A new chapter in Houston’s dining scene is unfolding in the Harlow District, where Bari Hospitality Group (Bari, Georgia James) has debuted Exilio Latin Flair at 2817 West Dallas Street—a concept that pushes the boundaries of Latin cuisine in a luxe indoor-outdoor setting.
Set within the former home of Verde Garden in the bustling Montrose district, Exilio emerges as a complete transformation, with its restaurant and patio designed by internationally acclaimed Carlos Castroparedes—the creative force behind Bari in River Oaks District.
Illuminated lanterns hanging from the towering trees at the restaurant’s main entrance set the mood. Inside, a glowing back bar draws the eye in the dimly lit dining room, where elegantly dressed tables are thoughtfully arranged throughout. Outside, a picturesque, covered patio unfolds across two levels, centered around a tiered fountain that anchors the space. Like its neighbor La Griglia, the district’s lush surroundings lend themselves to relaxed, al fresco dining.
Exilio’s menu reflects a bold interpretation of the Latin table, drawing inspiration from Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Spain. The result is a menu that moves fluidly across regions and influences. The ribeye ceviche makes for a vibrant, refreshing start, featuring thin slices of meat bathed in a bright, herbaceous marinade, lifted by pops of color and crunch from sliced radish. The octopus ceviche follows as a worthy second, with tender, chunky pieces tossed with sliced tomatoes and whole manzanilla olives in a fresh dressing of lime and olive oil. Empanadas filled with wagyu and wild mushrooms arrive in pairs, revealing a molten Manchego center, and served with chimichurri.
Entrées like the Huachinango—a platter of mesquite-grilled Gulf snapper with Veracruz sauce, resting atop a bed of saffron rice and broccolini—and the Wagyu skirt steak with peppers, onions, and jalapeños, served with rice and refried beans, are well executed and generous enough to feel like a feast in their own right. Still, don’t hesitate to have a little fun—grab a housemade tortilla and build your own tacos.
Despite the menu’s wide-ranging influences, diners shouldn’t expect an overwhelming level of heat. The kitchen takes a more restrained approach to spice, allowing the integrity of each ingredient to take center stage rather than masking it with intensity. The result is a balanced, nuanced flavor profile where citrus, smoke, herbs, and natural sweetness shine.
Desserts strike a similar balance of creativity and fun while staying true to classic, crowd-pleasing flavors. Hot, fluffy churros arrive alongside spiced chocolatey cajeta and horchata-cinnamon gelato, delivering a comforting interplay of warm and cool to close out the meal.
Like its counterpart, Bari in River Oaks District, Exilio is quietly becoming a see and be seen destination with guests venturing in and lingering long after their meals over wine and cocktails. Happy hour, offered Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. is an especially lively time to visit. A large menu of bites, including empanadas in varieties like lobster, Wagyu, and chicken; avocado fries with lime chipotle aioli; and the braised short rib flautas, are $10 or less. Guests can also spring for a platter of three tacos of their choice for $12. Cocktails like the frozen passion colada, mojito, and caipirinha, plus wines by the glass, are $8 at this time.
While currently open for dinner service and happy hour, Exilio will mark its official grand opening with a special Cinco de Mayo celebration on Tuesday, May 5 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. featuring live music, cocktails, and light bites. Guests are invited to stay for dinner after the festivities, with reservations encouraged.
Exilio Latin Flair, 2817 West Dallas St., Building C, Houston, exiliolatinflair.com
