Houston ranks as one of America’s most diverse major cities. This cultural melting pot has revolutionized the local food scene, which now draws attention nationwide. The city’s restaurants keep racking up impressive wins. Trill Burgers claimed Good Morning America’s best burger title, while Julep made history as Texas’s first James Beard Award recipient for Outstanding Bar Program in 2022.

The city’s culinary landscape offers endless discoveries. Vietnamese-Cajun fusion thrives in Bellaire, while the legendary Ninfa’s on Navigation has served its famous Tex-Mex since 1973. Each neighborhood adds its own flavor to Houston’s story. The Breakfast Klub serves up their signature wings and waffles that locals love, and Xochi brings creative Oaxacan cuisine to eager diners.

North American Charter Bus has insider knowledge on Houston’s best dining spots, which range from cozy Southern comfort food joints to sleek Asian fusion restaurants. Local favorites sit alongside award-winning establishments. Perfectly smoked brisket shares the spotlight with authentic international dishes. These elements combine to create Houston’s unique and vibrant restaurant scene.

Iconic Tex-Mex Restaurants in Houston

Tex-Mex sits at the heart of Houston’s culinary identity. Restaurants here have shaped local and national dining trends. The city features everything from historic spots that created iconic dishes to modern takes on regional Mexican cuisine. These beloved spots tell Houston’s food story through their unique flavors and traditions.

The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation: Home of the Original Fajitas

The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation stands as a culinary landmark in Houston’s East End. This iconic restaurant brought fajitas into the mainstream. Mama Ninfa Laurenzo started grilling skirt steak and wrapping it in handmade flour tortillas from her struggling family tortilla factory back in 1973. Her “tacos al carbon” soon became known nationwide as fajitas, which revolutionized Tex-Mex cuisine.

The restaurant still draws crowds to its original location at 2704 Navigation Boulevard after 50 years. Its reputation for authentic Tex-Mex lives on through legendary fajitas, tacos al carbon, and flavorful enchiladas. Chef Alex Padilla honors Mama Ninfa’s legacy by using premium ingredients, including fresh Gulf of Mexico seafood.

New visitors should try the signature dish – the tacos a La Ninfa plate serves fajitas in flour tortillas with pico de gallo, guacamole, and chile con queso. Their homemade tortillas make the trip worthwhile. The Original Ninfa’s became a James Beard Award semifinalist in 2019, confirming the locals’ long-held belief – this spot serves some of the most authentic and delicious Tex-Mex around.

Hugo’s: Award-Winning Regional Mexican Cuisine

Hugo’s in Montrose offers upscale regional Mexican cuisine that goes beyond typical Tex-Mex fare. Chef Hugo Ortega opened this restaurant in 2002, and it quickly became one of Texas’s most respected dining spots. The chef’s talent earned him the prestigious Best Chef: Southwest at the 2017 James Beard Foundation Awards.

A beautifully restored 1925 building houses Hugo’s, where the menu explores Mexico’s regional cuisines. They focus on authentic Mexican cooking techniques and traditional dishes rather than Americanized versions. Fresh snapper ceviche and duck legs beneath smoky mole showcase complex flavors and cooking traditions from various Mexican regions.

Sunday brunch at Hugo’s has achieved legendary status in Houston. The buffet creates a festive atmosphere with live music and an impressive spread – at least thirty savory dishes plus an equal number of desserts. House-ground masa tamales, silky mushroom soup, and birria de chivo in cheese-lined corn tortillas stand out.

Their world-class wine cellar and tequila selection complement the outstanding food. The cabrito (roasted goat pulled from the bone in salsa de ajo) with nopales salad, refritos, guacamole, and salsa habanero offers a truly special dining experience.

Xochi: Oaxacan Specialties in Downtown

Chef Hugo Ortega’s downtown restaurant Xochi celebrates Oaxacan cuisine with laser focus. Located in the Marriott Marquis Houston, this upscale spot earned praise for its brilliant takes on Oaxacan regional dishes.

