25 Foods To Try If You Live In Houston, Texas

Note – We’ve created this article in collaboration with Houstoning The article has been curated with the help of their team to provide precise information on the topic. 

Every single place in the US is known for its food. The different food or cuisines are highlights of the different cities and states. If you ask me, I will stroll through the streets of Houston and eat so many different things that are delicious and very flavorful. So if you live in Houston or are planning to visit, you must check out the foods to try in Houston.

Some of the best food to try in Houston are –

1. Viet-Cajun Crawfish
2. Texas Barbecue 
3. Breakfast Tacos
4. Chicken & Waffles
5. Fajitas
6. Pecan Pie
7. Kolaches
8. Pho 
9. Tamales
10. Whataburger
11. Banh Mi
12. Crepes

Houston is located in Texas, and we all know that Texas is bigger than life. What’s even bigger than life? Food in Texas, especially in Houston. You can enjoy different cuisines and flavors in Houston and call it a happy day or time. 

So, if you are wondering what to eat in Houston, check out this long list of best foods to try and thank me later. Without any further delay, let’s begin the food hunt. 

Does Houston Have Good Food?

Yes, Houston does have good food. Houston, in Texas, is known for its foods and cuisines. There are a number of food items that you can enjoy here. It is also said that Houston’s food is as diverse as its population. The flavors in the food are commendable. 

You can enjoy their traditional cuisines or try the different fusions. As per one Quora user, Houston is famous for its international and American contemporary food. People in Houston are real foodies as compared to any other state or city in the US. So there is no shortage of restaurants that serve a variety of food items to satisfy the cravings. 

25 Foods That Are Popular In Texas

Without any doubt, Houston has so many food items that are very popular and super delicious. So let’s have a look at the list, and I hope you try these foods next time whenever you are in Houston. 

1. Viet-Cajun Crawfish

A new version of cajun crawfish that the Vietnamese left behind – Viet cajun crawfish is a must-try in Houston. This dish includes boiled crawfish with amazing flavors of Gulf and Saigon. 

You will also get a hint of spices like cayenne pepper, garlic, basil, lemongrass, and ginger. The star ingredient in the dish is – butter. Butter brings the delicate flavors to the dish that are simply unmatched. You can find this special dish in many restaurants like Cajun Kitchen, LA Crawfish, and Crawfish & Noodles. 

2. Pork bulgogi

Pork bulgogi is one of the most underrated dishes of all time. When it comes to the flavors, you would definitely love the combination of sweet and savory flavors. The dish also has the umami flavor that you might crave, and it will perfectly satisfy your cravings.

When loosely translated, Bulgogi means fire meat; trust me, it is fire meat. They are basically marinated and barbecued, and also have a beef version. If you want to enjoy the best pork bulgogi, then you must visit Honey Pig, as they are the best Korean BBQ restaurants in Houston.

3. Breakfast Tacos

When in Houston, you really don’t have to worry about your breakfast. If you love tacos then you must go for some breakfast tacos. Now the tacos served in Houston have their own uniqueness. The breakfast tacos primarily include scrambled eggs, bacon, chorizo, cheese, and veggies that are perfectly tucked in flour tortilla blankets. If you are confused about where to locate this, then simply look around.

Houston is filled with tex- mex restaurants and food trucks serving delicious breakfast tacos. Just make sure you grab them before 8 am, or you might lose a great opportunity to taste them at most of the restaurants or food spots. 

4. Fajitas

Who doesn’t love fajitas, and when in Houston, you have to try them? Perfectly flavored, this Mexican dish is super healthy too.

The beans with vegetables and chicken make such a great combination. With the sauces and cheese, the taste elevates and intensifies without any doubt. The juices in the dish are really tempting, and the sizzling veggies are perfectly cooked and give a perfect crunch. You get beef, lobsters, and chicken as an option, and choose whatever suits you. 

5. Chicken & Waffles

I love this delightful combination of chicken and waffles. Nobody would have thought waffles would taste this good with chicken. If you even look at this dish, you will fall in love. It is a perfect Instagram dish that can easily tempt people to eat it.

When combined with savory chicken, the sweet flavors of waffles are a unique yet comforting food that is curated. It is a must-try for all chicken and waffle lovers. You might think that was this combination necessary.

Yes, absolutely, yes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The chicken between the waffles is really crispy and perfectly flavored. 

6. Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is usually served during Thanksgiving, but Houston is the right place if you crave it in the middle of the year. You get pecan pie throughout the year in Houston and enjoy the sweet feast. This is your clear sign if you have not tried pecan pie yet.

The crusty pie with the blend of butter, eggs, and sugar. If you are low on sugar, get a bite of pecan pie and stay happy. 

