Highway 1488 has some great restaurants you might drive right past. Here are our favorites.
Best Restaurants on Hwy 1488
Here are our favorite spots to dine if you find yourself on the Woodlands’ northern border. These are the best restaurants on Hwy 1488.
First published Dec 2017. Last updated June 2020.
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 $$ | BBQ
Family-Run Small Business and Outdoor Dining
5447 Fm 1488 Rd | Magnolia 77354
713-828-5960 |
Map
| Order Online
Eclectic Family-Run Cafe
Eden Cafe
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best American (Traditional)This family-run cafe has been making area diners happy with generous portions of eclectic, home-style cuisine. American favorites, Italian, and Cuban entrees are the highlights.
Owner Ulises Larramendi originally hails from Cuba, and he brings a gentle latin twist to American favorites. Service is friendly and reliable, and the family-friendly environment is filled with diners of all ages.
Info and Photos >>
Full review >>
$$ | 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 |
Map
| Review
Website
Gulf Coast seafood from the team behind Citizens Grill
Good Charlie’s
The 1488 area has a new seafood spot from Jim Hallers and the team behind Tailgators and Citizens Grill. Called Good Charlies, the new spot specializes in Gulf Coast seafood, particularly oysters. Guests enjoy a casual, laid-back atmosphere alongside big servings of fried and grilled seafood specialties.
$$ and $$$ | Seafood
On the Radar
545 Woodlands Square Blvd | Conroe 77384
936-305-9299 |
Map
Website
Creative Mexican food and Tex-Mex favorites
Julio’s Mexican Grill – Magnolia
🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.
🥇 Best Mexican🥇 Best Tacos
The original location of this growing restaurant empire (Julio’s Sawdust, Red Flame) is still packing ’em in. They’re drawn in by the impressive Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, which goes beyond the typical fajitas (although Julio’s are outstanding) to superb creations like the El Sabroso (lightly breaded chicken breast covered in a shrimp/poblano cream sauce). The menu is strong from top to bottom – street tacos are a don’t miss, and their al pastor may be the best on Houston’s north side. Service is friendly and professional.
$$ | Mexican and Tacos
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Happy Hour, and Outdoor Dining
33418 Egypt Ln #2759 | Magnolia 77354
281-259-4522 |
Map
Website
Prime steaks in a comfortable suburban setting.
Red Flame Steak & Grill
🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.
🥈 Recommended SteakSerial restauranteur Julio Amer (Julio’s Mexican Grill, Julio’s Mexican Grill Sawdust) has another hit on his hands with Red Flame Steak & Grill. Brining top-quality steaks to the Magnolia area is an idea long overdue; locals pack in to the beautiful bar and casual dining room to enjoy flame-grilled prime steaks and other enticing entrees. Service is reliable, good wine selection and cocktails.
$$$ | Steaks
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2023, Outdoor Dining, and Upscale
7214 Farm to Market Rd 1488 | Magnolia 77354
281-521-5066 |
Map
Website
Iconic Chicago pizza chain
Rosati’s Pizza
Chicago expats and others looking for Chicago-style pizza have a new option: Rosati’s. Offering both Chicago-style deep dish and tavern-cut thin crust, this local Rosati’s franchise is bringing the taste of the Windy City to the Woodlands area. Carry out and delivery only.
$$ and $$$ | Pizza
On the Radar
4150 Farm to Market Rd 1488 Suite 120 | Conroe 77384
936-266-0278 |
Map
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