Restaurants with Private Rooms in the Woodlands

Alicia’s Mexican Grille

Tex-Mex with a strong Texas accent is on the menu at Alicia’s, the Houston-based group’s Mexican concept. Our go-to is the Cowboy Steak; certified angus outside skirt toped with chipotle shrimp and served with two cheese enchiladas. Grilled meats and seafood are a strength, and moderate prices combined with a comfortable environment provide a very good value to hungry families. Happy hour is hopping; the bar turns out memorable margaritas.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ | Mexican
Happy Hour and Private Room

20920 Kuykendahl Rd | Spring 77379
281-350-8383 | Map
Website

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Authentic Mexican and outstanding Tex-Mex in a sleek, sophisticated setting

Baja Sur

Tex-Mex restaurants are in no short supply in the Woodlands, we’re happy to report that Baja Sur brings something different. Chef Coco (who is also the restaurant’s General Manager) reaches beyond typical Tex-Mex, and brings a sophisticated palate and an eye for detail to the kitchen. We were impressed with the results. From the soulfully spicy table salsa (complimentary, of course) to the excellent Aguachile Ceviche to the outstanding Mexican Flag Enchiladas, our expectations were easily exceeded by Chef Coco’s talented kitchen. Both the Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes impressed. Bar service didn’t disappoint; this is a true craft cocktail bar, with plenty of comfortable indoor and outdoor seating in a sleek, sophisticated setting. A very polished concept, locally owned and operated.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ and $$$ | Mexican
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

26435 Kuykendahl Rd. Suite #900 | Tomball 77375
832-761-5199 | Map | Review
Website | Menu

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A broad array of modern comfort food in a sleek setting

Black Walnut Cafe

Update (July 2020): The secret is out: The Masked Chef who’s been making over the menu at Black Walnut is none other than Chef Austin Simmons, mastermind behind the award-winning Tris, Cureight, and the Kitchen. The result: Black Walnut has been seriously upping their culinary game. New menu items are appearing regularly, and they show a new viewpoint and a very skillful touch. We’ve been very pleased to see an established brand elevate their offerings like this, and can’t wait to see what’s next.

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Black Walnut is perhaps the biggest success story for restaurants originating in the Woodlands. Founded by serial restaurateur George Pallotta, the organization has spread statewide under the Black Forest Ventures umbrella. Why? Big portions of chef-created comfort food, served in an upscale, fast-casual setting. Sandwiches are a big deal here, and the broad menu offers something for everyone. We’re especially fond of the terrific pasta dishes; some proven recipes that have been popular for years, and some brand new ones.

Don’t skip brunch; it’s very popular. And save room for dessert.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery

$$ | American, Burgers, and Sandwiches
Outdoor Dining and Private Room

9000 New Trails Drive | The Woodlands 77381
281-362-1678 | Map
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A casual, chef-driven steakhouse with a solid wine list

Burgers & Bordeaux

Don’t be fooled by the name; this neighborhood steakhouse has offerings that go far beyond burgers, and a sophisticated, well-curated wine list to match. Chef Charlie Watkins (Café Toulouse, Sierra Grill) takes his Inner Loop sensibilities to the Magnolia area, and locals can’t get enough of his well-executed, French-influenced cuisine. Appetizers are a particular strength; from the rich and bold Spicy Bacon Plate to the elegantly savory Warm Goat Cheese (with addictive basil tomato coulis), these small plates are perfect with a well-priced bottle of Old World or California wine. The eponymous burgers are thoughtfully conceived, and the house aged steaks are also quite good. Our only issue has been inconsistency as of late, but hopefully that will be addressed.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery

$$ and $$$ | Burgers and Steaks
Happy Hour and Private Room

4900 Farm to Market Rd 1488 | Conroe 77384
Marcel Town Center, 545 Woodland Square Blvd
936-242-1373 | Map
Website

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Latin cuisine with a Texas flair

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.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$$ | Latin American and Steaks
Happy Hour, HRW2020, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

21 Waterway Avenue | The Woodlands 77380
281-367-1492 | Map | Review
Website | Menu

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Quality steaks and seafood in a scenic lakeside location

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.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ and $$$ | American, Seafood, and Steaks
HRW2020, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

1900 Hughes Landing Blvd #500 | The Woodlands 77380
281-465-0300 | Map
Website | Menu

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Eclectic Family-Run Cafe

Eden Cafe

This family-run cafe has been making area diners happy with generous portions of eclectic, home-style cuisine. American favorites, Italian, and Cuban entrees are the highlights.

