Houston is a hub for foodies! With so many things to do and places to stay, it can be hard to narrow down the choices for the best eats. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an upscale dining experience, Houston has it all. Here are 10 must-try eateries that will make your visit to the best breakfast in Houston a memorable one. From unique local favorites to Michelin-starred restaurants, you’re sure to find something that tickles your taste buds. Let’s get started!
1) Best Breakfast Spots in Houston
If you’re a foodie visiting Houston, breakfast is a meal you definitely don’t want to miss out on. The city is known for its diverse and delicious breakfast options that range from classic American dishes to ethnic delights. Here are some of the best breakfast spots in Houston that you simply must try:
1. The Breakfast Klub – This iconic Houston restaurant is famous for its Southern-style breakfast, especially the wings and waffles. Be prepared for a long wait, but it’s totally worth it.
2. Common Bond – This artisan bakery and café serves up freshly baked bread, pastries, and breakfast dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Their almond croissant and avocado toast are fan favorites.
3. Empire Cafe – Located in Montrose, this casual café is a great spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The menu includes everything from breakfast burritos to brioche French toast. This hip coffee shop in Montrose has a great selection of coffee drinks, as well as breakfast options like biscuits and gravy, and an avocado and egg sandwich.
5. Hugo’s – This upscale Mexican restaurant serves up a delicious and unique brunch menu on the weekends. Their chilaquiles and huevos rancheros are both must-try dishes.
6. La Guadalupana Bakery & Cafe – This family-owned bakery and café in Montrose serves up traditional Mexican breakfast dishes like tamales and churros. Their breakfast tacos are also a hit.
7. Pondicheri – This Indian restaurant in the Upper Kirby area serves up a fusion of Indian and American breakfast dishes, such as eggs kejriwal and spicy chicken waffles.
Overall, Houston has a lot to offer when it comes to breakfast spots in Houston. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fancy brunch, there’s something for everyone. And if you have time after breakfast, be sure to check out some of the city’s top attractions, such as the Space Center Houston, the Museum of Fine Arts, or the Houston Zoo.
2) Trendy Lunch Spots for Foodies
If you’re a foodie looking for a trendy and delicious lunch and breakfast in Houston, you’re in luck. This vibrant city is filled with restaurants, cafes, and food trucks that offer some of the most mouthwatering meals around. Whether you’re in the mood for some traditional Tex-Mex, savory sandwiches, or Asian-inspired dishes, Houston has it all. And what better way to take a break from your activities, attractions, tours, or sightseeing, than by indulging in a delectable lunch?
One of the must-try spots in Houston for lunch is Local Foods, a trendy eatery that focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The menu features unique sandwiches, salads, and soups that are bursting with flavor. Another great option is Xochi, a restaurant that offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine, including a delicious mole sauce that will have you craving more.
For those who want to explore different cultures through their taste buds, Nancy’s Hustle is a must-visit spot. This hip eatery serves up creative dishes inspired by Mediterranean, Italian, and French cuisine. Similarly, UB Preserv is known for its fusion-style menu that blends flavors from Asia, Latin America, and the United States.
If you’re in the mood for something healthy, True Food Kitchen is the place to go. This restaurant features an extensive menu of plant-based dishes that are both nutritious and delicious. Other great options for vegans and vegetarians include Green Seed Vegan, serving up organic salads and wraps, and Ripe Cuisine, a food truck that offers plant-based burgers, tacos, and more.
No matter what type of cuisine or atmosphere you’re looking for, Houston has plenty of trendy lunch spots for foodies to choose from. So take a break from your activities, attractions, tours, or sightseeing, and indulge in some of the best eats the city has to offer.
3) Top Houston Restaurants for Dinner
If you’re in Houston, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to dinner options. From upscale eateries to cozy restaurants with hearty meals, Houston’s got it all. Here are some of the best dinner spots to add to your list:
1. BCN Taste & Tradition: This elegant restaurant is perfect for a special occasion. They specialize in Spanish and Catalan cuisine, and their menu is a work of art.
2. Pappas Bros: Steakhouse: If you’re in the mood for steak, this restaurant is a must-visit. Their menu features a wide range of high-quality steaks, along with an impressive wine list.
3. The Pass & Provisions: This modern, industrial-style restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its tasting menu. They have both a fine-dining restaurant and a more casual, rustic spot to choose from.
4. Nancy’s Hustle: This trendy spot is known for its laid-back atmosphere and creative cuisine. Their menu features unique dishes like chicken fried steak tartare and chili garlic Gulf shrimp.
5. Riel: This modern restaurant offers a mix of Canadian and Gulf Coast cuisine, with dishes like fried oyster poutine and roasted duck breast. It’s a great spot for a date or a night out with friends.
