Best of International Houston: Honduras

Honduras Maya Cafe & Bar
Image: Max Burkhalter
Population in Houston: 45,000 (the 3rd largest Honduran population in the country)
Bongo's Sport Bar & Café
6253 Bissonnet St., 713-272-0050
Cheer on Los Catrachos, the Honduran national team, while sipping on a few cold ones at this hot spot in Gulfton. Bongo's becomes a mini nightclub on the weekends, complete with DJs, dancing and live performances, and hosts special events for the holidays.
Las Hamacas Restaurant
12726 North Fwy., 281-876-9129
Over the last 14 years, Las Hamacas has opened three restaurants around the city in rapid succession as word of mouth brings ever more fans. The food here blends Honduran and Caribbean flavors into dishes like pollo perron, spicy shrimp over fried plantains, sopa de mariscos and sweet tamales. Check out the drink specials and open mic karaoke throughout the week.
Honduras Maya Café & Bar
5945 Bellaire Blvd. Suite B, 713-668-5002, hondurasmayacafeybar.com
This Central American eatery in Gulfton is as close to the old country as you can find in Houston. Feast on traditional dishes such as carne asada, parillada maya and salpicon, served with the typical rice, beans, tortilla and salad. Come back on Friday nights, when Honduras Maya's regulars sing karaoke for prizes.
El Katracho Restaurant
883 Federal Rd., 832-831-8910
This popular Jacinto City spot stocks all manner of Honduran-brewed cervezas, from Barena to Port Royal Export to Salva Vida, but that’s not the only draw. Delicious weekday breakfasts are served starting at 8 a.m. (don’t miss the fluffy baleadas), and karaoke performances are fun on weekend nights (especially when accompanied by a hearty plate of Honduran-style chop suy.)