“I want to do less.” That’s the philosophy behind one of Houston’s most sought-after dining experiences.
HOUSTON — In a tiny northwest Houston strip mall sits Tatemó.
An unassuming, unnamed restaurant that earned one of six coveted Michelin stars awarded to Texas establishments last year. As the famed Michelin Awards return to Houston on October 28, the modest 16-seat dining room share a look life after winning the prestigious honor.
“We don’t want too much attention to us,” said chef-owner Emmanuel Chavez, describing the hard-to-find speakeasy-like restaurant locale. Despite the low profile, the restaurant has filled every seat, every night for a year since receiving the star.
Tatemó offers an eight-course tasting menu of Mexican cuisine at $155 per person, prepaid, Thursday through Sunday nights. Chavez explained his unconventional philosophy.
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“I’m probably the only chef in town that thinks this way. I want to do less. The smaller it is, the more attention to detail I have.”
The Michelin recognition has intensified expectations.
“We don’t have the luxury to have a bad day,” Chavez said. “My business partner Megan calls it game seven (of the World Series) every day.”
Looking ahead, Chavez hopes to earn a second star by adding a beverage program, which requires relocating from their current location next to a church where they operate BYOB. With their lease expiring next year, expansion possibilities await.
The Michelin Guide is set to honor the top restaurants in the state next week. The ceremony is Tuesday, October 28 at 7 p.m. Stream it live on KHOU 11+.
These are the Houston restaurants honored in the Texas edition of the Michelin Guide 2024.
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