Where to Eat Outdoors in the Woodlands

Where can you get a great meal and enjoy the great outdoors? We’ve got some recommendations.

Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in the Woodlands

We’re fortunate to have numerous places to dine outdoors. But which ones offer the best food, service, and overall experience? We’ve got a list.

BBQ Godfather

Do you like your barbecue with a little kick? Then BBQ Godfather has you covered. Award-winning competition pitmaster Tony Faour brought his South Texas style ‘Q to Deacon Baldy’s food truck park, and the locals have been lining up ever since. Each meat gets a unique rub, and the perfect sauce is available for those who prefer it. From the delicious pork ribs to spicy brisket, BBQ Godfather offers unique versions of all the Texas BBQ classics. Sides are top notch as well; don’t miss the sweet potato casserole or the mac & cheese burnt ends. Sandwiches come on a crusty Italian loaf… just don’t call it French bread, or you risk the ire of the Godfather himself.

BBQ | 1488 West
Outdoor Dining

5447 Fm 1488 Rd | Magnolia 77354
713-828-5960 | Map | Details
$ (under $10) and $$ ($10-20)

Beck’s Prime

Mesquite is the thing at this popular Houston-based burger chain. Thick, beefy burgers grilled on an open mesquite flame carry the wood’s distinctive flavor, and keep hungry locals coming back for more. The menu goes beyond burgers; it may be the only place in Texas where you can order a mesquite-grilled ribeye steak through the drive-through. (Please don’t eat it in traffic.)

Tucked away in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center, the inviting restaurant boasts wrap-around decks and even hidden tables beside Lake Harrison. Counter service is friendly and efficient.

Burgers | Grogan's Mill
Outdoor Dining

2120 Buckthorne Pl | The Woodlands 77380
(in the Grogan's Mill Village Center)
281-367-3600 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

Churrascos

The Woodands outpost of Michael Cordua’s successful empire has hit its stride in the scenic waterway district. Delicious latin-influenced cuisine including Cordua favorites like the chimichurri-topped churrasco steak and the iconic tres leches are present and accounted for. New lighter options are available as well, all are skillfully executed by the well-managed staff.

Beautiful waterfront location with one of the most scenic patios in the Woodlands is perfect for happy hour; the bar is a hotspot after work. Well priced brunch is also turning heads.

Latin American and Steaks | Waterway
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

CorkScrew BBQ

When Will Buckman quit his job with the phone company to focus on barbecue, some thought he was crazy. Our first taste of Will’s brisket, served from a trailer on Budde road, convinced us he was crazy like a fox. Along with wife Nichole, Buckman has built Corkscrew BBQ into one of the best BBQ joints in the world – Texas Monthly named them to their prestigious Top 10 list in 2017. From the superlative brisket to the gargantuan beef ribs (Saturday only) Corkscrew’s meats do not disappoint. But don’t skip the sides, or Nichole’s remarkable cobblers. And get there early. Corkscrew routinely sells out by mid-afternoon, and the line starts an hour or more before opening.

BBQ | Outside the Bubble: Spring
Outdoor Dining

26608 Keith St | Spring 77373
832-592-1184 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

Craft Burger Food Truck

Craft Burger serves delicious gourmet burgers from a food truck located conveniently at Deacon Baldy’s food truck park. Helmed by Chopped Champion and Houston native Chef Shannen Tune, they combine locally-sourced beef and produce into big, juicy burgers that demonstrate Chef Tune’s focus on the details.

The toughest thing at Craft Burger is deciding which to order. Purists gravitate towards the All American, featuring two big patties, and high quality American cheese. The more adventurous may be drawn to the Truffle Butter Juicy Lucy (shaved truffles, cheese curds), the Craft Burger (smoked Gouda and tomato jam), or even one of the non-burger options. Finishing the meal with one of the delicious Maple Bacon Bourbon milkshakes (non-alcoholic) is never a bad idea.

Burgers | 1488 West
Outdoor Dining

5447 FM-1488 | Magnolia 77354
(inside Deacon Baldy's)
832-995-6056 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

Crust Pizza Co

Freshly cut toppings on a Chicago-style thin crust (yes, that’s a thing) are the draw at this local chain of pizza spots. From the original location, Crust has spread out all over the Woodlands area, bringing its popular gourmet pizzas, big salads, and Italian entrees to hungry families. Each Crust location has a different feel, but all share the same focus on fresh ingredients (dough is made several times a day, and never frozen or refrigerated) and great customer service.

