Houston Restaurants - Ronit

Restaurant Ronit (aka Café Beignet) is among the best kept secrets in the Galleria area. Nestled behind The Capitol Grille, this unassuming eatery is a treat for those who love to dine and know where to look.

Restaurant Ronit is a fine little restaurant tucked in the small strip behind The Capital Grille. Ronit was known for its first five years of existence as Café Beignet, but changed its moniker to Restaurant Ronit eight years ago to quell the public confusion with the Café Beignet at Westheimer and River Oaks Blvd. Understandable, because Ronit bears little resemblance to the beignet shop on Westheimer.

Ronit is a pleasant and refined dining spot that seems to have flown under the radar for most of its history. A quiet and tranquil atmosphere accompanied by very good service make Ronit the perfect spot for extended dining or just as suitable for sipping wine.

The decor of Ronit is understated but sophisticated. White linen-covered patio tables line the front walk, reminiscent of a European bistro. Inside, the front of the restaurant is bright and sun-lit evoking images of a sidewalk café, while the rear dining room is darker and more intimate.

Ronit’s dinner menu is a collection of dishes influenced by cuisines from the world over. From crab cakes to pasta to braised lamb shanks. There is also a tapas menu for lighter appetites. Ronit’s chefs make all the breads and pastries fresh in-house. From the spinach bread of the club sandwich to the chocolate covered macaroons, which are among the finest I’ve ever tasted.

Closed Monday, Ronit serves lunch and dinner six days a week and offers a fine breakfast on weekends.

If you haven’t tried (or found) Restaurant Ronit, I suggest you drop in at lunch and enjoy a soothing afternoon meal.