The theatre and convention core. Xochi at the Marriott Marquis, Pappas Bros Steakhouse on McKinney, Cafe Annie, Discovery Green and the underground tunnel-system lunch counters.
Xochi in Houston is Hugo Ortega's Oaxacan room on the ground floor of the Marriott Marquis downtown, with seven moles, masa-based tlayudas and a James Beard chef behind it all.
Signature: Mole negro, Tlayuda
Order: The mole negro tasting; seven moles in one flight is the menu's defining gesture.
Tip: Sit at the masa bar to watch the corn pressed fresh. The lunch tasting is the value at $48.
Pappas Bros Steakhouse Downtown in Houston is the McKinney Street steakhouse from the Pappas family, with a 4,000-bottle wine list, dry-aged ribeyes and a James Beard outstanding wine program.
Signature: Dry-aged bone-in ribeye, Wine cellar selection
Order: A 28-day dry-aged bone-in ribeye and creamed spinach. Ask the sommelier for one of the older Bordeaux by the glass.
Tip: The wine list is the reason. The downtown room is quieter than Westheimer; both serve the same kitchen.