best restaurants in houston texas – With more than 10,000 restaurants, among the best places to eat in Houston, and representing cuisine from more than 70 countries and regions of America, Houston‘s food scene is as ethnically diverse as its more than 7 million residents. With so many options, including an organic market, it’s not surprising that visitors leave the city with many good things to say about their dining experiences in Houston. Houston was named the “new capital of fine dining” by Food & Wine and the most exciting food city in the country by Tasting Table magazine. Here we present several flavorful options for different tastes and budgets.
FOOD MARKETS IN HOUSTON
In addition to the city’s many restaurants and food fairs, there are several food markets in Houston. A few of us prefer to do something other than the weekly market in a typical supermarket, with many excited people moving around with their carts. We miss the days of open-air markets, face-to-face interactions with farmers and vendors, and the feeling that a trip to buy food was not a chore but an opportunity to interact with the community in which we live. Houston is on the move to give us back what we longed for. With two large farmers’ markets under construction, your grocery shopping days are about to be much more enjoyable.
For those looking to buy direct from the producer, there are a growing number of farmers’ markets that have made Houston their home, as well as several different neighborhood pop-ups already in the city. In addition, two new developments are creating their permanent establishments in Houston, where you can find everything from fresh produce to prepared foods.
RAILWAY HEIGHTS
8200 WASHINGTON AVE. (OPENED IN THE SUMMER OF 2020)
Similar to the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia and Chelsea Market in New York City, the 3.6-acre Railway Heights Market will be located near the western edge of 610 Loop. Silent Theater Group, the restaurateurs behind the Bravery Chef Hall and Conservatory, are leading the development of this new project. The 2,120-square-meter space will house a grocery store, beer garden, container farm, and farmers’ market with at least 25 vendors.
HOUSTON FARMERS MARKET
2520 AIRLINE DR.
The city’s oldest and largest farmers market, Houston Farmers Market, established in 1942, is undergoing a complete renovation to be transformed over the next two years into an attractive 18-acre destination for locals and visitors alike. Bringing together unique food vendors and retailers will continue serving as a community hub with different programs and events to help achieve this goal. James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Shepherd and his business partner Kevin Floyd have been chosen as food and beverage advisors for this project.
FOOD HALLS
The diversity of Houston’s dining scene is easily recognizable in Downtown’s new food halls.
CONSERVATORY
1010 PRAIRIE
Opened in 2016, the Conservatory was the first underground beer garden and food hall. It is currently closed and in the process of moving to the famous East Downtown District area, or EaDo. However, the Conservatory will reopen in its new location in the coming months, offering quality cuisine from the same suppliers daily. In addition, the new concept called Underground Hall will open in the old Conservatory location, making some changes to the venue and with options that for now include pizza, beer, and the Underbar that will serve wines, cocktails, and other beverages.
CHEAP RESTAURANTS IN HOUSTON
You can eat very well at affordable restaurants in Houston without breaking your budget.
No matter what you want to eat, in cheap restaurants in Houston, you will find options of all kinds at incredible prices. To learn more about the subject, look at the compilation of pocket-friendly restaurants below.
CENTER
The line at Doozo Dumplings & Noodles downtown moves fast, so it’s important to know what you want to order and have your cash ready when you pay. You can enjoy delicious and healthy vegetables, chicken, or pork dumplings, all accompanied by a tasty spicy sauce. Since the establishment only offers takeout, plan to enjoy your dumplings in the food court.
Located in the Historic Downtown District, within walking distance of several boutique hotels, Frank’s Pizza is known for serving inexpensive New York-style pizza late into the night. Then, join the weekend revelers for a wedge of house specialties like Barbeque Chicken, Hawaiian, or Chicken Fiesta.
Originally opening in Montrose more than 30 years ago, Niko Niko’s restaurant added a Market Square sidewalk kiosk, Niko Niko’s Market Square, in late summer 2010 so gyro lovers could purchase these treats to go. Expect to find simpler versions of the classic dishes offered by the original Niko’s, perfect for picnics or a quick lunch in the park or at the office. Stop by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
GALLERY
Chacho’s combination of potent Pina Coladas, unforgettable margaritas, and tasty King Kong nachos is all Houstonians need to return to this 24-hour corner again and again. Fast? Order to go at one of two drive-thru windows open all day and all night.
Do you feel like eating eggs in the middle of the afternoon? No one will look at you funny if you order them at Fountain View Cafe. Open until 3 p.m., this Galleria-area corner offers breakfast, brunch, and dinner delivery. So pick up your order before 3 p.m.
