Hillstone was once a cherished place for my family and me, with years of loyalty and fond memories tied to their cuisine. Unfortunately, our recent experience has tarnished that connection beyond repair due to an astoundingly arrogant and dismissive staff. The wait times are misleading at best, bordering on dishonest. Despite an estimated 15-minute wait, we were kept waiting for over an hour with zero transparency. When we politely voiced our frustration--a rare instance for us--the response was nothing short of insulting. Instead of addressing the staff's attitude and their failure to communicate accurately, the manager chose to double down on an unprofessional and condescending approach. She essentially told us it was our fault, insisting we "get over it" and "suck it up" and that "even though their service was bad we [me and my family] still came to eat at their restaurant". This shockingly arrogant stance was a blatant admission that they see customer loyalty as a reason to neglect basic decency, not something to respect or reciprocate. The hostess was equally disrespectful, treating us as if we were an inconvenience. Her tone was rude, unprofessional, and downright dismissive. We were spoken to in a way that showed zero respect or appreciation for our patronage. It's a shame that a place with good food has staff such as manager Hannah who seem to prioritize their own egos over respectful service. For a restaurant to succeed, customer service must be a priority, not an afterthought. It's unfortunate that Hillstone's staff can't seem to grasp this. Our time, money, and loyalty deserve better than a manager and team who think they're above treating their customers with respect read more

I was visiting Houston for the weekend from Los Angeles and decided to dine at Hillstone before our flight. From the start, everything seemed fine--the receptionists greeted us warmly and seated us. We ordered appetizers, drinks, and food, but what followed was the most unacceptable dining experience I've ever had. Our waitress brought our drinks and, without a word, placed a card in front of my friend that said to silence her phone. Mind you, she was not on her phone, nor did her phone ring. Confused, we politely asked about it when the waitress returned. A few minutes later, a rude woman in a chef's jacket approached our table and bluntly asked us not to use our phones. I asked her, "Who do you see on the phone?" because neither of us were on our phones or talking on them. In fact, we were barely even speaking to each other because we were exhausted from traveling. Meanwhile, the table next to us was extremely loud, yet no one said a word to them. When I pointed this out, the woman became hostile and condescending. At that point, I told my friends we should just leave because this was unacceptable. Instead of de-escalating, she sarcastically told us to "get out" and walked away. On our way out, I tried once more to clarify why we were targeted, and she rudely snapped, "Just get out of my restaurant." This was humiliating and infuriating. I've dined at countless fine dining establishments, and I have never been treated this poorly. I can't comment on the food because the only thing that arrived was the drink--and it was terrible. (Who puts vodka in an Old Fashioned?) I do not recommend this place. If you value respect and decent customer service, spend your money elsewhere. read more

This evening, we went to Hillstone on Kirby for dinner, continuing a family tradition we've followed every Christmas Eve. We have three young children and have been dining there for over 15 years, even when I was younger and my dad was alive. The staff even remarked on how much the children have grown. Unfortunately, this year's experience was extremely disappointing due to the behavior of the manager. Without introducing herself, she came to our table and harshly told us to take our baby to the lobby because she was being "disruptive." Our baby wasn't crying--she would briefly fuss when she wasn't being fed quickly enough. The restaurant was bustling and loud, as expected on Christmas Eve. We had made our reservations a month in advance, and I asked if we should take our food to go. The manager agreed but refused to comp the meal. When I informed her she was being recorded, she abruptly left but later returned, saying she wouldn't serve us further but would comp the drinks and appetizers we had already received. This was disappointing, as our family looks forward to this tradition, and the children were hungry. When my husband asked for her name, she turned and walked away without answering. To make matters worse, the food arrived at our table, but the manager instructed the staff not to serve it while we were trying to resolve the situation. We fully understand if action is needed for a crying baby, but that wasn't the case here. The restaurant's noise level was already high, and our baby's brief fussing was not disruptive. This experience left us heartbroken on what should have been a special night for our family. read more

Disappointing Experience I recently visited Hillstone with my family for a special occasion, and unfortunately, our experience was far from satisfactory. The situation arose when the manager and hostess approached our table, insisting we vacate the booth due to their seating policy. I was taken aback by the aggressive tone used, especially since it was our first time at the restaurant. We were never informed about a limit on the number of people allowed in the booth. Despite being nearly finished with our meals, the General Manager SCHAUNA PORTER abruptly took my plate away, creating an embarrassing and disrespectful moment during what was supposed to be a family reunion. The lack of communication was disappointing. I believe situations like these should be approached with more sensitivity and consideration, especially when it involves customers who are celebrating special occasions. I hope the management takes this feedback constructively to improve their service and prevent similar incidents in the future. Unfortunately, this experience has left a lasting negative impression, and I won't be returning to Hillstone. read more

