This was a restaurant where I knew what I wanted as soon as I walked in. I was a man on a mission. With confidence, I was willing to take the $42 splurge on the black truffle pasta. My verdict? Very good but very small portion size. Probably 7-8 bites MAX. The pasta was super flavorful, I was trying to ration out the truffle to have some for every bite and it hit the spot but I just think I can get better bang for buck elsewhere in the city. The complimentary hummus, sourdough bread and tuna crudo was very much appreciated and our servers were fantastic. Also the menus light up, the little kid in me was losing it. Great touch. read more

Potente - Italian Near Me - Houston, Texas

I tried Potente during restaurant week and was very pleased with the menu! The bread and hummus appetizer was A great way to start the meal. I ordered the scallop to start which was cooked perfectly and had no crunch at all and then followed that with a beef fillet and the chocolate mousse dessert. The beef was a little chewy but everything else tasted delicious. The wait staff was extremely attentive But I would say almost to a fault where I felt like I was being rushed through my meal. I definitely would recommend and I'm open to coming back and trying their regular dinner menu though. read more

I held off from writing this review until I gave it a complete and fair shot. First time: Just opened, went to a private Truffle and Caviar event. Not fair. Unlimited truffles and champagne. How could they go wrong? I will say we really enjoyed the Spaghetti al tartufo nero. Second time: Came after an event downtown and sat at the bar. Got the Spaghetti al tartufo nero like we had at the event. It was microscopic and came with literally 3 truffle shavings. I felt swindled for a $42 dish and I was still quite hungry. Third time: Coming with the knowledge that the dishes are very small, we ordered a couple of primi piatti with an entree for each of us (4). Maybe our second trip was an anomaly? Maybe they heard enough complaints? We didn't finish it all. Some of our favorite dishes ended up being Granchio (creamy sauce with gnocchi and crab), Ravioli del Cacciatore (rabbit-- a bit salty but still good), Costolette di Agnello (perfectly cooked lamb). I am obsessed with fresh green peas and they sprinkle them in just about everything we had. Well played, Potente, well played. Didn't try the Spaghetti this time! The restaurant is a stand out on decor and service-- A solid 4.5 stars for me. Service has always been 5 starts. The sourdough bread is great but the hummus is a bit strange. I like hummus but not with sourdough bread. The wine list is extensive and the prices are very reasonable. We got a '14 Silver Oak Alexander Valley for $105 and the retail is ~ $80. read more

A much needed night to spend a lovely dinner at an excellent restaurant. We were celebrating our wedding anniversary and I've been saving this restaurant for some time and it met exceptions. Quality of food and service were met and couldn't have asked for better. The scallops and the wild boar cut was cooked perfectly. I'd defiantly come back for dinner. Highly recommend. read more

Worth a visit! Order a cocktail off the menu or a well-known one. I ordered off-menu with a last word and it came out forest green, tasting like creme de violette (not a last word ingredient, although the server claimed it was). The server was awesome about letting me switch to a martini, as he agreed it also looked funky. Food was divine. Sharing the truffle spaghetti is a must. The chocolate dessert is a little stereotypical (melted chocolate poured over a chocolate shell), which we were given the fair warning of. Will try a more specialty dessert next time! Chic environment and plenty of room to visit with your table - did not feel too crowded. read more

Hey Italian lovers, check out Potente as they specialize in Italian and seafood. I can't vouch for the Italian dishes, but I must not deny that the Granchio Ripieno softshell crab stuffed with jumbo lump crab meat and Salsa aioli was crispy, fried goodness. My friend who ordered the quail entree enjoyed her dish as well. If you are looking to pair your grub with a red wine, I suggest my fave, the bottle of Margeaux 2009. Or you can always ask the sommelier for highly recommended selections. The dining setting is spacious and intimate. I noticed it was great for groups as well. Service is on point. Even the chef checked to see if we were okay. Check it out next time you are downtown in Houston. read more

