The Expert Guide to the Best Restaurants in the Woodlands
In search of a great meal? We present our list of the best restaurants in the Woodlands and surrounding areas, as of the spring of 2018. Thanks to some new openings and revisits, there have been several changes to the list since our last update.
Our expert panel of foodies, chefs, and writers have worked together to assembled this guide. We’ve seen lots of these sorts of lists published, but they usually leave us scratching our heads and wondering how some marginal establishments made the list. To make our list, a restaurant has to deliver a consistently great experience, and has to make foodies want to come back for more.
(Our expert panel is anonymous by design, so restaurants aren’t tempted to provide special service.)
We defined “The Bubble” as the region bounded by I-45, Sawdust Road, FM 2978, and FM 1488. We’ve included a few select restaurants outside the bubble if they’re outstanding and close enough to be a reasonable drive for dinner.
Dining Destinations
Tasting Menus
Innovative tasting menus featuring exotic ingredients, masterfully prepared
Cureight - closed
Tasting menus allow a chef to really stretch his wings and create amazing dishes designed to delight the discerning foodie. Restaurants dedicated to tasting menus are few and far between, and represent some of the most remarkable meals to be found. Usually located in major cities, Chef Austin Simmons has brought this ultimate dining experience to The Woodlands to rave reviews. Texas Monthly named Cureight one of the Ten Best New Restaurants in Texas, and the local and national press has been raving about Chef Austin’s use of exotic ingredients combined with expert technique and a flawless palate.
If you want an unparalleled dining experience, look no farther.
$$$$ | American (New)
24 Waterway Ave #125 | The Woodlands 77380
281-203-5641 |
Map
Website
Chef-Driven Cuisine
Steaks
Prime steaks in a country club setting
Robard’s Steakhouse - closed
A visit to Robard’s is about more than just dry-aged USDA prime beef. The beautiful setting is reminiscent of a private club, and the outstanding cuisine does not end with superb steaks. We’re fond of the excellent seafood entrees as well, and be sure to save room for the opulent desserts.
Social Hour at Robard’s is one of our favorite happy hours in The Woodlands. An impressive craft cocktail program keeps us coming back to the beautiful bar and the expansive deck outside.
Update: Robard’s experienced a change in leadership in 2017. We’re looking forward to seeing how the new team smooths out the inevitable bumps that happen with a shakeup in both the front and back of the house.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
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2301 N Millbend Dr | The Woodlands 77380
(281) 364-6400 |
Map
| Review
Upscale Casual
American / Steaks
Quality steaks and seafood in a scenic lakeside location
Del Frisco’s Grille
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best American (Traditional)🥈 Recommended Burger
🥈 Recommended Seafood
🥈 Recommended Steak
We love the patio at Del Frisco’s Grille; the view over the lake is perhaps the best in The Woodlands. The food satisfies too; from the legendary Del Frisco steaks, to the enticing flatbreads, cheesesteak egg rolls (believe us, it works), and well executed entrees. At lunch, we’re especially fond of the Grille Prime Cheeseburger, a double-patty creation worthy of any burger lover’s attention.
The well-trained staff anticipates patrons’ needs and provides excellent service. Chef Brian McNamara serves up outstanding specials; call ahead to see what magic he’s worked today.
$$ and $$$ | American (Traditional), Brunch, Seafood, and Steaks
Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2020, HRW2021, HRW2022, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale
1900 Hughes Landing Blvd #500 | The Woodlands 77380
281-465-0300 |
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Latin / Steaks
Latin cuisine with a Texas flair
Churrascos
The Woodands outpost of Michael Cordua’s successful empire has hit its stride in the scenic waterway district. Delicious latin-influenced cuisine including Cordua favorites like the chimichurri-topped churrasco steak and the iconic tres leches are present and accounted for. New lighter options are available as well, all are skillfully executed by the well-managed staff.