Xochi means “to bloom or catch fire” from the goddess of flowers Xochitl, and the food lives up to this name. They make everything from scratch – cheeses, salsas, exotic moles, and handmade tortillas. The kitchen even roasts and grinds cacao beans to create authentic Mexican chocolate.

The menu showcases Oaxaca’s culinary treasures: mole, chocolate, mezcal, and insects (Mexican delicacies). Seafood lovers appreciate dishes like grilled octopus with fingerling potatoes, green chorizo, confit tomato, and red tomatillo sauce. The mole tasting menu ranges from classic mole negro to adventurous mole de chicatana (ant mole).

A trendy atmosphere and exceptional service match the extraordinary food. This combination earned Xochi a 4.6/5 bubble rating, making it one of downtown Houston’s most celebrated spots.

Laredo Taqueria: Houston’s Best Breakfast Tacos

Laredo Taqueria on Washington Avenue serves what many call Houston’s best breakfast tacos. This cafeteria-style taqueria’s popularity shows in lines that stretch out the door and around the building. Their t-shirts say it best: “Where the wait is long, but the taste of good authentic Mexican food lasts longer”.

Skilled hands create perfectly thick and dense handmade flour tortillas. The menu features 13 different breakfast tacos at $2.25 each. The egg and potato taco and huevos mexicanos taco burst with authentic flavors.

Beyond breakfast, you’ll find outstanding barbacoa, spicy fajita tacos, and hearty menudo (a weekend favorite). Their aguas frescas selection, including horchata, pairs perfectly with the spicy food.

Four locations serve Houston, but early arrival beats the lines. People wait up to 30 minutes even during slow times, yet return for excellent food and friendly service. Laredo Taqueria shows how simple spots often create the most memorable meals.

These distinct establishments fuel Houston’s thriving Tex-Mex scene – from fajitas’ birthplace to family-run taquerias serving must-try breakfast tacos. Each spot adds something special to the city’s rich food culture, preserving Mexican traditions while adding their Houston touch.

Houston’s Legendary BBQ Joints

Houston’s barbecue scene stands apart from Tex-Mex with its unique identity in Texas’s smoked meat scene. Local pitmasters excel at traditional techniques while adding their own flair that mirrors the city’s diverse food culture. These five legendary BBQ spots showcase Houston’s best offerings, from award-winning brisket to house-made sausages.

Truth Barbeque: Award-Winning Brisket and Sides

Truth BBQ started in Brenham in 2015 and quickly became a Texas sensation before owner Leonard Botello IV brought his smoky expertise to Houston Heights. This modern establishment keeps its soulful cooking despite its sleek look. Their brisket shows excellent smoke penetration with a peppery bark. The turkey has amazed many guests by becoming the star with its perfect moisture and flavor.

Truth stands out among local BBQ joints because of its Southern-style sides and desserts. Their tater tot casserole with crisp fried onions has gained as much fame as their meats. The sides and cakes play a vital role in the Truth experience. Baker Kiki Wilkins creates stunning layer cakes that guests always save room for.

Truth BBQ ranks #3 on Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ list. Locals already know this place serves world-class barbecue. The Saturday Carolina whole hog special pays tribute to Eastern Carolina BBQ traditions with authentic vinegar-kissed pork flavor.

Pinkerton’s Barbecue: A Heights Neighborhood Favorite

Grant Pinkerton turned his BBQ passion into success without formal training. His dedication earned him spots on Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Joints list from 2017-2024. His Heights restaurant feels like a Hill Country house with wood paneling and a flagstone bar. BBQ fans feel right at home here.

The meat selection proves Pinkerton’s quality focus. Prime-grade brisket cooked over mesquite and oak yields thick, melting slabs that need no sauce. St. Louis-style ribs shine even brighter with their made-to-order glaze using dehydrated vegetables. The massive beef rib sells out before noon most days.

Pinkerton’s success led to a San Antonio location in 2021 and plans for a third Houston spot in 2025. Grant made history as the first Texas pitmaster to win the Whole Hog category at Memphis in May in 2023.

