Best of 25 restaurants in Downtown Houston
Downtown Houston is a vibrant and bustling hub of entertainment, business, and culture, and its dining scene is no exception. Here, you'll find a diverse array of "restaurants in Downtown Houston," each offering unique cuisine and atmospheres that cater to every taste and preference. From upscale dining destinations to casual eateries and everything in between, "restaurants in Downtown Houston" are sure to satisfy your culinary cravings.
- 1. The Palm - Downtown Houston
- 2. Bungalow
- 3. Aquarium Restaurant
- 4. The Rustic
- 5. Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse
- 6. Xochi
- 7. The Grove
- 8. Hearsay Market Square
- 9. The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar
- 10. Finn Hall
- 11. Kulture
- 12. MKT Bar in Downtown Houston
- 13. Hearsay On The Green
- 14. Grotto Downtown
- 15. Sambuca
- 16. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Downtown Houston
- 17. Osso & Kristalla
- 18. Guard and Grace - Houston
- 19. Guadalajara Del Centro
- 20. Potente
- 21. The Nash in Downtown Houston
- 22. Toro Toro in Downtown Houston
- 23. The Pearl
- 24. Perbacco
- 25. Cellar7
1. The Palm - Downtown Houston
Located in the heart of downtown Houston, farm-to-table menu, James Beard Award-winning chef

The exceptional service at this Houston restaurant makes you feel like a VIP from the moment you arrive until it's time to say goodbye. This top-notch service will make you want to plan your next visit before you even leave. Moreover, the food here is truly outstanding.
If you're looking for an outstanding dining experience in Houston, this restaurant should be at the top of your list. They offer a variety of delicious dishes, but the jumbo lumped crab cake, made with pure lumped crab meat, is a must-try. For seafood lovers, the Chilean Sea Bass is a standout dish that is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- High-End
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2. Bungalow
Housed in a 1920s bungalow, Chef-owned restaurant with a rotating menu

Bungalow Downtown Dining is a sophisticated restaurant offering a range of dining options. It features an upscale dining room with a diverse menu that includes steak, seafood, and vegetarian dishes, as well as cocktails and desserts. The restaurant also has a vibrant bar, private dining spaces, and a state-of-the-art rooftop patio with views of Downtown Houston.
Bungalow's collection of intimate spaces provides a host of tailored options to suit guests' specific needs. The bar area features a variety of luxurious libations, while the dining room boasts gold accents and plush velvet booths. Guests can choose to dine in one of the multiple private dining spaces for a more intimate experience. Overall, Bungalow Downtown Dining offers a luxurious and personalized dining experience for all guests.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Corporate Events
- High-End
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3. Aquarium Restaurant
Dine among thousands of aquatic creatures

The Aquarium Restaurant provides a unique and memorable dining experience by combining excellent food with an impressive aquarium view. Guests can enjoy watching a variety of marine life, including giant groupers, reticulated rays, and sawfish, swim by their table as they dine. This makes it an ideal location for special occasions or for those who want to experience the aquarium in a different way.
As you enter The Aquarium Restaurant, you are immediately transported to an underwater world. The restaurant features a massive 150,000 gallon aquarium that serves as the centerpiece of the dining area. Guests are seated around the tank, giving them a stunning view of the diverse marine life that resides within. From the moment you sit down, you are treated to a mesmerizing display of fish, rays, and other aquatic creatures swimming gracefully in the tank. It's a dining experience unlike any other, offering a unique perspective on the beauty of the ocean and its inhabitants.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Waterfront
- Vegetarian Options
4. The Rustic
Housed in a historic building with a patio, pet-friendly and live music some nights.

The steak served at this establishment is expertly cooked to perfection. The cheese steak sandwich is a popular choice, with high-quality cheese melted onto sourdough bread. The bread adds a tangy flavor that complements the savory taste of the meat and cheese.
Multiple customers have described the atmosphere of this business as relaxing, lively, elegant, and pleasant. These positive adjectives suggest that the establishment provides a welcoming and enjoyable environment for its patrons. The combination of delicious food and a comfortable ambiance makes for a satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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5. Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse
Live piano music, club-like ambiance