Was in there this evening with my parents who were visiting from out of town. My parents are weekly patrons of Houstons New Orleans as well as this location for the past 15 years. When we tried to move our bar stools we were told that its Houstons policy not to move bar stools, my parents questioned the policy as they have visited Houstons weekly and have never had this issue before. When asked the general manager was summoned, the General Manager Suzanne C. came over and from the start had a horrible and argumentative attitude not only to us but to the other party that was told not to move the bar stools and the mother, daughter couple were also insulted by the bartender Amy. I asked the general manager what the policy was and she stated she would not talk policy with me. I just don't understand how Hillstone corporate could have such a person in a management position at such a fine establishment. We will not be going to the Houstons Kirby location again which is such a shame cause they lost loyal customer this evening with the way the general manager Suzanne C. acted. read more

Been coming here for 30 years. The new manager ( who said her name was Christina Martin) has decided that there is absolutely NO parties for more than 6 people. We had a family member get in town early for Christmas on December 23rd who met us at the restaurant. We were seated with appetizers and a bottle of wine when our family member joined us and we asked for another wine glass. Instead of the glass " Christina Martin" came to the table and asked one of us to leave the table. She would give a second table in another part of the restaurant-so I guess that means I would be eating alone. Not much of a family dinner nor the holiday spirit. The chef came out and offered the patio where we could order appetizers(which we had already had) but no dinner which is outside where the temperature was dropping as it is December after dark. I'm not sure if this was about a fire code of the number of people a building can hold, but we were no where near that maximum number as it was a light night. I am very disappointed in the choices and the direction this restaurant is heading. read more

I recently had the pleasure of trying Hillstone's Dirty Rice and Grilled Red Fish, and it was a delightful experience. The fish was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, making it an absolute treat for my taste buds. The addition of popcorn shrimp toppers was a brilliant touch, adding a lovely texture and complementing the dish beautifully. I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised by the unique combination of pecans and corn in the dirty rice. Although unexpected, it turned out to be a pleasant addition, providing a subtle yet interesting twist to the traditional flavors. It wasn't overpowering but rather added a nice element that enhanced the overall dish. In summary, the Dirty Rice and Grilled Red Fish at Hillstone were simply outstanding. The perfectly cooked fish, along with the delightful popcorn shrimp toppers, made for a memorable dining experience. The introduction of pecans and corn in the dirty rice was an unexpected surprise that worked surprisingly well. I highly recommend trying this dish for a satisfying and flavorful meal. read more

This is my birthday surprise from my friends this year and it was one of the best presents ever. I have mentioned several times that I wanted to try it, but just never made the plans to do so. Reservations must be made in advance - way in advance, because this place is that good and people book it constantly. So, plan ahead. The food is absolutely AMAZING. I had 2 typa steaks and they were delicious. I also had the surf and turf, which is as near perfect as any cook could ever hope to get. If I was not in public, I would have probably started licking the plate. I finished with Creme Brulee, which is always tricky for places to get right. This one was a work of art and quite YUMMY. The service is delightful and very polished. I would HIGHLY recommend this little hidden gem to anyone. It is perfect for a romantic dinner for 2 or a group of 6 (like we had). I had such a great time and can't wait to tell everyone that will listen read more

My friend and I used to love Houston's. Yesterday was the first time we had been there in a very long time. We were both disappointed and the restaurant is no longer on our list. Service was good. The food was fine but not as good as we remembered. The spinach artichoke dip, which we remembered as being fabulous, was mediocre. The thing that bothered me the most though, is they have become greedy and pretentious. Their menu is full of comments like no cell phones allowed in the dining room and bar (though they obviously cater to business lunch meetings); we don't guarantee meat cooked medium-well or above; we only serve artichokes from Y location that are Z brand. No bread; no longer do they serve cheesy breadsticks with their salads; soda is only in the form of small bottles so my friend's diet Coke yesterday was $8.25! I'm sure the only reason why they don't say "no children allowed" is because it would be illegal. read more

I have been visiting Hillstone (Formally known as Houston's) for the last decade. I have NEVER had anything less than an excellent meal. My most frequent order is the french dip. This is probably the finest french dip I have ever had. They use actual trimmed pieces of fresh prime rib to make it. Not only is it amazing, the french fries are amazing and unique to Hillstone. Another dish I get is the ahi tuna salad. The only spot of imperfection on this salad is the mango pieces they use in it, but they can easily be pushed to the side for an otherwise perfect salad. The tuna is grilled hot on the outside with a cold raw center - AMAZING!! The ribs are also outstanding but will leave you slightly messy. I love the ambiance as well. read more

