This was my second visit to Indigo and I wrote a 5 star review following my visit in June 2019. I wanted to visit Indigo one last time before it permanently closed because I loved the experience the first time around. Unfortunately, the second visit wasn't nearly as good. So what stayed amazing and what changed: - I had the king crab dish with fried scallions both times and both times it was amazing. This is a great dish that continued to blow my mind. - I also had the turtle stew both times. The second time featured black eye peas and greens which added a unique flavor and texture, though the peas were a bit undercooked and crunchy. - The fish skewer and ash cake we had during the second visit was simply amazing! The cold crawfish salad atop the warm bread was a great contrast. - Everything was amazingly prepared the first visit. During the second visit, we were served undercooked fish filet that was cold and raw at the top and overcooked at the bottom. The chef should not have served this as it was unsafe. I only ate the cooked portion and was disappointed the chef didn't notice this or mention it when he took my half eaten plate. I also noticed the fish was stored on the top rack of the fridge above the deserts and vegetables... A no-no in the food industry due to contamination risks. - The atmosphere was much different but good both times. The kitchen was open which allowed for a nice glance into the preparation process. It was also much quieter. The second time there was a sliding door and neo-soul music playing the entire time. I enjoyed the vibe of the music (there were some oldies but goodies) and the sliding door made the dining experience more quant and private. Since my first visit there were unique added touches to the decor that made it more comfy. - The first experience was great because the chef came out before each dish and explained the African roots. This was none existent the second time around. The chef simply placed the dish in front of each person and said what it was with no discussion of the history. This was a missing touch that made the difference between a 2 and 5 star review. - There was no front room staff this time around (only the chef and his helper). The first experience, I was warmly greeted at the front door and a waiter was very attentive in ensuring glasses were filled and empty plates were quickly removed. This time, the chef was also the hostess and the waiter and the welcome was average. - During the first experience, the meal started sharply at 7pm because there was a 9:30 service as well. The time between courses were brisk and didn't keep us waiting. The second time, the first course started 30 minutes after being seated and it took sometimes 20 minutes between courses. We didn't finish a 7pm dinner until well after 10 as there was no second service at 9:30. I believe the lack of front room staff and the chef being a one man band caused the long delays between courses. - The most disappointing difference between the first experience and the second was the price. The cost for 2 people during my first visit was $250 plus a supplement for bread. For the second visit, the cost was $270 that was charged at the time of booking and appeared to be the total cost of the meal. So we were surprised we found out we were later charged an additional $200 even though there were no supplements offered. In total, our bill was nearly $600 including tip for a meal that was good and service that was only ok. In a way I felt bamboozled since there was no mention of an additional $200 due after the reservation was booked. I believe the significant cost difference was a way for Indigo to make up for the lack of a second serving; however the staff was cut in half. Though I'm glad I was able to visit Indigo one last time before it closed, I wished I was left with the great memory from my first visit. It felt as if Indigo had been significantly impacted by Covid, the chef's heart was no longer in it, or he was focused on permanently closing due to the lack of staff, price hi
Riya Santra
My first fine dining experience which definitely exceeded all expectations! I'm not going to lie, the first 2 courses of an oyster and delicious creamy crab meat were good but did you wanting more. I thought that this would merely be a tasting experience as opposed to an actual meal, and I was very wrong. After the crawfish toast, the courses started picking up in heavier proteins. The meyer lemon drop was so refreshing against the fish. The turtle soup was a little bitter for my tastes but the ash cake was so delicious and worked beautifully as a taco against the fish. The shrimp in a sack and avocado parfait were so delicious as well. I cannot emphasize enough how many different flavors I experienced with beautiful plating. The courses were also put in a precise order to allow a palate cleanser in some form. So sad this place is closing but will always be forever grateful that I got to experience it. Thank you Chef Johnny! Can't wait for the grocery store!
Sonia P.
I loved everything about my dining experience here. I've been more selective with my dining out since Covid and this place is ideal. Seating is limited so you don't have to worry about overcrowding and long lines. This place is ideal for anniversaries, business meetings, or if you want a quiet dining experience with minimal distractions. Not sure why some of these "Elite Yelpers" are complaining so much, I think they really think they are food critics but they sound like spoiled brats. @yelp don't take it personal, it's not you, it's them. Everything that was served was delicious. Portions were perfect, I left very satisfied, yay no the food coma . The Chef went over every plate as he brought it in. He was very attentive with everyone and answered questions about the dish and ingredients he used to prepare it. I love that he uses locally grown products and buys from small farmers. He has a garden next to the restaurant and he uses what he grows in his menu as well. As far as the people complaining about the location, you're ridiculous. This is Houston, you're in a diverse city..stay in the suburbs and eat at Chili's if you want..no offense Chili's/Burbs . Ok rant over. Yours truly
Dorle Hosmer
I’m very spoiled when it comes to food. This chef surpassed every expectations we had. The service was incredible, with all the courses timed perfectly and never any rush. This restaurant deserves all the hype it gets!
