Restaurants with Private Rooms in the Woodlands

🥈 Recommended Mexican
Tex-Mex with a strong Texas accent is on the menu at Alicia’s, the Houston-based group’s Mexican concept. Our go-to is the Cowboy Steak; certified angus outside skirt toped with chipotle shrimp and served with two cheese enchiladas. Grilled meats and seafood are a strength, and moderate prices combined with a comfortable environment provide a very good value to hungry families. Happy hour is hopping; the bar turns out memorable margaritas.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Mexican
Full Bar, Happy Hour, and Private Room

20920 Kuykendahl Rd | Spring 77379
281-350-8383 | Map
Website

🌟🌟🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in Texas.

🥇 Best Happy Hour
🥇 Best Indian

World-class Indian cuisine from noted chef Jassi Bindra meets French technique in this swanky location near the Woodlands Waterway. GM Giorgio Ferrero has assembled a spectacular wine list (first growth Bordeaux, anyone?) to complement the luxurious, beautifully crafted cuisine. Spare-no-expense interior design is the backdrop for a special night out; those looking for an upscale scene need look no further.

Amrina is piling up the awards: Not only have they been recognized by TWTX one of the best restaurants in Texas, but they were Eater Houston’s Restaurant of the Year 2022 for Houston. At this rate, they’re going to need a bigger trophy case.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$$ and $$$$ | Indian
Brunch, Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Good for Vegetarians, Happy Hour, HRW2023, Late Night, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, and Upscale

3 Waterway Square Pl #100 | The Woodlands 77380
| Map | Review
Website

🥈 Recommended Burger

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.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | American (New), Brunch, Burgers, and Charcuterie
Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2022, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Scenic View, and Upscale

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

🌟 — 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.

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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 Brunch
🥇 Best Burger
🥈 Recommended American (New)

Bosscat Kitchen is a restaurant with a focus on pork and a bar with a focus on whiskey. These two American cousins come together in a cozy, intimate setting that’s perfect for happy hour or date night. Food is well executed elevated comfort food; start with the Pig Candy and thank us later.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | American (New) and Burgers
Brunch, Full Bar, Good Desserts, HRW2023, On the Radar, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, and Romantic

9595 Six Pines Dr Unit 250 | The Woodlands 77380
On Market Street near Tiffany's
281-819-6330 | Map
Website

🥈 Recommended Steak

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, HRW2023, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale

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

🌟 — 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.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | American (Traditional), Brunch, Seafood, and Steaks
Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2020, HRW2021, HRW2022, HRW2023, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale

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

🌟 — 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

🥈 Recommended Steak

Quality service is the draw at the Woodlands outpost of this classic American steakhouse chain. The professional staff goes beyond the expected to make every visit special, and they pull out the stops on special occasions. Food is above average steakhouse fare; the signature Prime Bone-In Ribeye is an impressive favorite among a full selection of high quality cuts of meat. While not the most innovative or adventurous restaurant, Fleming’s delivers on its promise of a delicious, high-end steakhouse experience.

Info and Photos >>

$$$ and $$$$ | American (Traditional), Seafood, and Steaks
Full Bar, HRW2023, Live Music, Private Room, and Upscale

1201 Lake Woodlands Dr Suite 305 | The Woodlands 77380
281-362-0103 | Map

We’ve become aware of this scam being run by Fogo de Chao management.
We suggest avoiding this restaurant until they discontinue this deceptive practice.

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.

Info and Photos >>

$$$ and $$$$ | Latin American and Steaks
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Scenic View, and Upscale

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

🌟 — 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.

Johnny’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, HRW2023, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, and Upscale

19333 David Memorial Dr. | Shenandoah 77385
(Inside the Crown Plaza Shenandoah)
346-331-2060 | Map | Review
Website

🌟🌟🌟 — 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

🥈 Recommended Steak

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.