Owner Ulises Larramendi originally hails from Cuba, and he brings a gentle latin twist to American favorites. Service is friendly and reliable, and the family-friendly environment is filled with diners of all ages.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ | American
Private Room

33418 Egypt Ln #16 | Magnolia 77354
832-934-2800 | Map | Review
Website

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Brazilian Steakhouse on Lake Woodlands

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.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery (Free Delivery)

$$$ and $$$$ | Latin American and Steaks
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 | Menu | Order Online

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Big custom burgers in a family-friendly setting

Fuddruckers

Families, friends, and sports teams flock to Fuddruckers for their big burgers (ranging from large 1/3 lb to humongous 2/3 lb) served on fresh baked buns. An expansive interior allows kids room to roam, but unlike many kid-friendly places, adults aren’t penalized by substandard food. Fudd’s has been serving great burgers to the Woodlands for decades, and there’s a reason they’ve stuck around so long.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery

$ | Burgers and Sandwiches
Private Room

2290 Buckthorne Place | The Woodlands 77381
(other location near Creekside Park Village Center)
281-367-1343 | Map | Review
Website | Order Online

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Steaks and Italian in a surprisingly fashionable hideaway

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.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ and $$$ | Italian and Steaks
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

19333 David Memorial Dr. | Shenandoah 77385
(Inside the Crown Plaza Shenandoah)
346-331-2060 | Map | Review
Website

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Great Tacos and Mexican dishes from a hidden gem

La Cocina de Roberto

A hidden gem at the far west end of Sawdust, La Cocina de Roberto began as a cozy little taqueria, serving the Timber Ridge neighborhood. But the savvy owners have added more full-fledged entrees to the menu, making it one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in the Woodlands. Tacos are still delicious: Carne asada and camerón are the standouts. Don’t miss the bargain faijta / shrimp combo, or the excellent chicken enchiladas.

Alcohol is BYOB – bring your own liquor, and Roberto will provide setups. You can’t beat a bargain margarita made with premium tequila.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$ and $$ | Mexican
Private Room

26817 Interstate 45 N | The Woodlands 77380
832-813-8030 | Map
Website

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Sophisticated Indian cuisine in a cozy family-run setting

Palette Indian Kitchen

Discerning foodies looking for a great Indian restaurant now have a solid local destination. Palette Indian Kitchen creates remarkably complex, subtly spiced dishes that will please the most demanding palate. From the scrumptious Chicken Popsicles, with their lush garlic lemon creme sauce, to the savory Lamb Seekh Kabob, boldly aromatic, herbal, moist and incredibly flavorful, there is a lot to love on the expansive menu. Surprises abound; we were tickled by the gently sweet Peshwari Naan (baked in the tandoori oven with coconut, nuts, and hints of cherry) and the Goan Shrimp Curry, a subtle curry with plump, beautifully cooked shrimp and layer upon layer of flavor. Don’t let the casual strip-center location fool you; this is a serious kitchen with serious food.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery

$$ | Indian
Outdoor Dining and Private Room

3559 Rayford Rd Suite 200 | Spring 77386
281-362-5999 | Map
Website | Order Online

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Handmade contemporary Italian cuisine

Papa Amadeus

Don’t be fooled by the modest strip center location. Papa Amadeus crafts some of the finest Italian food in the Woodlands area. Chef Arturo Huerta’s meticulous personal approach delivers delicious results. Everything is handmade in house; from the pastas to the balanced, classic sauces, to the more innovative dishes featured in the evenings. The classics are beautifully executed; we keep getting drawn in by the flawless chicken parmigiana and the light, pillowy gnocchi. Well priced, curated wine list.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ | Italian
Private Room

432 Sawdust Rd. | Spring 77380
Behind Herb & Beet
713-389-5975 | Map
Website

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South African Cuisine in an upscale, modern setting