Ty Doyle
Exceeded every expectation - incredibly intricate and flavorful dishes, great flavors, and outstanding service. My only regret is that I waited so long to visit!
leah harrison
Wonderfully imaginative and tasty food. Love everything from the glassware to the cutlery- and did I mention the food? Intimate atmosphere and friendly service. A memorable and onderful birthday!
Jason Giddens
Very innovative, intimate and delicious. The story around the food, the way it's presented, were amazing.
Antoinette Y. S
This one is long but read it til the end if you have time.I honestly was really looking forward to the restaurant. I had been looking forward to going for some time and my boyfriend took me there last night to celebrate my birthday.I would like to start with the positive for those consider visiting yourself.StaffThe staff was very accommodating! There was a mix up with our payment, and I’m not sure how this happened. However, Every person we encountered was very nice and they did their best to help ensure we had a good dining experience.I’ve seen the response from the manager to some of the reviews and a little disappointed by the comments, but the staff was nice in person.FoodThe dessert was really good. It was some yam and marshmallow like dessert that felt like cheesecake. I thoroughly enjoyed it.Restaurant conceptThe concept of the restaurant is great. Serving 5 courses and being given the names of each dish with the meaning behind it is truly impressive and in line with what I would expect from the website.Especially for the cost.Now for the negative....Location/attireI was told to dress up because we were going out to dinner. However the guy next to me had on a t-shift and jeans and I honestly don’t see why that wasn’t the attire for everyone.Considering the location is right next to a corner store, across the street from another, and random people are walking by the entire meal- it definitely cheapens the feeling of things.Speaking of cheap feelings- the staff all wore jeans themselves and walked in and out of the restaurant multiple times. It’s a little distracting when you see the people who are cooking your food also walking past you to go outside. I assume they were going to the garden or pit to get our wood smoked meat, but when the space was open to the kitchen no one had on gloves.I work at a hospital so this is just very disturbing.TempI saw other reviews that said it was hot, but it was very cold for me. The girl across from me wore a coat the entire time.FoodWe had the carnivore selection but it fell flat in my opinion for the price.The duck puff was ok , but it wasn’t a strong way to start the meal. We had a link that was extremely spicy and I’m still not certain why a link on the plate was considered one course. The last thing I had before dessert was something that was like a taco. It was some sort of thing that appeared to be like a taco and they served it with a very tender meat that had a little too much sauce.OverallI wish I could tell you the food was worth the cost but I honestly don’t think so. I’m glad I had a chance to experience, and now I won’t ever go back. Give it a try if you want to support a small business, but definitely don’t expect to be wowed by your me al.
Audrey T.
Our meal at Indigo was simply incredible. The environment is very cozy. I was happy to see they were able to put distance between the parties and our waiter told us that the staff was recently tested for COVID. I felt safe dining in here. The kitchen is hidden by a sliding bookshelf and we got to see a bit of the during one of the courses and loved watching as they meticulously plated our beautiful dishes. Each dish was so unique and came with some history or a conversation starter. The food itself was inspired. I can clearly see Chef Rhodes' vision to elevate such humble foods and his genius really shows in the flavors and presentation. The flavors and ingredients used were very earthy, smoky and rich. There were flavor combinations I could have never imagined and each dish brought something new. My favorite was the Carolina rice and onion and the ice cream with yam molasses for dessert. Our waiter was personable and knowledgeable. We were very well taken care of. Chef Rhodes came out occasionally to add to the dish and give us some more info about it. Reading earlier reviews and write-ups about Indigo, it seems he was more interactive with guests in the past. We didn't get a lot of presentation and history about each meal, but our experience has sparked a curiosity about food apartheid, food history and how food impacts and defines our communities. I cannot say enough good things about our experience and can't wait to see where Chef Rhodes goes in his career. Looking forward to visiting again!
Myra V.
My husband and I made reservations at this wonderful establishment and we were beyond excited at the menu, service and food.From the very beginning our temperatures were checked and we were appropriately seated in a safe distance from other patrons.I had the herbivore menu and my husband had the omnivore menu. Each plate was described eloquently by the staff and it was almost too pretty to eat. The ambiance was everything and after the dinner the chef personally introduced himself to everyone.He shared with us the intention and history behind every dish and we were even more excited to be there.I wanted to personally write this review because you are an exceptional chef with an exceptional staff. Please continue blessing the world through the creativity of food.Blessings!