Potente is an upscale Italian restaurant known for its sophisticated and delicious dining options. Popular dishes include the Zucchini Hummus and Spaghetti Al Tartufo Nero, which showcase the kitchen's expertise in blending traditional and innovative flavors. The restaurant offers excellent service, contributing to its highly-rated reputation. Additionally, Potente boasts an extensive wine list, providing visitors with a wide range of choices to pair with their meals.
Osso & Kristalla, located near the convention center, attracts patrons with its trendy decor and enticing menu. The restaurant is particularly noted for its exceptional pizza, prepared with fresh ingredients and a perfect blend of cheesy goodness. The modern ambiance and central location make Osso & Kristalla a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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6. Xochi
Offers traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist, using high-quality ingredients and unique presentations

Xochi is a highly-rated service establishment, known for its hospitable and attentive servers. Customers consistently praise the top-tier and amazing service they receive. The food offerings at Xochi are equally impressive, with many patrons raving about the delicious dishes.
Standout items on the menu include the flavorful green sauce and guacamole, as well as the savory arepas filled with chicken, cheese, and vegetables. The dessert menu also features delectable options, such as the mini cherry hand pies. Seafood lovers will be pleased to find fresh and expertly prepared options as well.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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7. The Grove
Live music on weekends, outdoor seating, dog-friendly

During a visit to Houston, we decided to try out a restaurant for a light late lunch. We ordered oysters on the half shell and beet hummus, which were both enjoyable. However, the east coast oysters were more flavorful compared to the third coast oysters, despite the latter being meatier. Our server, Simone, provided excellent service and contributed to our overall positive experience.
I have previously dined at The Grove and had positive experiences, which is why I chose to celebrate my daughter's birthday there. Unfortunately, my recent visit was disappointing. The food quality was below par, and there was a significant shortage of menu items. Our party of ten was seated outside the bar area and the service we received was unacceptable. We had to repeatedly flag down the waiter for simple requests such as drink refills, and some of our ordered items were not served. The situation was worsened by the automatic 20% gratuity added to our large bill, given the service we received.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Rooftop
8. Hearsay Market Square
Located in a historic building in Downtown Houston with a spacious patio and live music on weekends.

Hearsay Market Square provides a remarkable business ambiance, known for its excellent atmosphere and live music that enhances the overall experience. The restaurant is famous for its eclectic American cuisine, which is served in a stylish antique setting. The chic atmosphere, combined with creative cocktails, makes it an ideal spot for customers who appreciate a unique and charming atmosphere.
The cuisine at Hearsay Market Square is a highlight, featuring American dishes with an eclectic twist. The restaurant's chic and antique setting provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. Moreover, the charming atmosphere is further enhanced by the offering of creative cocktails, making it a top choice for those who value an exceptional dining experience. The upscale yet relaxed environment is sure to please even the most discerning of palates.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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9. The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar
Extensive moonshine selection, housed in a historic building

We visited a restaurant that wasn't a five-star establishment, but it met our expectations. The new server was friendly and mostly knew what she was doing. The food served in generous portions, and the burger and Nashville hot chicken were well-made and flavorful. It was a suitable place to watch a game due to its solid offerings.
Upon arrival, we discovered that the restaurant operated on a seat-yourself basis and featured a limited menu. We had to wait a while for our food to arrive after ordering. Additionally, our table was sticky, and we had to request someone to clean it. However, the food was enjoyable, and we appreciated the free drink refills.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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10. Finn Hall
Spanning 30,000 square feet, Finn Hall is a food hall located in downtown Houston, Texas, featuring 9 unique restaurant concepts and 2 bars, all under one roof.

The building features a diverse range of restaurants and bars, offering options such as ramen. One standout dish is the birria ramen, which was a pleasant surprise for a friend who tried it. In addition to ramen, there are also several places to get a good burger. Popular choices include the Craft Burger, which offers options such as the Morning-After Burger, and Mac & Cheese, which also has a delicious BBQ Bacon Burger on the menu.
Visitors to the building can enjoy a wide selection of restaurants and bars, including those that serve ramen. For instance, the birria ramen served at one of the establishments was a delightful surprise for a friend. Meanwhile, burger lovers will be pleased to know that there are multiple options available, including the Morning-After Burger from Craft Burger, which comes highly recommended, and the BBQ Bacon Burger from Mac & Cheese.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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11. Kulture
Authentic Spanish cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

