The sun is starting to peek out behind the winter clouds, which means Xochimilco in Houston is back! Hosted by Cuchara Restaurant, the Xochimilco boat tours have been a popular pastime for Houstonians for years, bringing a bit of Mexico City tradition to Houston. When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston's Buffalo Bayou the tours stopped. Now, the Mexico City-inspired tour is back and better than ever with appetizers and margaritas to go around.
Visit Cuchara Restaurant
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Located at 214 Fairview St, Cuchara opened its doors in 2012 and offers a wide array of savory Mexican specialties like chilaquiles, quesadillas de huitlacoche, lamb barbacoa, and tacos chelo. Open for brunch and dinner, a visit to Cuchara is like stepping into the art and culture of Mexico City. Vibrant murals adorn the walls as entrees such as enchiladas with green salsa and carnitas served with fresh tortillas and refried beans are served on colorful dining ware. And don't forget to order the guacamole tradicional with cilantro, avocado, and garlic.
The boat tours run for an hour and a half and come with endless margaritas, ceviche, and live music from a trio band that plays music from Mexico dating as far back as the 50s and 60s, according to Cuchara restaurant owner Ana Beaven. The first boat tour (which is completely sold out already) is scheduled to take off on February 29th. But not to worry, there are more events planned for the upcoming months, with the Fall voyages offering tamales instead of ceviche.
Be aware there are a few rules to follow on the boat. There are no toilets on the boat, so make sure to go before boarding. Jumping into the bayou is not permitted as well as throwing trash into the water. Not a rule, but it is recommended to bring a light jacket; even in the summer months. The temperature usually drops around 10 degrees when traveling downstream.
Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased by calling the Cuchara restaurant at 713-942-0000. A second date in early March can be expected, but be fast, the boats can only carry 15 people so tickets sell out in a matter of hours.
