Top 11 lunch restaurants in Gulfton
Gulfton, a diverse and vibrant neighborhood in Houston, Texas, is home to a variety of lunch restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for authentic Mexican tacos, Middle Eastern falafel, or classic American burgers, lunch restaurants in Gulfton have got you covered. These eateries offer delicious and affordable options for workers, students, and visitors looking for a quick and satisfying meal in the area.
1. The '401 in Gulfton
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Taqueria El Jalisco
Family-owned taqueria with homemade sauces and fresh ingredients

Taqueria El Jalisco is a service that offers dine-in meals with a lunch price per person ranging from $10-20. The restaurant recommends trying their tortillas, soups, and puerco en chile verde. The food is delicious and provides a comforting, home-cooked meal experience.
The reviewer highly recommends Taqueria El Jalisco, giving it a perfect 10 out of 10 score. The restaurant's meals are reminiscent of a mom's home-cooked meals, providing a sense of comfort and nostalgia. The reviewer confidently suggests trying this restaurant for a satisfying and delicious lunch option.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
3. Saltillo Mexican Kitchen
Family-owned, warm atmosphere, daily specials

Saltillo Mexican Kitchen in Houston stands out for its authentic Mexican cuisine, providing a unique alternative to typical Tex Mex restaurants. The establishment offers high-quality, delicious dishes that have received enthusiastic reviews from customers. Appetizing menu items such as Saltillo and Green Enchiladas have garnered praise, although some customers have noted that the prices do not always align with their expectations for the quality.
Customers consistently rate the food highly, noting the exceptional taste and quality. Some have even gone so far as to call it the best Mexican food they have ever had. The restaurant's spicy margaritas are another highlight, along with the top-notch customer service. The combination of delicious food and excellent service creates an enjoyable dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
4. Tacos La Bala
Family-owned, uses fresh ingredients, and offers vegetarian options.

The food at this location is quite good, but there is one issue. When calling in an order ahead of time, there is still a wait upon arrival, which can be frustrating. The wait seems unnecessary and gives the impression that they do not expect customers to come for the food.
For Tex-Mex enthusiasts, this hidden gem is a must-visit. The restaurant offers delicious and authentic flavors, especially in their Barbacoa burrito filled with beans, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and avocado. The hibiscus juice is the perfect refreshing drink to pair with the meal. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the cleanliness of the place is commendable. One notable aspect of this restaurant is the speedy delivery of food, making it a convenient dining option.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Tacos El Jaibo
Family-owned business with homemade recipes since 1997

Tacos El Jaibo is a popular spot in Houston known for offering high-quality and affordable Mexican food. The prices are reasonable, which is a major plus for many customers. The tacos, in particular, are highly rated for their delicious taste and excellent value.
The food at Tacos El Jaibo is juicy, saucy, and absolutely delicious. The meat is well-seasoned, and the ingredients are always fresh. If you're looking for authentic Mexican food in Houston, Tacos El Jaibo is definitely worth checking out. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh ingredients and well-seasoned meat results in food that is packed with flavor and sure to satisfy.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
6. El Rancherito Taqueria in Gulfton
Authentic Mexican flavors, fresh ingredients, and generous portions

El Rancherito Taqueria is known for its delicious food and quick delivery. The restaurant's homemade corn tortillas are a standout, and the menu features a variety of options to choose from, such as chicharrón and barbacoa tacos, as well as breakfast tacos with eggs, bacon, beans, and rice. Prices are reasonable, making it an attractive option for anyone looking for a satisfying meal. The atmosphere is retro, with sea foam green walls adding to the ambiance.
The service at El Rancherito Taqueria is attentive, with drinks and chips refilled promptly. Most orders are prepared and delivered within 10 minutes, making it an excellent choice for those in a hurry. One of the menu's highlights is the pozole, which received high praise for its delicious taste. Overall, El Rancherito Taqueria offers an enjoyable dining experience with its fair pricing, delicious food, and quick service, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
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7. Dandelion Cafe
Family-owned with homemade recipes and gluten-free options

The food at the cafe was enjoyable, although it did not reach an outstanding level. One hour and a half of wait time for chicken and waffles, which were previously praised on GMA, led to a decision not to wait. The cafe was bustling with only minimal air conditioning, making it warm inside. It would be advisable to visit the cafe when the crowds have lessened due to recent TV exposure or after 1 pm, as the crowd seemed to be thinning out at that time.
This is a lively and entertaining cafe that offers a satisfactory breakfast menu and a variety of coffee options. The chiliquiles and breakfast sandwich were particularly delicious, made with fresh ingredients. However, the prices are somewhat steep. Despite this, it is worth giving it a try.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
8. Chick-fil-A
Closed on Sundays, known for their commitment to community and customer service

Many guests at the event had the opportunity to try the chicken sandwiches that were served. The reviews for the sandwich were mixed, with some guests expressing their enjoyment of the sandwich while others found it to be nothing special. There were some issues with the preparation of the sandwiches, as a few of them were incorrect or incomplete.
Additionally, some guests had trouble with the buns on their sandwiches falling apart. This was likely due to the fact that the sandwiches were not assembled properly, which caused the buns to become soggy and break apart. Despite these issues, the chicken sandwiches were still a popular item at the event. It may be beneficial for the organizers to pay more attention to detail in the preparation of the sandwiches in the future.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
9. Taqueria El Sol de Mexico
Family-owned taqueria with homemade recipes and salsa bar

Taqueria El Sol de Mexico is a restaurant serving delicious and plentiful Mexican cuisine at affordable prices. The only non-Hispanic people during our lunch visit, the limited English spoken by the staff did not hinder communication. My meal of choice was the mixed fajitas with rice and beans, which I can recommend as a satisfying dish.
This establishment offers mouth-watering dishes such as tacos and carne asada, complete with a small bar to elevate the atmosphere. The lunch specials, including a small queso with chips, are particularly popular. Friendly staff members and flavorful food make Taqueria El Sol de Mexico a desirable option for those craving Mexican cuisine.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
- Late Night
10. La Tapatía
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.

La Tapatía is a renowned restaurant, known for its delicious Mexican food and friendly service. Complimentary chips and two types of salsa are provided to customers, adding value to the dining experience. However, there have been mixed reviews regarding the service, with some customers praising the attentiveness of the staff and others reporting rude or unprofessional behavior.
While the food is a standout feature of La Tapatía, the same cannot be said for the margaritas, which may not meet expectations. Despite this, the taste and quality of the Mexican dishes continue to attract customers. It is important to note that the service experience can vary, so while some may receive excellent and friendly attention, others may not have the same experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
11. Taqueria Arandas
Family-owned taqueria with homemade sauces and fresh ingredients

The service at this establishment is quick and efficient, making it a great option for a lunch break. The food is fresh and high-quality, with the tacos being a popular choice. However, they are a bit more expensive than some other lunch options.
Despite the higher price point, the tacos are worth the extra cost due to their delicious taste and generous portion size. The restaurant has a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a lunch outing with coworkers or friends. The quick service ensures that you can get in and out during your lunch break, or you can take your time and enjoy a leisurely meal. Overall, this establishment is a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious and convenient lunch option.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
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