Arnaldo Richard’s Picos – A Houston Staple with a Mixed Dinner Experience

Tradition Realty Group
Dec 11, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Dec 15, 2025

Arnaldo Richard’s Picos has long been a recognizable name in Houston’s Mexican and Tex-Mex dining scene, especially in the bustling Upper Kirby neighborhood. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, expansive menu, and decades-long presence in the community, Picos draws crowds throughout the week. But even longstanding favorites can have off days—and this visit, unfortunately, leaned that way.

Between slow service, missing items, and dishes that didn’t quite shine, the dining experience felt uneven. While the restaurant’s lively ambiance is usually part of its charm, the noise level paired with spotty service made the evening more stressful than enjoyable, especially with a toddler in tow. With Picos closing soon, this visit may not have showcased the restaurant’s best, but it captures an honest moment from a longtime Houston diner.

What to Know:

Popular for Mexican & Tex-Mex staples
Service can be hit or miss depending on timing
HRW (Houston Restaurant Weeks) menu experience may vary
Ceviche and enchiladas were heavier and less refined than expected
Desserts may be served small or delayed during busy hours

Reviews

Sara I. (Aug 22, 2025):

“I thought the food here was just okay.

The service was incredibly spotty and it was incredibly loud inside the restaurant. I had to flag down the waiter a few times and the food came out pretty slowly. A group of us ordered from the Houston Restaurant Week menu and never even received our dessert. I had to ask for a to-go box for the dessert by that time as it was quite late and I had my toddler with me. How can a waiter forget to bring dessert when it's connected to the HRW menu?

Anyway, everything was just okay. The dessert came out as a tiny morsel in the to-go box. The food items we shared were just okay, such as the ceviche being rubbery and the enchiladas were quite heavy. This was my first experience at Pico's and probably my last as they are shutting down anyway. Maybe this spot is better earlier in the day or something, but I wasn't truly that impressed. Sorry.”