Amrina’s New Happy Hour

Chef Jassi Bindra and his team have been busy at Amrina. They have put together a new happy hour offering (called Fantasy Hour) that raises the bar for happy hour in the Woodlands area. Amrina has been opened less than a year, but it’s already become one of the most innovative kitchens in the entire Houston area.

Chef Jassi invited us to sample some of his new creations; here are our impressions.

We quickly became addicted to the Crispy Kale Chaat. Perfect for sharing; the bright, vibrant flavors from the pickled onion and raspberry chutney are front and center.

The Yellowfin Tuna Tartare was our favorite in this very strong lineup. Diced yellowfin is crowned with a tasty quinoa tabbouleh, and perched atop a superb chokha of avocado and granny smith apple. The result is an utterly delicious and delightfully interesting tartare; we’ve not tasted a better in town.

Carnivores should jump directly to the Wagyu Kulcha, a Desi spin on a meat pie. Sublimely tender wagyu beef is served en croute and presented with something we’ve never tasted before: bone marrow butter. The dish is as indulgent as it sounds, and shouldn’t be missed.

Traditionalists should scoop up the Baked Lamb Nachos. Rich, flavorful lamb is accented with notes of mint and a dusting of jalapeño, and served with housemade chips. If a Michelin-recognized chef created nachos this is what he’d come up with, which is quite a coincidence, because Chef Jassi has been awarded a Michelin Plate previously.

Chef Jassi has put his name on Jassi’s Hummus, and it’s earned the nomenclature. This is no boring hummus; the addition of acid from minced pickles and the chef’s bespoke seasonings elevates this dish beyond the traditional.

Chef Jassi’s Fried Chicken Burger is his spin on the popular fried chicken sandwich; the deft addition of mint yogurt is an excellent counterpoint to the masala spices in the fried chicken. Vegetarians can opt for the Jackfruit Burger, which substitutes a tasty slab of jackfruit and sriracha mayo; even this non-vegetarian would gladly order it again.

The cocktail program at Amrina is easily one of the strongest in the Woodlands, with several cocktails offered at $10 for happy hour.

We’re not ashamed to admit that we skipped the happy hour offerings and sampled the bar staff’s recommendations. Cashmere and Lace is as luxurious and indulgent as it sounds; Nikki Japanese Gin and Campari are married with rose water, lemon and lime, and finished with yuzu and sparkling wine. Complex, light, and perfect for a warm summer evening. What You Think? is another favorite of ours. Casamigos Reposado is brightened with mandarin, lemon, agave, and a splash of tea; it’s utterly unique and refreshing.

The bar at Amrina has an impressive collection top shelf whiskeys, tequilas, and other spirits; it’s a great place to explore.

Amrina’s Fantasy Hour is offered Tuesday-Friday and Sunday from 4 to 7.