Where to Eat on Research Forest – January 2021

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥈 Recommended American (New)
🥈 Recommended American (Traditional)
🥈 Recommended Brunch
🥈 Recommended Burger
🥈 Recommended Happy Hour
🥈 Recommended Sandwiches
🥈 Recommended Tacos

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.

—-

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. These rival pasta dishes at dedicated Italian restaurants; they’re that good. Tacos are another surprise; the expanding menu of tacos (including some impressive new birria tacos) is also worth exploring.

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

Info and Photos >>

$$ | American (New), American (Traditional), Burgers, Sandwiches, and Tacos
Brunch, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Happy Hour, HRW2022, HRW2023, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

9000 New Trails Drive | The Woodlands 77381
Also at the Conroe Airport
281-362-1678 | Map
Website | Menu | Order Online

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Tacos
🥈 Recommended Mexican

Tacos and Burritos are the thing at this family-run taqueria. Excellent housemade tortillas are crafted into craveable signature tacos; we were particularly impressed by the Poblano, bursting with grilled angus, slices of grilled poblano peppers, jack cheese and their tasty poblano sauce. These are definitely Cali-style tacos, with different flavor profiles than found in Texas or Mexico. The Pastor was quite good as well, and was pretty much what you’d expect of tacos al pastor, with the addition of a mild guacamole with the onion and cilantro. Must be a California thing; the result was tasty. Friendly service from Mom, Dad, and the two kids.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Mexican and Tacos
Family-Run Small Business, On the Radar, and Outdoor Dining

1500 Research Forest Dr #100 | Shenandoah 77381
281-466-2075 | Map
Website | Menu | Order Online

🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Asian
🥇 Best Thai

Serial restaurateurs Adam and Wanalee Gorelick set their sights on the Woodlands with Charm Thai Kitchen and Bar. Taking their success with Spring’s Charm Thai Kitchen to the next level, the food and experience has been elevated for discerning Woodlands guests. The cuisine at Charm comes directly from Thailand; Wanalee grew up there. Their rendition of Pad Thai is perhaps the best we’ve had in Houston, but diners should explore beyond the obvious; we’ve been delighted with every noodle dish and curry we have sampled here.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$ and $$$ | Thai
Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Good for Vegetarians, Happy Hour, On the Radar, Outdoor Dining, and Romantic

4223 Research Forest Dr #100 | The Woodlands 77381
832-429-2929 | Map | Review
Website

🌟🌟 — 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

🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Seafood

Levi Goode has brought his outstanding take on Gulf Coast seafood to the Woodlands with his new Goode Co Fish Camp concept. Diners can expect expertly crafted seafood dishes (do not miss the iconic campechana) served in a casual but classy room that pays homage to the Texas Gulf Coast. Polished service, friendly staff.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$ and $$$ | Seafood
Catering, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, and Upscale

8865 Six Pines Dr Suite 100 | Shenandoah 77380
281-947-9120 | Map | Review
Website

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Mexican

Top notch fajitas and seafood, solid margaritas, and cold beer are the draws at this Houston-area transplant. The food is more Tex-Mex than Mexican, but big plates and well executed food rarely disappoint. Beautiful upscale setting, great service, and a professional staff draw the regulars back for more, eye-opening prices can surprise newcomers.

Info and Photos >>

$$$ | Mexican
Happy Hour and Outdoor Dining

8865 Six Pines Dr Ste 150 | Shenandoah 77380
281-826-5150 | Map
Website

🥈 Recommended Burger

Burgers and sandwiches are the draw at this tidy strip-center shop. Family run, they’ve been delighting locals since 1994.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Burgers and Sandwiches
Family-Run Small Business

4747 Research Forest Dr #495 | The Woodlands 77381
281-364-9200 | Map
Website

🥈 Recommended Burger

Hopdoddy, the wildly successful Austin-based burger group, has opened its long-awaited Woodlands location. Diners flock to manageably-sized signature burgers, with a variety of chef-designed toppings. Beef is a custom grind, buns are made in house, and toppings and sauces are created by their executive chef. Vegetarians and the gluten sensitive aren’t left out – specific options exist for both. Fries are cut in house and very good; they sweat the details and use the correct two-step cooking process that’s recommended for fresh cut fries. Comfortable location with a large patio, ample parking.