Kulture is a dining concept that showcases the fusion of Southern and African cultures, offering a unique platform for chefs to share their interpretations of this diaspora. The cuisine is influenced by a variety of international flavors, including those from the Caribbean, Spain, Asia, Mexico, and Europe. The result is a delicious and culturally rich menu that tells a story through its dishes.
However, a recent visit to Kulture was disappointing. The atmosphere, which typically has a listening room feel with live jazz music, was marred by a band that didn't adjust their sound to the acoustics of the room. Additionally, the food was overly salty, which detracted from the overall dining experience. Despite these issues, Kulture's innovative concept and potential for great food and ambiance make it a dining destination worth visiting.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
12. MKT Bar in Downtown Houston
Features a large patio, happy hour specials, and weekend brunch

The service provided by the establishment received mixed reviews from its customers. While some were extremely satisfied and praised the quality of service, others found it to be slow and disappointing. A select few had a very negative experience and expressed their disappointment.
The food, on the other hand, was highly rated by customers. Many praised the quality and taste of the dishes offered. Some popular items on the menu include chicken and waffles, black pepper waffle with braised lamb shank, fried chicken, Austin Street Burger, Gelato, Ceviche and Bayou City Sliders. These dishes were particularly enjoyed by customers and were widely praised for their flavor and presentation.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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13. Hearsay On The Green
Hosts trivia nights, charity events, and watch parties

Some reviewers describe the food as varied in quality, ranging from pretty good to phenomenal. However, there are also instances where food poisoning was experienced. The service provided during visits to the establishment received mixed reviews.
On the one hand, some reviewers describe the service as excellent, friendly, efficient, and top-notch. On the other hand, other reviewers criticize the service as poor, slow, inattentive, and leaving much to be desired. Clearly, there is a discrepancy in the level of service provided by the establishment.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
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14. Grotto Downtown
Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a romantic setting

Appetizers at this establishment typically consist of Meatzza Pizza, Kale & Salmon Salad with Focaccio, Calamari, and Peach Bellini. Reviewers have had mixed opinions about the food, with some raving about its deliciousness and top-notch quality, while others have found certain dishes lacking. Specifically, a few reviewers have noted that the pasta was dry and underdressed. However, there has been praise for the steak, with comments about its tastiness and tenderness.
In summary, the appetizer selection includes Meatzza Pizza, Kale & Salmon Salad, Calamari, and Peach Bellini. The food generally receives positive feedback, with diners praising its quality and taste. However, there have been some criticisms of certain dishes, such as the pasta being dry and underdressed, but the steak has been highlighted as a standout dish for its delicious taste and tenderness.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
15. Sambuca
Featuring live music on weekends

Our company had a wonderful Christmas party at Sambucas on December 18, 2015. The staff was friendly, service was excellent, and the food and drinks were delicious. We had a fantastic table with a clear view of the incredible band playing that evening. The music was a highlight of the night.
Sambucas is known for its classic American cuisine and live music. The dance floor is always bustling with energy as groups of coworkers and silver-haired couples take to the floor for line dances and slow songs. The atmosphere is lively and entertaining, making it a popular spot for those looking for a fun night out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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16. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Downtown Houston
Extensive wine list, fresh seafood, and lively ambiance.

The seafood selection at this establishment features a variety of options such as alligator, shrimp and crawfish fondue, gumbo with shrimp, a fried seafood platter, crawfish pasta, and pasta Mardi Grae. Among these, some dishes stood out for their delicious flavor, while others were less impressive.
In terms of service, the staff was characterized as attentive, accommodating, patient, friendly, fast, and great. Their exceptional service contributed significantly to the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- High-End
17. Osso & Kristalla
Spacious patio, extensive wine list, housemade pasta

This establishment is a great place to enjoy a casual meal. They offer delicious wood-fired pizzas that are a must-try for any visitor. The pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.
During the weekends, the restaurant also offers a popular brunch service. One of the highlights of the brunch menu is the mimosa carafes, which are a big hit among customers. The brunch menu features a variety of dishes, making it an excellent option for those looking for a more leisurely and relaxing meal. Whether it's for the pizzas or the brunch, this establishment is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
18. Guard and Grace - Houston
Features a dry-aging room for steaks, in-house butcher, and lively bar scene

Guard and Grace is a restaurant that provides an exceptional dining experience, featuring outstanding service and a beautiful atmosphere. Impressive visuals and a wide range of options are on display, including standout dishes such as filet mignon with Oscar topping and black cod.
The restaurant's atmosphere is equally impressive, with its stunning decor and thoughtful design creating a memorable dining experience. In addition to its visual appeal, Guard and Grace also offers a diverse menu with top-quality dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. From the filet mignon with Oscar topping to the black cod, each dish is carefully crafted and presented with flair, making Guard and Grace a top destination for food lovers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Mid-Range
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19. Guadalajara Del Centro
Authentic central Mexican cuisine, family-owned business

