As the first Mexican-born chef to win a James Beard Award and a long-time Houstonian, Hugo Ortega understands the city’s food scene better than most. From entering the industry at 17 as a dishwasher and busboy to building a flourishing suite of restaurants (Hugo’s, Caracol, Xochi, URBE and Zaranda), Ortega’s long been inspired by a familial love of cooking. His own dining habits are just as wide-ranging, making a beloved Greek restaurant his pick for World Cup visitors.
- Favorite local restaurant right now: Yiayia’s Greek Kitchen
- The one dish to order there: “Lots to enjoy here but I particularly love the braised lamb shank (kleftiko) served with pearl onion, carrot and fennel potatoes. Even though this entrée has potatoes, we always have to get a side of patates riganates, lemon-roasted potatoes.”
- Why he loves the place: “This is the newest concept from the legendary Pappas family, well-known and respected Houston restaurateurs. Everything ‘sings’ at this restaurant—the space itself is attractive and welcoming, the service is friendly-yet-refined and the food and drink are top-notch.”