Beautiful waterfront location with one of the most scenic patios in the Woodlands is perfect for happy hour; the bar is a hotspot after work. Well priced brunch is also turning heads.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$$ | Brunch, Latin American, and Steaks
Brunch, Catering, Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2020, HRW2021, HRW2022, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale
21 Waterway Avenue | The Woodlands 77380
281-367-1492 |
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New American
Modern American bistro in an upscale park setting
Fielding’s Local Kitchen + Bar
🌟🌟🌟 — Notable on a statewide level.
🥇 Best American (New)🥇 Best Brunch
🥇 Best Burger
🥇 Best Happy Hour
🥇 Best Steak
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.
Chef Edel’s creativity always impresses, be it a vibrant starter with shimmering flavors and textures or a soulful entree with a clever surprise. His European outlook and mastery of classic technique is reflected on every plate. But Local is not pretentious; steak lovers will be pleased to discover that the steaks stack up against the best steakhouses in town, and there’s always a killer burger on the menu.
The airy, modern bar doesn’t disappoint, with their talented staff concocting superb craft cocktails from an impressive collection of spirits. Beers are sourced locally and internationally to stock the rotating selection of taps, and featured bar menus are created on a regular basis. This is easily the top bar in the Woodlands.
Service is professional and friendly. The building is stunning, with glass overlooking the expansive patio and Creekside green beyond. Fielding’s Local is a true destination restaurant, and worth a spot on any foodie’s short list.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$$ and $$$$ | American (New), Brunch, Burgers, and Steaks
Brunch, Catering, Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2020, HRW2021, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale
26400 Kuykendahl Rd | Tomball 77375
281-351-2225 |
Map
| Review
Website
Seafood and Steaks
Seafood, Crab, and Steaks at Hughes Landing
Truluck’s
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best American (Traditional)🥇 Best Seafood
🥈 Recommended Steak
The popular seafood and steak chain has landed at Hughes Landing, and locals have already made it a preferred destination. Crabs are front and center, and Truluck’s does them well. Chef Shane Flynn is a master of seafood, and his menu reflects this expertise. Those wanting something less aquatic head for the selection of prime steaks and choice filets. Cocktail Hour at Truluck’s is a scene; the half-priced cocktails and nice selection of seafood appetizers satisfy those looking to see and be seen at the stylish bar.
$$$$ | American (Traditional), Seafood, and Steaks
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale
1900 Hughes Landing Blvd, Suite 600 | The Woodlands 77380
281-465-7000 |
Map
Website
Steaks / Italian
Steaks and Italian in a surprisingly fashionable hideaway
Johnny’s Italian Steak House
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥈 Recommended Italian🥈 Recommended Steak
We never expected to find good food in a hotel off Research east of I-45. So we were pleasantly surprised by Johnny’s Italian Steak House, a mid-priced steakhouse that also features some very good Italian dishes. We’re particularly fond of their happy hour offerings – well priced appetizers perfect for sharing.
Chef Brittany Briden’s kitchen does an outstanding job turning out steaks that won’t break the budget; the result is a wonderfully upscale meal without the upscale prices.
Service is attentive without being intrusive and the room is beautiful and cozy, making it perfect for a getaway with that special someone. Johnny’s demonstrates that you don’t have to pay a lot to enjoy a quality steak in a beautiful setting.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$ and $$$ | Italian and Steaks
Catering, Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2021, HRW2022, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, and Upscale
19333 David Memorial Dr. | Shenandoah 77385
(Inside the Crown Plaza Shenandoah)
346-331-2060 |
Map
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Website
Upscale Comfort Food
Contemporary Texas cuisine in a comfortably upscale room
The Republic Grille
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥈 Recommended American (Traditional)The flavors of Texas are served up on a plate at The Republic Grille, a locally-owned bistro located centrally in the Woodlands (with a second location on the far west end, and a third on Rayford). Entrees like chicken-fried steak, shrimp & grits, pork chops, and fried chicken satisfy the appetites of hungry Texans, and the upscale casual setting (featuring historic photos of the early days of the Woodlands by noted photographer Ted Washington) serves as a comfortable backdrop for families, couples, and groups of friends. The chicken-fried-steak is getting a bit of a reputation; numerous publications have named it among the Houston area’s best.