7. Kolaches

Another sweet yet savory treat that you have to try is kolaches. They are super delicious and perfect for breakfast on the move.

Also, it is very interesting to note that long ago, they had soft and sweet fillings. However, with time Kolaches had some savory filling which was liked by many.

You can find these treats in pastries and doughnut shops. Combine kolaches with some black coffee, and you have your perfect breakfast. 

8. Pho

If you want some more Vietnamese flavors in Houston, then you must go and try pho. The perfectly cooked rice with spices and herbs is really mouth-watering, and the meat is the star ingredient. The rice and the broth make a very comfort dish.

Perfect for the chilly winters. You can enjoy the spicy and anise flavors infused in the dish. You can enjoy the soup and eat the rice. For me, pho is a perfect lunch meal. The beef is perfectly immersed and cooked in the broth. You would love this Vietnamese dish and ask for more and more. 

9. Tamales

Suppose you don’t know what tamales are, then let me introduce this amazing dish to you. Tamales have veggies that are finely tugged in corn husk. You can find tamales very easily in Houston and can enjoy this unique yet delicious food item.

It is a perfect dish to eat on the go as it is very convenient. This Mexican dish will give you a perfect flavor. With meat filled in musk that is steamed thoroughly, you can enjoy this dish throughout the year. You can always customize the dish and eat as per your want. 

10. Whataburger

Pick any burger from the Whataburger and you would be so delighted. Whataburger can be found in Houston at various places, and there is no doubt that they are the best ones to deal with burgers.

You can enjoy fries, onion rings, milkshakes, and many other things besides burgers. Choose whatever you wish to, and have a great day in Houston. 

11. Banh Mi

You may be surprised by the number of dishes that are straight from Vietnam. Banh Mi is another dish that is a legacy of Vietnamese. Banh Mi is made from a baguette and includes vegetables, pickled carrots, mayo, pate, and other ingredients.

It is a very refreshing take on sandwiches with a Vietnamese touch of flavors. Some people might find the flavors of Banh Mi similar to pho. A very popular dish on the streets of Houston, you must try this at least once in a lifetime. 

12. Queso

To be honest, I have tried queso before at many places, but nothing matches the authenticity and flavors like the one in Houston.

Queso is one of the best chicken dishes that ever exist on earth. Simply visit any place in Houston that serves Queso and try it once. You won’t be disappointed and I can bet you will definitely Ask for more. 

13. Barbecued Beef Ribs

The juiciest, most tender, and most flavorful beef ribs that are very famous in Houston are barbecued beef ribs. These ribs are totally worth every penny. The unique thing about these barbecued beef ribs is that the sauce is not the main part of the dish in Texas.

Their main flavors lie in the spices that are specially prepared for the dish. If you want to enjoy the sweet and smoky dish full of flavors, go for barbecued beef ribs. 

14. Crepes

If you are into pancakes, then you must try crepes. They are the thinner version of your pancakes filled with different toppings. The versatility of the dish lies in the toppings only. You can choose sweet and savory ingredients and enjoy the different flavors as you wish.

For the sweet version, you have Nutella, maple syrup, fruit toppings, and whipped cream toppings, whereas mushrooms and cheese are some of the savory items that pair well with crepes. 

15. Lobster Pot Pie

I love eating lobsters. They are full of flavors and very versatile. Talking about the versatility of lobsters, do try the lobster pot pie. This is a perfect and complete meal for you when you want some comforting seafood flavors. The fresh chunks of lobster that are filled in the flaky pastry are super delicious and warming. 

There are many famous restaurants that serve lobster pot pie in Houston with the utmost quality and taste. 

16. Marinated Mussels

One of my most favorite dinners that is highly recommended to try is marinated mussels. These are usually available in ready-to-eat packages, but to get the best flavors, visit any restaurants in Houston that serve this dish.

You will be really delighted by the flavors and the texture of the food and come out from the restaurant fully satisfied. I recommend you to visit Squanle as they serve the best-marinated mussels in Houston. 

17. Roast Chicken

Well, you can eat roast chicken anywhere, but if you have not tried one in Houston, you are missing out on great things. Just in case you are in Houston, then reserve at least one meal for roast chicken, and you will thank me later.

The roast chicken is served with lemon and salsa verde, and I must say that this is the best version of roast chicken I have ever tried. The flavors might be very different from the regular roast chicken, but you can feel the vibe of the place infused in the dish.

18. Braised Pork And Crispy Rice

When it comes to braised pork and crispy rice, you can enjoy many versions of the same dish. However, if you are in Houston, you have plenty of opportunities to stuff your belly with such an amazing dish that is popular in Vietnamese cuisine.