6. Mala Sichuan Bistro: If you’re in the mood for spicy Chinese food, this is the spot for you. Their Sichuan cuisine is some of the best in Houston, with dishes like spicy beef noodle soup and mapo tofu.
7. Xochi: Chef Hugo Ortega’s newest restaurant showcases his love of Mexican cuisine. Their menu features dishes like cochinita pibil and chile rellenos, along with a wide selection of tequila and mezcal.
8. Lucille’s: This cozy restaurant is housed in a restored 1920s home and serves up classic Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Their menu features dishes like shrimp and grits and smoked short ribs.
9. Uchi: If you’re a sushi fan, Uchi is a must-visit. Their menu features unique rolls and nigiri, along with hot and cold small plates. Be sure to save room for dessert – their macaron ice cream sandwich is a favorite.
4) Brunch Must-Haves for Sunday Funday
Houston is home to some of the best brunch and breakfast spots in the country. Whether you’re in the mood for classic breakfast fare or something a little more adventurous, Houston’s brunch scene has something for everyone. Here are some must-try brunch spots to add to your list:
1. Tiny Boxwoods – With its beautiful outdoor seating area and charming atmosphere, Tiny Boxwoods is the perfect spot for a leisurely Sunday brunch. The menu features fresh, seasonal dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
2. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations – If you’re looking for a boozy brunch, Bosscat is the place to be. The brunch menu features indulgent dishes like chicken and waffles, lobster mac and cheese, and red velvet pancakes, all of which can be paired with a creative cocktail.
3. The Rustic – This popular Houston spot offers a lively atmosphere, live music, and a brunch menu that features Southern-inspired dishes like biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, and chicken fried steak.
No matter what you’re in the mood for, Houston’s brunch scene has something for everyone. So gather your friends and make a Sunday Funday out of it!
5) Late-Night Bites: Houston’s Best After Hours
Sometimes the cravings just won’t go away until you get a good meal. Fortunately, Houston is a city that never sleeps, and there’s always somewhere you can go for a great late-night bite. Here are some of our top breakfast picks for Houston’s best after-hours eats:
1. La Tapatia Mexican Restaurant: Open until 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays, La Tapatia is the perfect spot for some authentic Tex-Mex after a night out. Don’t miss their famous queso, enchiladas, and tacos al pastor.
2. Frank’s Pizza: Craving pizza after a night of partying? Head to Frank’s Pizza, where they serve up delicious slices until 2 am on weekdays and 3 am on weekends. Their thin-crust pizzas and garlic knots are not to be missed.
3. Niko Niko’s: This Houston institution serves up Greek favorites until 3 am on Friday and Saturday nights. Try their gyros, souvlaki, and spanakopita for a taste of the Mediterranean.
4. Katz’s Deli & Bar: Open 24/7, Katz’s Deli is the go-to spot for late-night sandwiches and breakfast favorites. Their Reuben sandwich and matzo ball soup are particularly popular.
5. Little Big’s: For some late-night burgers and fries, head to Little Big’s, which is open until midnight on weekdays and 3 am on weekends. Don’t miss their truffle fries and boozy milkshakes.
6. Tacos a Go Go: This taco joint is open until midnight on weekdays and at 3 am on weekends, making it a great spot for a late-night snack. Try their pork belly tacos or breakfast tacos for a taste of Mexico.
6) Vegan and Vegetarian Delights: Healthy Eating in Houston
Whether you’re a strict vegan or just looking to cut back on meat, Houston offers a wide range of healthy, plant-based options that are just as delicious as their carnivorous counterparts. One popular spot is Green Seed Vegan, which offers everything from burgers and tacos to smoothie bowls and vegan baked goods. Their famous “Samson Burger” is a must-try, featuring a patty made of quinoa, spinach, and mushroom topped with avocado and chipotle sauce.
Another top pick is Ripe Cuisine, a food truck-turned-brick-and-mortar restaurant that specializes in vegan and gluten-free cuisine. Their menu changes with the seasons, but highlights include their jackfruit “carnitas” tacos and vegan mac and cheese.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, try Pondicheri, a contemporary Indian restaurant that offers plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. Don’t miss their cauliflower “steak” or their paneer tikka masala.
For something completely different, check out Pepper Tree Veggie Cuisine, a Vietnamese restaurant that serves entirely vegan food. Their pho, banh mi, and rice paper rolls are all standouts.
Of course, there are plenty of other vegan and vegetarian options in Houston as well. Whether you’re looking for a casual cafe or an upscale restaurant, you’re sure to find something delicious and healthy in the city.
7) Ethnic Eateries: A Culinary Trip Around the World in Houston
Houston is a melting pot of cultures, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the diverse range of restaurants that call the city home. From traditional Vietnamese pho to spicy Mexican tacos, you can find just about any type of cuisine in Houston.