Pizza, Salads, and Sandwiches | Panther Creek
Outdoor Dining

4775 W. Panther Creek Drive Suite 530 | The Woodlands 77381
In the Panther Creek Center (also Alden Bridge and Creekside Park locations)
281-298-8844 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

Del Frisco’s Grille

We love the patio at Del Frisco’s Grille; the view over the lake is perhaps the best in The Woodlands. The food satisfies too; from the legendary Del Frisco steaks, to the enticing flatbreads, cheesesteak egg rolls (believe us, it works), and well executed entrees. At lunch, we’re especially fond of the Grille Prime Cheeseburger, a double-patty creation worthy of any burger lover’s attention.

The well-trained staff anticipates patrons’ needs and provides excellent service. Chef Brian McNamara serves up outstanding specials; call ahead to see what magic he’s worked today.

American, Burgers, and Steaks | Hughes Landing
Outdoor Dining and Private Room

1900 Hughes Landing Blvd #500 | The Woodlands 77380
281-465-0300 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20) and $$$ ($20-40)

Fielding’s Local Kitchen + Bar

Housemade is a term you’ll hear at Fielding’s Local. Owner Cary Attar is passionate about the details, and his customers are the beneficiaries. His partner, Chef Edel Goncalves, has created a tightly edited menu featuring local, all-natural, and organic ingredients. This chef-driven approach to the food delights and surprises, be the dish based on pan-roasted chicken, housemade bacon, or 44 Ranch beef.

Creekside Park has a genuine destination restaurant. The airy, modern bar doesn’t disappoint, with superb craft cocktails and a rotating selection of beers on tap.

American | Creekside Forest West
Happy Hour and Outdoor Dining

26400 Kuykendahl Rd | Tomball 77375
281-351-2225 | Map | Website | Details
$$$ ($20-40)

Fielding’s Rooster - closed

Amish chicken is in the spotlight at Fielding’s Rooster, the third concept from the wildly successful Fielding’s Culinary Group. Whether it’s fried (traditional southern style or fiery Tennessee Red) or roasted over the wood-burning rotisserie, the result is moist and flavorful. Well executed sharable sides and an impressive bar program complete the Fielding’s game plan, and our early peek had us predicting another winner for Cary Attar and his team.

American | Research East
Happy Hour and Outdoor Dining

Fogo de Chao

Fogo de Chao is a carnivore’s delight. Bands of roaming gauchos patrol the dining room, offering diners slices from expertly roasted cuts of beef, pork, chicken, and more. But you won’t want to pass up the epic Market Table, an expansive display of charcuterie, cheeses, vegetables, and prepared creations. (It’s a filling meal by itself, and a bargain for lunch during the week.)

The Hughes Landing setting is upscale, airy, and comfortable. Service is professional without being stuffy.

Latin American and Steaks | Hughes Landing
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

1900 Hughes Landing Blvd #400 | The Woodlands 77380
In Hughes Landing's Restaurant Row
281-498-4200 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20), $$$ ($20-40), and $$$$ (Over $40)

Grimaldi’s Pizzaria

Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, this high-end pizza chain boasts a coal-fired oven and old school New York-style pizza. The craft approach uses great ingredients (don’t pass up the Italian sausage) and an artisan sensibility to put together pricey pizzas that appeal to refined pizza palates. Our only beef is the inconsistency; a hot coal oven requires constant attention, and too often our pizza is either undercooked or over done. But when they’re on, they’re superb, and at these prices, they should be.

Pizza | Waterway
Outdoor Dining

20 Waterway Ave #100 | The Woodlands 77380
281-465-3500 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20) and $$$ ($20-40)

Grub Burger Bar

Towering custom burgers are on the menu at Grub Burger Bar, the Texas-based chain that foodies have grown very fond of. Skip your basic cheeseburger and go with one of the gourmet creations; the monthly specials are also often well worth trying. Save room for a milkshake; both the PG-rated and the boozy versions are very good. Fast casual service, but your food is delivered to the table, and you probably won’t see your server after that.