Info and Photos >>

$ and $$ | Burgers
Full Bar, Good for Kids, Good for Vegetarians, On the Radar, and Outdoor Dining

2417 Research Forest Drive Suite A | The Woodlands 77381
281-907-9001 | Map
Website | Menu | Order Online

🌟🌟🌟 — Notable on a statewide level.

🥇 Best Burger
🥇 Best Seafood
🥇 Best Steak

When Ronnie Killen announced he was coming to the Woodlands, locals stood up and took notice. Why? Because this Cordon Bleu trained chef has developed a reputation for serving some of the best beef in Texas – wet aged and dry aged, and sourced from the US, Australia, and Japan. Burger lovers should not skip the outstanding Killen’s Burger; it may be the best steakhouse burger around.

Classic steakhouse vibe packs in hungry carnivores. Service is polished and professional, but approachable. Ronnie Killen’s reputation brings foodies in the door, and the expertly prepared steaks and seafood bring ’em back for more.

Info and Photos >>

$$$ and $$$$ | Burgers, Seafood, and Steaks
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Private Room, Romantic, and Upscale

1700 Research Forest Dr | Shenandoah 77381
281-323-4004 | Map
Website

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best BBQ

JJ Watt’s favorite barbecue is now available in the Woodlands. Chef Ronnie Killen has expanded his footprint in the Woodlands to include his incredibly popular craft BBQ spot, located at Six Pines and Research Forest. Craft is the key; Chef Ronnie is Cordon Bleu trained, and it shows in his approach to BBQ. Superb prime briskets, with savory, complex bark and expertly rendered fat. Ginormous beef ribs, sublimely tender and beefy. Picture-perfect pork ribs, well balanced between sweet and savory. And don’t miss the sides; Killen’s creamed corn has become a Houston legend, and for good reason. The expertise goes beyond traditional ‘Q joint favorites: Killen’s also serves the best chicken-fried steak we’ve found around these parts. The chef’s attention to detail is evident; even the pickles are housemade sweet and sour, and are expertly paired to the flavors of the rich, moist meats. As with all craft BBQ places, they sell out when they sell out, so get there early.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | BBQ
Catering and Outdoor Dining

8800 Six Pines Dr | Shenandoah 77380
| Map
Website | Order Online

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.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Greek and Lebanese
Good for Vegetarians and Outdoor Dining

1644 Research Forest Dr #100 | Shenandoah 77381
281-292-5262 | Map
Website | Order Online

🥇 Best Greek
🥈 Recommended American (New)

Fans of this local Houston restaurant group no longer have to drive into Houston to visit Local Table; the airy Woodlands location is open for business. Guests flock to the restaurant for its nice variety of upscale American comfort food, crafted with a Greek accent. This full-service restaurant is definitely family friendly, and the menu has something that will appeal to everyone.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$ | American (New) and Greek
Brunch, Catering, Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Good for Kids, On the Radar, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

4223 Research Forest Dr | The Woodlands 77381
| Map | Review
Website

🥇 Best Chinese
🥈 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.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Chinese
Delivery by Restaurant and Family-Run Small Business

4223 Research Forest Dr #300 | The Woodlands 77381
281-298-9998 | Map
| Menu

Signature mason jars packed with photogenic ice cream desserts are the big draw at Surreal Creamery, the new dessert spot in Shenandoah. They also have bubble teas, lattes, slushes, and Floteas, their spin on the classic ice cream float.

Info and Photos >>

$ and $$ | Sweets
Good Desserts and Good for Kids

1500 Research Forest Dr Suite 170 | Shenandoah 77381
346-386-0313 | Map
Website

Modern Italian cuisine from the Orioli group is the draw at Terra Vino, the rebranded concept that was previously an Avanti location. Zoning in on the needs of the neighborhood, the establishment brings a distinctly modern spin on Italian, while maintaining the high standards that the Oriloi group is known for. Handmade pasta, pizza, antipasti, and desserts featured, as are craft cocktails and a nicely curated wine list. Upscale, comfortable setting.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | Italian
Family-Run Small Business, On the Radar, and Outdoor Dining

2520 Research Forest Dr #500 | The Woodlands 77381
Formerly Avanti
281-323-4533 | Map
Website