Business Details
9 Years
experience
Authentic Oaxacan Dining in Houston
Xochi, founded in 2017 by award-winning Chef Hugo Ortega and the H Town Restaurant Group, celebrates the culinary heritage of Oaxaca, Mexico. Our menu showcases traditional Oaxacan ingredients like mole, chocolate, mezcal, and edible insects, all prepared using authentic methods such as wood-fired cooking and house-made masa. We prioritize scratch-made dishes, from salsas and cheeses to roasted cacao, ensuring an immersive cultural experience.Recognized with accolades including the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef: Southwest award, our team combines decades of culinary expertise with a passion for preserving indigenous traditions. Located in downtown Houston, we offer private dining spaces and a patio overlooking Discovery Green Park, blending exceptional service with vibrant flavors for both casual and special occasions.
Services
Oaxacan-inspired dinner
Private dining events
Catering services
Mezcal tastings
Wood-fired cuisine
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Award-winning Chef Hugo Ortega brings decades of expertise in Oaxacan cuisine.
- Scratch-made dishes using traditional techniques like wood-fired cooking and house-roasted cacao.
- Extensive mezcal selection with nearly 100 varieties, recognized nationally.
- Private dining spaces and patio views of Discovery Green Park.
- James Beard Foundation Award-winning team committed to culinary authenticity.
What people say
Authentic Oaxacan flavors
Award-winning chef
Vibrant downtown views
Creative mezcal cocktails
Impeccable service
Services
Oaxacan-Inspired Dinner
Our dinner menu highlights Oaxaca's culinary traditions with wood-fired dishes, handmade tortillas, and house-roasted cacao. Ingredients like mole, mezcal, and edible insects are prepared using ancestral techniques. Perfect for diners seeking authentic Mexican flavors with a modern twist in downtown Houston.
Private Dining Events
Host events in our dedicated spaces, including the Espadin Room (60 seated) and Chapulin Room (20 seated). Ideal for business lunches, celebrations, or corporate gatherings with customizable Oaxacan menus. Enjoy amenities like AV equipment and valet parking in a vibrant downtown setting.
Mezcal Tastings
Explore nearly 100 varieties of mezcal through curated tastings. Our selection showcases regional producers and traditional distillation methods. Pairings with Oaxacan snacks like mole negro ganache enhance the smoky, complex flavors of this signature Mexican spirit.
Catering Services
Bring Oaxaca's flavors to your office or home with customized catering menus. Options include traditional moles, tacos, and cocktails. Our team accommodates dietary needs and event sizes, from intimate gatherings to large corporate functions across Houston.
Wood-Fired Cuisine
Experience authentic wood-fired cooking with dishes like octopus, skirt steak, and tlayudas. The open flame enhances natural flavors while preserving traditional Oaxacan preparation methods. Served in a lively atmosphere with downtown Houston views.
People
Chef Hugo Ortega
Executive Chef
Award-winning chef and Oaxacan cuisine expert, recipient of the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef: Southwest award. Brings decades of experience in traditional Mexican cooking techniques.
Tracy Vaught
Co-Owner
Recognized with the Craig Claiborne Lifetime Achievement Award and multiple James Beard Award nominations. Leads hospitality operations for the H Town Restaurant Group.
Questions
What type of cuisine does Xochi serve?
Xochi specializes in Oaxacan-inspired Mexican cuisine, featuring traditional dishes like moles, tlayudas, and mezcal-based cocktails.
Are reservations required?
Reservations are recommended for dinner and private events but not mandatory. Walk-ins are welcome during operating hours.
Does Xochi offer catering services?
Yes, we provide customizable catering menus for events, featuring Oaxacan dishes and cocktails delivered to your location.
What awards has Xochi received?
Xochi has won accolades including the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef: Southwest award and recognition in Alison Cook's Top 100 Restaurants.
Is there parking available?
Valet parking is available at $11 with validation during dinner hours. Street parking is also available nearby.
Can I host a private event at Xochi?
Yes, we have two private dining rooms and a covered patio for events, accommodating groups from 20 to 80 guests.