$$ and $$$ | American (Traditional), Burgers, and Salads
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room
4775 W. Panther Creek, Suite 490 | The Woodlands 77381
(also 30340 FM 2978 Rd #800 / 281-789-7119)
281-789-7119 |
Map
Website
Foodie Favorites
American
Serious chef-driven comfort food in a fast casual setting
The Kitchen
🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best American (New)🥇 Best American (Traditional)
🥇 Best Brunch
🥇 Best Sandwiches
🥈 Recommended Burger
Fast casual meets upscale cuisine at The Kitchen, the laid-back cousin of the award-winning Tris. Don’t let the counter service fool you; Chef Austin Simmons has created a serious menu full of creative dishes. We’re especially fond of the Greek Chicken and the new Steak Salad. Burgerphiles love the Kitchen as well; Chef Austin knows his burgers. Wine drinkers rejoice… the Kitchen sells wine at retail prices (not restaurant prices) so you can get a great bottle for as little as $10. Carefully curated craft beer selection. Service surprises for fast casual, GM Austen Goodwin and his team are raising the bar in this segment.
(Formerly Hubbell & Hudson Kitchen)
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$ | American (New), American (Traditional), Brunch, Burgers, Salads, and Sandwiches
Brunch, Good Desserts, Happy Hour, and Outdoor Dining
4526 Research Forest Dr | The Woodlands 77381
281-203-5650 |
Map
| Review
Website
| Menu
| Order Online
Eclectic Family-Run Cafe
Eden Cafe
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best American (Traditional)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.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$ | American (Traditional)
Brunch, Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Good for Kids, Happy Hour, and Private Room
33418 Egypt Ln #16 | Magnolia 77354
832-934-2800 |
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| Review
Website
Barbecue
Iconic Craft BBQ
CorkScrew BBQ
🌟🌟🌟 — Notable on a statewide level.
🥇 Best BBQWhen Will Buckman quit his job with the phone company to focus on barbecue, some thought he was crazy. Our first taste of Will’s brisket, served from a trailer on Budde road, convinced us he was crazy like a fox. Along with wife Nichole, Buckman has built Corkscrew BBQ into one of the best BBQ joints in the world – Texas Monthly named them to their prestigious Top 10 list in 2017. From the superlative brisket to the gargantuan beef ribs (Saturday only) Corkscrew’s meats do not disappoint. But don’t skip the sides, or Nichole’s remarkable cobblers. And get there early. Corkscrew routinely sells out by mid-afternoon, and the line starts an hour or more before opening.
$$ | BBQ
Family-Run Small Business and Outdoor Dining
26608 Keith St | Spring 77373
832-592-1184 |
Map
Website
South-Texas-Style BBQ served from a food truck
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.
$ and $$ | BBQ
Family-Run Small Business and Outdoor Dining
5447 Fm 1488 Rd | Magnolia 77354
713-828-5960 |
Map
| Order Online
World class BBQ, outstanding specials, unique sides
Tejas Chocolate & Barbecue
🌟🌟🌟 — Notable on a statewide level.
🥇 Best BBQWorld class craft barbecue is the draw at Tejas Chocolate & Barbecue, a classic Texas barbecue joint located just off Main Street in Tomball. It’s also one of the best on the planet; in 2017, Texas Monthly ranked them #6 in the nation in their prestigious list. We agree. Pitmaster Scott Moore, Jr. and his brother (and chef) Greg smoke some of the best brisket, ribs, and sausage to be found in the state. Thursdays are a special treat, when housemade pastrami is added to the mix; don’t miss it. Wednesdays have become a big deal with the appearance of the Smoked Burger on the menu; it’s a destination burger worthy of a trip. (Update: The burger spawned its own restaurant.)