We just had our second meal at Indigo, the only thing more amazing than the food and service was the fact that even with our expectations sky high after the first meal we were still surprised with the great flavors and presentation of the dishes.
Courtney M.
Indigo is one of the most original experiences I have ever had when it comes to dining. The service is excellent and I love the way the table is set up for customer interaction. Based on the reviews I've looked through, I've realized WHITE people don't get it, which is unfortunate. But whites also don't season their food so BYE! For my fellow beautiful POC's in Houston, YOU MUST experience! The BEST soul food I have had and the work Chef Johnny (a true Indigo child) puts in with the food titles compared to what's happening in our society today is VERY relevant. I urge you to try if you aren't a stuck up prude. Support black owners and EDUCATE yourselves if you aren't one of us!
Patrick H.
We just had our second meal at Indigo, the only thing more amazing than the food and service was the fact that even with our expectations sky high after the first meal we were still surprised with the great flavors and presentation of the dishes. I recommend everyone go once before it closes next summer!
Harry KQ
Did not match expectations.Having booked several months in advance to dine in this highly-rated restaurant, we very much looked forward to our visit. We were excited by the design of the venue with the large horseshoe table, sliding bookcase and the welcoming staff.Regrettably, the experience did not live up to the hype.1-FoodThe vision of the Chef was not apparent in the dishes and although conceptually interesting, they lacked execution. Sadly, for me, there is no dish that would make me go back for a second visit.2-Wine selectionAt the time we booked, the restaurant had BYOB policy, which we were excited about, yet when we got to the venue we learned that the policy had changed. Unfortunately, the wine selection was very limited with only 1 red wine available by the glass. No wine was available by the bottle and naturally, wine came at an extra cost.3-CostThis is a very costly tasting-menu restaurant ( about $100 + pp). You need to book (weeks ahead) and pay in-advance, including tip. Which we were OK with, however, the up-sale for bread/coffee (wine if you were planning on BYOB) detracted from the experience.SummaryThis restaurant is over-hyped and not worth the cost and advance-booking reservations. Fortunately Houston's dining scene includes top restaurants including James Beard Award recipients, which offer tastier dishes, reasonable availability and are much better priced.
Anica Landreneau
Phenomenal food unlike anything you will eat anywhere.
This was my second visit to Indigo and I wrote a 5 star review following my visit in June 2019. I wanted to visit Indigo one last time before it permanently closed because I loved the experience the first time around. Unfortunately, the second visit wasn't nearly as good. So what stayed amazing and what changed: - I had the king crab dish with fried scallions both times and both times it was amazing. This is a great dish that continued to blow my mind. - I also had the turtle stew both times. The second time featured black eye peas and greens which added a unique flavor and texture, though the peas were a bit undercooked and crunchy. - The fish skewer and ash cake we had during the second visit was simply amazing! The cold crawfish salad atop the warm bread was a great contrast. - Everything was amazingly prepared the first visit. During the second visit, we were served undercooked fish filet that was cold and raw at the top and overcooked at the bottom. The chef should not have served this as it was unsafe. I only ate the cooked portion and was disappointed the chef didn't notice this or mention it when he took my half eaten plate. I also noticed the fish was stored on the top rack of the fridge above the deserts and vegetables... A no-no in the food industry due to contamination risks. - The atmosphere was much different but good both times. The kitchen was open which allowed for a nice glance into the preparation process. It was also much quieter. The second time there was a sliding door and neo-soul music playing the entire time. I enjoyed the vibe of the music (there were some oldies but goodies) and the sliding door made the dining experience more quant and private. Since my first visit there were unique added touches to the decor that made it more comfy. - The first experience was great because the chef came out before each dish and explained the African roots. This was none existent the second time around. The chef simply placed the dish in front of each person and said what it was with no discussion of the history. This was a missing touch that made the difference between a 2 and 5 star review. - There was no front room staff this time around (only the chef and his helper). The first experience, I was warmly greeted at the front door and a waiter was very attentive in ensuring glasses were filled and empty plates were quickly removed. This time, the chef was also the hostess and the waiter and the welcome was average. - During the first experience, the meal started sharply at 7pm because there was a 9:30 service as well. The time between courses were brisk and didn't keep us waiting. The second time, the first course started 30 minutes after being seated and it took sometimes 20 minutes between courses. We didn't finish a 7pm dinner until well after 10 as there was no second service at 9:30. I believe the lack of front room staff and the chef being a one man band caused the long delays between courses. - The most disappointing difference between the first experience and the second was the price. The cost for 2 people during my first visit was $250 plus a supplement for bread. For the second visit, the cost was $270 that was charged at the time of booking and appeared to be the total cost of the meal. So we were surprised we found out we were later charged an additional $200 even though there were no supplements offered. In total, our bill was nearly $600 including tip for a meal that was good and service that was only ok. In a way I felt bamboozled since there was no mention of an additional $200 due after the reservation was booked. I believe the significant cost difference was a way for Indigo to make up for the lack of a second serving; however the staff was cut in half. Though I'm glad I was able to visit Indigo one last time before it closed, I wished I was left with the great memory from my first visit. It felt as if Indigo had been significantly impacted by Covid, the chef's heart was no longer in it, or he was focused on permanently closing due to the lack of staff, price hi
