The saying goes — you never know how much something means to you until it is gone. It makes sense. How can I miss you if you’re never gone? It applies to just about everything if you think about it, girlfriends, pets, even restaurants.
While I have always enjoyed the food at Mai’s Restaurant, I had no idea how many people were lovers of the edge-of-Midtown, Vietnamese eatery until it burned down two Februarys ago and my Facebook stream literally overflowed with broken-hearted status updates. The outcry surprised me because honestly, the only thing that really distinguished this place from the several other Vietnamese restaurants in the area was that it stayed open really late. Then again… any restaurant that has late night hours scores extra points with me!
Earlier this year, the family-owned restaurant re-opened to a hungry crowd of Mai’s loyalists and newcomers alike. Anna Pham, the third generation owner and daughter of the actual Mai, envisioned a bigger, more modern restaurant without losing the authenticity of the original Mai’s. Nearly a year after their anticipated re-opening, the redesigned and expanded restaurant has successfully returned to its previous prominence among the Houston food scene.
With its new, modern decor and a brand new second floor dining area, Mai’s now matches a beautiful venue with the welcoming atmosphere and tasty cuisine that made the original Mai’s an Asian culinary staple. The menu consists of all the classic Vietnamese dishes that restaurant goers should be accustomed to. Highlights of the menu include the combination beef Pho, assorted vermicelli bowls, and Mai’s signature dish, Bo Luc Lac (Garlic Beef).
Whether you’re looking for a reliable lunch spot in Midtown or looking to satisfy that late night (they still open until 4am on the weekends), post-club munchies, Mai’s Restaurant remains a can’t miss option.
PHOTOS
Speak Your Mind