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$ | BBQ
Family-Run Small Business and Outdoor Dining
200 N Elm St | Tomball 77375
832-761-0670 |
Map
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Website
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Barbecue / Sushi
Barbecue + Sushi
Q-Shi
UPDATE: When founder Ray Aker sold Q-Shi to investors, unfortunately, things changed. We can’t recommend them anymore.
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When we heard about a little restaurant in Spring that was serving barbecue, sushi, and even some dishes that combined the two, we thought “that will never work.” We’re glad to report that we were sadly mistaken. Ray Aker, the owner of Q-Shi, had a brilliant idea and did the hard work required to make it a reality.
Q-Shi is a very clever concept that combines southern-style barbecue with well executed sushi. The results are impressive; highlights include a Crispy BBQ Roll (an egg roll filled with brisket and cheese, then deep fried) and Smoked Meat Fried Rice (a combination of brisket, rib meat, and pulled pork, all chopped and blended into a traditional Asian fried rice). Some sushi rolls incorporate barbecue; some are more traditional.
The broad menu has something for everyone; the guy who loves sushi can enjoy it while the girl who prefers barbecue can get what she craves. Friendly, efficient service. Guy Fieri featured Q-Shi on his Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives show, and after sampling much of the menu, we understand why.
$$ | BBQ and Sushi
3422 FM 2920 Suite 220 | Spring 77388
281-233-1599 |
Map
Website
Burgers
Burgers and American favorites, chef-driven and scratch made
Fielding’s Wood Grill
🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best American (New)🥇 Best American (Traditional)
🥇 Best Brunch
🥇 Best Burger
🥇 Best Happy Hour
Gourmet burgers cooked over a wood grill are the centerpiece at Fielding’s Wood Grill, the original member of the Fielding’s family of restaurants. Founder Cary Attar sweats the details, and believes in making everything in-house, from the custom grind of 44 Ranch Beef to the house cured bacon. Culinary Director Edel Goncalves takes these ingredients and creates unique burgers and an evolving menu of appetizers and entrees that keep the regulars coming back for more. The appeal of Fielding’s extends past the burgers; a very popular weekend brunch features creative spins on brunch classics, and the bartenders pull mugs from a great selection of locally brewed beers when they’re not slinging craft cocktails. Service is brisk and efficient.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$ and $$$ | American (New), American (Traditional), Brunch, and Burgers
Brunch, Catering, Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2020, HRW2021, and Upscale
1699 Research Forest Dr | Shenandoah 77380
832-616-3275 |
Map
| Review
Website
| Menu
| Order Online
Eclectic burgers with a variety of creative toppings
Grub Burger Bar - closed
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.
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2417 Research Forest Dr | The Woodlands 77381
281-907-9001 |
Map
Website
Big classic burgers in a modern malt shop setting
Jax Burgers, Fries & Shakes
Looking for a big, well-prepared burger without breaking the bank? Jax has you covered. This locally-owned restaurant chain specializes in half-pound burgers cooked the traditional way on a flat griddle. Execution is very good; the thick, juicy burgers are consistent and flavorful. Other options include third-pound burgers and an exceptional crispy chicken sandwich.
Jax has expanded from one location to several, and the quality has been maintained. Families and little league teams flock to Jax for a great burger at a great price, and it’s become a part of our regular burger rotation.
$ | Burgers and Sandwiches
4334 FM 2920 | Spring 77388
(and other area locations - refer to website)
281-288-7711 |
Map
Website
| Order Online
Chicken
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.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
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4223 Research Forest Dr | The Woodlands 77381
218-364-6699 |
Map
| Review
Website
Chinese
Above Average Chinese Spot
Atsumi
Unique and well conceived Chinese entrees straddle the line between typical Americanized Chinese and the more authentic style you’d find on Houston’s Bellaire Boulevard. Quality ingredients and the option for very good sushi also differentiate Atsumi from the typical neighborhood Chinese-American spot.