Located in an unassuming strip mall at Westheimer and Fountainview, The French House is a counter service nook quite popular with professionals who work in the Galleria area. Dare to order the California sandwich, which has turkey breast, tomato, avocado, sprouts, and melted Swiss cheese; It is served with the special French House sauce. The onion soup is a star, as is the restaurant’s breakfast.
THE HEIGHTS
Heights hipsters flock to the Antidote Coffee House for its caffeinated drinks and laid-back vibe. The loft-like interior, with concrete floors and exposed brick walls, is decorated with an eclectic array of furnishings and art pieces produced by local artisans. There is wi-fi and plenty of plugs if you want to sit down and work for a while. But you also have to have fun; Arrive for happy hour Monday through Friday between 4 and 7 p.m. so you can take advantage of double espressos at $1.
From ribs to brisket, Cajun sausage, and pulled pork, Gatlin’s Barbecue in Heights offers a good selection of dishes to satisfy your appetite for barbecue-style dishes. Side dishes are just as tasty, from the rice to the potato salad to the roasted beans. And be sure to save a spot for the bread pudding.
If you’re wondering how many ways comfort food can be reinvented, you’ll be surprised to learn that Jus’ Mac in Heights can be made in many ways. This noodle empire is loaded with 17 unique varieties of mac and cheese, seven vegetarian varieties, from a light version of cheddar and broccoli to Swiss cheese and roasted poblano dishes. They even make macaroni and cheese soup.
Located on the ground floor of a multi-use development on Washington Avenue, Les Givral’s is a must-stop for French-Vietnamese food at pocket-friendly prices. Stop by for lunch, dinner, and late at night and order one of their noodle pots, banh-mi sandwiches, and Vietnamese rolls. They also offer great prices on sushi.
MIDTOWN
Its atmosphere may be festive, but Christian’s Tailgate takes its burgers for sale very seriously. Visit the restaurant before midnight for burgers made with fresh meat (never frozen) and six-inch buns, toasted on the edge and filled with mayonnaise, onion, pickles, tomato, and chopped lettuce.
Crepes are the standout groceries at CoCo’s Crepes & Coffee in Midtown, but visitors also find espresso drinks, teas, smoothies, and a solid selection of paninis. Grab a seat inside or find a table on the patio to try one of the house crepes, or order one of your own with roasted bell peppers, feta cheese, and basil pesto, among other options.
Just off the METRORail route, just a few doors down from the Continental Club, Natachee’s Supper ‘n Punch, which opened in early October 2010, serves classic comfort food like meatloaf sandwiches, fried pickles, and biscuits with gravy. Still, many say the real stars of their menu are the burgers.
Good food and prices define Tacos a Go-Go, a unique Midtown restaurant. Located just off the MetroRail, this is the perfect place to sample some of Houston’s most authentic Tex-Mex dishes. Imagine stewed meat tacos, pork tamales, and hearty burritos. The establishment stays open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, making it one of Houston’s most sought-after late-night dining options.
MONTROSE
Barnaby’s Cafe offers fresh, simple contemporary food with fast service and pocket-friendly prices. Their easy-to-go sacks include a balanced variety of salads (Chinese Chicken, Chef’s Salads), cold sandwiches (Chicken Salad with Artichoke Hearts), and hot sandwiches (various combinations of burgers and more).
Artistic types, poets, and music lovers from all walks of life count warm Brazilian coffee among their favorites. You can order a coffee, a glass of wine, or beer to accompany a pizza wedge, a sandwich, or a piece of spinach quiche. If the day is nice, remember to sit on the patio.
RIVER OAKS
Located across the street from the wildly successful Goode Co. Barbeque, Goode Company Hamburgers & Taqueria has a loyal clientele who say their beefy burgers and succulent chicken sandwiches are the best in town. Order at the bustling counter and grab a table on the patio to enjoy your meal.
A true Houston institution, Kenneally’s offers all the Irish pub food you could hope for, plus delicious pizza. We suggest ordering the pepperoni pizza or the Shamrock, accompanied by a Guinness beer. Stay at the bar or venture out onto the patio.
GUIDE TO VEGAN AND FRESH FOOD RESTAURANTS
Exercising, meditating, sleeping well, and having a positive attitude are essential to leading a healthy life. But when we acquire habits to lead a healthier life, our first decision may be to eat better and healthier. Here we give you a small guide to restaurants in Houston that will help you achieve your plans for having a good diet, including some of the vegan restaurants in the city.
GREEN SEED VEGAN COFFEE
What started as a food truck has taken root in a solid establishment that offers only vegetarian dishes. It serves hamburgers, paninis, juices, smoothies, and meals based on raw vegetables. For example, you could try the buckwheat burger covered in green chili, arugula, avocado, tomato, onion, mayonnaise, and mustard on wheat bread. The Latini is delicious if you prefer a panini; it brings tempeh to chipotle, avocado, tomato, and chipotle aioli.