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The best food I've ever had. Not your typical Italian restaurant! Super luxurious. Def will be returning read more

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This is only my second time here. Again for Houston Restaurant week. Service was good considering. Some of the dishes were delicious and some were so-so. I enjoyed my Maiale Brasato - death wish coffee braised Berkshire pork belly, hill country polenta, devils kiss cracklin as an appetizer and I ordered the Ragu All' Anatra - dartagnan duck breast, tagliatelle, Barolo Muscovy bolognese. The duck was a bit too rare and therefore chewy but had a good taste. I also had a taste of the Granchio - crispy whaler soft shell crab, heirloom cherry tomato, basil tabouleh, Meyer lemon tartar and it was delicious and crispy. For dessert I had Café Cioccolato - blackout cake layers, chocolate hazelnut crème, caramel crunch, raspberry. Very rich and dark. My fellow diners had varying opinions. The two that ordered steak had the wrong temperatures but everyone seemed to mostly enjoy their dishes. All and all nice ambiance. read more

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I was excited to try this place, but left feeling disappointed to find out this place was way overrated. The food was just okay for the portion and prices, and the service was almost nonexistent. Our drinks were never refilled, and our server only came around maybe once or twice. We started off our meal with the Maiale Brasato- espresso glazed pork belly with jalapeño polenta and egg. The polenta and egg were good, but the pork belly was dry. For entrees, we ordered the most popular (also the main thing I came to try) Spaghetti Al Tartufo Nero- Cacio e pepe topped with black truffles shaved table side. This was probably the biggest let down. The pasta was hard and undercooked, so even though the sauce and truffle were both good, it was hard to enjoy. We did not finish it. The second entree was the Filetto di Manzo- Texas wagyu prime beef filet, garlic creamed potato (which also had cherry tomatoes on top?), vegetables (broccolini and fingerling potatoes), sea salted espresso. This entree was also just okay. Had ordered it medium rare, but it came out medium. Also did not finish this dish. I think the best thing was probably the bread service- the bread and artichoke garlic hummus they give you before your meal. read more

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Potente is a beautiful, classy restaurant located in the heart of Downtown Houston. It's the perfect place for drinks, a date, a business dinner, anniversary dinner, or pre- or post-Astro's game drinks. The stadium is just a few minutes walk away. Would recommend making a reservation in advance as the place is usually quite packed. TVs are in the bar area to watch sports games. The bar area is very large and you can also have your meal there if you want faster service or want to keep an eye on the game. It is pricey though, so make sure your wallet is prepared to pay up. I ordered the Spaghetti al tartufo, their signature dish of Cacio e Pepe with truffles. The server will bring out a box of truffles and shave them in front of you, which is fun to watch but lasts all about 5 seconds. The pasta dish itself is quite small, so if you're starving then you will probably want to order more. If you're a group of 2 or more I would suggest just getting one pasta dish and sharing it and trying out other dishes. Personally, I was not amazed by this dish for the price, and I'm not sure if it's because it wasn't mixed well but the truffle flavor was not balanced throughout the dish so it felt like I was eating plain/bland pasta. I noticed at the end of my meal that there was some liquid at the bottom of the dish, perhaps truffle oil? Would've been nice to taste it at the start of my dish, not at the end of the meal when taking the last few bites. Had high hopes for Potente, but was sadly let down :( Overall, I was disappointed with the flavor of the dish for the price of $52-55. Don't think I would return, but if you're going for a special occasion or money is no object then I'd say make a stop and try Potente out. read more

Love this place! The Ingredients are top notch, definitely enjoy myself every time I visit.

