Restaurants with Private Rooms in the Woodlands

Solid Italian cuisine in an expansive, faux Tuscan setting

Brio

Brio delivers quality Italian food in a big, comfortable, definitely corporate setting. This isn’t a neighborhood hole-in-the-wall; those who prefer a more opulent room will feel right at home. The food was a pleasant surprise; it’s notably better conceived and prepared than their chain restaurant competitors. Attention to detail was apparent on every plate.

Service was professional, friendly, and welcoming.

Italian | Woodlands Mall
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

1201 Lake Woodlands Drive | The Woodlands 77380
(South side of Woodlands Mall ring road)
281-465-8993 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20) and $$$ ($20-40)

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 >

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

21 Waterway Avenue | The Woodlands 77380
281-367-1492 | Map | Website | Review | Details
$$$ ($20-40)

Upscale comfort food 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.

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)

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.

American | 1488 West
Private Room

33418 Egypt Ln #16 | Magnolia 77354
832-934-2800 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

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)

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 >

Burgers and Sandwiches | Grogan's Mill
Private Room

2290 Buckthorne Place | The Woodlands 77381
(other location near Creekside Park Village Center)
281-367-1343 | Map | Website | Review | Details
$ (under $10)

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.

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)

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.

Mexican | Sawdust
Private Room

3126 Sawdust Rd | The Woodlands 77380
832-299-6706 | Map | Website | Details
$ (under $10) and $$ ($10-20)

Big portions from this family-friendly stalwart

Pallotta’s Italian Grill

Pallotta’s Italian Grill has been the go-to Italian restaurant for Woodlands’ families for decades. A broad menu of tried and true options means there’s something for everyone, and the friendly, inviting service keeps them coming back. A wide variety of pastas is a big draw, but uneven execution has been an ongoing problem. Reliable soups and salads. Monthly specials bring a new dish to a menu that’s full of established favorites. Owner Phil Nicosia treats newcomers like regulars and regulars like family.

Italian | I-45 Corridor
Private Room

27606 I-45 | Oak Ridge North 77385
281-364-9555 | Map | Details
$$ ($10-20)

South African Cuisine in an upscale, modern setting

Peli Peli 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.

American, Seafood, and Steaks | Woodlands Mall
Happy Hour, 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 | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20), $$$ ($20-40), and $$$$ (Over $40)

Homestyle Italian in a sleekly comfortable setting

Radunare

Radunare offers a very personal take on Italian food, based on the recipes from the Morello family, who immigrated from Sicily over 100 years ago. Fresh pastas, hand-tossed pizzas, a strong appetizer list, and well-priced entrees are the big draws. Service model has moved from counter service to full service at dinner, a decision we applaud. And don’t skip dessert; both classic Italian favorites and unique offerings are available, including small treats that start at $1.

The evolving bar is a comfortable spot to grab a drink and relax with friends. Tempting happy hour food offerings, too.

Italian | Research East
Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

2520 Research Forest Drive | The Woodlands 77381
281-465-8995 | Map | Website | Details
$$ ($10-20)

Prime steaks in a country club setting

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.

Read our full review >

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)

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 >

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

2 Waterway Square Place | The Woodlands 77380
In the Westin Waterway hotel
281-419-4300 | Map | Website | Review | Details
$$ ($10-20) and $$$ ($20-40)

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.

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)

Raising the bar for dining in the Woodlands

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.

Read our full review >

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

24 Waterway Avenue | The Woodlands 77380
281-203-5641 | Map | Website | Review | Details
$$$ ($20-40) and $$$$ (Over $40)

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.

Seafood and Steaks | Hughes Landing
Happy Hour and Private Room

1900 Hughes Landing Blvd, Suite 600 | The Woodlands 77380
281-465-7000 | Map | Website | Details
$$$$ (Over $40)

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 >

Italian | Indian Springs
Happy Hour and Private Room

10700 Kuykendahl Rd | The Woodlands 77381
281-465-9555 | Map | Website | Review | Details
$$$ ($20-40)

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 >

Italian | Research West
Happy Hour and Private Room

10000 Research Forest Drive | The Woodlands 77354
281-259-1300 | Map | Website | Review | Details
$$$ ($20-40)