It was modern Mexican cuisine at its finest, a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
Despite it being their very first brunch service, the service was absolutely superb. Every staff member was incredibly friendly, attentive, and genuinely enthusiastic, ensuring a seamless and delightful dining experience.
We cannot recommend Mayahuel highly enough. Whether for a sophisticated dinner or a vibrant brunch, this is a must-visit destination. Be sure to make your reservations soon – you won't want to miss out on this extraordinary culinary gem. We are definitively planning our return, and this time, we'll be bringing even more friends to share in the magic!