Info and Photos >>

$$$ and $$$$ | American (Traditional) and Steaks
Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2022, HRW2023, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale

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

🥈 Recommended Italian

Families seeking out Italian comfort food in a calm, pleasant setting love Lasagna House III. This family-run business has been quietly turning out Italian favorites for years. Pasta is a strength here, and value is impressive: A lasagna dinner with garlic bread and a salad is $11. It’s rare to find good Italian food priced so well; Lasagna House delivers.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Italian
Catering, Family-Run Small Business, and Private Room

217D Cypress Creek Pkwy | Houston 77090
281-580-7797 | 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

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥈 Recommended Italian
🥈 Recommended Pizza

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.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | Italian
Brunch, Catering, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Happy Hour, On the Radar, Private Room, and Scenic View

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

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Pizza

Pizza lovers – here’s your chance for something totally different. Olio e Farina specializes in pizza tastings, and they are impressive. Each tasting consists of twelve unique savory pizzas, three dessert pizzas, and four appetizers. It’s a great way to try some unusual pizzas that you might not normally go for, and we’ll bet you find a new favorite or three. An offshoot of the successful local Russo’s group, the pizzas are well thought out and definitely not something you taste every day. Beautiful setting with plenty of parking, friendly service.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Italian and Pizza
Catering, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Good for Kids, On the Radar, and Private Room

24230 Kuykendahl Rd Ste 200 | Tomball 77375
832-639-6503 | Map
| Menu | Order Online

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

🥇 Best Indian

Discerning foodies looking for a great Indian restaurant now have a solid local destination. Palette Indian Kitchen creates remarkably complex, subtly spiced dishes that will please the most demanding palate. From the scrumptious Chicken Popsicles, with their lush garlic lemon creme sauce, to the savory Lamb Seekh Kabob, boldly aromatic, herbal, moist and incredibly flavorful, there is a lot to love on the expansive menu. Surprises abound; we were tickled by the gently sweet Peshwari Naan (baked in the tandoori oven with coconut, nuts, and hints of cherry) and the Goan Shrimp Curry, a subtle curry with plump, beautifully cooked shrimp and layer upon layer of flavor. Don’t let the casual strip-center location fool you; this is a serious kitchen with serious food.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Indian
Family-Run Small Business, Good for Vegetarians, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

3559 Rayford Rd Suite 200 | Spring 77386
281-362-5999 | Map
Website | Order Online

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

🥇 Best Italian

Don’t be fooled by the modest strip center location. Papa Amadeos crafts some of the finest Italian food in the Woodlands area. Chef Arturo Huerta’s meticulous personal approach delivers delicious results. Everything is handmade in house; from the pastas to the balanced, classic sauces, to the more innovative dishes featured in the evenings. The classics are beautifully executed; we keep getting drawn in by the flawless chicken parmigiana and the light, pillowy gnocchi. Well priced, curated wine list.

Info and Photos >>

$$ | Italian
Catering, Family-Run Small Business, Live Music, Private Room, Romantic, and Upscale

432 Sawdust Rd. | Spring 77380
Behind Herb & Beet
713-389-5975 | Map
Website

🥈 Recommended Italian
🥈 Recommended Pizza
🥈 Recommended Wine Bar

The Grogan’s Mill / Town Center area gets an outpost of the hugely popular Washington Avenue Italian hotspot… Porta’vino.

Combining moderately-priced pastas, entrees, and appetizers with BYOB wines (and a reasonable corkage fee), Porta’vino brings a new, modern Italian offering to hungry Woodlands foodies who love wine but don’t want to pay restaurant prices for it. Tucked away at the entrance to the tony East Shore neighborhood, Porta’vino offers a full Italian menu, from sharable and pizzas to salads, pastas, entrees, and desserts.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$ and $$$ | Italian, Pizza, and Wine Bar
Catering, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

207 E. Shore Dr #130 | The Woodlands 77380
346-237-5380 | Map | Review
Website

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

🥇 Best French
🥇 Best Sweet Shop

Upscale French cuisine in a relaxed yet elegant setting? That’s Rise, the Dallas import that will have locals lining up at the door. Soufflé’s the the specialty, both the expected sweet and the surprising (but craveable) savory. Chef Cameron Achee and his team are bringing their spin on this classic French cuisine to the western Woodlands, and we’re lucky they are.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$ and $$$ | French
Full Bar, Good Desserts, On the Radar, Private Room, and Romantic

26435 Kuykendahl Rd Suite 100 | Tomball 77375
281-809-0742 | Map | Review

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.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | American (Traditional) and Burgers
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale

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

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥇 Best Wine Bar
🥈 Recommended American (New)
🥈 Recommended Brunch
🥈 Recommended Pizza

This Dallas import expands the concept of a wine bar to include ample seating (including festive community tables) and an experience that’s more vineyard than bar. Sixty varieties of wine on tap, complimented by a clever menu that’s full of surprising dishes. We were delighted by a fork-tender, incredibly flavorful pork chop, and the innovative pizzas are top notch. Boisterous, energetic setting.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$ and $$$ | American (New), Charcuterie, Pizza, and Wine Bar
Brunch, Full Bar, Happy Hour, On the Radar, Private Room, and Upscale

9595 Six Pines Dr | The Woodlands 77380
On the square in Market Street
| Map | Review
Website

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.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$ and $$$ | Brunch, Italian, and Pizza
Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2022, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale

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

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥈 Recommended American (Traditional)

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.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | American (Traditional), Brunch, and Burgers
Brunch, Catering, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Happy Hour, HRW2022, HRW2023, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, and Scenic View

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

🌟 — 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.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | 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

🌟 — Notable in the Woodlands area.

