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So Vino Bistro & Wine Bar

<p>Given its unlikely shopping-center-storefront location and the fact that it's known chiefly as a wine bar, So Vino is an unexpected find for dinner. The ambitious little kitchen turns out surprisingly good food, with generous cheese plates (the ever-changing selections like Humboldt Fog and Dutch Gouda come from Central Market, Houston's answer to Whole Foods), a perfectly dressed roasted beet and goat cheese salad, and a Texas wild game chili that, on wintry nights, pairs perfectly with a warming glass of Texas Hill Country red. The creaky wood floors, hushed, candlelit atmosphere, and alluring H&#244;tel Costes-style music playing in the background make this the ultimate spot for an alluring late-night dinner. </p> <p><strong>Tip:</strong> You won't be forced to hover over miniature bar tables here&#8212;all the seats in the house are perfectly comfortable&#8212;but the banquettes make the best spots for private conversations. </p>