Epitome of uppity white privilege! Snotty place with over-priced food and service that treats you like a 3rd world citizen! If you want to go to a place to be looked down on, come here...They think they are better than everyone and their crappy ass food don't stink! Rude waiters and waitresses that give you the stink eye for even thinking of asking for a condiment. "We don't put sauce on our steaks here" , "who puts mustard on their pretentious fries", if you have to ask then you obviously don't belong on this side of Kirby. This place blows chunks! Go to Beck's Prime or Chili's and you will be so much happier then this scrap that is trying to bring back Studio 54's Hell's Kitchen Meth Lab.. Avoid at all cost!! read more

For the empowerment of the employees. Take it to the courts and get your rights https://www.restaurant-hospitality.com/legal/dallas-court-grants-hillstone-restaurant-group-worker-right-wear-protective-face-mask Sad that lives don't come before money for this company. It says a lot for everyone involved. I hope this helps someone. Just know that there are many of us standing with you. The people who work and truly make this Resturant. It is sad that you the servers, chefs, and greeters don't get the acknowledgement you deserve. Your lives matter!!!! For the folks who totally disregarded the safety of the workers and patrons of this establishment, May God have mercy on your souls. Literally. read more

0 stars - this place is ridiculous. My husband and I sat at the bar for drinks and dinner one night when his flip flop fell off. The floor was 2" under his foot but a waiter rushed over and told us they'd need to escort us out if he didn't put it back on. Flash forward to today, my stepdad wore a baseball cap for lunch. About 3 other people were also sporting hats. However, he was told to take it off or leave. WHO DOES THIS PLACE THINK THEY ARE?????? All it is is a washed up chain restaurant with dim lighting and mediocre food. Two thumbs down. Our baseball hat will be taking our $ elsewhere. I hope you close and something decent actually opens there. Trash. read more

Fantastic experience at Hillstone formerly Houstons Restaurant. The food and the service were impeccable!!! We enjoyed a beautiful experience the restaurant has beautiful ambience!!! Nick the general manager is first class and treated us like kings! Highly recommend this to all my friends and family. We enjoyed for appetizers the grilled artichokes and the spinach and artichoke dip both were outstanding! Main course, the Hawaiian ribeye, barbecue ribs and the delicious chicken salad. For dessert we Enjoyed the apple walnut cobbler and Keylime pie both outstanding! Again, thank you to Nick and his team for making our dining experience so wonderful! read more

I will admit there are few things I crave more then the spin dip and ribs served at Houston's. However I'm sad to say that after YEARS of overlooking sub par service and at times out right rudeness to satisfy these cravings, I now must give up. Someone needs to explain to these people that they are in the service industry and that they should accommodate there loyal quests and treasure them. This will no doubt catch up to them as I can't be the first to officially throw in the towel. The manager Chris is a disgrace to the service industry but I have no doubt that it's the culture of no that is taught to him by his superiors that is the true issue. read more

Poor Customer service, when I walked in and sat at the bar the manger didn't even speak to acknowledge that I was sitting at the table. I let him know I was ready to order and he tells me I have to get up and come to the desk to order. I politely ask him why would I get up come to order my food and then have to come back and sit down. Nonetheless, I had to get up order my food. The guy had an attitude the entire time. I ordered my food he wanted me to order more than what I wanted. We went back and forth it was ridiculous. I just just decided not to eat there. My question is how do people in the restaurants get to choose what we as customers eat? read more

I used to go here often, maybe twice a month, when it was called Houston's. I hadn't been back for a while, and went in last night to discover I still love that prime rib french dip sandwich and the spinach dip. But the prices have gone up -- almost $20 for a sandwich. It is an awesome amazing dinner though, and I will pay it again. The drinks were still the same price (although I already thought they were pretty high to begin with). Don't expect to get out of here for less than $50 per person for dinner. Another downer is that the wait for a table can be very long and they won't take reservations. We waited more than 45 minutes. read more

I've been visiting the Houstons restaurant since I was a kid and now I am in my 40s recently there's been some changes to the Jusin.-based company and because of this changes me and my family have been discriminated with your practice The new manager Elizabeth definitely needing some customer service skills on how to take care of her customers and also Nadia some Sociedad chef I'm extremely upset my daughter who is eight months pregnant really want to keep dinner there tonight. I definitely will contact my attorney and file a lawsuit for discrimination upon the Hillstone corporation Calling the cops on my son for him to leave read more

Schauna Marie Porter is racist, a liar, disgusting. Scratching your head with dandruff falling out while handling food and drinks is absolutely DISGUSTING. On top of not having gloves. I will be contacting the health department. Sandy the manager is just as nasty using the bathroom and not washing her hands. This place is filthy and I see why it stays EMPTY. They all lie for one another and cover up health violations. BELIEVE THE BAD REVIEWS. REPORT REPORT REPORT THEM. This place needs to be shut down. The food is bland, and the service is just as bad. Corporate also lies and covers up for the managers mentioned. BEWARE. read more