Da Marco, Chef Marco Wiles' Tuscan Fine Dining on Westheimer Road in Montrose

[pidgey]

My husband and I were recently in Houston and made our second trip to Da Marco with his parents. This is exceptional non-traditional Italian.

I started with the artichoke alla giudia, a whole roasted artichoke. I was a little surprised because basically its presented whole, with a sweet sauce (maybe pineapple? its been a while). I think I would have preferred a more savory sauce. My husband had the very tasty mozzarella di bufala with roasted cherry tomatoes, drizzled with a wonderful extra virgin olive oil. My father-in-law had the oyster special, basically a plate of three oysters, which he said he wasn't the best he's ever had, since it was kind of late in year for Houston.

We also split an order of corn ravioli served with bits of lobster on the side. The ravioli was good, but quite frankly, I think I would have preferred a lobster-stuffed ravioli.

For our entrees, my mother-in-law chose the garganelli mmmmmm. I can't remember what it was, unfortunately, but she enjoyed it very much. My husband and his dad split the 48 oz porterhouse, which they loved (I think they actually got this a previous time). I got the chianti-braised short ribs with gremolata. At the first bite, I swooned. And I finished it all, without sharing. Well, maybe my husband stole a few bites, but I didn't really offer any.

We also had a side of polenta for the table. Very rich and creamy.

We were too full to have dessert, but they looked delicious.

Da Marco only serves wine, no hard alcohol or even beer as far I could discern. We split two bottles of wine, both in the $50 range.

I would highly recommend this restaurant for anyone visiting Houston.

[DonRocks]

Da Marco was "ranked" #24 in this years Houston Chronicle "Top 100 Restaurants" list; last year, it was #17, so according to this publication, it has held its ground. In fact, in 2015, it was #22, and in 2013, it was #18, so this classic, upscale restaurant has been a model of consistency.

Do take note of their dress code requests: