It’s hard to say the last time there’s been this much hype for a Houston restaurant, but when its creators are Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue and Tyson Cole of Uchi, you can’t expect anything less.
After opening up two locations elsewhere in Texas, Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar has finally opened in Houston.
From the grill to the dining room, and everywhere in between, Loro blends flavors of Southeast Asia with that of the Lone Star State. Culinary wise, Loro pairs traditional Japanese flavors and techniques with low-and-slow Texas smoked flavors:
“We begin slow cooking our meats every day at midnight, so it’s ready for lunch the next day,” the restaurant’s website reads. “Most of our meats are finished over post oak wood on our open fire grill, giving each piece a little more flavor. Our house-made cures and marinades enhance each bite keeping our food nice and moist.”
House favorites at Loro include: Smoked Prime Bavette with shishito salsa verde, cilantro, and pickled onion; Oak Smoked Salmon with cucumber-yuzu broth, parsley, and lemon; Crunchy Sweet Corn Fritters with Sriracha aioli, and cilantro; and Smoked Chocolate Creme Brûlée.
Loro’s menu features assortment of snack and veggies – Chicken Karaage, Curried Brisket Rice; Meats – Malaysian Chicken Bo SSam, Smoked Beef Brisket; Sandwiches – Slow Smoked Turkey Breast, Loro Cheeseburger; Rice Bowls – Crispy Szechuan Tofu, Char Siew Pork Belly; and Sweet – Chocolate Chip Cookie, Peach-Yuzu Cobbler.
Behind the bar, Loro is stocked with an eclectic varieties of wines, beers, sakes, and spirits. Featured cocktails include the Blood Orange Blossum made with gin, lime, and kombucha, as well as the Mandarin Margarita – a mixture of tequila, mezcal, tangerine, and yuzu.
Additionally, patrons can take a whirl with one Loro’s Boozy Slushees. The list includes a Frozen Gin & Tonic, Mango Sake Slushee, Frozen Mojito, and Vietnamese Coffee.
The coalescence of cultures is also present in the restaurant’s design:
“Texas Dancehall vibes collide with Far Eastern sensibilities to deliver an expansive indoor and outdoor dining experience.”
“The intent is a warm, laid-back, and leisurely space to welcome anyone looking for good food and good times.”
Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar has opened to the public at 1001 W 11th St. Houston, TX 77008. No reservation is required, but better play it safe and show up early.
See also: Sizzling New BBQ Joint And Beer Garden Opens Up In Houston