23 Best Restaurants in Houston, TX in 2024
Looking for some of the best restaurants in Houston? Perched on the Gulf of Mexico, Houston is known for its excellent access to seafood, but that’s not all this dynamic city has to offer. It’s also one of the most diverse cities in the country, melding a variety of cultures and cuisines together beautifully.
From Southwest and Tex-Mex flavors native to the region to contributions from large immigrant populations from all over the world, Houston and its environs have had a global restaurant explosion in the past few decades.
Whether you are looking for amazing Mexican fare, great barbecue or savory Indian food, Houston has you covered. We’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants in Houston that fully explore all that the city has to offer. Houston’s restaurant life offers a perfect backdrop for date nights, celebrations, casual bites or fine dining experiences.
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29 Must-Try Restaurants in Houston, TX
1. Gatlin’s Fins & Feathers
Tucked in the Independence Heights neighborhood, this Houston restaurant specializes in classic Southern fried chicken and seafood led by pitmaster Greg Gatlin, who has created several other Houston eateries of note.
The Vibe
Gatlin’s Fins and Feathers is a casual and homey restaurant in Houston with cozy wood paneling, crisp green tiles and fun collage tablecloths. It’s a perfect spot to linger or to grab a quick meal with a family feel but with decidedly elevated fare.
What to Order
Gatlin’s is one of the top restaurants in Houston, TX for fried chicken, but you can also try the chargrilled oysters or the fried catfish. Regulars recommend both the gumbo and the homemade biscuits.
Gatlin's Fins & Feathers | 302 W. Crosstimbers St., Houston, TX 77018 | $$
2. Amrina
Often referred to as one of Houston’s best restaurants for Indian cuisine, Amrina is known for its playful and whimsical approach to classic Southeast Asian dishes and imaginative cocktails served in novelty glassware.
The Vibe
Amrina's elevated interior has a dramatic yet funky feel, complete with avant-garde lighting and art surrounding a mammoth bar. It’s one of the best restaurants in Houston for group celebrations or romantic date nights.
What to Order
Amrina’s menu boasts innovative takes on classic Indian food incorporating wagyu beef, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Try the Japanese A5 wagyu beef grilled with spicy butter, the chicken tikka or the pork vindaloo. For dessert, end on a chocolaty note with the cardamom chocolate mousse.
Amrina | 3 Waterway Square Pl., Ste. 100, The Woodlands, TX 77380 | $$$
3. The Blind Goat
This Vietnamese Houston restaurant is courtesy of writer-turned-MasterChef-winner Christine Ha. Once a food stall in Bravery Hall, The Blind Goat now has its own space serving up a number of Vietnamese classic dishes and Ha’s innovations.
The Vibe
The Blind Goat is a lively and casual restaurant in Houston with an open kitchen and a contemporary feel lush with plants and greenery, as well as a selection of Ha’s line of cookware and cookbooks.
What to Order
Ha’s innovative menu includes dishes like a Texas barbecue brisket fried rice, crispy Brussels sprouts and sticky wings. It’s also a great restaurant in Houston for delectable desserts, with Ha’s signature Rubbish apple pie à la mode being one of the best.
The Blind Goat | 8145 Long Point Road, Houston, TX 77055 | $$
4. Tatemó
This masa-focused Houston restaurant from Chef Emmanuel Chavez boasts a multi-course, reservation-only gourmet dining experience with a constantly changing menu, as well as a Sunday first-come, first-served brunch with many of the same dishes.
The Vibe
Tatemó’s style is rustic and elevated with a Spanish mission-style flair. As one of the more romantic restaurants in Houston, the feeling is intimate, with very limited seating and a candlelit interior.
What to Order
While the tasting menu changes according to locally available supplies and season, occasional dinner and brunch offerings include a huitlacoche quesadilla, a tuna tostada and a much-praised eggplant taco.
Tatemó | 4740 Dacoma St., Ste. F, Houston, TX 77092 | $$$
5. Feges BBQ
With a couple of branches across the city, this restaurant in Houston is famous for a novel take on classic barbecue fare, including items like Moroccan spiced carrots, pimento mac and cheese and sausage corn dogs.
The Vibe
Feges BBQ is bright and contemporary with touches of Southwestern flavor in the décor and artwork, including a wall of screens constantly showing Old West cinema classics.