Greatest experience in a long time! We came during Houston Restaurant Weeks to sample some of the signature dishes they included and were totally blown away. Our favorites were the Diver Scallops, which were succulent and delicious, and the Spaghetti al Tartufo Nero, a delicious combination of cacio e pepe and black truffle. As great as the food was, the service was even better. Even thoug this was definitely a fine dining restaurant, every worker from the hostess to the table servers to our waiter were incredibly friendly, approachable and helpful. I think we found a new go-to place for special occasions or just aby time you want exceptional food and service. read more

Nice restaurant and fantastic service! I try there during HRW and it was a good experience. Their menu is on lighting ( so fancy). I love the appetizer and their signature course ( truffle pasta) but disappointed on their dessert. It just not very tasty compared with other food. I feel like I can get a better dessert outside in any pastry shop. Anyway, still recommend to try here. Valet parking is $8 if you are unable to find a parking. Don't go during game night. It's gonna be packed! Follow my IG for more recommendations IG: foodie_travelstheworld, thank read more

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I would give it 3.5 Food: 8/10 Cocktails: 6/10 Service: 6/10 Went to Potente for HRW/Date Night last night. Service was a bit rushed and waiters seemed stressed, truffle shaver was very friendly and fun. *I had the burrata, sea bass, and chocolate dessert. I also added a half portion of the truffle spaghetti for an additional $21 since I didn't want it as my main *Fiancé had the scallop, truffle spaghetti (extra $10), and lemon tart Food was good, but not out of this world- my sea bass was a little salty. Truffle anything is, of course, amazing. Cocktail list quantity and quality was disappointing All-in-all it was a nice atmosphere for a date night, but could have been a bit better experience for the prices. HRW or not we dropped $250 for both of us with upgrades and a few drinks before tip. read more

The best dinner in Houston by far! We were greeted and seated right away. Our waiter was fantastic! He even took the time to share local spots to visit and things to do/avoid. From the first drink/eat to the final - everything was amazing! You can't visit Houston and miss out on this restaurant. read more

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I am in town for the 2022 Houston Marathon on Jan 16, 2022. Planned to stay a couple days more to relax. Stayed in Westin Downtown Hotel and Potente is right in front of the hotel. Tried Potente the second day of the marathon race with my wife since we want to take easy to stay close to the hotel. I read from Yelp that the restaurant has a dress code, but unfortunately I wasn't prepared for such occasions -- all I have are hoodie's and jeans besides shorts and jerseys :) So I just want to give it a try and prepared if they kick us out. Without reservation, me and my wife just walked in and to our surprise they admitted us immediately, albeit in the "casual lounge area". I really appreciate that they are NOT too snobbish about the dress code. I noticed that in the other area, the "formal" dinning area, is fully reserved. But the settings are perfect although right next to the bar. Food is FANTASTIC! Absolutely the upscale taste that you can identify immediately. Service is attentive as well. Highly recommend the Espresso Martini after dinner drink :) I understand the restaurant owner and some customers want to keep the vibe of a relative formal setting by requiring "business casual" attire, But it IS a bit old school vibe. I wish they will open up a bit to allow hoodies and jeans in the formal dinning area :) I should have give 4 stars but added one star hoping they will be more open in the future. read more

Such a positive dining experience in every way! I went for my birthday and I'm so glad I chose this restaurant. The service was impeccable, presentation was perfect, and the food - OMG! One of the best OR dare i say, THE best meal I've had in a long time. I hope to visit again soon!! read more

What a fun experience! I came here before a Saturday play at the hobby center and barely made it to the show, our 4 party reservation was at 5:15PM when our show started 8PM. Because I thought we had plenty of time we took it slow at dinner and tried lots of stuff. Everything was super good. For my main dish I got the veal cheek with mushroom risotto. Wow! So tender and delicious. This dish had only just been added to their "fall" menu since it's a little bit heavy. I didn't think so at all they should make it all year round. Can't wait to come back. read more

Potente - The baked oysters, they had a nice tomato sauce - Italian Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Upscale. Great service. Food is wonderful. We went during restaurant week. Truffle pasta is amazing. Desserts were wonderful.