My first fine dining experience which definitely exceeded all expectations! I'm not going to lie, the first 2 courses of an oyster and delicious creamy crab meat were good but did you wanting more. I thought that this would merely be a tasting experience as opposed to an actual meal, and I was very wrong. After the crawfish toast, the courses started picking up in heavier proteins. The meyer lemon drop was so refreshing against the fish. The turtle soup was a little bitter for my tastes but the ash cake was so delicious and worked beautifully as a taco against the fish. The shrimp in a sack and avocado parfait were so delicious as well. I cannot emphasize enough how many different flavors I experienced with beautiful plating. The courses were also put in a precise order to allow a palate cleanser in some form. So sad this place is closing but will always be forever grateful that I got to experience it. Thank you Chef Johnny! Can't wait for the grocery store!
I loved everything about my dining experience here. I've been more selective with my dining out since Covid and this place is ideal. Seating is limited so you don't have to worry about overcrowding and long lines. This place is ideal for anniversaries, business meetings, or if you want a quiet dining experience with minimal distractions. Not sure why some of these "Elite Yelpers" are complaining so much, I think they really think they are food critics but they sound like spoiled brats. @yelp don't take it personal, it's not you, it's them. Everything that was served was delicious. Portions were perfect, I left very satisfied, yay no the food coma . The Chef went over every plate as he brought it in. He was very attentive with everyone and answered questions about the dish and ingredients he used to prepare it. I love that he uses locally grown products and buys from small farmers. He has a garden next to the restaurant and he uses what he grows in his menu as well. As far as the people complaining about the location, you're ridiculous. This is Houston, you're in a diverse city..stay in the suburbs and eat at Chili's if you want..no offense Chili's/Burbs . Ok rant over. Yours truly
I’m very spoiled when it comes to food. This chef surpassed every expectations we had. The service was incredible, with all the courses timed perfectly and never any rush. This restaurant deserves all the hype it gets!
Exceeded every expectation - incredibly intricate and flavorful dishes, great flavors, and outstanding service. My only regret is that I waited so long to visit!
Wonderfully imaginative and tasty food. Love everything from the glassware to the cutlery- and did I mention the food? Intimate atmosphere and friendly service. A memorable and onderful birthday!
Very innovative, intimate and delicious. The story around the food, the way it's presented, were amazing.
This one is long but read it til the end if you have time.I honestly was really looking forward to the restaurant. I had been looking forward to going for some time and my boyfriend took me there last night to celebrate my birthday.I would like to start with the positive for those consider visiting yourself.StaffThe staff was very accommodating! There was a mix up with our payment, and I’m not sure how this happened. However, Every person we encountered was very nice and they did their best to help ensure we had a good dining experience.I’ve seen the response from the manager to some of the reviews and a little disappointed by the comments, but the staff was nice in person.FoodThe dessert was really good. It was some yam and marshmallow like dessert that felt like cheesecake. I thoroughly enjoyed it.Restaurant conceptThe concept of the restaurant is great. Serving 5 courses and being given the names of each dish with the meaning behind it is truly impressive and in line with what I would expect from the website.Especially for the cost.Now for the negative....Location/attireI was told to dress up because we were going out to dinner. However the guy next to me had on a t-shift and jeans and I honestly don’t see why that wasn’t the attire for everyone.Considering the location is right next to a corner store, across the street from another, and random people are walking by the entire meal- it definitely cheapens the feeling of things.Speaking of cheap feelings- the staff all wore jeans themselves and walked in and out of the restaurant multiple times. It’s a little distracting when you see the people who are cooking your food also walking past you to go outside. I assume they were going to the garden or pit to get our wood smoked meat, but when the space was open to the kitchen no one had on gloves.I work at a hospital so this is just very disturbing.TempI saw other reviews that said it was hot, but it was very cold for me. The girl across from me wore a coat the entire time.FoodWe had the carnivore selection but it fell flat in my opinion for the price.The duck puff was ok , but it wasn’t a strong way to start the meal. We had a link that was extremely spicy and I’m still not certain why a link on the plate was considered one course. The last thing I had before dessert was something that was like a taco. It was some sort of thing that appeared to be like a taco and they served it with a very tender meat that had a little too much sauce.OverallI wish I could tell you the food was worth the cost but I honestly don’t think so. I’m glad I had a chance to experience, and now I won’t ever go back. Give it a try if you want to support a small business, but definitely don’t expect to be wowed by your me al.
