Julia's Bistro

My wife and I made our third visit and each time has been a treat. The menu is creative, there is something for every palate, and the food is beautifully prepared and presented. Jesus performs miracles as the waiter, even remembering that she is white and I am red and that we each order a bottle. We look forward to our next visit and their summer menu. more

Last night, we visited Julia's for the first time. We ate off the special chef's menu and everything that we ordered was delicious. Highly recommend on food basis.\r \r The waiter on the other hand...\r \r The person that sat us was super nice. He came back as the waiter was busy and recommended a very nice reasonably priced wine based on what I mentioned that I was looking for. He took our order and checked back on us often. He was amazing and took care of each table as though he was getting the tip. Sadly he wasn't. \r \r Somewhere around dessert and coffee, the waiter decided that he had time for us. It physically pained me to tip him. \r \r Luckily the experience overall was great because of the nice man in the green sweater who actually cared that we were there. more

We went because we had driven by the place once, and I loved the red decor inside. We went on a week night, and there was only 1 other table there, and a few people at the bar. that is why I was shocked that our waiter seemed preoccupied and like he had other things to take care of besides our table. It wasn't until we got closer to dessert that he made conversation with us, and told us some history behind the place. We were obvious first timers, and you think with the lack of patrons, that he would want to make sure we had a great experience. That was really disappointing. Now onto the goods. The food: ceviche was delish, highly recommend. Trio de Empanaditas, some were good, some barely had any filling. Can't recommend. Chipotle Caesar was lacking spice to be called Chipotle. Pork Tenderloin was overcooked and dry. Trucha (trout) was pretty good and cooked perfectly. Tres Leches was average. the decor was really cool, I am a sucker for red. the drinks were good, we had a cocktail and a bottle of wine. more

So, I went with some well known food bloggers for Midtown's 10-Year Anniversary Party. Area businesses gathered to network and look cool. We showed up and everyone was dressed like it was a way-casual Friday. \r \r Julia had left at 6:30 PM (the party was until 7:30 PM). The general manager introduced himself and seemed nice. The staff was quick to clean up our bar napkins.\r \r They served $5 specialty drinks like Coconut Mojitos and Blackberry Mint Martinis. They normally have a $5 happy hour with many specialty drink with top-shelf liquors.\r \r They served 4 appetizers...and did not offer plates which made eating and enjoying the dishes out of a bar napkin very unlady-like (eating a turkey drumstick would have been more couth). 1.) The Vegetable Skewers which tasted healthy and were colorful. 2.) The Salmon Poppers were fair. 3.) The empanadas were dry and you couldn't taste the filling. 4.) The chicken skewers were thin and basted in chimichurri sauce...and the spices liked to stick to teeth.\r \r There was no fun Latin music. This is a celebration?\r \r They did offer complimentary valet parking, which was generous.\r \r I can say that I won't be back, only because Houston has many other Latin restaurants that offer so much more. Pros: Colorful walls, Blackberry Mint Martini Cons: Lack of presentation more

I went to Julia's with my wife and another couple for the first time last Friday the 16th. My wife was very pleased with the understated but classy decor. Me, I just want a quiet place to eat some good food. We had a very good time and some wonderful food. I started with one of their foo foo speciaty drinks called a picojito which I would normally avoid like the plague but actually liked real well. It was a very nice blend of mint, pineapple, Bicardi and club soda. I don't care for wine but my companions were pleased with their selections. My friend ordered the black bean soup and quickly ate every drop saying it was very good. I had the Chipotle Caesar salad, it was crisp and not overpowered by the dressing. The women didn't order any starters. We all had different main courses, I had the pan seared scallops and man were they big, tender and flavorful. The other entres we had were the grilled chicken in a creole sauce, grilled ribeye and pan seared tuna. Everyone went home happy and wanting to return again. (what else do you want from a restaurant?)\r \r Julia's is on the same block as the Continental Club and the Big Top Lounge, both usually have some good live music if you are into that. Pros: Good food with nice variety of selections. Quiet enough for easy conversation. Cons: Some fresh bread would be nice to have with the meal. more