🥈 Recommended American (New)
🥈 Recommended Seafood

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.

Info and Photos >>

$$$ | American (New) and Seafood
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Live Music, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Romantic, Scenic View, and Upscale

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

🌟🌟🌟🌟 — Among the best restaurants in Texas.

🥇 Best American (New)
🥇 Best Burger
🥇 Best Happy Hour
🥇 Best Seafood
🥇 Best Steak

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.

Not only does Tris butcher their own beef, but they’ve created their own hybrid breed of cattle (Gyulais, a wagyu/charolais hybrid) that meets the chef’s exacting standards.. 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 a strength; from USDA prime to Texas wagyu to their own Gyulais herd to Japanese A5 (Miyazaki) for the true connoisseur. Each is cooked with the technique that will bring out the unique flavor of the breed and cut of beef. Seafood is another specialty, and it’s handled superbly. A deep dive into the appetizers can bring great rewards, from the now-iconic Korean butter-poached crab to the ethereal hamachi sashimi.

Many establishments slip a notch when the name on the door isn’t in the house, but not Tris; Simmons has created a well oiled machine. Chef Courtney helms the kitchen in the maestro’s absence, and we can’t detect any difference at all. That is the mark of an outstanding organization, and Tris exemplifies just how good a restaurant can be with a great team and a creative genius at the helm.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$$ and $$$$ | American (New), Burgers, Seafood, and Steaks
Catering, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Good for Vegetarians, Happy Hour, HRW2020, HRW2021, HRW2022, HRW2023, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, and Upscale

24 Waterway Avenue | The Woodlands 77380
281-203-5641 | Map | Review
Website | Menu | Order Online

🌟 — 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.

Info and Photos >>

$$$$ | 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

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

🥇 Best Italian

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.

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

🥈 Recommended American (New)

Whiskey Cake packs ’em in with locally-sourced comfort food in a trendy, upscale setting. The big room fills with families and groups enjoying upscale spins on classic dishes. Whiskey selection is impressive, and the signature Whiskey Cake dessert should not be missed.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | American (New), Brunch, and Burgers
Brunch, Full Bar, Happy Hour, HRW2022, Outdoor Dining, and Private Room

27800 N Fwy Service Rd | Oak Ridge North 77385
346-209-5577 | Map
Website

One of Old Town Spring’s historic cafes, Wunsche Bros., has been reborn under new ownership. Known for their Texas cuisine (chicken fried steaks, chicken, inch-thick burgers) the cafe opened over 100 years ago and is a landmark known to Texans young and old.

Info and Photos >>

$$ and $$$ | American (Traditional) and Burgers
Good for Kids, HRW2023, Live Music, and Private Room

103 Midway St | Spring 77373
In Old Town Spring
281-350-CAFE | Map
Website

🌟🌟🌟 — Notable on a statewide level.

🥇 Best Mexican
🥇 Best Tacos

Chef Beatriz Martines and her husband Juan have brought a destination Mexican restaurant to the Woodlands. Chef Beatriz bring world-class experience (from Hugo Ortega’s kitchens to the legendary Can Roca in Spain) and it shows in her cuisine. We were seriously impressed by her tableside trompo service of Tacos al Pastor; these are easily the best version we’ve found in the Houston area. Modern, upscale setting with numerous touches that reference Mexican culture. This isn’t your dad’s favorite Tex-Mex spot; its something far more interesting.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$$ | Mexican
Catering, Family-Run Small Business, Full Bar, Good Desserts, Happy Hour, HRW2023, On the Radar, Private Room, Romantic, and Upscale

1335 Lake Woodlands Dr | The Woodlands 77380
281-323-4092 | Map | Review

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

🥇 Best Italian
🥇 Best Pizza

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.

Info and Photos >>
Full review >>

$$ and $$$ | Italian and Pizza
Full Bar, Happy Hour, Live Music, Private Room, and Upscale

10000 Research Forest Drive | The Woodlands 77354
281-259-1300 | Map | Review
Website