HONEY ART COFFEE
Located in the Upper Kirby area, this concept unites healthy food and art under one roof. Serve smoothies, salads, and desserts made with only all-natural ingredients. To emphasize the experience, even more, the space where it is housed is cheerful and modern, with colorful murals adorning its walls and making the area very pleasant.
GREENLANE CO.
This juice bar opened in the Memorial-Energy Corridor section in the winter of 2016. The establishment offers 100% cold-pressed juices made with fruits and vegetables. Dinner that incorporates green leafy vegetables or grains, meat or fish, vegetables, and dressing.
JUICE GIRL
Another establishment that has good juices is Juice Girl in the Montrose area. It serves 100% organic juices, some cold-pressed smoothies like the “green apples” -which combines apple, lemon, and kale- or the “fiesta punch,” a refreshing mix of apple, orange, pineapple, and pear. Juice Girl also offers acai berry bowls, vegan meals, and sundaes that come in half a dozen flavors.
SNAP KITCHEN
This chain, located in The Shops at Houston Center, offers vegan, gluten-free, paleo, vegetarian, sugar-free, and active lifestyle alternatives. It also offers cold-pressed juices, specialty elixirs, and a variety of fresh salads. The concept focuses on the chef’s specialties, proper portions, and locally grown ingredients.
LOCAL FOODS
Local Foods offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and meals made with local ingredients. Nearly every item used on the restaurant’s menu is available, including local vegetables, artisan snacks, and other Texas-made items. According to its Facebook page, “The menu showcases the number of local produce selected from across Texas and is best described as fresh, local, and inventive. In addition, it celebrates Texas with artisan sandwiches made from handmade bread, farmers market sides, homemade soups, and a list of beers and wines from Texas.”
SWISS COFFEE
This cafe exclusively serves vegetarian sandwiches and pizzas. Its inspiration is Hindu, and the concept emphasizes fresh ingredients and strong flavors. If you decide on pizza, you can choose Italian, Mediterranean, or South Indian-inspired options. If you prefer a sandwich, there are almost 20 flavors. One of them, for example, blends potatoes, onions, cucumbers, beets (beets, beets), peppers, and cilantro sauce. You can accompany your meal with refreshing fruit smoothies, milkshakes, lemon soda, cappuccino, or iced coffee.
SNAIL
Vegetarians find many options in this restaurant by chef Hugo Ortega. Although Caracol specializes in Mexican coastal food, it also offers vegetarian dishes such as the vegetable cocktail, the Aztec tamale covered with mushrooms and huitlacoche (a fungus proliferates in the grain of corn), enchiladas stuffed with vegetables and toast Of avocado.
HOPDODDY BURGER BAR
You can continue eating hamburgers even if you take care of yourself because there are healthy ways to consume them. Hopdoddy focuses on the fresh; she has an on-site bakery and butcher shop and uses all-natural vegetables and meat from humanely raised beef. You can find bison, tuna, and vegetarian burgers made with black beans and corn and covered with goat cheese, cilantro pesto, and chipotle mayonnaise. It offers a full bar, but if you want non-alcoholic alternatives, you can find fresh juices and smoothies in different flavors.
OUTDOOR RESTAURANTS IN HOUSTON
There are no better outdoor dining conditions than in H-Town.
Outdoor restaurants offer perfect moments: a table on the patio, a drink in hand, fabulous food, and the divine weather of Houston. There are no better conditions for outdoor dining than in H-Town, and our city is full of places where you can enjoy a good meal al fresco. When you can’t resist the urge to eat outdoors, visit one of the restaurants we recommend below.
WITH FLAVOR LATIN FLAVOR
A favorite among frequent visitors is the Artista restaurant on the second level of the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. It offers a sophisticated menu with a South American influence, ranging from churrasco to paella Marin; Artista’ss dishes compete with the Theater District’s panoramic view from its vast windows. However, for a true city experience, we recommend sitting on the balcony.
In late March 2013, restaurateur Brian Fasthoff opened Batanga, a restaurant serving Latin American flavors near Market Square Park in downtown Houston. Located next to the Original OKRA Charity Saloon, the 9,000-square-foot Batanga venue serves Latin American tapas, exotic drinks, and dishes from various regions of Latin America, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, and Peru, as well as dishes from Spain and Portugal.
