Van Loc

Van Loc is the best Vietnamese I have had in Houston.  It is better and cheaper than Mai's, and it has a better location.

When you go there, you must order Vietnamese egg rolls to start.  Place the piping hot fried rolls in the cool damp lettuce, fill with basil and mint, and wrap like a mini burrito.  Then dip in the sweet and sour sauce, and let the flavors all burst together inside your mouth.  It is perhaps the most delicious appetizer in the whole world.

Everything else I have ever tried on the menu has been good - from the pho to the fried tofu.  I really do not think you can go wrong here, although you are likely to run into someone you know.

Yale Street Grill

Yale Street Grill: The Heights =  Avalon Diner: River Oaks

David and I loved this breakfast place, not so much for the breakfast (although it is very solid diner food) but mostly for the clientele.  We spent a good chunk of time lamenting that neither of us had brought our cameras.  

There are tiles on the walls, I like that.  There was also a youngish old lady wearing a fur, and it wasn't even cold out!  David had a crush on one of the waitresses - he caught her name, but I forgot it already - she had a very warm smile.

There is goofy candy at the checkout, unfortunately, I gave up candy for lent and did not partake.  

Basically, what we learned is there is absolutely no reason to ever go to 59 Diner for breakfast.  Best biscuits in town are still at Avalon.