Gatlin’s BBQ: Family-Owned Houston Institution

Gatlin’s BBQ has been the life-blood of Houston’s craft barbecue scene since 2010. This family spot lives up to its motto: “where love is the secret ingredient”. Greg Gatlin runs the place with his parents Henry and Mary. Customers quickly become part of the family here.

The restaurant moved to Oak Forest in 2015 after earning many local and state awards. Greg creates BBQ that blends regional flavors, serving eight smoked meats and over 14 sides.

The Brisket Biscuit breakfast sandwich features smoked brisket, grilled onions, jalapeños, and bacon jam on a cathead biscuit. Their house-made pastrami goes through nine days of brining and smoking. The collard greens stay fresh and firm instead of getting mushy – showing the kitchen’s attention to detail.

CorkScrew BBQ: Worth the Drive

CorkScrew BBQ sits in Spring, just north of Houston. Will and Nichole Buckman opened in 2015, and the lines get so long that regulars order days ahead. They sell out daily – you need to arrive before 11 AM opening or risk missing out.

Red oak smoking gives their prime cuts from Creekstone Farms and Compart Family Farms a special color and taste that stays with you. The brisket has a black crust while staying moist throughout, even the lean cuts. Texas BBQ fans rate their beef ribs among the state’s best.

Kids can play while parents eat at the indoor and outdoor seating areas. Dogs are welcome too. Despite running Wednesday through Saturday, 11 AM to 4 PM only, CorkScrew has earned praise from Texas Monthly, Southern Living, and other publications.

The Pit Room: Housemade Tortillas and Texas BBQ

The Pit Room in Montrose has made its mark since 2016 by creating almost everything in-house. Their tortillas made with brisket fat have their own following. These flavorful tortillas wrap around chopped brisket tacos topped with salsa roja, creating perfect Texas-Mexico fusion.

The meat menu features perfectly smoked brisket and various sausages. Czech-style beef sausage brings mustardy notes, while jalapeño and cheddar pork links add heat. The pork ribs show great smoking technique with consistent tenderness.

Early birds get breakfast tacos and pulled pork hash that locals love. The outdoor patio welcomes dogs and beer lovers alike. The place ranks among Houston’s top three quick-bite spots on TripAdvisor.

Houston’s barbecue scene keeps growing as these spots challenge traditions while honoring them. Each brings something special – Truth’s amazing sides, Pinkerton’s competition wins, The Pit Room’s Tex-Mex twist – making Houston a must-visit city for BBQ lovers.

Must-Try Asian Restaurants in Houston

Houston’s Asian culinary traditions flourish with innovative chefs who blend cultural influences and local ingredients. The city’s incredible diversity shines through its Asian restaurant scene, from Vietnamese-Cajun fusion to award-winning Thai cuisine and authentic Chinese specialties. Let’s explore five standout spots that make Houston a national destination for Asian food lovers.

Crawfish & Noodles: The Original Viet-Cajun Experience

Crawfish & Noodles leads Houston’s Viet-Cajun movement and has earned international recognition by perfectly fusing Vietnamese and Cajun flavors. This trailblazing establishment in Asiatown specializes in seafood that combines Gulf Coast traditions with Vietnamese seasoning techniques.

Their signature crawfish creates an unforgettable Houston flavor – spicy, garlicky, and memorable. New visitors should try the crawfish with special sauce (available seasonally), blue crab, or salt and pepper shrimp. The restaurant’s chef has become a celebrity after appearing on many TV shows by making this Houston-born cuisine style popular.

The menu offers excellent basil fried rice, chicken wings, and aromatic noodle dishes. The restaurant stays closed on Tuesdays and draws long lines during crawfish season, which proves its lasting popularity.

Street to Kitchen: James Beard Award-Winning Thai Food

Chef Benchawan “G” Jabthong Painter’s Street to Kitchen evolved from a small East End restaurant into one of Houston’s most celebrated food spots. Reservations became scarce at this 10-table gem after Chef G won the 2023 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Texas.

The restaurant serves “unapologetically Thai” cuisine without any Americanized versions. Chef G prepares pad Thai with shrimp (never chicken) exactly as she would find it in Thailand. Every detail counts, from handmade sauces to exclusively Thai music playing in the dining room.