THOSE WITH A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE
Looking for a relaxed place to eat? Head to BB’s Café in the Heights, where you’ll find favorites inspired by Gulf Coast and New Orleans cuisine with a Texas twist, like alligator tacos and fried shrimp sandwiches. BB’s third location is larger than its predecessors, boasting a light and airy dining room and a patio that overlooks the stretch of bars and restaurants on White Oak Street.
The Boheme Cafe is better known as a relaxed lounge and wine bar than a restaurant. Still, the food is good. Handmade pizzas (with lamb, arugula, and goat cheese), chimichurri empanadas, and chili chicken curry are just a few of the menu items. In addition, there is plenty of seating outside, both on the front patio that overlooks Taft Street and in the huge back patio with its bar and a projector that plays old movies.
Cedar Creek Heights has a pretty laid-back attitude with its sunlit courtyard and weather-beaten exterior. Its style is similar to its sister establishments, Dry Creek, Canyon Creek, and Onion Creek. Maintaining the same approach, the Cedar is a popular place for free afternoons to watch a sports game or just relax with friends under one of their umbrellas over a basket of fried shrimp or hot wings.
Overlooking a bustling stretch of Westheimer Street, the Empire Café’s patio is always packed, even more so on Sundays when knowledgeable locals frequent it for brunch. His loyal clientele visits the Empire every day of the week for his mushroom paninis and stuffed chicken. It is worth mentioning that people of all ages and origins frequent this restaurant, so you will feel good any time you visit it.
VERY POPULAR
Housed in a converted tenement house at Shepherd and West Gray streets, the Backstreet Café is a New American cuisine café serving an eclectic array of dishes created by acclaimed chef Hugo Ortega. Among the popular dishes is the tower of ” meatloaf,” a favorite for lunch and dinner. Those who know the place well ask for one of the umbrella-covered tables on the front terrace so that they can enjoy people-watching. For a more elegant and intimate experience, it is recommended that you ask to sit on the rear patio.
Overlooking the heart of the Washington Avenue entertainment district, Benjy’s second-level patio is the perfect place to watch the sunsets. You enjoy an ever-changing Latin and Asian-inspired menu at this casual neighborhood eatery. Beyond their selection of flavorful cocktails is an award-winning wine list featuring hard-to-find vintage varietals.
SOPHISTICATED AND ELEGANT
Brennan’s of Houston has the most elegant patio restaurant in the city with its New Orleans-style architecture and striking gardens. With dishes like cherry turtle soup, roasted oysters, and duck with fois gras, Brennan’s is great for a sazerac.
Regarding good views, Brenner’s on the Bayou is in a league of its own. Sitting on the rear deck of the restaurant, patrons can enjoy the panoramic scenery of the Buffalo Bayou and the restaurant’s manicured grounds. A trendy patio bar called Blue is also perfect for happy hour cocktails.
Very few would think that the busy stretch of Shepherd Drive between the Southwest Freeway and Westheimer Street is a quiet place. But that’s precisely what makes Triniti’s tree-lined courtyard so enigmatic. Separated from the street by a wall and natural shade, the courtyard, designed by James Burnett, is adorned with three fountains. As a result, the menu of local ingredients changes very often, depending on what is available from area farms.
WITH INFLUENCES FROM OTHER LANDS
Coltivare is a new Italian-American restaurant that has opened in the Heights area. Its owners, Ryan Pera and Morgan Weber are the same chefs who run Revival Market. The restaurant emphasizes locally produced ingredients and boasts an innovative menu of salads, small plates, pasta, pizzas, entrees, and desserts. Many of the Coltivare ingredients are extracted from the restaurant’s own garden. It is almost always full and does not accept reservations. Waits can be long, but Chef Ryan Pera’s unique Italian-influenced dishes are well worth it.
Chef Kiran Verma prepares authentic North Indian dishes fused with American and French influences at her Kiran’s restaurant. If you sit on the front terrace, you will have an al fresco experience. The restaurant’s wine cellar houses more than 300 selections, and the wait staff is happy to recommend the wine to pair with each dish.
ROMANTICS
The Rainbow Lodge, housed in a historic log cabin, is considered one of the most romantic restaurants in Houston. Its decades-old structure is charming and intimate, with fireplaces and a winding deck that overlooks a nearby creek. Offering regional Gulf Coast cuisine, the Rainbow Lodge has received national recognition for both its menu and wine cellar. In addition to earning the “Award of Excellence,” ten years in a row, their “Grand Food and Wine Pairing” has been named ‘Best Food and Beverage Showcase’ by the Houston Chronicle.
Tiny Boxwood’s, located in the Upper Kirby area, was used as a vacant metal warehouse but has been transformed into a cozy and rustic cafe similar to those found in the South of France. It is ideal for lunch or brunch.