Peli Peli South African Kitchen – Woodlands

The Woodlands now has its own outpost of this incredibly popular Houston-based restaurant. Bringing the interesting (but not scary) cuisine of South Africa, Executive Chef Ryan Stewart’s team presents an intriguing array of grilled meats, seafood, and other dishes designed to please the jaded palate. Beautiful room is comfortable and inviting, slightly upscale but not stuffy. Owners and staff reflect the diversity of Houston.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery (They deliver)

$$ and $$$ | American, Seafood, and Steaks
Happy Hour, HRW2020, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

1201 Lake Woodlands Dr., Suite 304 | The Woodlands 77380
On the mall ring road, south side
281-257-9500 | Map | Review
Website | Order Online

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Modern Italian in a chic hotel setting

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.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery (GrubHub)

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

2 Waterway Square Place | The Woodlands 77380
In the Westin Waterway hotel
281-419-4300 | Map | Review
Website | Menu | Order Online

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Contemporary Texas cuisine in a comfortably upscale room

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.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ and $$$ | American, Burgers, and Salads
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

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Tommy Bahama

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.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$$ | American and Seafood
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

9595 Six Pines Dr | The Woodlands 77380
(in Market Street)
281-292-8669 | Map
Website | Menu

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Raising the bar for dining in the Woodlands

TRIS

Update: Tris is currently only open for happy hour and dinner.

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.

Many establishments slip a notch when the name on the door isn’t in the house, but not Tris; Simmons has created a well oiled machine. Chef Courtney helms the kitchen in the maestro’s absence, and we can’t detect any difference at all. That is the mark of an outstanding organization.

 

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery (Restaurant delivers)

$$$ and $$$$ | American, Burgers, Seafood, and Steaks
Catering, Happy Hour, HRW2020, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

24 Waterway Avenue | The Woodlands 77380
281-203-5641 | Map | Review
Website | Menu | Order Online

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Seafood, Crab, and Steaks at Hughes Landing

Truluck’s

The popular seafood and steak chain has landed at Hughes Landing, and locals have already made it a preferred destination. Crabs are front and center, and Truluck’s does them well. Chef Shane Flynn is a master of seafood, and his menu reflects this expertise. Those wanting something less aquatic head for the selection of prime steaks and choice filets. Cocktail Hour at Truluck’s is a scene; the half-priced cocktails and nice selection of seafood appetizers satisfy those looking to see and be seen at the stylish bar.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

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

1900 Hughes Landing Blvd, Suite 600 | The Woodlands 77380
281-465-7000 | Map
Website

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Upscale Italian in a cozy, romantic setting

Via Emilia

Great upscale Italian food can be tough to come by in the Woodlands, but Via Emilia is an exception to this rule. Tucked away in a strip center on Kuykendahl and Woodlands Parkway, Via Emilia prepares northern Italian specialities with verve and aplomb, and the gracious staff provides flawless service in the lovely dining room. Skillfully prepared seafood, meats, and pastas are great choices, and be sure to save room for the stellar limoncello cake.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✔ Delivery (Multiple options)

$$$ | Italian
Happy Hour and Private Room

10700 Kuykendahl Rd | The Woodlands 77381
281-465-9555 | Map | Review
Website | Order Online

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Dallas-based chain specializing in upscale comfort food and whiskey

Whiskey Cake

Whiskey Cake packs ’em in with locally-sourced comfort food in a trendy, upscale setting. The big room fills with families and groups enjoying upscale spins on classic dishes. Whiskey selection is impressive, and the signature Whiskey Cake dessert should not be missed.

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ and $$$ | American, Brunch, and Burgers
Brunch, Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

27800 N Fwy Service Rd | Oak Ridge North 77385
346-209-5577 | Map
Website

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Modern Italian in a chic, upscale setting

Zanti Cucina Italiana

Upscale Italian cuisine comes to the Northwest Woodlands with the opening of Zanti Cucina Italiana, the brainchild of three brothers who bring extensive food & beverage background to this new endeavor. Outstanding housemade pastas, Neapolitan pizzas, and strict attention to detail are the draws here. You don’t have to drive downtown for a great Italian meal anymore… or even to the front of the Woodlands.

Read our full review >

✔ Dine In
✔ Carry Out
✘ Delivery

$$ and $$$ | Italian and Pizza
Happy Hour and Private Room

10000 Research Forest Drive | The Woodlands 77354
281-259-1300 | Map | Review
Website

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