Welcome to Lodgeur’s guide to the best bars and restaurants around the Texas Medical Center!
If you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up, this authentic french bakery is the place to visit. Pair a flakey, buttery croissant (or a lemon meringue tart if you have more of a sweet tooth) with a cappuccino or hot tea. But don’t forget to grab one of their homemade loaves of bread on the way out. Trust us, the bread is worth the extra splurge.
The Halal Guys is a popular stop for quick, generously-portion-sized mediterranean cuisine. Here you’ll find gyro sandwiches, beef/falafel sandwiches and world-famous platters for under $12.
This is the perfect place to curb your pasta and piada cravings in a pinch. When you approach the counter, just call out what ingredients you’d like in your homemade pasta, wrap or salad and watch as they prepare your meal right in front of you. Dine in during your lunch break or get it to-go if you’re headed somewhere else in a hurry!
Bodegas’ offers Mexican street food with generous portion sizes for a great price! Kid friendly, Tex-Mex staples like shrimp tacos, burgers and fajitas. Voted best margaritas in the city.
Common Bond is the perfect spot to grab a savory breakfast sandwich while indulging in some delicious, sweet treats. You can also order a cooked savory breakfast, like avocado on toast with poached eggs. They drinks on offer include nitro coffee, iced chai lattes and hot teas to frosés, mimosas and wines. Common Bond’s famous Nutella croissant and striped pistachio croissant have earned it a loyal following.
Mendocino is Lodgeur’s favorite of the Texas Medical Center restaurants and an excellent choice for guests trying to eat healthy, fresh food. Although the sandwiches and soups are good, the chopped salads are where Mendocino shines. Mendocino has an indoor dining room and terrace seating in a lively setting next to a handful of other restaurants.
The Istanbul Grill & Deli is one of the first and most authentic Turkish restaurants in Houston! With a laid back atmosphere and outdoor patio, this spot will easily become a regular stop for Turkish and Mediterranean food lovers.
If you’re looking for authentic Szechuan and traditional Chinese cuisine, this is the place for you. And since it’s open ‘til midnight most days, it’s perfect for an after-drinks comfort food meal. Just be prepared to take home leftovers!
In the mood for fancy sandwiches, extra cheesy burgers and insanely good fries that tie it all together? Local Foods is always good for that. Or maybe you want to relax on the patio and enjoy a cider or two before heading next door to the LFM Market to pick up a unique, foodie staple. Contemporary and fresh comfort foods using locally-sourced ingredients. A solid choice with kids. For dessert, the chocolate chip cookies are baked fresh daily.
Huynh’s offers an array of Vietnamese and Asian-inspired dishes and is the go-to place for pho! Don’t forget to try their popular Vietnamese coffee (you can even try one that’s blended with coconut or avocado.) Friendly, informal service.
This locally-owned, hidden gem serves authentic Halal and Zabihah food in Rice Village. We recommend visiting before 2:30 pm to take advantage of their lunch special, which includes freshly-made bread along with your main dish and side for $12!
Hugo’s combines high-end, traditional Mexican cuisine with an award-winning wine program, cocktail list and tequila menu. It’s known for innovative cuisine with authentic Mexican flavors like the tacos dorados de papa and chapulines. P.S. They also offer tasty brunch options during the weekends.
This elegant restaurant is perfect for date nights, and if you’re looking to experience an unforgettable, multi-course omakase dinner, you have to book a reservation. (Seriously- if you plan on visiting Houston, call ASAP to reserve a table.)
This New Orleans styled restaurant features the perfect mix of classic and creative cajun dishes. But be warned- Brennan’s will leave you reminiscing about your meal long after it’s over. Reservations strongly recommended. Brennan’s is a Houston institution known for its Gulf coast oysters, shrimp remoulade and Sazerac cocktails. P.S. Happy Hour is Tuesday through Friday from 4 pm – 7 pm.
This locally-owned restaurant offers southern cuisine with an international flair. Lucille’s is one of Houston’s best brunch spots, with delicious craft cocktails and a curated menu of sweet and savory choices. Everything is filling and there is a relaxed garden setting out back.
Over 300 wine selections. Stone-fired pizza, goat cheese beignets, and artisan cheese flights. With so many pairings to choose from, don’t be surprised if you end up staying for a few hours sipping wine with friends in their cozy indoor space or outdoor patio.
If you’re looking to expand your wine profile or just relax and enjoy a few drinks with friends, you’re going to love Sixty Vines! Here you can choose from 60 wines on tap (that rotate frequently) while enjoying tasty appetizers and maybe a hearty meal or two. And if you’re not much of a wine drinker, you can always order a cocktail or explore what beer they have on tap.
Escape to this tropical-inspired bar for a few hours to enjoy coconut tiki drinks and shareable bites with friends! Reservations recommended. The Toasted Coconut has playful theming in both indoor and outdoor seating. P.S. Happy Hour is Tuesday through Friday from 4 – 6 pm.
Ready to explore more? Check out Lodgeur’s list of the Midtown restaurants, Montrose & Museum District restaurants, Downtown restaurants and EaDo (East Downtown) restaurants.