I visited Julia's for the second time on New Year's Eve. I took 3 friends, all first time visitors, so I was slightly embarassed at the poor service and subpar food, as I had been the one to pick the restaurant that evening. We were given ONE special menu set for that evening, but were not given a wine list. We requested one, and were given ONE....we passed it around the table deciding on cocktails. We asked if we could order from the regular menu. We were given ONE in the form of some loose sheets of paper...we took turns passing around the menu, holiday menu, wine menu, and cocktail menu (all loose papers), since our goup was expected to share menus...(we were one of only four tables there). They took forever to take our order...and our specialty drinks took 20 minutes (order something they can pour out of a bottle to save time). We had made two reservations (accidentally) but neither were on the list when we arrived. We were told we needed to be out of our table by 8:30 to accomodate their 9pm reservations, but they were so slow serving us we didn't get our last course until we questioned if it was coming at all...around 9:20! The empanaditas were hot and savory, complimented by a great sauce...as were the crabcakes. The ceviche was dry for some reason, but the black eyed pea soup was good and comforting. The lobster, and filet were just okay, accompanied by bland overcooked vegetables. The cheesecake we received tasted as if it had just come from the freezer. We had to chip away at the outside shell to get to the softer center. However, the chocolate mousse was really smooth, creamy and worth every bite. The biggest disapointment was when our itemized bill was not reflective of what was listed on the menu. Not sure if their prices are outdated or what...but it makes a difference when ordering more than one cocktail per 4 people. I will not go back to this restaurant, nor will my friends. Hopefully they keep the faith in me for choosing future restaurants. Pros: Easy to get a table even when they lose your reservation Cons: Service, Food quality not reflective of pricing more

My wife and I met another couple for dinner on a Thursday night. There were only four other tables occupied in the entire restaurant, so we got prime seating at the front windows. For entrees, the scallops were perfectly seared and tender. The fillet was cooked to order, but the sauce with which it was topped was too salty and made the steak nearly inedible for my wife (who is a filet fanatic). I had the Broiled Flounder and was disappointed; the fish itself seemed fresh, but it (and the stuffing) was surprisingly bland. The accompanying potato cakes were flavorless and dry. \r \r The decor was modern and open. We would not be opposed to returning, but there are several other restaurants we prefer. A note on valet parking ? the parking lot behind the restaurant is small (perhaps 10-15 spaces) and is (complementary) valet only. The night we were there, the lot was empty, but I still had to valet. I simply could not justify a tip for someone moving my car 10 feet to park it and another 10 feet to pull it around. Ridiculous. However, we agree with another posting here: the area can be sketchy at night. \r Pros: Ambience, scallops Cons: Valet parking, service not-to-par more

ok, so my friends mom owns this restaurant. i had heard about it for quite some time before actualy driving up there because we live twenty minutes away. so we went. the place is amazing! i loved the food and the people! i was so happy i was invited to this place! now i cant stop going! im so happy the food is complimentary because well her daughter is my bff! i would love for everyone to have a chance to try this amazing place! dont listen to those who say it wasnt good, because its not good its not great its amazing! you will love it i guarentee! well lots of love to all of you, and ms. vasquez (owner) she is lovely as is her creation- Julia's Bistro! more

This place looked good from the description on it's site and we were not disappointed ! A work buddy & I were in town for a project and made the trip to Julia's - glad we did. Excellent food, service & drinks (didn't do dessert). Some folks really ragged on it, although I can't figure out why. Houston is a big town with a lot of resturants, most likely a lot of mediocre ones. This place is not one of them. Great mix of flavors, beautiful presentation and just the right size portions so you don't waddle away from your table the way so many ""American"" style cuisine resturants tend to do. Try it. Pros: Food, Service, decor Cons: Neighborhood may look a little sketchy at nite more

