My random thoughts…brought to you once a week.  This week, we continue with our journey through the Top 25 Best Houston Bites from the past year.

Stay calm loyal readers…Unique Randomness will soon return to its original format.  You know, the weekly bullet points into my f’d up thoughts.

15. Alamo Tamale & Taco: Ham, Egg, & Bean Breakfast Tacos
Let’s face it, this breakfast taco doesn’t get many points for presentation. But, I could give a sh*t. It’s all about taste, and man does Alamo deliver in that category. Everything–from the smooth refried beans, to wet eggs, to the salty ham–just blends so wonderfully together. I HATE dry breakfast tacos. No worries here. In fact, count on dripping oil on your khakis. I’ve been known to do that a time or twenty. Going to Alamo is like entering a little slice of Houston heaven. Everyone should do it at least once…or twenty!

14. Simone on Sunset: Smoked Duck Pizza
Easy there pizza experts! I know this isn’t authentic. It doesn’t look like pizza, and the glamorous toppings (smoked duck, apples, etc) don’t fit the mold. But the crust has that perfect crunch and all of the toppings just work so well together. I believe this item is technically off-menu, but ask for it. Those thick slabs of duck meat seal the deal for me. Trifecta time: half a pizza, a glass of red wine, and Simone’s awesome patio. Do it…soon, before you start sweating your balls off from the Houston heat.

13. Mandola’s Deli: Deviled Egg
Sometimes, less is more. Enter Mandola’s deviled egg. See that little guy on the side there? That’s what I’m talking about. I was interviewing their GM for Eating Our Words, when he instructed me to try the deviled egg. Sure. I love me some deviled eggs, but d@mn, this one was on an entirely different level. All the characteristics were there: smooth, creamy, slight tang, and that hint of sweetness. Mandola’s Deli…Great place, great people, and great eggs! Now, that’s a winning slogan!

12. Little Bigs: Fries
Truth be told, I’m damn sick of talking/writing about Little Bigs. But let’s give credit where credit is due…great fries. The medium thickness, perfect fry job, and coarse salt make this French fry so very, very special. They are the best fries in Houston, and thus, land high on my list. Now, the burgers, that’s a different story.

11. Haven: Pig Trotters
Yet another example of frying perfection–Haven’s Pig Trotters.  I found this dish while on a hot date with my beautiful wife.   This appetizer is far less popular than their shrimp corn dogs, but certainly just as notable. The tender pork is formed into a few balls, fried, and topped off with some pickled onions. Sorry folks, no ball jokes–too easy. Oh, and I’m pretty sure just about everything on the plate was from Texas. Added bonus!