Welcome to Bistro Menil
Bistro Menil, located at 1513 W Alabama St in Houston, TX, invites guests to indulge in a delightful culinary experience. Renowned for its afternoon tea service, the bistro offers a selection of exquisite treats, including classic lemon tarts and creamy vanilla crème brûlée. With a short yet diverse menu, there's something for everyone, from flavorful pizzas to refreshing salads. The ambiance, complemented by attentive service, creates a serene dining atmosphere ideal for any occasion. Guests rave about the Moroccan Mint Green Tea and the unique Eggplant Chips, making Bistro Menil not just a meal, but a memorable culinary journey.
- 1513 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006, United States1513 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006, United States Hotline: +1 713-904-3537
Welcome to Bistro Menil, an enchanting culinary gem nestled in Houston's vibrant Montrose neighborhood at 1513 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006. This delightful bistro seamlessly blends French-inspired fare with a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for casual dining or a special celebration. The lavish ambience sets the stage for unforgettable gastronomic experiences, where guests are invited to savor the culinary artistry of each dish.
At Bistro Menil, you can indulge in a curated menu that showcases the chef’s creativity and passion for flavor. Beginning with the Demitasse Cup of Soup du Jour, diners can warm their palates with a delightful daily selection. Of particular note, the bistro’s signature afternoon tea service has garnered rave reviews—featuring refreshing herbal tisanes like pure peppermint and calming chamomile. Customer testimonials highlight the bistro's accommodating approach, particularly for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied.
For those seeking exquisite pairings, Bistro Menil offers a selection of sparkling wines, including the delightful Graitiot & Cie Champagne Brut Almanach No.1. Whether enjoying a quiet brunch or a lively lunch, the various offerings cater to all tastes, as Paul Lavin mentioned in his review of their selection of wood-fired pizzas, such as the delectable Pizza Amalfi, featuring gourmet toppings like pear and truffle oil.
The outdoor patio is a must-visit during pleasant weather, as noted by Mary Gibbs, who enjoyed her meal in the sun. The atmosphere is further elevated by the attentive service from staff members, who ensure that each dining experience is memorable. It's not just about the food at Bistro Menil; it's about creating a warm and inviting environment for families and friends alike.
For the adventurous and discerning food lovers out there, Bistro Menil provides an unforgettable experience that awakens the senses—from the delicious eggplant chips that Jeff A. praised to the hearty burgers that Helen Jones lauded as a perfect Texas introduction. Whether you are looking to unwind with a cup of tea or celebrate a special occasion over a delicious meal, Bistro Menil stands ready to welcome you into their world of culinary delight.
If you're in the mood for a unique dining experience, give them a call at +1 713-904-3537 to reserve your table. Discover why this charming bistro is quickly becoming a beloved hotspot among locals and visitors alike.

Absolutely fabulous afternoon tea service. I'm allergic to tomatoes and wheat, the gluten free options were delicious! Excellent service, started with champagne, then our choice of tea. I would love to try them all! We had come for brunch and made plans to come back for the afternoon tea. I loved it and will go again!!

Short but comprehensive menu and brief but great wine list. All tastes are pretty much catered for. Efficient and friendly service. Quiet lunch, a precious thing. Pizza Amalfi with pear and truffle oil was plenty for two.

Loved dining on the outside patio on a beautiful spring day. Food was amazing and Laine provided great service. Had the chicken/salad/brussel sprouts and a cocktail and blackberry cake.

My first burger in Texas didn't disappoint! Great service and atmosphere. All ages were there including a family with two small children. Recommended

A really lovely cafe bistro. The eggplant chips were out of this world. We've all eaten our fair share of pizzas but somehow the Chef takes it to another level. Highly recommended.

As a celiac girlie, finding a restaurant that truly accommodates gluten-free dining is a challenge—but Bistro Menil exceeded my expectations! While they don’t have a dedicated gluten-free menu, the staff was incredibly knowledgeable and went above and beyond to help me find safe options. The food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, and the atmosphere is just as lovely—perfect for a relaxed brunch or a cozy dinner. Plus, being right next to The Menil Collection makes it an ideal spot for a full-day experience! Highly recommend for my fellow gluten-free foodies looking for a safe and delicious meal in Houston! You can also follow my journey navigating gluten-free life with EoE over at @glutenfreewitheoe on Instagram for more great finds!

I've been to the Bistro many times but haven't for about a year. I'm glad I returned today. I had lunch with a friend and the Bistro was just as I left it! Great service from the staff, food is always spot on and the area always clean. The menu is small but I prefer that. My personal opinion, since the menu is small, the chef can freshly make your dish! I had the Duck Confit and it was prepared perfectly! Another "plus" for the Bistro is that it's just across the street from the Menil Gallery, which is a free gallery and nice to walk around after you've eaten! Remember, the Bistro is on the small side, so a reservation is good to have.

An excellent French restaurant that is very accommodating for gluten free food. The service was decent, and the food was great. Make sure to order the baked Alaska for dessert, unless they add Creme Caramel to the menu. I would definitely return in the future should I come back to Houston.