Top Pumpkin Dishes In Houston

The Daily Meal Staff|Oct. 1, 2014 7:00 am EST

With the first breath of less-humid air in the fall, Houstonians begin to hanker for heartier fare. Pumpkin-packed provisions can be found at restaurants all over town, but only a select few are among the best. In 2012, CBS Houston took a look at the best pumpkin dishes in the area. See what's changed since then and find out where you can go now to satisfy your cravings for this sweet autumn squash.

Ninfa's on Navigation
2704 Navigation Blvd.
Houston, TX 77003
(713 228-1175
www.ninfas.com

Squash played a prominent role in the development of modern Mexican cuisine and subsequently, today's Tex-Mex. That is why it's not uncommon to see pumpkin on the menu at places such as Ninfa's on Navigation. Pumpkin flan is listed at the top of the dessert menu as a favorite. When you order this dish, you not only get the rich flavor of pumpkin but also the taste of caramel all with a cajeta topping.

Related: Top Pumpkin Treats in Houston

Dolce Vita
500 Westheimer Road
Houston, TX 77006
(713) 520-8222
www.dolcevitahouston.com

If you prefer Italian flavors, head to Dolce Vita on Westheimer and try the fritto crochette, which includes pumpkin and goat cheese. These fried dumpling treats are warm, crunchy and savory. If you still have a yearning for squash, add to your meal the zucca pizza. This pie comes topped with red onions, bufala mozzarella, pancetta and the pumpkin cousin, butternut squash. Should you choose to rid yourself of your pumpkin craving at Dolce Vita, just don't do it on a Monday, because that is the only day of the week the restaurant is closed.

Cloud 10 Creamery
5216 Morningside Drive
Houston, TX 77005
(713) 434-6129
www.cloud10creamery.com

Compared to other parts of the country, Houston falls are mild, and there may be some days when it's hot enough to warrant a trip to an ice cream parlor. Cloud 10 Creamery in Rice Village has quietly been making its mark over the last couple of years as it has cranked out both classic and unique flavors of ice cream. To try the pumpkin flavor, go during the fall. In 2013, the creamery sold pumpkin and cranberry, and the year before it was pumpkin and yogurt. Each half-gallon batch is made by hand using only the highest-quality natural ingredients. Stop by the creamery to see what Pastry Chef Chris Leung will do with pumpkin this fall.

Heavenly Desserts
(713) 538-5191
www.heavenly-dessertsTX.com

For an ethereal treat, order the pumpkin bread from Houston-based Heavenly Desserts. This flavor-packed bread tastes just like your grandmother made it because the recipe, like all of the recipes Heavenly Desserts employs, came from the founder's grandmother. Please allow at least 72 hours notice when ordering because everything is custom-made when you order it.

Bite Macarons
5172-B Buffalo Speedway
Houston, TX 77005
(713) 664-2483
www.bitemacarons.com

Macarons, which should not be confused with coconut-packed macaroons, are the treat of choice for many now. Light and airy, they are sweet without weighing you down. If pumpkin is your thing, try the pie-inspired pumpkin spice macarons at Bite Macarons. These little filled meringue bites pack a punch of flavor. You'll also love visiting the ultra-modern shop on Buffalo Speedway, near 59. The friendly staff will help you to choose from the many sweet works of art they sell there.

Crystal Hessong ia a freelance writer and a lifelong, fourth generation Houstonian. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.