What to Order
Try the Whole Hog Platter for larger groups, or the BBQ sandwich (with your choice of meat) if you’re dining alone. A wide selection of burgers and other meat-centric dishes are also available.
Feges BBQ | Multiple Locations | $$
6. Phat Eatery
This Houston restaurant's menu is inspired by Malaysian street food favorites like roti canai and satay skewers served up in a trendy, casual and affordable style. Phat, which means “highly attractive or gratifying,” offers modern interpretations of regional Malaysian favorites.
The Vibe
Displayed among an interior of brick and neon, Phat Eatery's lit signage gives the restaurant a street-like feel amid a clean and contemporary bright space with ample seating and room for larger groups.
What to Order
The numerous satays or the house dim sum are popular appetizers at this restaurant around Houston. Customer-favorite entrées include the curry laksa, chili prawn or Hainanese chicken.
Phat Eatery | 23119 Colonial Pkwy., Ste. b-2, Katy, TX 77449 | $$
7. Xochi
One of Downtown Houston’s best restaurants, Xochi offers regional Oaxaca cuisine led by award-winning chef Hugo Ortega. Named after the goddess of flowers, this affordable but elevated spot offers up unique items like house-made chocolates and homemade masas.
The Vibe
Sleek and sophisticated, Xochi also has a rustic Southwestern feel that celebrates Mexican culture via colorful décor and dynamic artwork.
What to Order
Try the memelas, a variety of masa-formed pancakes, alongside a flight of moles. This restaurant in Houston also has an extensive menu of agave-based cocktails to go with typical Oaxacan favorites like enchiladas and taquitos dorados.
Xochi | 1777 Walker St., Houston, TX 77010 | $$
8. Ostia
Named after an Italian city, this trendy farm-to-table Houston restaurant features Mediterranean favorites like handmade pasta, brick-oven pizzas and house-made focaccia.
The Vibe
Rustic yet contemporary, Ostia features an open kitchen and cozy atmosphere that includes a bright, light-filled modern interior with wood floors and lots of brick.
What to Order
Start with the house chips and olives, followed by the New York strip with garlic and matsutake mushrooms. Why settle for good food in Houston when you can order unbeatable dishes like these, as well as pizzas, pastas and salads in favorite classics and more modern innovative creations?
Ostia | 2032 Dunlavy St., Houston, TX 77006 | $$
9. Nancy’s Hustle
Nancy’s Hustle’s bistro-style Houston restaurant is known for its famous griddle Nancy Cakes, as well as a menu filled with a rich wealth of creative gourmet dishes.
The Vibe
Laid-back and inviting, Nancy’s Hustle is decked out in vintage décor, antiques and taxidermy. The overall dining experience at this restaurant in Houston is elevated but casual.
What to Order
In addition to the famous Nancy Cakes, try the olive oil-poached octopus or the cheeseburger, marvelously presented on a brioche English muffin. For dessert, try the decadent baked Alaska with corn, chocolate and almonds.
Nancy’s Hustle | 2704 Polk St., Houston, TX 77003 | $$$
10. El Tiempo Cantina
A spin-off of the popular Ninfa’s, this Tex-Mex eatery is known for its Mexican favorites and classic dishes, as well as its superior service among all the great restaurants in Houston.
The Vibe
Colorful and filled with rustic Spanish-style accents like brick and wood beams, El Tiempo Cantina is great for both an intimate date night and more lively gatherings of several guests. It’s the perfect birthday restaurant in Houston to take your friends for spicy meals paired with sought-after drinks specials and spirited celebrations.
What to Order
Try the ranchera chicken nachos, the barbecue brisket queso or the famous fajitas and enchiladas. This restaurant in Houston also has a large brunch menu as well as a selection of housemade tortillas and salsas.
El Tiempo Cantina | Multiple Locations | $$
11. Taste of Texas
This classic take on the American steakhouse opened in 1977. Since then, it's been serving a selection of top-choice Angus beef and seafood as well as Texas specialties like pecan-crusted chicken and jalapeño stuffed shrimp — very on-brand for a Houston restaurant!
The Vibe
Taste of Texas has the feel of an old lodge or library, complete with a massive fireplace, antique weaponry, taxidermy and pieces of Texas history. Formal yet accessible, it’s one of the best restaurants in Houston for both family dining and special occasions.
