Texas, USA
Houston's food history intertwined with its growth as a port city, attracting people from across the globe. Early settlers brought Southern and Texan traditions, later blending with Mexican influences for Tex-Mex.
The oil boom drew immigrants, leading to a culinary landscape with strong Vietnamese, Indian, Nigerian, Korean, Chinese, and Middle Eastern influences.
Generous use of cheese, various chilies, beans, tortillas, and savory beef/chicken preparations. Rich, comforting, often spicy flavors.
Beef (especially brisket) with deep smoky flavors from wood-fired pits and a peppery bark. Often focuses on the meat itself.
Fresh local catches like shrimp, oysters, crab, and various fish. Preparations feature Creole and Cajun spices, with heat and aromatic herbs.
Sizzling strips of grilled meat served with tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo.
Find at: Ninfa's on Navigation, Original Mexican Restaurant, El Tiempo Cantina.
Slow-smoked beef brisket, incredibly tender and smoky, with a flavorful "bark."
Find at: Truth BBQ, Gatlin's BBQ, Pinkerton's BBQ.
Fragrant, savory beef noodle soup, a staple of Houston's large Vietnamese community.
Find at: Pho Binh By Night, Huynh Restaurant, Pho Ga Dakao.
Sweet Tea, a common Southern non-alcoholic drink. Houston also has a thriving craft beer scene with local breweries like Saint Arnold and Karbach.
Pecan Pie and Peach Cobbler are Southern favorites. Shipley Do-Nuts is a local institution for fresh, hot glazed donuts.
Houston has a strong fine dining scene with nationally recognized chefs and sophisticated experiences.
Abundant throughout the city, offering diverse cuisines and comfortable dining without premium prices.
Affordable and authentic cuisine, often found in food trucks and ethnic eateries.
A large, historic market with fresh produce, meats, and growing international food stalls.
Offers an authentic local experience.
A large adaptive reuse development with a diverse food hall ("POST Market"), concert venue, and rooftop park.
A modern hub for food, music, and social gatherings.
Vietnamese, Indian, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Thai.
Colombian, Venezuelan, Salvadoran, Honduran.
Ethiopian, Nigerian.
Mediterranean, Pakistani.
Always inform your server of any dietary restrictions or allergies when ordering. They can guide you through the menu.
Consult with kitchen staff if needed for complex dietary requirements.
Many restaurant websites offer allergen information on their online menus.
HappyCow is a helpful app for locating vegan and vegetarian restaurants worldwide.
Houston has specialized vegetarian and vegan restaurants that cater specifically to these diets. Many ethnic restaurants also naturally present suitable dishes.
Direct communication with restaurant staff is important for complex needs. Consider carrying a simple travel allergy card.
Hands-on classes focused on Tex-Mex, regional American, or international cuisines.
Guided tours in neighborhoods like Montrose or The Heights.
Smaller urban farms occasionally offer tours or volunteer opportunities.
Houston's Downtown Tunnel System contains numerous restaurants and food courts for an unique, climate-controlled lunch experience.
Popular for weekday lunch.
Some smaller, independent restaurants allow patrons to bring their own alcoholic beverages for a small corkage fee.
Always check in advance if a restaurant is BYOB.
A redeveloped historic post office with a diverse food hall, concert venue, and rooftop park.
An upscale food hall located downtown, with a curated selection of gourmet food vendors.
Explore and book various culinary tours and experiences. Find activities here
Houston's culinary diversity means many hidden gems are found in unassuming strip malls. Seek out family-run eateries for authentic experiences.
