My husband and I stopped by El Meson on a whim for a spontaneous date night, and it ended up being one of MANY of best decisions we’ve made . The atmosphere was enchanting — perfect for sharing tapas and good conversation.
We ordered several small tapas, including the octopus, patatas bravas, and gosh - you’re just gonna have to believe me - Each dish was thoughtfully and perfectly portioned for sharing. The drinks were also excellent — well balanced and generous pours that paired perfectly with the meal.
From the first bite to the last sip, the experience felt extravagant yet unpretentious, with attentive service and us as a lively energy that made the night feel special.
Highly recommend for anyone wanting to enjoy tapas- We’ll definitely be back!
BygoneTundra
-
December 27, 2025
Came with a group of 5 and the total bill was $348. At that price point, the food should be excellent — unfortunately, it wasn’t.
Two of us ordered the beef tenderloin, and it was disappointing. The texture was chewy and rubbery, not what you expect from a premium cut, even though it was ordered medium-rare. Sides were average and nothing stood out.
To be fair, the service was not bad — staff was polite and attentive. Another downside is parking, which is very limited. Depending on the day, you’re basically stuck parking on the street, which is inconvenient.
Overall, the food quality didn’t match the price, and combined with the parking situation, it wasn’t a great experience. Wouldn’t rush back.
WC Rodriguez
-
October 05, 2025
El Meson – Tapas & Cocktails Done Right 🍽️🍷
Had a fantastic dinner at El Meson near Rice University. We ordered a variety of tapas—octopus, shrimp, calamari, and plantains—all full of flavor and beautifully served. Every bite was made for sharing, and the drinks paired perfectly with the vibe.
Great atmosphere, great service, and definitely a spot to return to when craving Spanish-Cuban fusion with a local flair.
#ElMesonHouston #TapasNight #RiceVillageEats #FoodieFinds #SharedPlatesAndSips
Kenny Kahle
-
November 02, 2025
Great drinks and great food. Definitely some of the best while in town! Highly recommend getting the ham as well as the potatoes.
Sal H
-
January 18, 2026
Party of 4, 6pm, a chilly Saturday. We were greeted by an extremely rude, unwelcoming hostess who turned out to be the owners daughter. Against our better judgment we asked for a table anyway. We asked for a booth and was scolded. There were three other tables dining in the restaurant. But its fine because she’s the owners daughter. She can do what she wants. The server was nice enough but his recommendation on the squid ink paella was DISGUSTING. It was salty and the scallops were full of AMMONIA.
Would NOT recommend. Seafood not fresh. Manager’s daughter uninviting.
Give your money to a place that appreciates you.
Our Address
2425 University Blvd, Houston, TX 77005, USA
Claim Listing: El Meson
Please Login or Register an Account to Claim Listing
My husband and I stopped by El Meson on a whim for a spontaneous date night, and it ended up being one of MANY of best decisions we’ve made . The atmosphere was enchanting — perfect for sharing tapas and good conversation. We ordered several small tapas, including the octopus, patatas bravas, and gosh - you’re just gonna have to believe me - Each dish was thoughtfully and perfectly portioned for sharing. The drinks were also excellent — well balanced and generous pours that paired perfectly with the meal. From the first bite to the last sip, the experience felt extravagant yet unpretentious, with attentive service and us as a lively energy that made the night feel special. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to enjoy tapas- We’ll definitely be back!
Came with a group of 5 and the total bill was $348. At that price point, the food should be excellent — unfortunately, it wasn’t. Two of us ordered the beef tenderloin, and it was disappointing. The texture was chewy and rubbery, not what you expect from a premium cut, even though it was ordered medium-rare. Sides were average and nothing stood out. To be fair, the service was not bad — staff was polite and attentive. Another downside is parking, which is very limited. Depending on the day, you’re basically stuck parking on the street, which is inconvenient. Overall, the food quality didn’t match the price, and combined with the parking situation, it wasn’t a great experience. Wouldn’t rush back.
El Meson – Tapas & Cocktails Done Right 🍽️🍷 Had a fantastic dinner at El Meson near Rice University. We ordered a variety of tapas—octopus, shrimp, calamari, and plantains—all full of flavor and beautifully served. Every bite was made for sharing, and the drinks paired perfectly with the vibe. Great atmosphere, great service, and definitely a spot to return to when craving Spanish-Cuban fusion with a local flair. #ElMesonHouston #TapasNight #RiceVillageEats #FoodieFinds #SharedPlatesAndSips
Great drinks and great food. Definitely some of the best while in town! Highly recommend getting the ham as well as the potatoes.
Party of 4, 6pm, a chilly Saturday. We were greeted by an extremely rude, unwelcoming hostess who turned out to be the owners daughter. Against our better judgment we asked for a table anyway. We asked for a booth and was scolded. There were three other tables dining in the restaurant. But its fine because she’s the owners daughter. She can do what she wants. The server was nice enough but his recommendation on the squid ink paella was DISGUSTING. It was salty and the scallops were full of AMMONIA. Would NOT recommend. Seafood not fresh. Manager’s daughter uninviting. Give your money to a place that appreciates you.