What to Order
Try the Texas quail bites or the baked brie as appetizers, followed by one of the bacon-wrapped Angus cuts that you can personally select from a wide selection at the meat counter. For dessert, be sure to order this restaurant's take on the Texas state dessert — a slice of pecan pie.
Taste of Texas | 10505 Katy Fwy., Houston, TX 77024 | $$$
12. Theodore Rex
Housed amid industrial buildings and artist lofts, this unique Downtown Houston restaurant offers an ever-changing dining experience and one of the city’s most formidable wine selections.
The Vibe
As one of the best restaurants in Houston for intimate dining experiences, Theodore Rex makes a perfect spot for date night tucked amongst the art, décor and dishware courtesy of local artisans.
What to Order
While the menu changes seasonally, regulars have raved about menu items like Italian bread dumplings and seared pork shoulder.
Theodore Rex | 1302 Nance St., Houston, TX 77002 | $$$
13. Kata Robata
While Texas may not be known for its sushi, this Japanese restaurant in Houston gives other cities a run for their money by offering a selection of fresh fish imported weekly from Japan.
The Vibe
Lined with counter seating and expansive sushi cases, Kato Robata's crisp green and brown interior feels fresh and contemporary, making it the perfect restaurant in Houston for a quick bite or longer meal.
What to Order
In addition to maki, sashimi and rolls, this Houston restaurant also features a number of grilled seafood selections and unique offerings like lobster mac and cheese, and kimchi fried green tomatoes.
Kata Robata | 3600 Kirby Drive, Ste. H, Houston, TX 77098 | $$
14. The Gypsy Poet
This Houston restaurant is known both for its delicious pizza and for attracting the city’s vast music crowd, both as a performance venue and hang-out spot.
The Vibe
Artsy and bohemian, this casual restaurant for Houston’s music lovers offers comfortable seating, lots of space for socializing and a lively atmosphere filled with artwork from local artists.
What to Order
The Gypsy Poet's famous pizzas sport innovative recipes and names like Fancy Backpacker, Pepperoni Madness and Dream Catcher.
Gypsy Poet | 2404 Austin St., Houston, TX 77004 | $$
15. March
This exclusive reservation-only eatery is among the most expensive restaurants in Houston and focuses on the distinct regions of Mediterranean cuisine across Spain, Corsica, Greece and Italy.
The Vibe
Elevated and exclusive, March prioritizes a distinctive and memorable experience exploring regional flavors. The dining experience is both creative and educational, the perfect spot for a special date idea in Houston.
What to Order
This elegant Houston restaurant has an ever-changing tasting menu that comes in six or nine courses, featuring top-quality seafood and other dishes made with premium ingredients. Beverage pairings are also available.
March | 1624 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77006 | $$$$
16. Pho Dien
Affordable and accessible, this pho restaurant in Houston is located in Asiatown, where it's a perfect stop for a Vietnamese coffee or steaming bowl of beef pho.
The Vibe
Laid-back and casual, Pho Dien features a large dining room and high, lofted ceilings. It’s the perfect restaurant in Houston to grab a quick bite or linger with coffee.
What to Order
Flavorous bowls of pho come in large varieties at this restaurant in Houston and pair well with a salted soda lemonade or melon tea. If you prefer a hot drink, the popular coffee order comes as is (iced or hot) or with added condensed milk.
Pho Dien | 11830 Bellaire Blvd., Ste. C, Houston, TX 77072 | $
17. Da Gama
Da Gama blends Portuguese and Indian flavors, offering up dishes that bring into focus the best aspects of both. Pair any of the delicious meal choices with this restaurant in Houston’s impressive selection of organic and natural wines.
The Vibe
The bright and well-lit interior is filled with a luxurious feel that incorporates design aspects from both Indian and Portuguese cultures, including ornate arches and botanical accents.
What to Order
This unique Houston restaurant has a number of traditional Indian dishes like samosas, curries and seafood, with Portuguese twists. It’s also one of Houston’s best restaurants for pani puri, mussels and chile paneer.