The service at this establishment is prompt, attentive, and friendly, with customers praising the staff for their exceptional service. The staff go above and beyond to ensure that each customer has a positive dining experience.
The food is another highlight of this establishment, with customers raving about the fresh, flavorful, and delicious dishes. The chips and salsa are a standout appetizer, hard to resist and always on point. The quality of the food is consistent, with each dish prepared with care and attention to detail.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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20. Potente
Wood-fired oven, extensive wine list, house-made mozzarella

Many people have enjoyed the food at this establishment, with standout dishes including Zucchini Hummus, Polepetti Arrostiti, Sfera Dolce, and Spaghetti Al Tartufo Nero. However, opinions differ regarding the portion size, with some finding it to be small and others praising it as adequate.
Excellent service is a common theme in reviews of this establishment. The staff are described as friendly, attentive, and professional, contributing to a positive dining experience. The high standard of service etiquette is also noted and appreciated by customers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Corporate Events
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21. The Nash in Downtown Houston
Located in GreenStreet with valet parking, Spacious patio seating, Happy hour specials

The Service at The Nash in downtown Houston is highly commendable, with guests expressing their satisfaction. The food offerings at the establishment received mixed reviews, as some guests were delighted with the flavors and quality of dishes such as the Korean Bacon, Short Rib Pappardelle, Chocolate Banana Cake, and Brandied Orange Crème Brûlée. However, other guests were not as impressed and found the food lacking in taste and freshness.
The Nash not only offers delicious food but also beautiful ambiance and impressive cocktails. The staff is known for being sweet, kind, and attentive, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. The staff's exceptional knowledge of wine is also worth mentioning, making the experience unforgettable. Although the presentation of the food can sometimes be lacking, the quality and taste of the dishes remain solid.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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22. Toro Toro in Downtown Houston
Offers lively atmosphere with Latin American street food and live music

Customers have reported waiting for extended periods, with some waiting almost an hour, to receive their breakfast at a certain establishment. However, the server or bartender at this establishment received high praise for their service despite the lengthy wait times.
The establishment offers a variety of cocktails, such as a strawberry martini, blood orange cocktail, Mercado margarita, and Tamarindo Cocktail. These drinks are regarded as delicious and sweet. The cocktail menu provides a range of options for customers looking for something beyond traditional breakfast beverages.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
23. The Pearl
Located in a historic building, offers private dining rooms

The Pearl restaurant is located on the first level of the Sam Houston Hilton Curio hotel and offers attentive service and excellent food. The restaurant only serves breakfast, with lunch and dinner options available through the bar area, which may not be ideal for those seeking a traditional dining experience, especially on date nights, as TVs are on in the background. The food menu is limited, but standout dishes include well-prepared steak and risotto. The bartender, Chivrelle, was particularly impressive, providing excellent service and making the night enjoyable.
At the Pearl, located in the Sam Houston Hilton Curio hotel, diners can expect attentive service and delicious food, although the restaurant is only open for breakfast, with lunch and dinner options available at the bar. The limited menu offers standout dishes such as perfectly cooked steak and risotto. However, the bar area's TVs and lack of a traditional dining experience may not be ideal for all occasions, such as date nights. Nonetheless, the exceptional service provided by the bartender, Chivrelle, helped make the night enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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24. Perbacco
Live music on weekends, happy hour specials, and outdoor seating

This restaurant is a beloved establishment known for its delicious food and reasonable prices. Despite its many positive qualities, making reservations can be difficult as they only accept bookings over the phone, which often results in voicemail.
The restaurant offers two distinct atmospheres between lunch and dinner. During lunch, the atmosphere is more casual and relaxed, while dinner is a more formal and upscale experience. Regardless of the time of day, the food is consistently excellent and delivers on flavor, making it one of our top recommendations.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
25. Cellar7
Features a Enomatic wine system and a hidden cellar door

Some individuals have had a positive experience with the flavor and mix of the food, praising it for its delicious and surprising qualities. However, there are others who have found the food to be dry and lacking in flavor.
The service experience was not ideal for some customers. Those who chose to sit at the bar reported long wait times, and in one instance, food was served raw. These issues may detract from the overall dining experience.
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Some people enjoyed the flavorful and surprising food, but others found it dry and tasteless. Service problems included long wait times and raw food.
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TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots