Salento Bistrot

I feel so lucky I stumbled upon the sweetest little lunch spot, Salento Bistrot! (of course I was thrifting right around the corner) I was definitely unsure of what they offered but the place appeared quaint and cozy. I instinctively got a warm welcoming vibe. They offer indoor and outdoor seating and the waitstaff was polite as they come. I ordered the salmon dish that comes with an empanada and oh boy it was beyond DELICIOUS!!! I choose the spinach empanada but apparently they have a large variety of other options to choose from. They offer wine and other pastries as well. I order a coffee and it was pure perfection! The menu is very limited, but the options look tasty. I would’ve sat outside had it not been frigid that day. The parking can be can be limited in that area but I wouldn’t let that stop you! My suggestion is that you do not pass this place up! So do yourself a favor and put it on your list of places to visit! Happy Eating!🍽️

7 months ago

We had a pleasant brunch at this Spanish influenced Latin locale with a touch of French. They have indoor and outdoor seating options. Some inside ones are cozy for small and larger groups. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. This was my first egg and bacon empanada which was delicious. All of our choices were exemplary. Nicely presented tea service. My partner found varieties that were within her restrictions. All in all, this is a great time proven place in Rice Village. Nice rest rooms too. Definitely recommend.

3 months ago

A Rice Village go to. The quality of food is only matched by the top tier service given at this amazing restaurant. (Ask for Abrian - he won't disappoint) My wife and I frequent Salento for date nights. We try to come for the live concerts when we can. It's truly a magical experience. If you're looking for the right ambiance to take your date then you have to come and visit. Trust me, Salento does not miss.

2 months ago

Not much vegan options, but they were happy to change the avocado toast (instead of cheese the add mushrooms, and they didn’t add the cheese on the beans) There was no vegan empanada, I would love to have taste one, they looked fine. I eat nicely and I enjoyed the food, but I had a hard time to get around the menu… it should be better specify and more vegan options. Everybody eats veggies, nuts, cereal… it would be more inclusive and more people would come if there were more plant based options.

5 months ago

This is hands down one of the best patio restaurants in Houston—we just had our second visit and it blew us away even more! The Rice Village outdoor dining vibe is unbeatable: perfect sunny afternoon, gentle breeze, ideal Houston patio weather under that gorgeous pink rose wall. Live music kicked in right away—an incredible guitarist and soulful vocalist whose electric chemistry and beautiful harmonies made everything feel magical. Live music on the patio at its absolute finest! Service was amazing—spot-on, warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming from start to finish. They recommended the paella, empanadas, and the perfect white wine pairing, and wow, they nailed every suggestion. The empanadas came out quickly and were phenomenal—golden, super flaky, crispy edges, juicy and perfectly seasoned fillings. Some of the best empanadas in Houston, no exaggeration! The paella arrived fast too and was next-level: generous plump shrimp, tender mussels, vibrant saffron-infused rice cooked flawlessly. Every bite exploded with fresh, authentic flavor. The white wine they paired? Crisp, bright, citrusy, chilled perfectly—it elevated the seafood like magic. Best paella and wine pairing in Houston hands down. Food quality was amazing across the board—everything was fresh, flavorful, and executed to perfection. The patio was lively yet cozy, service flawless, and the whole experience pure top-rated Houston outdoor dining bliss. Parking in Rice Village can be tricky, but 100% worth it. If you’re searching for must-try restaurants in Houston, live music dining Houston, best patio spots Rice Village, authentic paella Houston, gourmet empanadas near me, or top outdoor dining Houston, this place belongs at the top of your list. We’re already counting down to visit #3!

4 months ago