Burgers, Salads, and Sandwiches | Research East
Outdoor Dining

2417 Research Forest Dr | The Woodlands 77381
281-907-9001 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

Guadalajara Hacienda

The Woodlands has no shortage of Mexican food, but Guadalajara Hacienda has been an area favorite for decades, thanks to its great service and a dependable kitchen. Seafood dishes stand out; the seafood enchiladas are unusual and lush. Ceviche is another standout, and looking around the dining room, you’ll see no shortage of the well-crafted margaritas. Stylish, upscale setting, ample parking.

Mexican | I-45 Corridor
Happy Hour and Outdoor Dining

27885 I-45 | The Woodlands 77380
281-362-0774 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20) and $$$ ($20-40)

Herb & Beet

Garden fresh salads, hefty sandwiches, and well conceived appetizers (try the avocado beet toast) are the draw at this Sawdust area restaurant featuring healthy ingredients from local sources. The modern, inviting room is a relaxing space to enjoy. Fast and friendly counter service makes it a perfect spot for a quick lunch.

American, BBQ, Salads, and Sandwiches | Sawdust
Outdoor Dining

Huti’s 5 Free-Fire Grill

Fast Casual meets Latin America at Huti’s 5, a very original concept that has taken root on Research Forest. Patrons travel down the service line and build bowls of uniquely flavored ingredients, inspired by native dishes south of the equator. Grilled meats, fish, or a delicious Brazilian stew are combined with veggies, grains and a variety of sauces (we go with the excellent chimichurri) to create your custom creation. It feels healthy, and it tastes delicious. Intriguing extras like gluten-free cheese bread puffs found out the offerings. We never knew eating healthy could taste so good.

Latin American | Research East
Outdoor Dining

2501 Research Forest Dr | The Woodlands 77381
281-298-1900 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

Johnny’s Italian Steak House

We never expected to find good food in the Holiday Inn off Research east of I-45. So we were pleasantly surprised by Johnny’s Italian Steak House, a mid-priced steakhouse that also features some very good Italian dishes. We’re particularly fond of their happy hour offerings – well priced appetizers perfect for sharing.

Service is attentive without being intrusive and the room is beautiful and cozy, making it perfect for a getaway with that special someone. Johnny’s demonstrates that you don’t have to pay a lot to enjoy a quality steak in a beautiful setting.

Italian and Steaks | I-45 Corridor
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

19333 David Memorial Dr. | Shenandoah 77385
(Inside Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Shenandoah)
346-331-2060 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20) and $$$ ($20-40)

Lama Mediterranean Cuisine

Lovers of Mediterranean cuisine have been frequenting this family run cafe, now in its second, larger location. A broad menu stretches from Greece to Lebanon, with favorites from both cultures well represented. We’re particularly fond of the rich, lush lamb stew, the flavorful schwarma (similar to a gyro), delicious housemade hummus and the bright, tasty tabouli. If you’re in the mood for something out of the ordinary, Lama is a great option.

Greek and Lebanese | Research East
Outdoor Dining

1644 Research Forest Dr #100 | Shenandoah 77381
281-292-5262 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

Momentum Coffee

A great independent coffee house has taken root in the Woodlands Area. It has a distinctly craft approach to coffee, based on the vision of its all-star staff. Founder Allen Leibowitz was roastmaster of Zingerman’s Coffee, founder Tia Hoffman is a master barista and trainer for Illy Coffee. Together with expert barista Ethan Elms, they’ve brought a world-class coffee house to the Woodlands area. But Momentum goes beyond coffee, with housemade sandwiches, salads, and small entrees created by chef Miranda Millette.

If your idea of a great coffee house is Starbucks, you need to visit Momentum and experience the difference.

Coffee, Salads, and Sandwiches | Rayford Road
Outdoor Dining

3555 Rayford Road #10 | Spring 77386
Near Rayford and Hwy 99
281-698-0079 | Map | Details
$ (under $10)

Ocean Boulevard - closed

This quaint waterside bistro is the place to go for foodies who want to dine on the shore of Lake Conroe. Grilled seafood is the star here, very fresh and expertly prepared. Highlights include the fish of the day and the large, perfectly grilled scallops. But don’t skip more humble favorites like beer-battered cod fish and chips and burger that’s getting quite the local reputation. Friendly, efficient service.

