Business Details
About
Italian RestaurantFine Dining RestaurantRestaurantBar
The sophisticated Italian restaurant is a dining experience like no other in Houston. Its interior is evocative of an Italian Villa with a modern twist, featuring a spacious bar alongside the main dining space. Potente is open for dinner and focuses on using local products and only the highest quality ingredients. The kitchen is overseen by Executive Chef Danny Trace and the menu features daily seafood selections, homemade pastas and steaks. The restaurant’s extensive wine list features a large selection of Italian wines, as well as a section of California’s finest vintners.
Details
- Dine-inAvailable
- DeliveryNot available
- TakeoutAvailable
- Accepts reservationsAvailable
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.7
895 reviews
5 stars
739
4 stars
83
3 stars
26
2 stars
22
1 star
25
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Food Quality
Customers frequently praised the food, particularly the truffle pasta and seafood dishes, noting their authenticity and flavor.
Service Excellence
Many reviews highlighted exceptional service, with staff being attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, contributing to a welcoming dining experience.
Ambiance
The restaurant's atmosphere was often described as upscale and inviting, making it suitable for special occasions.
Pricing Concerns
Some customers felt that the prices were high relative to their dining experience, with a few mentioning disappointment in specific dishes.
Mixed Experiences
While many reviews were positive, a few customers reported issues with specific dishes or service, indicating variability in experiences.
- TMThe MewNov 16, 20255.0Planning a dinner for 15 people in another state can be challenging especially when we were all attending different classes for the NAR convention. Marisa, the events coordinator, was incredibly helpful and kind throughout the entire process. She answered all my little questions quickly and thoroughly, and even handled last-minute additions (and a couple of unexpected cancellations) with ease. The food was amazing. This restaurant has been around for 80 years, and now I understand why. I already can’t wait to come back the next time I’m in Texas. We’re all from Illinois, I live in Chicago, where there are plenty of incredible restaurants but there is truly nothing quite like Polente. Our server, Will, has been there for 7 years, and it shows. He was extremely knowledgeable about the menu, provided great recommendations, and was wonderfully attentive the entire evening. 10 out of 10 — highly recommend!
- EAEvelin AlvarezNov 9, 20255.0Absolutely incredible experience at Potente! We came here for a birthday dinner, and the staff went above and beyond — they even surprised us with a personalized birthday card that everyone had signed. The food was outstanding, every dish full of flavor and beautifully presented. Our waiter was amazing — attentive, friendly, and made the evening feel special from start to finish. I also love how they always walk you to your table and make you feel genuinely welcomed. Potente truly stands out as one of the best restaurants in Houston — elegant atmosphere, top-notch service, and unforgettable food. Highly recommend!
- GDGenevieve DahlNov 7, 20255.0My husband and I love coming here and sitting at the bar! Nice cozy atmosphere food is good drinks are amazing. What keeps us coming back is the bartender Rob he seriously is SO kind and welcoming . If you go there request Rob!!
- CCCassia H. CavacoOct 31, 20255.0Having spent 10+ years living in Italy , I can confidently say this is the best Italian restaurant in Houston. The flavors are authentic yet beautifully balanced with a modern touch. Exceptional! I only wish they had panna cotta on the menu to make it absolutely perfect.
- MTMichael from TexasOct 26, 20254.0This is a high end Italian place. I went here at the recommendation of the hotel staff, and didn't look at their reviews. This was a mistake. I was here for work, and it's more of a date place. I was told their lemon drop martinis were the best in the area, and the client I was entertaining loves lemon drop martinis... and they were not great. The pasta was ok. I feel like I way over paid for what I got. We had two salads, one entree (split) and two cocktails a piece... it was just over $200 and I didn't feel great about anything I had. I will not be back.
Frequently Asked Questions About Potente
What type of cuisine does Potente specialize in?
Potente is a sophisticated Italian restaurant offering a unique dining experience with a menu featuring homemade pastas, steaks, and daily seafood selections.
What are Potente's regular opening hours?
Potente is open for dinner from Monday to Saturday, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays.
Does Potente offer a happy hour? If yes, when is it?
Yes, Potente offers a happy hour on weekdays from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
Is it possible to make a reservation at Potente?
Yes, Potente accepts reservations to ensure you have a table for your dining experience.
What payment methods are accepted at Potente?
Potente accepts American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa for payment.
Does Potente have a bar on site, and do they serve alcoholic beverages?
Yes, Potente has an on-site bar and serves a variety of alcoholic beverages including cocktails, beer, and wine.
Does Potente provide takeout or delivery services?
Potente offers takeout services and curbside pickup but does not provide delivery.
Are there any hotels near Potente where guests can stay?
Yes, nearby hotels include The Westin Houston Downtown, Westin Hotel by Marriott, Holiday Inn Express and Staybridge Suites Houston Downtown, Inn at the Ballpark, and William Penn Hotel - Houston, making it convenient for guests to dine at Potente during their stay.
What nearby entertainment or sports venues are close to Potente?
Potente is close to Baseball Heaven, Coca-Cola Suite Minute Maid, and the Houston Astros TV stadium arena, perfect for enjoying a game or event before or after dining.
Are there other dining options near Potente?
Nearby dining options include Osso & Kristalla, an Italian restaurant and bar, Ballpark Cafe offering American cuisine and burgers, and Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse, a well-known steakhouse.