Velvet Taco - Washington

Dallas-based Velvet Taco expanded its upscale taqueria concept in summer 2015, opening a location along Houston’s Washington Avenue. Situated in the former home of The Rig, the spot turns out globally-inspired tacos in everything from crisp tikka chicken tacos and Annatto shredded pork to a flank steak and shrimp and grits version.

After placing your order at the counter, snag a seat at one of the high-top tables or the long-stretching bar seats that flank the interior, or if you’re brave, out on the front patio. On the menu, vegetarians will find solid selections, too, especially in the Indian-style fried paneer taco and rotisserie corn. Wash everything down with a cold beer or house sangria margarita, the latter of which is potent, so heads up.

Velvet Taco is open daily for breakfast (served all day), lunch, dinner and late-night.