Seafood | Outside the Bubble: Hwy 105
Outdoor Dining

1200 Marina Dr | Montgomery 77356
936-588-4962 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20) and $$$ ($20-40)

Pacific Yard House

UPDATE: Unfortunately, Pacific Yard House seems to have abandoned the high quality approach championed by opening GM Rick Novak. Our reviewers report replacing fresh ingredients with frozen ones, and a dumbed-down menu and bar that replaces a craft approach with a more generic one. A pity; Conroe doesn’t need another Chili’s.

Downtown Conroe gets a new hot spot with Pacific Yard House. The inviting bar, featuring well priced craft beer and expertly designed cocktails is packing them in. The food doesn’t take a back seat; GM Rick Novak’s carefully constructed menu features American roadhouse classics elevated with quality ingredients and impressive technique. We were blown away by the superb chicken-fried steak, an impressive trifecta of tender, flavorful beef, well seasoned, crispy crust, and a decadent, peppery cream gravy. Located in the old Sparkle Ice House, the beautiful interior is among the most welcoming in town. Live music, too.

American | Outside the Bubble: Conroe
Happy Hour and Outdoor Dining

Robard’s Steakhouse

A visit to Robard’s is about more than just dry-aged USDA prime beef. The beautiful setting is reminiscent of a private club, and the outstanding cuisine does not end with superb steaks. We’re fond of the excellent seafood entrees as well, and be sure to save room for the opulent desserts.

Social Hour at Robard’s is one of our favorite happy hours in The Woodlands. An impressive craft cocktail program keeps us coming back to the beautiful bar and the expansive deck outside.

Update: Robard’s experienced a change in leadership in 2017. We’re looking forward to seeing how the new team smooths out the inevitable bumps that happen with a shakeup in both the front and back of the house.

Seafood and Steaks | Grogan's Mill
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

2301 N Millbend Dr | The Woodlands 77380
(281) 364-6400 | Map | Review | Details
$$$$ (Over $40)

Sorriso Modern Italian Kitchen

This casually ambitious Italian eatery bursts onto the Woodlands Waterway scene with a playful approach to Italian dining. Chef Enzo Fargione brings traditional Italian techniques to the Woodlands by way of Washington DC, and our first look at his food is very promising. Well priced appetizers, pizzas, pastas, and desserts take center stage, and the completely rebuilt dining room is both modern and inviting. Excellent wine list.

Italian and Pizza | Waterway
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

Tejas Chocolate & Barbecue

World class craft barbecue is the draw at Tejas Chocolate & Barbecue, a classic Texas barbecue joint located just off Main Street in Tomball. Pitmaster Scott Moore, Jr. and his brother (and chef) Greg smoke some of the best brisket, ribs, and sausage to be found in the state. Thursdays are a special treat, when housemade pastrami is added to the mix; don’t miss it.

BBQ | Outside the Bubble: Tomball
Outdoor Dining

The Goose’s Acre

The Woodlands has a real Irish pub located on the Waterway, complete with a bar imported from Ireland. This two-story pub serves modern pub grub, and daily specials (including half-price burgers on Wednesday) pack in hungry diners. Signature salads, proper fish and chips, and hand-tossed pizza are solid choices on the broad menu. Beautiful waterway location with scenic outdoor decks.

American and Burgers | Waterway
Happy Hour and Outdoor Dining

21 Waterway Ave #140 | The Woodlands 77380
(On the Waterway)
281-466-1502 | Map | Details
$$ ($10-20)

The Kitchen

Fast casual meets upscale cuisine at The Kitchen, the laid-back cousin of the award-winning Tris. Don’t let the counter service fool you; Chef Austin Simmons has created a serious menu full of creative dishes. We’re especially fond of the Greek Chicken and the Dinner Steak Omelette. Burgerphiles love the Kitchen as well; Chef Austin knows his burgers. Breakfast/Brunch is another don’t miss; the etherial croissant-based Biscuits & Gravy may be the best breakfast item around. Wine drinkers rejoice… the Kitchen sells wine at retail prices (not restaurant prices) so you can get a great bottle for as little as $10. Carefully curated craft beer selection. Service surprises for fast casual, GM Austen Goodwin and his team are raising the bar in this segment.

