El Meson

One of our favorite venue in the Rice Village is the El Meson. I think I only go there for the plantain, they make the best plantain around town. But when I sit down, I am reminded how much great food this place has to offier.

I often go between Carne Guisada or Carne Asada (pictured above), or there are times I mix and match with Tapas and make it up as a meal.

El Meson is really an institution for the Rice Village, that place has been at that location for a long time which is really a cornerstone for the entire place. The funky painting and the owner's family photo of their trip of Spain really brings a comfortable feeling. Nothing too fancy or stuffy, it's quirky just like everybody's family.

The Carne Asada was grilled meat with a side of rice and of course a side of plantain. The meat was grilled with garlic and you see little bits of it on the meat too. That brings out the flavor and kick. It also come with a side of beans and a side salad. Honestly, as big of an appetite as I do, that's just too much food because as these Spanish restaurants often offer, chips and salsa. Stuffed!

If you ever in the mood for stew type dish, try the Carne Guisada. It's a nice and warm your tummy (umm... maybe in the winter). But aside from that, their tapas are worth trying... sharing or not. I often get the Tortilla Espanola (it is a cold potato omelet), and the Pinchos with the lime. That's pork tenderloin w/ the lime and amazingly it's not over-empowering the taste buds.

El Meson
2425 University Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77005
Tel. (713) 522-9306
http://www.elmeson.com/