Agnes and Sherman

- 250 W 19th St A, Houston, TX 77008

In the vibrant and historic Houston Heights neighborhood, a new kind of diner has emerged, one that redefines what comfort food can be. Agnes and Sherman is a unique and personal culinary venture that serves up a nostalgic, whimsical, and genre-defying experience. Named after the owner's parents, this Asian-owned and women-owned establishment is a heartfelt homage to a cultural blend that many Texans can relate to. It’s a place where American diner staples meet the rich, complex flavors of Asian cuisine, creating a menu that is both familiar and excitingly new.

Agnes and Sherman is more than just a restaurant; it’s a story told through food. The menu is a reflection of the chef's personal journey, bringing together the best of both worlds—from the comforting American classics his father enjoyed to the rich Chinese and Cantonese flavors his mother loved. This fusion is executed with intention and playfulness, as seen in dishes like the Savory Scallion Waffle, which reimagines a traditional Chinese scallion pancake with a Texas-style twist of sambal honey butter. The result is a dish that is an "experience" in itself, as described by a customer who found it "absolutely delicious" and a "must order."

The atmosphere at Agnes and Sherman is casual and welcoming, designed to be a comfortable space for a diverse crowd. The restaurant identifies as both LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace, emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity. The decor, with its retro tilework and old family photos, evokes a classic diner feel while the modern and clean aesthetic keeps it trendy. The service is consistently praised as being "incredible," with staff described as "super sweet and attentive," ensuring a positive dining experience for everyone who walks through the door.

The food menu is filled with intriguing and delightful options. Beyond the celebrated scallion waffle, other starters like the "Crispy Shell-On Shrimp" have received rave reviews for their incredible flavor. The "Chinese BBQ Club" sandwich is another hit, with its perfectly toasted bread and crispy bacon that pairs wonderfully with the char siu. Even classic dishes get a makeover, such as the Egg Foo Young with crawfish and gumbo gravy, which blurs the lines between Southern and Chinese-American cuisine. For dessert, the "Masa Corn Cake" and the "Sundae" with pandan ice cream and a special herbal syrup offer a surprising and satisfying end to the meal.

However, like any new and ambitious venture, there have been some mixed reviews, particularly concerning certain dishes and pricing. While the food is often described as delicious and innovative, some diners have found the portion sizes to be small for the price, especially on items like the "Steak Frites," where the "frites" or fries were more like small, overwhelming potato chips. This highlights the unique nature of Agnes and Sherman—it's not a traditional diner with massive, cheap plates. Instead, it's a "cheffy" take on comfort food, where the value comes from the unique flavors, high-quality ingredients, and creative concepts. For those seeking an elevated and different dining experience, these factors are a major draw.

Agnes and Sherman is conveniently located at 250 W 19th St A, Houston, TX 77008, USA, right in the heart of the historic Houston Heights. This bustling area is known for its unique shops, cafes, and eateries. Parking is made easy with free street parking available in the vicinity. The restaurant is also committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible restroom and seating, ensuring all guests can dine comfortably.

• Dine-in: Enjoy a meal in the cozy and family-friendly dining room with table service.

• Catering: While not explicitly detailed, the restaurant offers catering services, making it a great option for events and gatherings.

• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which are recommended, particularly during busy hours, to ensure a spot.

• Asian Fusion Menu: Offers a unique and creative blend of classic American diner food and Asian comfort cuisine.

• Savory Scallion Waffle: A standout menu item that has garnered significant praise for its flavor and creativity.

• Inclusive & Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant is identified as a women-owned and Asian-owned business, with a family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly crowd.

• Great Drinks: Known for a great selection of cocktails and a curated wine list that complements the food.

• High-Quality Ingredients: The kitchen is visible to customers, showcasing the freshness of the ingredients and the care that goes into each dish.

Address: 250 W 19th St A, Houston, TX 77008, USA
Phone: (713) 965-6088

Choosing Agnes and Sherman is about embracing a fresh, innovative take on comfort food. What makes this establishment a worthwhile choice is its ability to blend nostalgic diner vibes with the rich and complex flavors of Asian cuisine in a way that feels both personal and groundbreaking. This isn't just another neighborhood spot; it's a culinary experience that tells a story and expands the very definition of American comfort food. For Houstonians looking for something new and exciting, this is the place to be.

The must-try dishes like the "Savory Scallion Waffle" and the "Crispy Shell-On Shrimp" are reason enough to visit. These are not just meals; they are conversations starters. While some of the prices may be higher than a traditional diner, the value lies in the quality of the ingredients, the creativity of the menu, and the uniqueness of the concept. It's a place where you can find familiar dishes with an unexpected twist, such as the "Smoked Onion Patty Melt" and "Al Pastor Fried Rice."

Ultimately, Agnes and Sherman is a testament to Houston's incredible culinary diversity. It’s a place to go for a delicious, thought-provoking meal in an inclusive and friendly setting. If you're looking for great food and a memorable experience that will challenge your expectations of a "diner," Agnes and Sherman is a perfect choice.

Agnes and Sherman

250 W 19th St A, Houston, TX 77008, USA