Restaurants with Scenic Views in the Woodlands

One of the Woodlands most scenic dining rooms has gotten a new concept and a total makeover. Back Table rises from the ashes of the late, lamented Robard’s at the Woodlands Resort, and has done so with an entirely new Southern American concept. The beautiful room feels far more casual; the private board room is now a game room for families to enjoy. The beautiful view is thankfully unchanged, and a second patio has been added with a waterfront view to the green. The food is a modern take on southern classics. Distinctly American charcuterie (think country ham instead of salumi), all-American burgers, and a variety of southern favorites are on the menu. Lots of impressive preparations and high end ingredients, but thoughtfully curated to keep prices moderate. We were taken by the large, delicious chicken sandwich, the soulful gumbo, and the aforementioned burger. We’re looking forward to exploring the dinner menu on our next visit. Service was friendly, informed, and very professional.

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2301 N Millbend Dr | The Woodands 77380
281-364-6400 | Map
Website

Baja is the region of Mexico south of California, and Baja Cantina brings California’s spin on Mexican food to the Woodlands. A talented team has come together to bring this lighter take on Mexican cuisine to the business types who congregate at lunch, families at dinner, and the millennial party crowd on weekends. We think all groups will enjoy such specialities as the spectacular tuna soft taco, the huge nacho tower, and the unique pork belly and mint salad. Cocktail program looks promising; their margarita was smooth and flavorful, with unique herbal accents that aren’t usually found ’round these parts. House made aqua frescas will keep the designated driver delighted.  Just don’t come looking for Tex-Mex; Baja Cantina is a whole different state of Mexican food.

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24 Waterway Ave Suite 160 | The Woodlands 77380
Waterway Square
832-432-2252 | Map
Website | Menu

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.

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Full review >>

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

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.

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

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.

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Full review >>

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26400 Kuykendahl Rd | Tomball 77375
281-351-2225 | Map | Review
Website

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.

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1900 Hughes Landing Blvd #400 | The Woodlands 77380
In Hughes Landing's Restaurant Row
281-498-4200 | Map
Website | Menu | Order Online

Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, this high-end pizza chain boasts a coal-fired oven and old school New York-style pizza. The craft approach uses great ingredients (don’t pass up the Italian sausage) and an artisan sensibility to put together pricey pizzas that appeal to refined pizza palates. But bumpy experiences aren’t uncommon: too frequent reports of poor service and inconsistency. The hot coal oven requires constant attention, and too often the pizza is either undercooked or over done. But when they’re on, they’re superb, and at these prices, they should be. Do you feel lucky, punk?

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20 Waterway Ave #100 | The Woodlands 77380
281-465-3500 | Map
Website

I Heart Mac & Cheese has arrived at Creekside Square, with a broad selection of bowls (pasta based an healthier options) and grilled cheese sandwiches. Hungry cheese lovers can either build their own bowl or sandwich, or choose from the recommended creations. Options range from a basic $7 grilled cheese sandwich to a decadent $20 lobster mac & cheese. For those keeping fit, sub the macaroni for quinoa or cauliflower for a healthy(er) option. Bright, Insta-ready Creekside Forest setting, expect lots of teens at peak times.

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26400 Kuykendahl Rd | Spring 77389
In Creekside Forest Village Center
832-422-3360 | Map
Website

Kirby’s Prime Steakhouse has been serving the Woodlands since 2004. They feature Mid-Western, grain fed, aged prime beef. Kirby’s also offers fresh seafood, daily specials, and a collection of New and Old World wine housed in an cellar of over 4,000 bottles. Kirby’s boasts a trendy jazz bar and lounge featuring happy hour nightly.

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1111 Timberloch Pl | The Woodlands 77830
281-362-1121 | Map

Hungry Inner Loopers have raved about North Italia, the upscale Italian concept from serial restaurateur Sam Fox. Now the concept has taken root in the Woodlands, and local residents are learning what the fuss is about. From housemade pastas to wood fired pizzas to expertly crafted entrees, North Italia brings mom-and-pop craftsmanship together with polished service and a capacious, beautiful room. Extensive bar, lots of seating overlooking the Waterway. Don’t write this one off just because it’s part of a national chain.

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1201 Lake Woodlands Dr | The Woodlands 77380
281-292-6935 | Map
Website

Rose Rooftop is definitely a spot for those who want to see and be seen. Located on the Woodlands Waterway, the establishment features a downstairs lounge and restaurant, complete with a wraparound deck overlooking waterway square. From here, a tightly edited menu of upscale American favorites is served; we were particularly impressed by the flavorful Ceviche and the stunning Tuna Tartare. Lemon Pepper Salmon was another highlight; as was the substantial Rose Burger. On the roof, sceeensters dance the night away and enjoy a taco bar late through the evening. Friendly service.

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20 Waterway Ave Ste #200 | The Woodlands 77380
832-341-5142 | Map
Website | Menu

This casually ambitious Italian eatery bursts onto the Woodlands Waterway scene with a playful approach to Italian dining. Our first look at his food is 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.

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Full review >>

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

State Fare has arrived at Hughes Landing, and brings with it dedication to serving outstanding Southern cuisine. Chef Ray Hernandez’s kitchen turns out huge, crowd-pleasing portions like a beautifully executed chicken fried steak, moist and incredibly flavorful Airline Chicken, and the superb Mexican/Southern fusion that is Birria Grilled Cheese. The restaurant sweats the details; outstanding fresh cut french fried potatoes are the result of a kitchen that doesn’t skip steps in this surprisingly painstaking process. Friendly service from GM Ben Neumann’s staff, stunning Lake Woodlands location is a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing lunch or dinner.

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1900 Hughes Landing Blvd, Suite 200 | Th Woodlands 77380
In Restaurant Row
281-825-5368 | Map
Website

The Woodlands has a real Irish pub located on the Waterway, complete with a bar imported from Ireland. This two-story pub serves modern pub grub, and daily specials (including half-price burgers on Wednesday) pack in hungry diners. Signature salads, proper fish and chips, and hand-tossed pizza are solid choices on the broad menu. Beautiful Waterway location with scenic outdoor decks.

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21 Waterway Ave #140 | The Woodlands 77380
(On the Waterway)
281-466-1502 | Map

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.

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

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.

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