We asked Houston’s top chefs who else in town is cooking up inspired cuisine. And the list goes on.

Chef Ryan Lachaine, Riel:

Which chef in Houston is inspiring you right now?

“Martin Stayer at Nobie's. He's a great chef, and his menu is constantly evolving with nightly specials and seasonal tweaks.”

Chef Manabu Horiuchi “HORI,”:

KATA ROBATA Is there a Houston chef you admire? “Chef Chris Shepherd (underbellyhospitality.com). He is always doing something new, from Underbelly to UB Preserv, his One-Fifth concept and more. He is constantly evolving.

Chef Martin Stayer, NOBIE'S:

What's the best meal you've ever had in Houston? “Kata Robata (katarobata.com) in Upper Kirby is my favorite place and has consistently provided the best meal in Houston. I highly respect chef ‘Hori,' and he has been very supportive of me too.”

Chef Chris Sheperd, Hospitality:

What Houston restaurant opening are you excited about? “Everything that Goodnight Hospitality (goodnighthospitality.com) is opening this year. I can't wait to see Rosie Cannonball, March and the Wine & Cheese Shop, and what they have in store for our neighborhood!”

Chef Nick Wong, UB Preserve:

Your favorite “night off” place to go in Houston? “Theodore Rex (trexhouston.com) and Anvil (anvilhouston.com). My go-to drink at Anvil is a highball or a Jungle Bird if I'm feeling festive.”

Chef Felipe Riccio, Goodnight Hospitality:

Do you have a Houston chef hero at the moment? “Nick Wong (ubpreserv.com). He took the challenge of continuing the Underbelly legacy head-on and has done a great job. Plus, he always has a smile on his face. I love having him as a neighbor—he makes my day better every time I see him.”