The 2025 Gold Buckle Foodie Awards have been announced, and we’ve got the inside scoop on all the winners you need to try before the Rodeo ends on March 23rd! From Cotton Candy Bacon to Churro Ice Cream Sundaes, this year’s lineup features creative twists on classic fair food you won’t want to miss.
This year’s judges sampled over 20 mouthwatering finalists across the traditional six categories. Here are the top picks that have fairgoers lining up:
Fan Favorite: Many visitors are raving about the Crab Rangoon Eggrolls, which combine the perfect crunch with a savory cream cheese filling and sweet dipping sauce. This elevated take on a Chinese-American classic has been featured by Houston Food Finder as a must-try Rodeo food.
Pro Tip: The Texas Praline Caramel Apple is perfect for eating while walking between exhibits without making a mess, and the praline coating adds an authentic Texan twist to this classic treat!
Local Favorite: The loaded baked potatoes continue to be crowd-pleasers, with Saltgrass Steak House and Harlon’s BBQ tying for second place this year. Both deliver authentic Texas flavor that keeps fairgoers coming back year after year. For more authentic Texas flavors in Houston, check out our guide to The Most “Texas” Restaurants in Houston.
Instagram Worthy: Don’t miss the Bacon Jammy Jam Wagyu Sliders that have been taking social media by storm with hundreds of posts already this season! These photogenic mini burgers feature premium wagyu beef topped with sweet and savory bacon jam. According to Visit Houston, they’re among the most photographed food items at this year’s Rodeo.
Chef’s Choice: The judges were particularly impressed with the Cotton Candy Bacon on a Stick, noting its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. This surprising combination delivers a caramelized exterior with a perfect bacon crunch beneath the cotton candy coating.
Sweet Tooth Alert: Save room for the Churro Ice Cream Sundae, which combines a homemade cinnamon sugar dough bowl filled with vanilla ice cream, topped with dulce de leche sauce, whipped cream, colorful Fruity Pebbles cereal, and crunchy cinnamon sugar tortilla bits for a truly decadent Rodeo experience. It even comes with a color-changing spoon!
This year’s competition shows clear standouts among the vendors. Be sure to visit these food stalls that have multiple award-winning items:
With so many tantalizing options, you’ll need a plan to maximize your culinary adventure:
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo runs through March 23, 2025. For more information on parking and transportation to the Rodeo, check out our guide on Where to Stay and Park for NRG Events (like the Houston Rodeo).
For the best experience:
While you’re visiting Houston for the Rodeo, you might also want to pick up some souvenirs. Check out our recommendations for the Best Gifts and Souvenirs from Houston.
