La Casa del Caballo, Pizaro's, and More

In her first formal review of a restaurant that opened in 2013, Chronicle critic Alison Cook awards two stars to Mexican steakhouse La Casa del Caballo. While she's pleased by the steaks, including the $170, four-pound rib-eye cap, Cook praises the sides, seafood and Mexican offerings as well. "Most Houstonians will find themselves drawn helplessly to the enchiladas on the menu. Don't bother to resist: Steak and enchiladas is a classic combo beloved as a tampiqueña platter, and you can make your own tampiqueña plates if you come with a group and split a couple of enchilada orders brimming with melted white cheese." [Houston Chronicle]

Press critic Katharine Shilcutt already awarded Pizaro's Pizza Napoletana the title of Houston's best last year, and her review this week reflects that level of enthusiasm. "It's refreshing to be able to say something like that — 'the best' — without being hyperbolic about the whole thing. Pizaro's Napoletana pizza truly is a thing of wonder, a style of pizza most well-known (and most appreciated) for its spartan spirit. It's made with a few vigorously vetted ingredients and very little else." [Houston Press]

In the new issue of Houston Modern Luxury, local food writer John DeMers offers an enthusiastic assessment of Roost Bistro's local, seasonal cuisine. "Recently, among the seasonal offerings, I've enjoyed several plates that were downright vegetarian— not my usual stomping ground. But I was impressed with the crispy chickpea lettuce wraps with North Africa harissa and cooling lime wedges, and the more substantial poblano pepper that's roasted and stuffed with a mix of quinoa and spinach. One of my favorite new dishes is the crudo of local fish that's given amazing textures by jicama, baby kale and a creamy puree of mango and chile." [Houston Modern Luxury]

The Blogs: Chili Bob's Houston Eats finds a neighborhood favorite at Italian deli Fresh and Savory in Stafford. Patty and David pay a visit to Cafe Kubo's for a lunchtime bento box of sauteed beef. Devour Houston relates a "dismal" experience at J. Black's on Washington. Hank on Food awards an A to wing and more joint BrewingZ. Julia explores Goro & Gun, where she decides the ramen still needs some tweaking. Urban Swank samples the new spring menu at Peruvian restaurant Latin Bites. Finally, speaking of ramen, Katie Walsh visits Austin's Ramen Tatsu-ya to give Houstonians a preview of what the future may hold.