Everything was delicious. Not only was the food impressive but also the decor and ambiance. This is my third time here. I usually go for happy hour but decided to join their HRW. It's by far the best HRW I had this year! read more

Potente - HRW - Italian Near Me - Houston, Texas

Some of the best Italian food I've ever tried. The Florentine steak as amazeballs! Also Chiara was a very knowledgeable and awesome host!

Pasta is AMAZING, top-notch customer service and ambiance. Their signature cocktails and wine list are unmatched.

My wife and I enjoy this spot on occasion. They have a very good truffle pasta and the menu is always a little different. Nice atmosphere and great wine selection read more

Limited pasta on the menu for an Italian joint. Because of limited pasta options (none of which appealed to me), I ordered my first steak in an Italian restaurant. It was outstanding. Highly recommend the strip. Nice size, nice vegetable garnish, and great flavor. Had 2 glasses of wine. Both red. They chill the bottles of red served by the glass for some inexplicable reason. The $24 amarone was so cold it had little taste--the first amarone in the history of the world with little taste. However, the most disappointing aspect of a very pricey meal was the service. Lots of servers chatting among themselves with little time for the bother of minding to the paying customers. They were like their own little club and the people there for the food were an afterthought. read more

Potente - Strip steak - Italian Near Me - Houston, Texas

Had 5 pm reservations. Only people in restaurant. Don't know why we get seated were we get seated. Asked to change tables were told most tables were "reserved". When we left a number of tables were still available so do not understand. Our waiter, Cameron was very matter of fact, I prefer someone more engaging. We ordered the crab appetizer. We were told it was very small and may want to order 2. It was big enough for 2 and delicious. Caesar and Sedano salads were fantastic. I had Frutti di Mare, I did not like it but the Ostriche Gratinate was delicious. Sherry had shrimp and pasta (don't know name) she liked it. Cheese Cake was mediocre. Maybe it is 3.5 stars but cannot figure out how to go .5 star. read more

Highly recommend this beautiful & intimate restaurant! The truffle pasta is my all time favorite comfort food.

Owner of the Houston Astros, Jim Crane and former chef of Brennan's of Houston are the two behind this concept -- not sure if there are more. I absolutely loved this place! The entire dining experience was phenomenal! Everything has a great flavor and a beautiful presentation. Their service was excellent. read more

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I wanted to try this place out as it's right next to the Westin. Let's make my review simple here ... two things that I want to point out: 1) Please don't talk shit about your other customers in front of other customers.... I sat at the bar that night and the servers were very unprofessional, or angry at someone (probably sits in the main dinning area) for some reasons. Please provide some basic training to your employees. 2) I ordered the scallop dish that night. I don't mind eating raw scallops, as they do have some quality scallops. However, the problem is that, the scallops were beautifully seared outside, but still cold inside. Looks like someone might have just rushed through the order... Ok, to be fair - the hummus and bread were good, not because they are free. I would be willing to pay for it because they are really good. Will I return ?? ... probably not. read more

Customer service and dish offerings at the bar are excepts! Hats off to the management and staff

Meh, I had the truffle pasta and didn't think I was that good. This place is overhyped IMO.

Work dinner with clients. Great experience. Everything was perfect! Waiter was exceptional.

All I can say is wowsers! This place was amazing! We had a "flight" of food. You can taste the time and care taken in preparing everything.