Street to Kitchen’s fans will be happy to know about its move to a larger 2,800-square-foot space in Second Ward. The new location will seat 100 guests, triple the current capacity. They’ll also add an expanded drink menu with wine and cocktails plus a walk-up window serving Thai omelets.

Mala Sichuan: Authentic Szechuan Flavors

Mala Sichuan Bistro brings China’s Sichuan Province’s legendary flavors to Houston. The name “mala” combines “ma” (numbing sensation from Sichuan peppercorns) and “la” (fiery chili heat).

The restaurant started in Bellaire in 2011 and now has multiple locations across Houston. The kitchen takes a balanced approach to spice – you’ll feel the numbing heat without excessive chili oil.

The menu’s stars include silky tofu cubes in mala bean curd sauce, water-boiled fish filets covered in garlic and ginger, and chewy house-made wheat noodles in peanut vinaigrette. Their detailed menu helps guests understand different flavor profiles. This thoughtful approach earned them Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition and a James Beard nomination in 2017.

Blood Bros. BBQ: Asian-Inspired Texas Barbecue

Blood Bros. BBQ in Bellaire showcases Houston’s finest culinary fusion. Brothers Robin and Terry Wong and their best friend Quy Hoang created this innovative spot that blends Chinese and Vietnamese influences with Texas barbecue traditions.

Vietnam-born pitmaster Quy Hoang combines traditional barbecue methods with Asian spices and techniques. The creative menu features gochujang beef ribs, brisket burnt end steam buns, and Thai red curry sausage.

The restaurant’s signature dish combines smoked char siu pork belly bao buns – pork belly with Chinese five-spice, smoked for six hours, glazed, then served with Chinese mustard and house-pickled vegetables. Their kimchi-infused brisket fried rice shows how they’ve reimagined Texas barbecue classics through an Asian perspective.

Fung’s Kitchen: Dim Sum Destination

Fung’s Kitchen, a Houston institution since the early 1980s, remains the city’s premier dim sum spot. The Fung family – patriarch Hoi, his wife Nancy, and their children Doris and Gilbert – reopened the restaurant in November 2022 after a devastating fire, with complete renovations and modern updates.

Fung’s stands out for its fresh seafood commitment. They maintain twelve separate live tanks with different pH levels for various fish and crustaceans. The kitchen excels at preparing lobster, king crab, and seasonal seafood dishes.

Weekend dim sum draws big crowds, so arrive before 10:45 AM to avoid waiting 30-45 minutes. Bring friends to enjoy multiple dishes, from pork dumplings to Lo Mai Gai (lotus leaf-wrapped rice with chicken).

These exemplary establishments form the heart of Houston’s growing Asian restaurant scene, each adding unique flavors to the city’s rich culinary identity.

Essential Southern and Soul Food in Houston

Soul food and Southern cooking are the foundations of Houston’s comfort food scene. These four restaurants blend tradition with fresh ideas to create unforgettable flavors.

The Breakfast Klub: Houston’s Most Famous Brunch Spot

The Breakfast Klub in Midtown Houston has become famous for its long lines that wrap around the building. This brunch hotspot serves soul-satisfying breakfast from 7 AM until 2 PM Monday through Friday, and opens at 8 AM on weekends. Their Wings & Waffles and Katfish & Grits have earned national recognition, making this cozy spot a must-visit destination.

People keep coming back because of the consistently great food and friendly service. New visitors should plan for a wait since orders are placed at the counter before seating. The good news is that their quick system keeps the line moving steadily.

The Breakfast Klub’s impressive awards include:

• Named among 50 “Top Rated Restaurants” in Texas in 2019
• Listed among Texas Monthly’s 40 best breakfast spots in Texas
• Recognized as one of Zagat’s best bets for breakfast in the United States

Tuesday visitors can enjoy live entertainment while they dig into Southern classics like pork chops with eggs and tasty daily lunch specials.

Lucille’s: Refined Southern Cuisine with History

Lucille’s sits in Houston’s Museum District and opened in August 2012. Brothers Chris and Ben Williams created this tribute to their great-grandmother, Lucille B. Smith—an educator, culinary pioneer, and successful food corporation founder.

