Food and Drink Favorites Outside of Houston
Deemed the culinary and cultural capital of the South, Houston has endless options for food lovers. But just outside the city, food and beer lovers will find unique and award-winning restaurants that are worth a visit. Whether you’re staying in one of these communities or nearby, don’t miss a taste of these culinary gems.
Conroe
From gourmet to good ol’ East Texas comfort food, Conroe has the grub for you. Experience the local culture for yourself at Vernon's Kuntry Katfish, where the home-style food is prepared by the family who owns and operates the popular restaurant. If you’re looking for dining with a view, check out Wolfie’s on Lake Conroe for spectacular lake views, mouth-watering burgers, and fresh crawfish from late February to April.
Conroe rolls out the barrels for you with three amazing and award-winning breweries. Join a tour any Friday, Saturday or Sunday at Southern Star Brewery, B-52 Brewing Co. or Copperhead Brewery. Don't miss out on local winery, Blue Epiphany, where the red and whites are courtesy of the boys in blue - local cops who started a business to share their passion with their community. We also recommend a tasting at Bartlett's Distillery for delicious craft spirits. (Check out the Distillery Tour here.)
Pearland
Culinary cultures collide in Pearland, which is home to more than 140 dining choices, including the hugely successful Killen’s Barbecue, a favorite among food critics and foodies. Authentic German/Austrian cuisine at King’s Biergarten & Restaurant pairs well with the restaurant’s roster of German biers and live music on weekends.
Craft beer fans will love Pearland’s own BAKFISH Brewing Company (featured in the Houston Brew Pass) and the nanobrewery by Vallensons’ Brewing Company.
Tomball
Tomball is a small town with lots of hidden gems. Try acclaimed favorites like Tejas Chocolate Craftory & Barbeque, named the sixth best barbecue joint in Texas, where you can enjoy your ‘cue with a side of chocolate truffles. And with only 44 seats set in a restored gas station, Bonfire Grill on Main Street has an ambiance all its own. There are tons of other options for foodies looking for flavor with venues including restored barns and food truck parks like 403 Eats. Learn more about foodie options in Tomball here.
Deer Park
In Deer Park you can enjoy delicious restaurants including BiBi’s House of Kabobs, which features an incredible array of Mediterranean options and health food, or local favorite Antonio’s Italian Restaurant for delicious homemade desserts, pasta, pizza and seafood options.
The Woodlands
No trip to The Woodlands is complete without entertaining all the places to enjoy a meal in this beautiful, master-planned destination. Dine al fresco along The Woodlands Waterway or discover your new favorite eatery on Restaurant Row in Hughes Landing. Visitors can also enjoy cuisine from award-winning chefs in one of the area’s many fine-dining spots or cozy cafés. With over 150 restaurants to choose from, The Woodlands has plenty to satisfy any palate.
Shenandoah
Dine on grilled red snapper wrapped in delicate corn tortillas. Savor pho filled with glass noodles, scallions, and chicken or filet mignon cooked to perfection. Satisfy your cravings with mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausage served at the restaurant of a superstar Houston chef. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll find something delicious to sink your teeth into at Shenandoah’s nearly 60 restaurants, ranging from locally owned eateries to national chains.
With a diverse offering of cuisines and service options ranging from take-out to fine dining at a James Beard semifinalist’s restaurant, you’re bound to find something to tantalize your tastebuds in Shenandoah.