Houston is known for its rich and diverse food culture.
From the city’s classic Tex-Mex cuisine to traditional southern soul food, Houston offers a wide range of delicious options. Popular dishes include barbeque brisket, chili con carne, crawfish etouffeé, and Frito pie.
Other popular eats include oysters on the half shell, Gulf Coast seafood boils, and classic Cajun dishes like gumbo and jambalaya.
Houston is also home to many international flavors, including Mexican, Latin American, Asian, Middle Eastern, and African cuisine. No matter what your tastes, Houston has something to satisfy your cravings.
Houston is Known for Tacos
Houston is also renowned for its tacos. From street carts to upscale eateries, you can find a huge variety of classic and creative tacos all over the city.
You can find everything from traditional carne asada tacos to innovative options like fried avocado or tinga de pollo tacos. Houston is also home to a high number of taquerias, which offer some of the best and most authentic Mexican cuisine in the country.
The city’s signature breakfast taco – a flour tortilla filled with egg, cheese, and whatever else you can think of – has become an iconic dish.
Whether you’re looking for traditional southern comfort food or a unique fusion dish, Houston has it all. With over 11,000 restaurants and counting, the city is sure to have something for everyone’s taste buds!
Breweries and Distilleries
Houston is also known for its craft beers and distilleries. In recent years craft breweries have been popping up all over the city offering unique beers made right in Houston. There are now more than 50 breweries in Houston and many offer unique local flavors.
The city is also home to several distilleries, which offer top-notch spirits like gin, whiskey, vodka, and more.
Where to Eat in Houston
Houston is home to a great selection of restaurants that offer cuisine from around the world. The city has something for everyone, ranging from traditional BBQ joints to more exotic dishes.
Be sure to try the best brunch Houston has to offer, like the Southern-inspired offerings from The Breakfast Klub. For dinner, be sure to try some of Houston’s famous barbecue at Killen’s BBQ, which has been featured in numerous publications and television shows.
For an upscale meal, head to Oxheart, whose inventive dishes feature locally sourced ingredients. Or try Hugo’s for traditional Mexican-inspired dishes.
If you’re looking for dining, drinks and entertainment, check out The Galleria area. You’ll find a wide range of high-end restaurants offering everything from burgers to sushi to steaks. Don’t forget the lively sports bars in the area too!
And there’s more:
Best Houston Brunch Places
Max’s Wine Dive: Located in the heart of Midtown, Max’s Wine Dive is a great spot for brunch with friends and family. The restaurant offers a wide range of delectable dishes from tacos, sandwiches, and salads to entrees like pan-seared salmon and fried chicken & waffles. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the service is friendly.
Backstreet Café: This popular brunch spot has been a Houston staple since 1983. They offer dishes like huevos rancheros, crepes with brie and mushrooms, and French toast topped with fresh fruit. Plus, they have an extensive beer menu to compliment any meal.
The Breakfast Klub: If it’s a classic breakfast you crave, The Breakfast Klub is the place to go. They offer up popular dishes like chicken and waffles and biscuits and gravy, as well as omelets, pancakes, French toast, and more. It’s always busy here so be sure to come early!
Tout Suite: This funky café in the Museum District offers up a tasty brunch menu with items like chilaquiles, breakfast tacos, and French toast. They also have plenty of vegan and gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, there’s great coffee to enjoy while you wait!
Best Houston Lunch Places
1. The Food Truck – The Food Truck serves up delicious Mexican cuisine with all of the traditional favorites like tacos and quesadillas, as well as a few unique dishes. You can also enjoy great drinks to go along with your meal.
2. Treebeards – Treebeards is one of Houston’s premier lunch spots offering a variety of Southern-style dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for some fried chicken, jambalaya, or even a vegan dish, you’ll find something to love at Treebeards.
3. The Burger Joint – If you’re looking for a delicious burger then head to The Burger Joint. There are many different types of burgers to choose from and the fries are crispy and tasty.
4. Goode Company BBQ – If you’re looking for some authentic Texas barbecue, then head to Goode Company BBQ. You can enjoy all kinds of meats like brisket, ribs, and sausage as well as sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread.
5. Gatlin’s BBQ – The Gatlin’s BBQ food truck is the perfect spot for a tasty lunch if you’re in the mood for some delicious smoked meats like beef brisket, pork ribs, and chicken wings. This place also offers great sides like mac & cheese and collard greens.
6. The Hay Merchant – The Hay Merchant offers a variety of craft beers and delicious burgers. Not only are their burgers juicy and flavorful, but they also offer some great toppings like bacon jam and jalapeno cream cheese to make your burger just the way you want it.
7. Moon Tower Inn – Moon Tower Inn is a great spot to grab a craft beer and some tasty hot dogs. They have an extensive menu of different types of hot dogs, ranging from classic all-beef dogs to more creative options like the vegetarian Beyond Dog.
Best Houston Dining Places
1. Uchi – Uchi is a trendy sushi restaurant in the heart of Houston. With an extensive menu and unique twists on traditional dishes, you are sure to find something that will tantalize your taste buds.
2. Kirby’s Steakhouse – For steak lovers, this place is a must-stop spot! From succulent cuts of beef to delicious salads and seafood, Kirby’s is a great place to take your family for an upscale dining experience.
3. The Hay Merchant – This hip gastropub offers a unique twist on classic pub fare with its creative menu that includes items such as fried chicken tacos and brisket sandwiches.
4. Hugo’s – If you’re in the mood for upscale Mexican fare, Hugo’s is the place to go! The inventive menu features a variety of dishes from traditional favorites to unusual combinations.
5. Underbelly – This eclectic eatery offers an array of international flavors and creative dishes such as grilled octopus with kimchi and roasted pork belly tacos.
6. Caracol – Located in the heart of Houston, Caracol specializes in fresh seafood dishes. From ceviche to paella, you’re sure to find something delicious on the menu.
7. B&B Butchers – If steak is your thing, then B&B Butchers is the place for you! Offering a variety of cuts and an extensive wine list, this eatery is perfect for a special occasion.
Takeaway
Houston is known for its diverse cuisine, from Tex-Mex and barbecue to seafood and global fusion. At the heart of it all is Houston’s commitment to high-quality food that celebrates local culture, traditions, and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a classic American burger or an exotic dish from another part of the world, there’s something for everyone in Houston’s restaurants. Whether you’re exploring the city or just looking for a great meal, Houston is sure to make your taste buds happy.