The restaurant serves refined Southern cuisine with global influences. James Beard Award Finalist Chef Chris Williams and Chef de Cuisine Khang Hoang honor Lucille’s legacy by recreating her famous recipes while adding creative twists to Southern classics.

Lucille’s story goes back to the 1940s when Lucille B. Smith created the first hot roll mix sold in the United States as a church fundraiser. Today, her great-grandson carries on her spirit through dishes like oxtail jus-slathered crispy catfish and perfectly braised collard greens.

The restaurant’s home is a beautiful 1920s mission-style house that creates the perfect setting for its sophisticated Southern menu.

Frenchy’s Chicken: Iconic Fried Chicken

Percy “Frenchy” Creuzot and his wife Sallie opened a small po-boy shop on Scott Street in Houston’s Third Ward on July 3, 1969. They started by selling red beans and rice, hot sausage, and oyster loaf until a neighboring car dealer suggested they add fried chicken.

Frenchy tweaked a family friend’s New Orleans chicken recipe to create what would become Houston’s famous “Frenchy’s Chicken”. Chicken became so popular that by 1985, it made up over 75% of his business.

Frenchy’s has spent more than five decades serving authentic Southern Louisiana cooking. Their Creole sides like dirty rice, collard greens, and red beans showcase French, Spanish, Caribbean and African influences. The place has attracted many celebrities, from Beyoncé to presidential candidates.

Trill Burgers: Award-Winning Smash Burgers

Houston rapper Bun B and his partners launched Trill Burgers in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. They started with pop-ups at local food events before shooting to national fame. Their smashburgers earned the title of “best burger in America” from Good Morning America in 2022. These tasty creations feature two all-beef smashed patties, caramelized onions, pickles and signature Trill Sauce on a potato roll bun.

Trill Burgers won a Gold Buckle Foodie Award for Best Classic Fair Food at the 2023 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, serving an amazing 41,000 burgers in 20 days. They opened their first permanent location in Houston’s Montrose neighborhood in June 2023.

Their success has led to rapid growth, with new spots planned for Spring, Missouri City, and the Mid-West area along Westheimer Road. Beyond their famous beef smashburgers, customers can enjoy vegan options, Trill Tenders, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and specialty sodas.

Food lovers from all over the country visit Houston to experience these Southern and soul food gems.

Top Houston Steakhouses and Seafood Spots

Houston’s steakhouses and seafood restaurants showcase the bounty of land and sea with distinctive Texas flair, serving everything from prime cuts of dry-aged beef to fresh Gulf seafood. Not to mention, Metropolitan Shuttle stands ready to bring you and your group to the best steakhouses around town on premium Houston charter bus rentals.

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse: Dry-Aged Perfection

Pappas Bros. has become a Houston institution where expert butchers perfect their steaks through a meticulous 28-day in-house dry-aging process. The restaurant’s full-time butchers cut primal beef in-house, unlike most establishments that rely on pre-packaged meats. They maintain strict quality control by sourcing USDA Prime grade corn-fed beef exclusively from a single Midwest packer. The meat’s natural flavors shine through their simple seasoning of kosher salt, black pepper, and butter. This Houston staple remains sharp after two decades, thanks to its veteran waiters and friendly sommeliers who create a seamless dining experience.

Brenner’s on the Bayou: Stunning Views and Prime Cuts

Brenner’s creates an unforgettable dining experience from its wooded retreat on Buffalo Bayou near Memorial Park. The rustic yet elegant steakhouse features a dramatic two-story dining room where guests enjoy breathtaking views from every table. Herman and Lorene Brenner’s legacy lives on since their 1936 opening as Brenner’s Café, with beloved classics like Crunchy German Potatoes, Homemade Roquefort Salad Dressing, and their unmatched Apple Strudel.