Da Gama | 600 N. Shepherd Drive, Ste. 520, Houston, TX 77007 | $$
18. Mo' Better Brews
Hip and casual, this Houston restaurant features an all-vegan menu and a sizable selection of vinyl records you can purchase to take home with you. Located in a rustic and industrial space, Mo' Better Brews is a great spot to enjoy the best brunch or breakfast in Houston, or an early dinner.
The Vibe
You’ll sense a warm, inviting atmosphere the moment you step foot inside Mo' Better Brews. The colorful and nostalgic décor items perfectly complement the bustling ambiance, with this popular plant-based spot being the ideal place to enjoy casual meals with family and friends.
What to Order
Try the Cajun croissant, the hot honey Shrooms or the breakfast quesadilla at this restaurant in Houston, alongside an excellent coffee.
Mo' Better Brews | 1201 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004 | $$
19. Étoile Cuisine et Bar
Inspired by the French countryside, this bistro-style Houston restaurant brings a number of French dishes to the South amid a beautiful elevated backdrop, making it one of the best Houston restaurants for impressing a date or out-of-town guests.
The Vibe
Posh and luxurious, Étoile Cuisine et Bar is definitely on the formal side, making it an excellent place for special celebrations and romantic dinners. Crisp linen tablecloths, velvet seating and chandeliers give this restaurant in Houston a rustic country-house feel.
What to Order
Étoile is a perfect place to seek out French delicacies like escargot and foie gras. This sophisticated Houston restaurant also features an excellent selection of wines.
Étoile Cuisine et Bar | 1101-11 Uptown Park Blvd., Houston, TX 77056 | $$$
20. Lucille’s
Located in the city’s museum district, this family-run Houston restaurant features a number of classic Southern dishes created with international culinary techniques and flavors.
The Vibe
Lucille's has the homey and casual feel of your very own living room, complete with a brick fireplace and dynamic art.
What to Order
This is easily one of the best restaurants in Houston for oxtail tamales, cheesy chile biscuits and seared scallops.
Lucille’s | 5512 La Branch St., Houston, TX 77004 | $$
21. Musaafer
This Houston restaurant is known for its chic and opulent décor that includes a palace of mirrors, an intricately carved bar and an abundance of ornate chandeliers.
The Vibe
The posh décor at this restaurant in Houston makes a fitting backdrop for a romantic date night or group celebration. Musaafer features a standard dining room as well as a cozy spot with traditional Indian floor seating.
What to Order
This popular restaurant in Houston offers a selection of contemporary takes on classic Indian dishes like butter chicken and lamb chops.
Musaafer | 5115 Westheimer Road, Ste. 3500, Houston, TX 77056 | $$$$
22. Taste of Nigeria
This African spot was created by two native Nigerian chefs seeking to bring their home country’s unique flavors and dishes to the dynamic Houston restaurant scene.
The Vibe
Taste of Nigeria offers a sleek and casual space lined with wood paneling and room enough for large groups in the dining room. It also offers a brisk takeout and delivery service.
What to Order
Try the okra soup, boiled and seasoned to perfection. The yam porridge at this restaurant in Houston is also highly favored.
Taste of Nigeria | 5959 Richmond Ave., Ste. 160, Houston, TX 77057 | $$
23. JUN
Chef Evelyn Garcia and Chef Henry Lu encourage you to think of JUN as your home away from home, where the fusion of two different upbringings is represented expertly through this restaurant in Houston’s new Asian-American food.
The Vibe
A trendy and upscale environment does well to add a touch of elegance, but not at the cost of a homely feel.
What to Order
The fried chicken is considered to be out of this world, with a flavorful combination of shrimp paste, Thai chile, ginger and herbs.
JUN | 420 E. 20th St., Ste. A, Houston, TX 77008 | $$$
24. Squable
If you’re a fan of Theodore Rex, you’ll be overjoyed when stepping into Squable. The same team behind the former dining powerhouse has ensured that delicious European favorites take on American influences for an unforgettable experience at this popular restaurant in Houston.
The Vibe
Brick walls house an abundance of wooden interior features, such as the tables, chairs and counters, for an overall feeling of warmth and comfort.
What to Order
A delectable spin on an American staple, the French cheeseburger, served with fries, has a buttery taste and tender texture that will have you wanting more.
