Houston's dining scene is one of the most diverse in the United States, blending Texas BBQ, fine dining, Michelin-recognized restaurants, and international cuisine from every corner of the globe.
From rooftop dining with skyline views to authentic hole-in-the-wall gems, Houston offers culinary experiences for every palate. Here are the best restaurants you should visit in Houston.
Tip #1: Nancy’s Hustle
The start for the best restaurants in Houston is Nancy’s Hustle. Here, you can expect creative dishes that are perfect for photographing and enjoying. It is a mix of sophisticated American cuisine and a bistro vibe.
For example, the menu features cheeseburgers, delicious desserts, and the special Nancy Cake. This is a small cake made of cultured butter, accompanied by smoked trout roe.
In addition to the good food, there are also matching wines that complete your dinner, making it a top restaurant in Houston.
Daily: 5 – 11 pm
2704 Polk St A, Houston, TX 77003, United States
- Phone: +1 346-571-7931
- Email: info@nancyshustle.com
Tip #2: Rainbow Lodge
A great restaurant in Houston is Rainbow Lodge, because here you can expect an incredibly idyllic atmosphere and a fantastic menu.
The restaurant is an old log cabin right on the White Oak Bayou, and the interior is also rustic but elegant. The dishes also follow this concept, so you can choose between different game dishes. Sometimes there are special wine events for all who are wine lovers.
Monday: closedTuesday – Friday: 11 am – 10 pm
Saturday: 5 – 10 pm
Sunday: 10.30 am – 9 pm
2011 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77008, United States
- Phone: +1 713-861-8666
- Email: info@rainbow-lodge.com
Not convinced yet? Discover why an evening with Le Petit Chef is unforgettable.
Tip #3: Traveler’s Table
If you are looking for a quiet place for a great dinner in Houston, then Traveler’s Table should definitely come to your mind.
The restaurant is equipped with many plants to create a tropical and homely feeling. The selection of dishes is divided by world regions, so there is a colorful variety. For example, you can find dishes from Asia, India, or America. Definitely one of the best restaurants in Houston.
Monday, Tuesday: 5 – 9.30 pm
Wednesday, Thursday: 5 – 10 pm
Friday – Sunday: 10 am – 2.30 pm and 5 – 11 pm
520 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006, United States
- Phone: +1 832-409-5785
- Email: info@travelerstable.com
Tip #4: Truth BBQ
Classic BBQ, but in a quality that will blow you away, can be found at Truth BBQ in Houston. With its Texan style, it has earned a place in the Michelin Guide and will delight you one hundred percent.
Various meats and different sides, such as smoked brisket, beans, or cornbread pudding, are on the menu. For everyone who still wants something sweet after the hearty meal — there are very large slices of cake.
Monday: closedTuesday – Friday: 11 am – 3 pm and 5 – 8 pm
Saturday: 11 am – 8 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 4 pm
110 S Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77007, United States
- Phone: +1 832-835-0001
- truth_bbq
Tip #5: Uchi Houston
One of the best restaurants in Houston that focuses on Japanese cuisine is Uchi. Here, traditional techniques and dishes are picked up and transformed into signature dishes.
You can expect sushi, sashimi, and other warm as well as cold appetizers. Particularly popular are the Hama Chili and the Walu Walu, as a small tip for your order. It is ideal for you if you are looking for a place for a dinner with style in Houston.
Sunday – Thursday: 4 – 10 pm
Friday, Saturday: 4 – 11 pm
904 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006, United States
+1 713-522-4808
Tip #6: Z on 23
If you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere in Houston that invites you to linger and unwind your evening, then Z on 23 is perfect. It is the highest rooftop bar in Houston, which also gives you a 360-degree panoramic view.
If you arrive early enough, you can get a great spot from which to watch the sunset over the city skyline. Something for hunger and thirst is also provided, as there are delicious cocktails and finger food.
Sunday – Thursday: 3 pm – 12 am
Friday – Saturday: 3 pm – 2 am
1121 Walker St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
- Phone: +1 346-330-3446
- zon23rooftop
Tip #7: Aquarium Restaurant
A very special tip and truly a top restaurant in Houston, especially when it comes to the ambiance, is the Aquarium Restaurant.
During your meal, you can watch various, up to 1,000 sea creatures in the huge aquarium around you.
The menu offers a wide selection, from seafood, steaks, tacos, or kids’ menus you can choose. It is definitely one of the best restaurants in Houston for a meal on a special occasion.
Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 8.30 pm
Friday, Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm
410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
- Phone: +1 713-315-5126
- aquariumhouston
Tip #8: The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation
Of course, no list of the best restaurants in Houston would be complete without a restaurant that offers typical Mexican food.
The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation became famous for its fajitas, as well as its tortillas and tamales. It is considered a cultural landmark of Mexico, and during your visit, you will experience a lively atmosphere.
Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm
Friday: 11 am – 11 pm
Saturday: 10 am – 11 pm
Sunday: 10 am – 10 pm
2704 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX 77003, United States
- Phone: +1 713-228-1175
- ninfasoriginal
Tip #9: Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood & Crab
At Truluck’s, high-quality seafood and crabs are prepared for you. The chefs focus on sustainability and top-quality selection. Especially the Stone Crab Claws are highly recommended; they are practically the restaurant’s signature.
For those who prefer a deviation from fish, there are also meat dishes to discover on the menu. It is one of the best restaurants in Houston and an ideal tip for a special occasion, such as an unforgettable evening in Houston.
Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm
Friday: 11 am – 10.30 pm
Saturday: 12 – 10.30Sunday: 2 – 9 pm
5350 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056, United States
- Phone: (713) 783-7270
- trulucksrestaurant
Tip #10: BCN Taste & Tradition
Another Michelin-starred restaurant is BCN Taste & Tradition. Here, you can expect creative dishes from Spanish cuisine that let you discover new flavors.
The name BCN stands for Barcelona, which is reflected in the concept from the welcome sign to the cuisine.
The focus is, of course, on high-quality products, giving fine dining a delicious twist. The entire restaurant is stylish, elegant, and definitely one of the places in Houston where you must have a dinner.
Sunday: closedMonday – Thursday: 5 – 8.30 pm
Friday, Saturday: 5 – 9.30 pm
4210 Roseland St, Houston, TX 77006, United States
- Phone: +1 832-834-3411
- bcn_houston