(Formerly Hubbell & Hudson Kitchen)

American, Burgers, Salads, and Sandwiches | Research East
Outdoor Dining

The Republic Grille

The flavors of Texas are served up on a plate at The Republic Grille, a locally-owned bistro located centrally in the Woodlands (with a new, second location on the far west end). Entrees like chicken-fried steak, shrimp & grits, pork chops, and fried chicken satisfy the appetites of hungry Texans, and the upscale casual setting (featuring historic photos of the early days of the Woodlands by noted photographer Ted Washington) serves as a comfortable backdrop for families, couples, and groups of friends. The chicken-fried-steak is getting a bit of a reputation; numerous publications have named it among the Houston area’s best.

American and Salads | Panther Creek
Outdoor Dining and Private Room

4775 W. Panther Creek, Suite 490 | The Woodlands 77381
(also 30340 FM 2978 Rd #800 / 281-789-7119)
281-789-7119 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20) and $$$ ($20-40)

Tommy Bahama’s

Tommy Bahama’s restaurant brings a tropical oasis to the middle of Market Street. Well prepared seafood (sure bets include ahi tuna tacos, crab bisque, and coconut shrimp) and solid American cuisine are the initial draws. The beautiful setting (complete with gorgeous, shaded patio) and professional service keep the upscale patrons coming back for more. Attached boutique is convenient if you feel underdressed. Bar executes tropical drinks well, and can be a bit of a scene.

American | Market Street
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

9595 Six Pines Dr | The Woodlands 77380
(in Market Street)
281-292-8669 | Map | Website | Details
$$$ ($20-40)

Tony’s Italian Deli

UPDATE: Tony’s Italian Deli has changed hands in 2018. On our return visits, we have noticed distinct changes in the sandwiches, and not for the better. We detected obvious changes in the ingredients, the quantities, and the attention to detail

Tony’s still makes good sandwiches. But they’re not the remarkable creations that Hootie put together, and in our opinion, aren’t worth a long drive anymore.

—

According to Yelp, the best restaurant in the nation is Tony’s Italian Deli, on Highway 105 outside of Montgomery. While we haven’t tried all the nation’s restaurants to verify this, we can confirm that the sandwiches at Tony’s Deli are simply the best Italian subs we’ve ever tasted. Chef Hootie Trant constructs huge po-boys stacked with high quality Italian meats and cheeses, with just the right spreads and seasonings to perfect the flavor. His bride Mary is the smiling face at the counter, greeting the guest and keeping the line moving. Expect a wait at peak lunch hours.

Choosing from the wall of options is tough. New visitors should resist the urge to build their own and delve into one of Hootie’s recommended creations; our favorites are the J. Gandolfini (cold) and the Lucky Luciano (hot). Expect a filling meal, and another one at home with the half you couldn’t eat in the store.

Italian and Sandwiches | Outside the Bubble: Hwy 105
Outdoor Dining

16235 TX 105 | Montgomery 77356
(across from April Sound)
936-588-4800 | Map | Details
$$ ($10-20)

TRIS

Chef-driven restaurants are rare in The Woodlands, but Chef Austin Simmons demonstrates how successful they can be. Formerly known as Hubbell & Hudson Bistro, TRIS features innovative cuisine, and everything from the outstanding burgers to the most elaborate entree shows the kind of attention to detail that is the hallmark of a great restaurant. Chef Austin has the uncanny knack of combining diverse and unique ingredients into dishes that surprise and delight, while maintaining the integrity of the cuisine. Steaks are also a strength; prime, of course, but Akaushi Texas Wagyu and in-house dry aged cuts are offered as well, and Japanese A5 (Miyazaki) is available for the true connoisseur.

TRIS has a bit of a split personality. Upscale and slightly formal at dinner, much more casual at lunch. Happy hour is a great time to sample different dishes (including that incredible burger); the well-priced list of offerings is the perfect way to begin your night out.

American, Burgers, Seafood, and Steaks | Waterway
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in the Woodlands

Fielding’s Rooster - closed

Ocean Boulevard - closed

Author: Review Panel

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