$$ | Chinese and Sushi
Delivery by Restaurant
3335 College Park Dr #800 | The Woodlands 77384
936-242-0044 |
Map
Website
| Order Online
Elevated Americanized Chinese Food
Shanghai Bistro
🥈 Recommended Asian
Suburban Chinese restaurants can be mind-numbingly predictable, but Shanghai Bistro brings its Manhattan sensibility to the Woodlands. No surprise, because the chef hails from New York City. His relocation brings a decidedly upscale approach to Americanized Chinese cuisine. Dishes that are often mundane are elevated by a savvy choice of better ingredients, and the housemade sauces are a welcome departure. Clean, airy setting in a strip center on Research near Gosling.
$$ | Chinese
Delivery by Restaurant and Family-Run Small Business
4223 Research Forest Dr #300 | The Woodlands 77381
281-298-9998 |
Map
| Menu
Coffee
Greek
Greek Cuisine and Live Entertainment
The Olive Oil
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best GreekA classic Greek experience awaits hungry diners at The Olive Oil. Located in a huge strip center on Sawdust, The Olive Oil offers classic Greek cuisine, well prepared by the bustling kitchen. Favorites include the mixed grill (the marinade drizzles enticingly onto a bed of spinach beneath the meat) and the gyro. Families pack the restaurant on weekend nights, where belly dancers and musicians turn the dining room into a party.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$ | Greek
Family-Run Small Business
373 Sawdust Road | The Woodlands 77380
281-367-0114 |
Map
| Review
Website
Italian / Pizza
$$ | Italian
Family-Run Small Business
27606 I-45 | Oak Ridge North 77385
281-364-9555 |
Map
Brooklyn-style pizza with a Texas accent
RC’s NYC Pizza & Pasta
🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best Pizza🥈 Recommended Italian
The Woodlands has no shortage of great pizza places. But one name comes up over and over when asked for recommendations. RC’s NYC Pizza & Pasta serves honest-to-Vito New York street pizza, either traditional (cheese only) or with your choice of toppings. They’re serious about pizza: RC himself travels around the nation competing against the best pizza makers in the country, and has repeatedly brought home the hardware.
RC’s goes beyond pizza, with outstanding wings, delicious calzones, and great plated entrees. This isn’t your average pizza spot, which is why it earned a spot on our list.
$ and $$ | Italian and Pizza
Family-Run Small Business
501 Sawdust Rd | Spring 77380
281-298-4663 |
Map
Website
| Order Online
Upscale Italian in a cozy, romantic setting
Via Emilia
🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best ItalianGreat 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.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$$ | Italian
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Live Music, Private Room, Romantic, and Upscale
10700 Kuykendahl Rd | The Woodlands 77381
281-465-9555 |
Map
| Review
Website
| Order Online
Serious Hot Dogs
Flawlessly Executed Carnival Cuisine
Buldogies
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best American (Traditional)🥈 Recommended Sandwiches
Foodies in search of the best hot dogs around make the hike up to Highway 105 to drop in at Buldogies. Inside they’ll find handcrafted versions of the food that’s found at a state fair… but prepared far better. Huge hot dogs made from quality ingredients and assembled with attention to detail are the centerpiece, but the excellent sandwiches, carnival favorites, and indulgent desserts delight kids and adults alike. Foodies jump right to the City Crafted Dogs or the Outlaws, each of which is a well-balanced dish with expertly layered flavors. This isn’t James Coney Island; you don’t need to order three, although you may want to try them all.
$ | American (Traditional) and Sandwiches
Family-Run Small Business
14543 TX 105 #406 | Conroe 77304
936-588-6688 |
Map
Mexican and Tex-Mex
Great Tacos and Mexican dishes from a hidden gem
La Cocina de Roberto
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best Tacos🥈 Recommended Mexican
A hidden gem at the far west end of Sawdust (and now with a second location on I-45 just south of Woodlands Parkway), La Cocina de Roberto began as a cozy little taqueria, serving the Timber Ridge neighborhood. But the savvy owners have added more full-fledged entrees to the menu, making it one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in the Woodlands. Tacos are still delicious: Carne asada and camerón are the standouts. Don’t miss the bargain faijta / shrimp combo, or the excellent chicken enchiladas.