I have to say that there are not to many places to dine at in Houston that are worthy of comments on great food, atmosphere, and most important the service, but I have to complement Julia's. Some friends and I wanted to relax and have a nice dinner when one suggested going to Julia's. I've been several years ago and it was average. I'm not sure what happened, but I can definitely see that changes have been made and only for the better. We had a waiter by the name of Renato. Our food could have been average and I can honeltly say that all four of us would go back to just to spend time with this guy. Extremely nice and very helpful. Renato suggested food and wine for three of us. Outstanding food and service......Bravo Julia's more

I ordinarily do not concern myself with any restaurant opinions, but the reading of the negative comments by ROCKWELL-1936 regarding Julia?s Bistro energized me and warranted a response. The comments posted in November 2007 were made based on an experience in ?early 2007."" I discover Julia?s Bistro in September 2007 and consider myself a foodie and would say your description does not resemble the food, service, and ambience I experienced at Julia?s many times since then. The restaurant is colorful and clean, is always full of interesting flowers, and most importantly the wait staff has always been friendly and professional. The preparation and presentation of the dishes that my guests and I have enjoyed was terrific and tastes even better. Their wine list is extraordinary and the prices continued to be reasonable compared to other restaurants. I?ll give Rockwell-1936 the benefit of the doubt. It must have been a very ?bad hair day"" for him. Just know that Julia?s Bistro ROCKS!!! Pros: unique concept, outstanding dishes & service Cons: no brunch!!!!!!!!!!!!! come on? more

I went to Julia a few years ago when it was first opened, and the food there was outstanding. I went back a few more times, and the place was always packed and both the food and service are great. Early this year, however, my wife and I went there again, and we were very surprised to see a different working crew and the place was only half occupied on a weekend. This left us with the impression that the restaurant has changed hands and many customers voted their satisfaction by foot. We decided to give it a try any way, and were thoroughly disappointed by the food and the service. It has been a while, and I could not quite remember the name of the dish, but I could remember that the cactus side dish was way too sour to complement the main course. I had the appetizer of some kind of asian style thoroughly cooked pork. The pork was a little dry and lacked the intense flavor compared to the asian counterparts. There was some pickle on side but they tasted cheap and sour. The service was unprofessional?the wrong food was delivered and the bill contained items that we did not order. We came home very sad because Julia used to be a ""neighbor"" restaurant for us that offers trendy and delicious food with a modern decor to match. That was also where i took my then girlfriend to impress her. We wonder what happened to the original crew and hope that they are doing well some where and can tell us where they are. Pros: The original decor is still fresh and interesting Cons: Below average food and service more

Just to offer a counter position to the last review, my date and I went last night (Sept. 28) and had a great meal. The empanaditas were great, cocktails and wine were delicious, our main courses were Scallops and Pork Tenderloin (both wonderful) and the two desserts we tried were top notch. Service was friendly and everyone who came by to check on us seemed passionate about the food and presentation, and interested in making sure we were happy and would return. 5 stars, it's a great little place. more

My husband and I went to Julia's the other night to celebrate and although our first time here was questionable, we are big believers in trying a place twice, just in case it was just an ""off night"". We started out with the taquitos which were perfectly cooked and left us wanting more, but it was all downhill from there. I chose to begin with the exotic mix salad which boasts of a vanilla dressing. Although the plating was gorgeous, I couldn't eat it as the vanilla took over the dish and was so potent that it made me cringe my shoulders and draw my mouth into a nasty pout. I couldn't beleive that someone had tasted that dressing before serving it to a customer and if they had then they have no business being in the kitchen. I sent the dish back because it was inedible and substitued it with the lobster bisque whcih was a bit thin for my taste, but not bad. For my main course I ordered the scallops and they were still cold and raw inside!!! When I went to send the plate back and explained to our waitress what the problem was she actually said, ""That's happened a couple of times tonight!"" I was stunned. They tried to make amends with a free dessert but they should have comped our bill for the awful food and quite frankly I was unintrested in experimenting with anymore of their lacklaster cuisine. My advice, SKIP THIS HEALTH HAZARD, and grab some Taco Bell, it will be better trust me!!! Pros: Convenient midtown location Cons: undercooked and overseasoned food and overpriced more

