Monday, April 28, 2008

HOUSTON'S: 60 State St, Boston, MA

This past weekend I tagged along with my close friend and her boyfriend for lunch. As we walked around touristy Faneuil Hall, we foolishly attempted to eat at a few different "chain restaurants!" I know, I know… I also try to make it a general rule to stay away from the chain restaurant. However, I believe one should try everything at least once. Besides, what kind of self labeled restaurant critic would I be if I did not review everything? Anyway, as it turned out, many of these chain establishments were fortunately closed due to a water main break in the area the night before. As we were discussing our options, I suddenly remembered that my favorite "cougar den" was right around the corner. Houston's literally is the best place to grab a drink and hunt for cougars mid-week after work. I have never been there to eat, so we figured this was the best time to try it out because it was too early in the day for any cougars to pounce on us. As we burrowed our way through the door, we were magically transported out of Boston's sunny tourist trap and into a dimly lit lounge. Once past the bar and escorted safely to the dining area, I noticed that the ambiance was surprisingly mediocre. In addition, the young waitresses were quite pleasant. I honestly was shocked! When it was time to order, we all decided on burgers and, again, I was somewhat impressed. I mean, don't get me wrong. There are definitely better places to eat that are within walking distance, but I seriously expected Houston's to be much worse. On the other hand, Houston's menu is a bit overpriced. Nevertheless, they are located in the perfect area to over charge the typical city visitor. Overall, I have no major complaints. So, I have vowed that if I was ever hungry in the area again, and I couldn't decide on a place to eat, AND if it was too early in the day to be mauled by a chain smoking cougar, I would definitely "consider" going back.

Unenthusiastically, Houston's gets 2 kirby cakes!



2 comments:

Me said...

In the chain rest. world, Houston's is a bit of a benchmark rest. Much in the same way Beringer is the benchmark for white zin. They have something called the Houston's nod that is what one might notice if paying attention to the staff. As they walk through the rest, they look from one side to the other for tings on the floor, a guest in need, that sort of thing. As far as that type of place is concerned, they are pretty much at the top of the game.

Cougars can't chain smoke in rests anymore, btw.

I see you have included links. One to One really DOES work!

;-)

Anonymous said...

I used to be a fan of Houston's when I lived in Memphis because my ex-girlfriend (my how times have changed) was a secret shopper, hence free food has a way of taking on a certain exuberance unlike no other. Anyway, the pork chop is bloody good. However, I went to the one in Faneuil Hall and my BF had to return his chop twice. The meal was free, but there was no secret shopping to be had on our part, just a crap meal.

I give it 1.5 Korgy Crowns

Cheers.

Neil Korgaokar