Mimo

- 736 1/2 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023

In a city as diverse as Houston, finding a truly authentic and high-quality Italian dining experience can feel like a quest for a hidden gem. Mimo, located at 736 1/2 Telephone Rd, is exactly that kind of discovery. Tucked away in the vibrant East End, Mimo is not your average Italian-American spot; it’s a chef-driven restaurant that brings the simple, yet profound, flavors of Italy to the heart of Texas. The restaurant, a project from celebrated local figures, was conceptualized to offer genuine Italian dishes that are both complex and supremely satisfying. It has quickly become a favorite among Houston locals who appreciate a focused, quality-first approach to a cuisine that is often over-simplified.

Mimo's menu is a carefully curated journey through Italian culinary traditions, with a modern, creative twist. The experience often begins with the "Pane Dinner," a fresh-baked skillet bread served with olive oil and herbs that sets a delicious stage for the courses to come. Appetizers, or "Gli Antipasti," are a major strength here and are generous enough to share. The "Ricotta 'Montato'" and the "Sweet Potato" dish are standout starters, showcasing a blend of textures and flavors that are both innovative and comforting. The "Burrata" with strawberries, heirloom tomatoes, and pistachio is a fresh and vibrant choice, perfect for a warm Texas evening.

The heart of the menu lies in "I Primi," the pasta and pizza courses. Mimo excels with its handmade pastas, which are the main draw for many patrons. The "Pappardelle," with braised lamb and mushrooms, is a rich and deeply satisfying dish that has become a fixture on the menu. Another crowd-pleaser is the "Gnocchi," which one reviewer praised for being "pillowy" and delicious. The pizzas, or "Pizzettas," are also a highlight. These are not your typical heavy pizzas, but lighter, more refined versions like the "Roasted Carrot Pizzetta" or the "Finocchiona Pizzetta," which feature thoughtful combinations of ingredients. The "John's Cacio E Pepe" is another popular choice, a classic dish executed with expert precision.

"I Secondi," the main courses, offer substantial and expertly prepared dishes. The "Gallina Dinner" features a roasted Cornish hen, while the "Pesce Del Giorno" promises a fresh, daily catch. For those who enjoy red meat, the "Lamb Chops 'Scottadito'" is a standout, served with charred heirloom tomatoes. To accompany these courses, "I Contorni" provide a simple yet elegant selection of side dishes, such as "Broccolini" and "Dukka Roasted Carrots."

The beverage program at Mimo is as impressive as the food. The restaurant boasts a great wine list with a wonderful selection of Italian and other wines, as well as a variety of great cocktails. The "solid beans" for their coffee and cappuccino also earn high marks. To finish the meal, the "I Dolci" desserts are a must-try. The "Zeppole," fried ricotta donuts drizzled with orange blossom honey, and the "Biscotti Amaretti" are the perfect sweet notes to end a delightful dining experience. The ambiance is trendy, yet cozy and romantic, making it a perfect spot for a date night or a celebratory dinner with friends.

Mimo is located at 736 1/2 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023, USA. It is situated in the Tlaquepaque Market strip, a vibrant and bustling part of Houston’s East End. The restaurant is easy to find, and its location is part of its charm as a true neighborhood mainstay.

The restaurant offers several features to ensure accessibility for all patrons. It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, a wheelchair-accessible restroom, and wheelchair-accessible seating. Parking is convenient, with an abundance of complimentary parking available in front of and behind the restaurant, as well as free street parking. Mimo also has a pet-friendly policy, allowing dogs to join their owners at the outdoor seating, which is a great bonus for local dog lovers.

Mimo provides a range of services designed to enhance the dining experience.

• Dine-in: Enjoy a full-service dining experience in a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. The table service is attentive and friendly, adding to the overall pleasure of the meal.
• Outdoor Seating: A great option for enjoying a meal al fresco, especially on a pleasant Houston evening.
• Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to dine at home, Mimo offers both takeout and delivery services, bringing their authentic Italian cuisine right to your door.
• Catering: The restaurant also offers catering, making it an excellent choice for special events or gatherings where you want to serve high-quality Italian food.
• Reservations: Dinner reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as the restaurant can get busy. They do accept reservations to ensure a seamless dining experience.

These services ensure that Mimo can accommodate a variety of dining preferences and occasions.

Mimo is known for several key features that make it a standout in the Houston dining scene.

• Great Wine and Cocktails: The restaurant offers a curated and wonderful wine list, focusing on Italian selections, as well as a great selection of cocktails.
• Authentic and High-Quality Cuisine: The menu is a highlight, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and authentic Italian recipes, from handmade pastas to refined pizzas.
• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is perfect for a special date night or an intimate dinner, creating a memorable setting.
• Exceptional Desserts: Customers rave about the desserts, with options like the Zeppole and Biscotti Amaretti being perfect for ending the meal on a sweet note.
• Fast and Attentive Service: The service is consistently praised as friendly, prompt, and attentive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.

These features, combined with the restaurant’s commitment to quality, make Mimo a top-tier dining destination.

To make a reservation or for general inquiries, you can contact Mimo directly.

Address: 736 1/2 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023, USA

Phone: (713) 705-4426

Choosing Mimo for your next meal is an investment in a truly authentic and high-quality dining experience. What makes it worth choosing above other options is its unwavering commitment to authentic Italian flavors, as opposed to the often-Americanized versions found elsewhere. The menu, while compact, is incredibly rich and thoughtfully designed. Every dish, from the skillet bread to the desserts, is crafted with a meticulous attention to detail and a passion for fresh, delicious ingredients. The handmade pastas, in particular, are a reason to visit on their own. They showcase a dedication to traditional techniques that results in a superior texture and taste, which is hard to find in Houston. The "Pappardelle" is often cited as a must-try for this very reason.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere is a major selling point. Mimo manages to be both trendy and romantic, a perfect setting for a date, while also maintaining a casual and cozy feel that makes it comfortable for a group of friends. The service is consistently excellent; the staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, providing a level of care that elevates the entire experience. This is not a place where you'll feel rushed, but rather encouraged to relax and savor each course.

The curated wine list and well-made cocktails are another compelling reason to choose Mimo. They offer a fantastic selection that complements the food beautifully, and the presence of a full bar adds a layer of sophistication to the meal. Whether you're a connoisseur of Italian wines or simply looking for a great drink, Mimo has you covered.

Finally, the combination of its charming location in the East End, convenient parking, and flexible service options (including takeout and delivery) makes Mimo a practical and appealing choice. It's a place that feels like a neighborhood secret, yet is well-deserving of its growing reputation. For Houstonians seeking a memorable Italian meal that is both authentic and expertly prepared, Mimo is a destination that delivers on all fronts, promising a culinary experience that is truly worth the visit.

Mimo

736 1/2 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023, USA