TODAY, MY PARTNER AND I TRIED THE BISTRO FOR THE FIRST TIME. IT WAS A TYPICAL RAINY HOUSTON DAY, BUT THE BRIGHTNESS FROM THE DECOR REALLY CHANGED OUR MOOD. THE MAITRE D', FRANZ, PROMPTLY SHOWED US TO OUR TABLE WHERE OUR EXTRAORDINARY GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCE BEGAN. WE STARTED WITH A PERFECTLY MADE CEVICHE. I WILL TAKE MY HAT OFF FOR YOU, CHEF CARMEN, IT WAS VERY WELL EXECUTED WITH THE PERFECT BALANCE OF LIME AND SEASONINGS...AND AN AMAZING CONSISTENCE IN THE TEXTURE OF BOTH THE SHRIMP AND FISH....YUMMMM!!!! NEXT WE DECIDED TO TRY THE CHICKEN WRAP, WOWWW!!!!! THE GRILLED CHICKEN WAS MAGNIFISCENT CREATING AN EXPLOSION OF FLAVOR WITH EVERY BITE.......I AM GOING TO CONFESS....I GOT A LITTLE HOMESICK WITH THE HOMEMADE FLOUR TORTILLAS...KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK GUYS!!!! Pros: AMAZING FOOD AND SERVICE...WITH A NICE AMBIANCE more

Slow service with only about 6 tables occupied. The ceviche was awful - like sucking on a lime. It was a huge portion of tough fish and shrimp that was WAY over marinated. My dining partner and I both had fresh fish dishes that were unfortunately obscured by sweet, gloppy sauces. The menu itself is a bit overcomplicated...if this place stuck to showcasing the fresh ingredients instead of obliterating the tastes with unnecessary sauces and seasonings, they would be much better off. And I think they offer every side dish that can be found in Central and South America. A bit much....\r Unless you are set on Latino cuisine, you are much better off at Tafia around the corner (they showed up the day they taught seasoning class at cooking school) or Shade in the Heights. Pros: Ambiance Cons: service, food more

This restaurant is among the hidden gems in Houston's culinary environment. The chic decor and free valet doesn't begin to tell the story. The succcent fusion cuisine brings a symphony of flavor to your taste buds. From the soups and lobster quesadillas to the pumpkin flan. The ceviche is unlike any other, exquisite. A must try ! You'll definitely be back again and again. more

This is the first time I have rated a restaurant. That is because this is the first time I have felt the desire to tell everyone about an eatery which I have been lucky enough to be introduced to.\r \r I have dined at Julia's Bistro twice, and both occasions top my best meals list. The food is so fresh, flavorful, and vibrant. The environment is bright, warm, inviting, clean, and comfortable. Top it all off with complimentary valet and you have the winningest combination. Don't forget to try an excellent Mojito and finish off your meal with the deliciously satisfying Torta de Coco.\r \r Meals at Julia's have life, and such life should be experienced by everyone! more

The service was slow and the restaurant was not even half full. The food was bland and small portioned. It was also very overpriced. It was a case of presentation over substance. It sure looked pretty but had no flavor. Our waiter was funny when he finally got to the table.\r \r Don't waste your time or money!!! Pros: Hmmm?!! Cons: food, service, value... more

We were very dissappointed in Julia's. While we were seated promptly and the service was good, the food was tastless and overpriced. The wine list however was pretty decent. We went on a Friday night and the place was a third full. My guess is that they do not have much of a repeat business (if any). There are too many good restaurants in Houston, so pass on Julia's.\r Pros: Wine List Cons: Entrees are small, tasteless and over-priced. more