Alcohol is BYOB – bring your own liquor, and Roberto will provide setups. You can’t beat a bargain margarita made with premium tequila.
$ and $$ | Mexican and Tacos
Catering and Family-Run Small Business
26817 Interstate 45 N | The Woodlands 77380
832-813-8030 |
Map
Website
Quality Tex-Mex and outstanding margaritas
Casa Medina
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥈 Recommended MexicanSolid Tex-Mex entrees and big margaritas are the main attraction at this family-owned Tex-Mex spot. Owner Adan Medina and his family differentiate their place with delicious flavored margaritas; we’re partial to the Avocado Margarita, which is smooth and delicious. Service is prompt and professional in both the big dining room and the cozy bar.
$$ | Mexican
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, and Happy Hour
28777 I-45 | Spring 77381
281-298-9866 |
Map
Website
Superb Tex-Mex in an unassuming strip center
Rita’s Cantina
🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best MexicanWhen WAF member Bob Frasier dines at the same restaurant several times a week, it’s worth investigating. And we’re glad we did. Rita’s Cantina, located in a nondescript strip center off Hwy 249, is a restaurant we’d have driven by without noticing. But now we’re in on the secret.
Inside Rita’s is some of the best Mexican food in the Houston area. From beautifully composed combination plates to the sizzling fajitas, Rita’s food is several steps above the typical Mexican restaurant in the area. Both flavors and presentation are superb; chef Javier Gonzalez is one of the most talented in the city. His wife Judy oversees the comfortable dining room, filled with regulars who are in the know.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$ | Mexican
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, and Happy Hour
32015 TX-249 | Pinehurst 77362
(About 10 minutes from Woodlands Pkwy and 2978)
346-248-5097 |
Map
| Review
Website
Ramen
Authentic Local Ramen Bar
Koji Ramen Bar
Ramen lovers rejoice – The Woodlands now has a legitimate spot to relax with a soulful bowl of ramen. The talented chef hails from Japan, as does the savvy manager, and they bring their expertise in this surprisingly intricate cuisine to The Woodlands area.
The tightly edited menu features several varieties of ramen; we recommend starting with the traditional tonkatsu and working your way through the well curated options. Service is friendly and professional, and the small room is beautifully adorned with custom artwork commissioned locally by the owners.
$$ | Japanese
25403 Interstate 45 | Spring 77380
832-823-5187 |
Map
Website
| Order Online
Seafood
Seafood by Lake Conroe
Amore Seafood
Amore specializes in expertly prepared seafood that ventures beyond the Gulf and brings in great flavors from the East Coast. Seared tuna steak was a highlight; a slab of beautiful sushi-grade tuna delicately seasoned and seared rare. Fried calamari was among the very best we’ve tried; exquisitely tender, and accented with deep fried red and jalapeño peppers. Standards like fried shrimp are outstanding as well; unique Italian breadcrumb crust compliments the large, tasty shrimp. Don’t let the casual, charming setting fool you; this is serious seafood.
(Formerly The Original Tony & Al’s Seafood Shack)
$$ | Seafood
Family-Run Small Business, Happy Hour, and Outdoor Dining
14860 TX-105 | Montgomery 77356
936-582-1053 |
Map
Vietnamese
Elevated Vietnamese Cuisine
EAD Vietnamese Restaurant
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best Asian🥇 Best Vietnamese
This hidden gem is an offshoot of Huynh, one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in Houston, so we were excited to hear of its opening. Upon visiting, our high expectations were exceeded.
Soups are superb; the pho is rich and flavorful, and the chicken wonton is light years ahead of what you’ll find at a typical Chinese spot. But don’t miss the plated entrees; they are created with an eye to bold flavors and careful attention to detail.
The space is large, bright, and airy, with a sleek modern design. It’s quickly become our preferred Vietnamese destination in the Woodlands area.
$$ | Vietnamese
Good for Vegetarians
17947 Interstate 45 S | Shenandoah 77385
281-651-2208 |
Map
| Order Online