Our meal at Indigo was simply incredible. The environment is very cozy. I was happy to see they were able to put distance between the parties and our waiter told us that the staff was recently tested for COVID. I felt safe dining in here. The kitchen is hidden by a sliding bookshelf and we got to see a bit of the during one of the courses and loved watching as they meticulously plated our beautiful dishes. Each dish was so unique and came with some history or a conversation starter. The food itself was inspired. I can clearly see Chef Rhodes' vision to elevate such humble foods and his genius really shows in the flavors and presentation. The flavors and ingredients used were very earthy, smoky and rich. There were flavor combinations I could have never imagined and each dish brought something new. My favorite was the Carolina rice and onion and the ice cream with yam molasses for dessert. Our waiter was personable and knowledgeable. We were very well taken care of. Chef Rhodes came out occasionally to add to the dish and give us some more info about it. Reading earlier reviews and write-ups about Indigo, it seems he was more interactive with guests in the past. We didn't get a lot of presentation and history about each meal, but our experience has sparked a curiosity about food apartheid, food history and how food impacts and defines our communities. I cannot say enough good things about our experience and can't wait to see where Chef Rhodes goes in his career. Looking forward to visiting again!
My husband and I made reservations at this wonderful establishment and we were beyond excited at the menu, service and food.From the very beginning our temperatures were checked and we were appropriately seated in a safe distance from other patrons.I had the herbivore menu and my husband had the omnivore menu. Each plate was described eloquently by the staff and it was almost too pretty to eat. The ambiance was everything and after the dinner the chef personally introduced himself to everyone.He shared with us the intention and history behind every dish and we were even more excited to be there.I wanted to personally write this review because you are an exceptional chef with an exceptional staff. Please continue blessing the world through the creativity of food.Blessings!
Restaurantji Recommends
We just had our second meal at Indigo, the only thing more amazing than the food and service was the fact that even with our expectations sky high after the first meal we were still surprised with the great flavors and presentation of the dishes.
Indigo is one of the most original experiences I have ever had when it comes to dining. The service is excellent and I love the way the table is set up for customer interaction. Based on the reviews I've looked through, I've realized WHITE people don't get it, which is unfortunate. But whites also don't season their food so BYE! For my fellow beautiful POC's in Houston, YOU MUST experience! The BEST soul food I have had and the work Chef Johnny (a true Indigo child) puts in with the food titles compared to what's happening in our society today is VERY relevant. I urge you to try if you aren't a stuck up prude. Support black owners and EDUCATE yourselves if you aren't one of us!
We just had our second meal at Indigo, the only thing more amazing than the food and service was the fact that even with our expectations sky high after the first meal we were still surprised with the great flavors and presentation of the dishes. I recommend everyone go once before it closes next summer!
Did not match expectations.Having booked several months in advance to dine in this highly-rated restaurant, we very much looked forward to our visit. We were excited by the design of the venue with the large horseshoe table, sliding bookcase and the welcoming staff.Regrettably, the experience did not live up to the hype.1-FoodThe vision of the Chef was not apparent in the dishes and although conceptually interesting, they lacked execution. Sadly, for me, there is no dish that would make me go back for a second visit.2-Wine selectionAt the time we booked, the restaurant had BYOB policy, which we were excited about, yet when we got to the venue we learned that the policy had changed. Unfortunately, the wine selection was very limited with only 1 red wine available by the glass. No wine was available by the bottle and naturally, wine came at an extra cost.3-CostThis is a very costly tasting-menu restaurant ( about $100 + pp). You need to book (weeks ahead) and pay in-advance, including tip. Which we were OK with, however, the up-sale for bread/coffee (wine if you were planning on BYOB) detracted from the experience.SummaryThis restaurant is over-hyped and not worth the cost and advance-booking reservations. Fortunately Houston's dining scene includes top restaurants including James Beard Award recipients, which offer tastier dishes, reasonable availability and are much better priced.
Phenomenal food unlike anything you will eat anywhere.