3.5 rating. This place was a bit of a disappointment for food, which sucks because I had such high hopes. So many other aspects I loved that it boosted them. Valet: $8 could probably find street parking Ambience: very nice mixture of trendy, classy, relaxed. Walk in and it's very nice then walk to this back room that is a little bit more toned down but still has beautiful ceilings and a big screen tv mounted on the wall! Was amazing to have a nice dinner with the rockets lakers game on at your table. Service: Amy was absolutely amazing. She was very knowledgeable and attentive. She handled our party of 8 with no issue and was very good at explaining the food in a much more comprehensive and detailed way then the menu. The sommelier was available to give you a better description of any wine and did an amazing job describing the flavors. HRW menu: Appetizer: octopus was not good at all. So chewy and just flavorless. I was very excited to try this. -Scallop was okay it wasn't the worst I've had but def not the best. It really absorbed the flavor of the corn risotto, which I didn't like Entree: truffle pasta had good flavor really tasted the truffle oil but the pasta tasted overcooked I'm not sure if it was just al Dente so that's why. This is a great dish to share but as your meal it almost falls short. -Wagyu beef was a favorite of the table -shrimp dish this had good flavor because of the sauce but I just wish they had done something more to the shrimp. This dish is basically 3 ravioli stuffed with ricotta and some other items then 3 shrimp on top and the sauce poured over Dessert: the chocolate hazelnut wasn't anything special just a very rich chocolate cake -strawberry tart was very flavorful and a table favorite -cheesecake I don't usually care for cheesecake but I really liked this. I think because they have a decent layer of graham crust which is my favorite part Overall, I was disappointed with food. Would love to give this place another try when it's not HRW but scared that the food will fall short again... loved everything else about it and really thought this was about to become one of my favorite restaurants in Houston Jim Crane needs to do better read more

Fantastic dining experience! Upscale, posh vibe with impeccable service. I loved the chargrilled octopus and the frutti di mare. My dining companions loved the duck, black truffle pasta and the filet. Lovely cocktail and wine list. I particularly liked the cognac spritzer who's name escapes me. read more

Potente - Grilled octopus - Italian Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Came in for the first time for Houston Restaurant Weeks. The restaurant is located across from the ballpark so there can be a lot of traffic in the area when a game is going on. We decided to Uber and had no issues, however. The restaurant is beautiful inside, great ambiance. I thought it was really neat how the menus lit up when you opened them (it's the little things in life)! The service was great as well and they didn't rush us through our courses. Everything we had was delicious, however, I will say I didn't enjoy the bread that was served because the crust was pretty tough. The hummus that came with it was delicious but I didn't get to enjoy much of it because of the bread. I had the Caesar salad, spaghetti with truffles and cheesecake. The portions were very generous and I couldn't finish it all. One complaint I would have about the restaurant in general is that it was very noisy, and it wasn't even completely full. As the night went on and it became more crowded, it was difficult to talk to the person at my table. I guess I was not expecting the noise level and not sure I'd return here for that reason. If I'm going to a more upscale restaurant, I would expect a better experience. This is the only reason why I knocked 1 star off of my review. read more

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Went here for the first time tonight. Emily helped us pick the highlights of the menu. So good. So. So. Good. Go with some friends and get the octo, truffle pasta, scallops, lamb chips and the chocolate ball dessert. Thank me later. Still drooling. read more

Great drinks, service, and food. This is a great place for special occasions. We sat at the bar, and the bartender was super attentive and made sure to refill our drinks before they were empty. The food came out extremely fast and was amazing. I highly recommend the tuna appetizer. It was the best tuna I have had, by far. read more

Great food and great service. Our waiter, Eddy was one of the best waiters we've ever had. He was very attentive, recommended great dishes, and was very friendly. We loved it, and we will definitely go back. read more

Really good food with wait staff that is both knowledgeable and friendly. Our waiter was Will and he had great recommendations. The Spaghetti tartufo is spectacular, as is the branzino. The foie gras wasn't my favorite, but that might just be personal preference. The cocktails were very tasty. I had the Potente Gold, which is essentially an old fashioned with kahlua. The espresso martini was a great after dinner drink. It is very expensive, but has a great ambience and the food tastes great. I think it is a great place for special occasions. I give it 8/10 stars. read more

Came for a drink or two. Ordered from their specialty drinks. Gin that was on the menu was not used (Botanist). When I inquired was told the drink was for happy hour what did I expect. Short male bar tender is not a people person. Female is nice. Management is disconnected with the process. Boo read more