A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors will leave you fully satisfied, which is why it is a complete meal to enjoy. For many, this dish is a comfort food as it has lots of flavors and perfect blends of spices and herbs.

The pork in the dish is so tender and juicy that you will ask for more. There are many places in Houston that serve this classic dish in different versions, so simply find one and try it today. 

19. Cacio E Pepe

Rome has been famous for Cacio E Pepe, but if you are visiting Houston, then don’t miss the opportunity of trying this dish here. You will simply love the flavors, and just between you and me, it is a very simple dish yet possesses great taste. 

Cacio basically means cheese, and if you are a cheese lover, then simply dig into the dish and experience heaven on earth. Cacio E Pepe is nothing but lots of cheese and pepper perfectly combined with cooked pasta. You can visit Coltivare Pizza & Garden for the best Cacio E Pepe in Houston and enjoy your day. 

20. Brisket

I am sorry for listing brisket after so many other dishes, but that does not degrade the value of this dish. Truth Barbeque has one of the best brisket dishes that you can enjoy in Houston. The juicy, meaty, tender, and perfectly sliced beef brisket is simply one of the best beef dishes you can ever have.

Well, I don’t have to talk much about brisket as it is one of the most famous dishes in Texas. Why are they so good? Simply because of the smokiness and tomato sauce that is paired with the dish. A great gift from the Europeans that is filled with flavors. 

21. Bacon BBQ Burger 

You may have tried different burgers at different places, which might be really delicious. However, if you are in Houston, then definitely try their bacon bbq burger. After trying it once at Craft Burger, I cannot stop thinking about this burger. They are super delicious and straight from heaven.

When it comes to bbq, Houston is well renowned for its flavors. This version of the burger is huge and perfect as a complete meal. You have juicy thick-cut bacon along with American cheese, crispy onion straws, barbecue sauce, lettuce, tomato, and spices. You will be fully satisfied with the flavors and the size of the burger. A must-try if you are in Houston. 

22. Empanadas

If you want to eat authentic empanadas, then go straight to The Original Marini’s Empanada House. Try the beef gaucho empanada, which has beef, olives, onions, and a hard-boiled egg that gives complete Argentinian flavors. You may also enjoy empanadas with cream corn, sautéed onions, and mozzarella cheese. 

These little pockets filled with vegetables and meat are perfect for a quick bite. Some of the veggies are corn, carrot, and peas. Most of the time, they are baked. However, you can get the fried versions as well. Simply get some empanadas and enjoy the savory flavors. The best part is not the filling only, but the outer crust, made with dough, is flaky and buttery. 

23. Gyros

If you are interested in trying different food and cuisines, then Houston is the best place. Having said that, you must try gyros to enjoy some Greek flavors. The perfectly seasoned and cooked gyros can be served with pitas or sandwiches.

You can also enjoy it with some rice on the platter. Gyros basically have a good amount of meat and are topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce. Originating from Greek, this dish lives in the heart of the Houston’s people. 

24. Braised pork and crispy rice

Last but not the least, braised pork and crispy rice is a perfect dish to end your day with. This Vietnamese dish is full of flavors and fills your belly completely to the brim. However, you might see different versions of this dish but whatever you try, you won’t be disappointed.

The flavors are simply commendable, and you will ask for more. For many of us, braised pork and crispy rice is a go-to meal when craving something savory and meaty with juice and tender flavors. 

25. Po Boys 

If you love sandwiches and are in Houston, go for some Po Boys. Originally originating from Louisiana, Po Boy is a perfect dish that includes crispy onion rings, meat, and pickles. The flavors are very close to a cajun sandwich, and I am sure that you will love every bite of it.

You can also find different versions with some chicken, shrimp, beef, fish, and oysters. Simply grab this dish and enjoy it while you stro;l; through the streets of Houston in Texas. 

Conclusion 

Without any doubt, Houston is a great place to celebrate the versatility of food. From Mexican to Vetan,mes, you can find all kinds of cuisines and food items. This place is known for being larger than life, and the food culture here is commendable. Always infused in flavors and atoms, Hiuston is a must visit place for all the foodies. 

You won’t be disappointed with any food item, even if it is a very basic one. Whenever I visit Houston, I make sure to try some of the food items without fail. Some of them include Viet-Cajun Crawfish, Chicken & Waffles, Tamales, Lobster Pot Pie, Brisket, and Banh Mi. When it comes to the other food items, the list can be never-ending. 

This is why I have curated a list with the best and must-try food or cuisines to try if you live in Houston. So let me know if you get a chance to eat any one of the dishes that is mentioned above and share your experience. I will be back with some more food conversations for you. Until then, why don’t you plan a short trip to Houston? 

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