Here are some of the best ethnic eateries that you simply have to try:
1. Pho Binh Trailer: If you’re in the mood for some authentic Vietnamese pho, head to Pho Binh Trailer. This food truck serves up steaming bowls of noodle soup that are packed with flavor. Don’t be put off by the unassuming exterior – this place is a local favorite for a reason.
2. Himalaya: Indian food lovers will find their nirvana in the Himalayas. This family-run restaurant is known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes, like chicken tikka masala and biryani. Don’t forget to try their delicious naan bread!
3. The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation: For Mexican food that will blow your mind, visit the Original Ninfa’s on Navigation. This Houston institution has been serving up delicious Tex-Mex since 1973. Their famous fajitas are a must-try, but be sure to leave room for their delicious margaritas.
4. Kim Son: If you’re looking for some fantastic Vietnamese food in a swanky setting, head to Kim Son. This upscale restaurant offers a wide range of dishes, including spring rolls, banh mi sandwiches, and pho. Don’t forget to try their delicious Vietnamese iced coffee!
5. Aladdin: For some seriously tasty Middle Eastern food, look no further than Aladdin. This restaurant offers an array of dishes, including hummus, baba ganoush, shawarma, and falafel. Vegetarians will love their stuffed grape leaves and lentil soup.
8) Chic Cafes and Bakeries for Sweet Treats
If you have a sweet tooth and love to indulge in baked goods and pastries, Houston has plenty of chic cafes and bakeries that are perfect for satisfying your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and a croissant, or a trendy bakery with Instagram-worthy treats, there’s something for every dessert lover in Houston.
One of the top spots for sweet treats in Houston is Common Bond Bakery. With locations in Montrose and the Heights, this bakery offers a variety of delicious pastries, cakes, and desserts that are made from scratch daily. The croissants are a must-try, and the macarons come in a variety of unique flavors like passion fruit and lavender honey.
For those who love all things French, Tout Suite is a chic cafe in EaDo that offers a variety of classic French pastries like croissants and macarons. They also have a full coffee and tea menu, and a beautiful outdoor patio to enjoy your treats.
Another popular spot for sweet treats in Houston is Weights + Measures. This trendy bakery and cafe is located in Midtown and offers a variety of delicious baked goods, including their famous almond croissants and sourdough bread. They also have a full bar, making it a great spot to grab a cocktail and dessert after dinner.
If you’re looking for a unique dessert experience, check out Biskit Junkie in the Heights. This bakery specializes in biscuits, and they offer a variety of sweet and savory options that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The Nutella biscuit is a crowd favorite, and they also have a rotating menu of seasonal flavors.
Last but not least, Common Bond Cafe & Bakery is another must-visit spot for sweet treats in Houston. With locations in Rice Village and the Medical Center, this bakery offers a variety of baked goods, pastries, and desserts, including their famous kouign-amann pastry. They also have a full menu of sandwiches, salads, and brunch items if you’re in the mood for something savory.
9) Dive Bars with Amazing Grub
If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere with delicious food, look no further than Houston’s dive bars. Here are some of the best dive bars in the city with incredible grub.
1. Big Star Bar: This bar has a casual vibe with a great patio area. Their menu is full of delicious bar food like nachos, sliders, and wings. Plus, they have a great selection of beer and cocktails.
2. Lola’s Depot: This dive bar has a welcoming atmosphere and a great selection of local beers. Their menu includes classic bar fare like burgers and sandwiches, as well as Tex-Mex favorites like tacos and queso.
3. Moon Tower Inn: This bar has an extensive selection of craft beer and a unique menu that features gourmet sausages, burgers, and sandwiches. Try their popular Frito pie or a hot dog with homemade chili and cheese.
4. Nobi Public House: This laid-back spot has a rotating selection of craft beer and a menu that includes both classic and inventive bar food. Try their Korean BBQ wings or loaded tots with bacon and cheese.
5. The Nickel: This cozy bar has a great selection of craft beer and a menu that includes comfort food like mac and cheese and chicken fried steak. Don’t miss their delicious burger with bacon jam.
10) Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you’re looking for a more unique breakfast experience in Houston, there are plenty of hidden gems and local favorites to try. These spots may not have the same name recognition as some of the more popular restaurants in the city, but they offer their own special flair and delicious cuisine.
First up is The Pit Room, a barbecue joint that has been hailed as some of the best in the city. The brisket is the star of the show here, but don’t miss out on the beef rib or the turkey, both of which are cooked to perfection. Another great spot for BBQ lovers is Gatlin’s BBQ. Their award-winning ribs and brisket are both mouthwatering, but they also offer unique options like smoked turkey legs and stuffed baked potatoes.
For seafood fans, there’s Seabrook Classic Cafe. This unassuming restaurant may not look like much from the outside, but the seafood here is top-notch. Try the gumbo or the fried shrimp, which are both favorites among regulars.