A place to enjoy
Welcome to Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar - Rice Village, a vibrant dining spot that marries quality cuisine with a unique self-service model. Here, guests are invited to embrace delicious dishes, from the New Orleans BBQ Shrimp to the indulgent Lobster Pasta. Though the ordering process may initially feel peculiar, the attentive staff swiftly enhances the dining experience, ensuring the food arrives promptly and the atmosphere remains welcoming. Perfect for brunch or a casual outing, Black Walnut boasts a dog-friendly environment and easy parking access, making it an ideal locale for food enthusiasts keen on savory flavors and exceptional service.
About the Place
Welcome to Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar - Rice Village, a vibrant culinary gem located in the heart of Rice Village, aptly known for its robust flavors and warm atmosphere. As a food reviewer who has explored countless dining experiences, I was delighted to discover this establishment, where every dish tells a story of gastronomic passion and creativity.
Upon entering, guests are greeted not only by the rustic decor but also by a friendly staff eager to make your visit memorable. The unique ordering system may seem unconventional at first—diners approach the counter to place their orders—but it has its charm. As you navigate the menu, you'll find dishes that represent both comfort and sophistication, making it an ideal spot for both first-timers and returning patrons.
Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar truly shines when it comes to the food. A standout dish is the New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, celebrated for its flavor-packed essence, though it's presented with a distinct Black Walnut twist. The Lobster Pasta, laden with generous chunks of fresh lobster, is another must-try that showcases the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients. Customers rave about the blackened salmon blueberry salad, where the tender salmon, creamy cheese, and crispy sweet potato fries create a symphonic blend of textures and flavors that dance across the palate.
Of course, no visit would be complete without indulging in one of their delectable desserts. The chocolate-covered crescent is a delightful treat that arrives warm, inviting you to savor its gooey, buttery goodness—an experience that’s hard to rival.
Service is another highlight. The staff, led by the attentive manager Glendy, consistently show genuine care for the dining experience. She approaches each situation professionally, ensuring that any small mishap is addressed swiftly, leaving guests feeling valued and appreciated.
Ideal for brunch or any casual meal, Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar - Rice Village not only caters to food lovers but also embraces a pet-friendly philosophy, allowing you to share your culinary adventure with your furry friends. With free parking nearby and a welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant successfully combines delicious cuisine with a sense of community.
In summary, Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar - Rice Village is more than just a meal; it offers a delightful experience that keeps diners returning for more. Whether you're savoring the unique flavors or soaking in the inviting ambiance, you’re bound to leave with a full stomach and even fuller heart.
“ Excellent food, but self service for ordering and paying is weird for the price. The staff bringing the food and clearing the plates provided good service. No cash accepted. ”
“ The concept of walking up to the counter to order and then proceeding to a table works well if you’ve been here before or have had time to review the menu. For first-timers, though, it creates an odd situation—do you take a menu to the table to figure out everyone’s order, then go back to the counter? And if a line has formed by then, are you expected to head to the back? That part of the process could be better. Once we placed our order, the food took a little while to arrive. The Steak Frites, Pot Roast Dinner, and Coconut Shrimp Tacos were all decent—not over the top, but okay. The vibe is open-concept, clean, and bright. During our visit, a large table of about twenty teens made the space a bit loud. Street parking is available, and it’s a nice area for a walk after dinner. All in all, not terrible—just decent. Saluti ”
“ I stopped in for the Houston Restaurant Week special, and I must say, I was completely satisfied with the quality of the food and the service! The manager Glendy was very friendly and inviting! The New Orleans BBQ Shrimp that came with the special wasn't exactly how they do it in New Orleans, but it was really good. Also, the Lobster Pasta had huge chunks of lobster in it as well! I would definitely come back here again! ”
“ Great food and excellent service! We did find a small piece of metal in one of the dishes. But Glendy, the manager handled it quickly and professionally: She immediately notified the kitchen, refunded the dish, gave us a $20 gift card, plus a free dessert. Mistakes happen, but she really cared and made it right. We’ll definitely be back! ”
“ Perfect place for brunch, I love how you can just sit down and order from the table. Food was amazing. It's located next to a parking lot (free for two hours), easy access. Dog friendly. ”