Chef Luis Robledo Richards—internationally recognized for his artisanal chocolate work and known to many from his appearance on Netflix—is bringing a bold new culinary vision to Houston with the opening of Mayahuel. Located in the heart of Autry Park, this modern Mexican restaurant blends tradition and innovation, spotlighting heirloom ingredients, plant-based creativity, and a deep respect for Mexico’s culinary roots.
What to Expect
Mayahuel offers a masa-centric menu rooted in heirloom corn, with a balanced mix of plant-based and meat-forward dishes. The restaurant features an open kitchen concept, creating a transparent and engaging atmosphere that invites guests into the culinary process.
A standout element is the pullover coffee program—an interactive brewing experience using high-quality beans sourced from Chiapas, Mexico, and roasted locally by Katz Coffee. The beverage menu also highlights an extensive selection of additive-free tequilas, mezcals, and other agave spirits, curated to complement the food and elevate the overall experience.
Highlighted Dishes
The menu showcases an inspired mix of traditional techniques and contemporary flavors:
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Aguachile with Atlantic Salmon – Citrus-marinated with cucumber, fennel, and mint
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Mushroom Pastor Tacos – A plant-based reinterpretation of the classic al pastor
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Duck Tamales & Pork Belly Tacos with Mole Verde – Accompanied by verdolagas and ayocote beans
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Sea Bass with Salsa Veracruzana – Served with boulangère potatoes for a refined coastal dish
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Filet Mignon with Mole Negro – Finished with hazelnut purée and date gastrique
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Fideo Seco – Vermicelli pasta with seasonal mushrooms, vegetarian chicharrón, and queso fresco
Brunch Offerings
Weekend brunch at Mayahuel brings comforting classics and modern twists:
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Chilaquiles verdes
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Chicken enfrijoladas
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Mexico City–style eggs Benedict with ham and salsa roja hollandaise
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Housemade breakfast pastries crafted with care and local ingredients
Beverage Program
The drink menu is as thoughtfully curated as the food, featuring:
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Additive-free spirits such as G4 Tequila and Derrumbes Mezcal
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Two curated cocktail menus: "From the Moon" (light, bright, citrus-forward) and "From the Sun" (rich, smoky, and bold)
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A hands-on coffee brewing experience with Chiapas beans, highlighting single-origin quality and sustainability
Desserts
Mayahuel’s desserts are crafted with the precision Chef Richards is known for from his acclaimed Mexico City chocolate shop, Tout Chocolat. Expect refined, flavor-forward creations featuring cocoa, vanilla, coffee, and seasonal fruits—each one a thoughtful nod to Mexican terroir and tradition.
The Vision Behind Mayahuel
Chef Luis Robledo Richards has joined forces with Houston restaurateur Omar Khan of Culinary Khancepts (Liberty Kitchen, Leo’s) to create a space that celebrates transformation, resilience, and cultural legacy. Named after Mayahuel—the ancient Aztec goddess of agave—the restaurant pays tribute to the adaptability and richness of Mexican culinary heritage. The design emphasizes openness and community, with a central open kitchen as the heart of the space.
Mayahuel
811 Buffalo Park Drive, Suite 130
Houston, TX
Hours
Monday–Thursday: 3 PM – 10 PM
Friday: 3 PM – 11 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 11 PM
Sunday: 10 AM – 3 PM