Goode Company Seafood: Gulf Coast Classics

Jim Goode’s Gulf Coast upbringing between Texas and Louisiana shaped this beloved seafood destination. Fresh seafood takes center stage without heavy sauces—the daily Gulf catch arrives either mesquite-grilled or lightly battered. The restaurant’s signature Campechana Extra draws inspiration from family trips to Mexico’s Bay of Campeche, combining refreshing Mexican-style seafood with pico de gallo, fire-roasted Anaheim peppers, and diced avocados.

Willie G’s: Fresh Seafood Downtown

Willie G’s brings contemporary Gulf seafood to The Post Oak Hotel. This Houston legend has served locals, travelers, and entertainers for more than 35 years. Guests can enjoy seafood towers, specialty gumbos, whole wood-fired grilled fish, and hand-rolled sushi.

Christie’s Seafood & Steak: Houston’s Oldest Seafood Restaurant

Christie’s story began in 1917 as a modest food stand on Galveston’s waterfront, earning its place as Houston’s oldest continuously-operating restaurant. Greek immigrant Theodore Christie (originally Theodosios Christofidis) built his reputation on famous fried fish sandwiches. Christie’s family continues to operate the restaurant, serving Gulf shrimp, fresh-caught fish, and Greek-influenced specialties like taramasalata and steak Brizola.

Conclusion

Houston’s restaurant scene proves its culinary excellence by mixing traditional recipes with bold breakthroughs. James Beard Award winners like Street to Kitchen serve authentic Thai cuisine, while Trill Burgers has earned national recognition for its championship-winning smashburgers.

The city’s restaurants share amazing stories through their food. The Original Ninfa’s revolutionized fajitas thanks to Mama Ninfa, and Truth BBQ draws crowds with its acclaimed brisket and spectacular layer cakes. Family traditions live on at Lucille’s with its refined Southern cuisine, and Christie’s continues its decades-old seafood legacy. Blood Bros. BBQ and Crawfish & Noodles lead Asian fusion by blending Texas traditions with Vietnamese, Chinese, and Korean flavors to create uniquely Houston tastes.

These restaurants show Houston’s talent for preserving culinary traditions while accepting new ideas. Newcomers to the city should start their food trip at iconic spots like The Breakfast Klub or Pappas Bros. Steakhouse. They can then discover newer breakthroughs like Xochi’s Oaxacan specialties. The city’s food scene keeps growing and making progress, which adds exciting new chapters to its rich culinary story.

FAQs

Q1. What are some must-try dishes in Houston?

Some iconic Houston dishes include the original fajitas at Ninfa’s on Navigation, Viet-Cajun crawfish at Crawfish & Noodles, award-winning brisket at Truth BBQ, and authentic Thai cuisine at Street to Kitchen. For a unique fusion experience, try the Asian-inspired Texas barbecue at Blood Bros. BBQ.

Q2. Which restaurants are considered Houston institutions? 

Several long-standing Houston institutions include The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation (famous for fajitas), The Breakfast Klub (known for wings and waffles), Frenchy’s Chicken (iconic fried chicken), and Christie’s Seafood & Steak (Houston’s oldest seafood restaurant). These establishments have shaped the city’s culinary identity for decades.

Q3. Where can I find the best Tex-Mex in Houston? 

For top-notch Tex-Mex, visit The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation, Hugo’s for upscale regional Mexican cuisine, or Xochi for innovative Oaxacan dishes. Laredo Taqueria is renowned for its breakfast tacos, while El Tiempo Cantina offers excellent fajitas and margaritas.

Q4. What are some highly-rated Asian restaurants in Houston? 

Houston boasts excellent Asian cuisine options. Try Mala Sichuan for authentic Szechuan flavors, Fung’s Kitchen for dim sum, Street to Kitchen for award-winning Thai food, or Crawfish & Noodles for Viet-Cajun fusion. For innovative Asian-inspired barbecue, check out Blood Bros. BBQ.

Q5. Where can I find the best steaks and seafood in Houston? 

For top-quality steaks, visit Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, known for its dry-aged beef, or Georgia James for an upscale steakhouse experience. Seafood lovers should try Goode Company Seafood for Gulf Coast classics, Willie G’s for fresh seafood downtown, or Christie’s Seafood & Steak for a mix of both steak and seafood options.