Chi'Lantro

- 1324 N Shepherd Dr Suite 150, Houston, TX 77008

For those in Houston seeking a meal that breaks the mold, offering a creative and delicious twist on familiar flavors, Chi'Lantro is a must-visit destination. This isn't your traditional Korean restaurant; it's a vibrant, fast-casual concept that masterfully blends the bold, savory flavors of Korean BBQ with the comforting, customizable style of Tex-Mex cuisine. Founded in Austin and having found a beloved home in the Houston Heights, Chi'Lantro has built a reputation on its unique approach to fusion food, making it a popular choice for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. It's a place where the atmosphere is as inviting as the food is flavorful, perfect for college students, families, and groups alike.

The star of the show at Chi'Lantro is undoubtedly "The Original Kimchi Fries™." This iconic dish, which has achieved legendary status among fans, features a bed of crispy French fries topped with homemade caramelized kimchi, your choice of protein, melted cheese, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of Chi'Lantro's signature sauces. It's a perfect example of the restaurant's fusion concept—a harmonious blend of crispy, spicy, savory, and cheesy that creates an addictively good flavor. While some die-hard fans might reminisce about its food truck origins, the modern restaurant continues to serve up the same delicious flavors that made it famous.

Beyond the famous fries, Chi'Lantro is best known for its "build-your-own" concept, which has been compared to a "Korean version of Chipotle." This allows every diner to craft a meal that suits their exact preferences. You can start with a bowl (rice or noodles), choose from a variety of Korean BBQ-inspired proteins like marinated beef or K'Pop chicken, and then pile on fresh toppings like black beans, esquites, and kimchi. The experience is both interactive and satisfying, giving you complete control over your flavor journey. The variety of sauces, from the "Magic Sauce" to "Spicy Ranch," adds another layer of customization, ensuring no two meals are exactly the same.

The menu also features other standout items that showcase the restaurant’s versatility. The "Ssäm," a Korean word meaning "wrap," allows you to enjoy your favorite ingredients in a convenient, handheld form. The "K'Pop Chicken" is another fan favorite, celebrated for its "addictive crunch and zesty flavors." For those seeking lighter or healthier options, Chi'Lantro offers a "Tofu Noodle Bowl" and a "Soy Glazed Chicken Avocado Bowl," demonstrating its commitment to providing choices for a wide range of dietary needs, including vegan and vegetarian options. The casual, trendy, and brightly-lit interior provides a welcoming space for everyone, from a solo diner to a large family, and the business identifies as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace, reinforcing its inclusive community spirit.

Chi'Lantro is conveniently located at 1324 N Shepherd Dr Suite 150, Houston, TX 77008, USA, in the heart of the Heights neighborhood. This area is easily accessible and offers plenty of parking, with both a free parking lot and free street parking. The restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating, making it a comfortable destination for all guests. The location is perfect for a quick and easy visit, whether you're a local or a tourist exploring the area.

• Dine-in: Enjoy a casual and trendy dining experience with a quick and efficient counter service model.

• Takeout and Curbside Pickup: Perfect for a delicious meal on the go, with convenient options to order ahead and pick up.

• Delivery and No-Contact Delivery: Chi'Lantro partners with various delivery services, making it easy to enjoy their signature dishes from the comfort of your home or office.

• Catering: For events, office lunches, or parties, Chi'Lantro offers a range of catering services, from family packs to build-your-own bars, that are sure to be a hit with a crowd. The packaging is often praised for being easy to transport and set up, ensuring a seamless experience.

• The Original Kimchi Fries™: The signature dish that put Chi'Lantro on the map, offering a unique and delicious combination of flavors.

• Korean BBQ-Inspired Flavors: The menu's focus on bold, savory Korean BBQ sauces and proteins sets it apart from typical fast-casual chains.

• Customizable Meals: The "Create Your Own Bowl" and "Create Your Own Ssäm" options allow diners to personalize their meal to their liking.

• Trendy and Inclusive Atmosphere: The clean, bright, and modern interior, combined with a welcoming attitude towards all crowds, makes for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

• Family-Friendly: With a dedicated kids' menu and a casual environment, it's a great spot for families looking for a quick, good meal.

Address: 1324 N Shepherd Dr Suite 150, Houston, TX 77008, USA
Phone: (281) 975-0129

Choosing Chi'Lantro is about embracing a new kind of comfort food—one that is both familiar and exciting. What makes this restaurant worth visiting is its unique fusion concept, which successfully marries the best of Korean and Tex-Mex cuisines. This innovative approach offers a refreshing alternative to traditional fast-casual dining, providing bold flavors and a variety of options that cater to many tastes.

The "Original Kimchi Fries™" are a perfect entry point for newcomers, but the customizable bowls and Ssäms are what will bring you back. The quality of the proteins, particularly the Korean BBQ steak with bulgogi sauce, is consistently praised as delicious. While some menu items might have received mixed reviews, the overall consensus is that Chi'Lantro delivers on flavor and offers a great value for the price, especially given the generous portions.

The restaurant’s clean, trendy, and casual atmosphere, combined with a staff that is often described as friendly and attentive, makes the dining experience even better. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, Chi'Lantro offers a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal in an inclusive and comfortable setting. It's a great choice for anyone in Houston looking for a tasty and modern take on Korean food.

Chi'Lantro

1324 N Shepherd Dr Suite 150, Houston, TX 77008, USA