Squable | 632 W. 19th St., Houston, TX 77008 | $$$
25. TRUTH BBQ
Owner and pitmaster at TRUTH BBQ Leonard Botello IV is relentless in his pursuit to “honor the legacy and history of Texas barbeque while pushing the industry forward.” His restaurant in Houston continues to prove its metal while affirming this message, having received multiple prestigious BBQ awards.
The Vibe
Customers who are just as passionate about barbecue as Botello flock to this bustling eatery for its celebratory and upbeat feel, where a variety of succulent meats take the spotlight.
What to Order
From flavorsome brisket to temptingly tasty ribs, you’re spoiled for choice at this barbecue lover’s dream.
TRUTH BBQ | 110 S. Heights Blvd., Houston, TX 77007 | $$
26. ChòpnBlб»Ќk
An unexpected yet delightful culinary junction can be found at ChòpnBlб»Ќk. West Africa meets Houston, Texas for a fast-casual dining experience like no other, where freshness and integrity are at the heart of carefully selected ingredients, resulting in plates adorned with high-quality meats and vegetables.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at this restaurant in Houston is best summed up as cultured and friendly, with light colors decorating the inside for soft tones that encourage relaxation.
What to Order
When visiting a West African restaurant in Houston such as ChòpnBlб»Ќk, you’d be remiss not to try the traditional jollof jambalaya, featuring rice and turkey, paired with a medley of delicious vegetables.
ChòpnBlб»Ќk | 401 Franklin St., Ste. A, Houston, TX 77201 | $$
27. Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
As the name suggests, USDA Prime steaks are the specialty at Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, but vino lovers can also expect a wonderful surprise. With a Wine Spectator’s Grand Award behind its name, this restaurant in Houston combines curated sips with bites that have been cooked to perfection.
The Vibe
A host of sophisticated private dining rooms presents the opportunity to host an elevated gathering. The selective and tasteful theme is also found throughout the rest of this classy yet cozy restaurant in Houston.
What to Order
Whether you’re a filet mignon or a prime ribeye-type person, every cut of meat is of the highest quality, cooked just the way you like it.
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse | Multiple Locations | $$$$
28. Koffeteria
Renowned pastry Chef Vanarin Kuch returned to his hometown to open Koffeteria, a restaurant in Houston that was born after his rise to fame on “Top Chef: Just Desserts” and “Chopped” as well as in multiple top kitchens in New York and Chicago. This deluxe bakery features fanciful treats for dessert lovers to enjoy in style.
The Vibe
Exquisite mid-century furniture is enclosed in an industrial setting for visitors to relish the sights as much as they do the food.
What to Order
Although the menu changes often to incorporate seasonal ingredients, favorites at this restaurant in Houston include moist blueberry muffins and fluffy cinnamon rolls with an irresistible cream cheese frosting.
Koffeteria | 1110 Hutchins St., Ste. 102, Houston, TX 77003 | $
29. Tiny Champions
A laid-back environment and playful team at Tiny Champions spills over from the kitchen to the rest of this restaurant in Houston to create a culinary celebration featuring hearty favorites such as pizzas and pasta.
The Vibe
A modest and amiable environment creates the perfect backdrop at this restaurant in Houston for delectable dishes to shine. Chandeliers beautify the roof and emit warm lighting for the friendly staff to deliver your meals from the open kitchen.
What to Order
The braised chicken and sausage combines two meat lovers’ favorites in an inviting shareable meal. If you’re on your own, order the classic pepperoni pizza with melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella and Parmesan.
Tiny Champions | 2617 McKinney St., Houston, TX 77003 | $$
Try Cooking Houston Foods
Houston’s array of flavors is widely available and abundant in its restaurants. However, sometimes it’s fun to create delicious dishes in your own home.
If you’re looking to amp up your skills in the kitchen and whip up amazing regional dishes or international cuisines, try taking a cooking class in Houston. Led by a world-class chef, you’ll learn how to create a range of recipes, from fresh seafood dishes to Tex-Mex favorites.
Whether you’re looking for romantic date ideas, a quick lunch, a raucous night out or a gourmet experience, Houston’s restaurants have a wealth of amazing food to offer. Luxurious or budget-friendly, casual or formal, this city by the Gulf has everything. No matter which eatery you choose from this list of the best places to eat in Houston, you’re sure to be impressed!
For even more ways to explore Houston and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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