50 Best Southern Restaurants in Houston

“A nice variety of otsters on the halfshell served with delicious condiments are a major draw for us. The “Redfish on the Halfshell” is my go-to favorite entre, a large filet grilled perfectly with delightful spices that complement the natural taste of the fish. And the hot fudge pecan ball is my dessert of choice.“

“Lunch crowd comes in by around 1140am and the restaurant gets full by 12pm. One of the best beef rib I’ve ever had but it is quite expensive with my one rib order costing almost $50. Brisket is also very juicy compared to other BBQs in the city and a good amount of sauces and drinks to choose from. Well worth a trip down to if you’re in Houston.“

“Second time here and another great experience. The food was incredible and even our kids (who a picky eaters) are eager to come back again. From appetizers to main course to dessert everything was delicious. Service was excellent even though our server was also waiting on a large party next to us. I appreciate that they have non-alcoholic drink options and would love to see them add a few more.“

“One of my fave brunch spots. This time we were able to talk with Mr. Brad Brennan, one of the most down-to-earth persons ever! We even met the sous chef, who had to visit when my 2-yr old gran-niece ate his turtle soup by herself!! I had the grilled oysters with shrimp and crabmeat and cheese! It's new, and my approval was given to the chef. LOL“

“As I am starting to recover from this food coma I realize how truly amazing this place is. The decor is clean and understated elegance. The food was incredible. Grilled Oysters were perfect. Fried Chicken perfect, Shrimp Po Bo was arguably better than New Orleans, Red Beans and rice amazing. And the peach cobbler was solid. Service was that of a Michelin starred joint. If you're in Houston this is worth it. 5 stars.“

“Incredible meal, this place is the real deal for local food. You may notice it's inside a gas station but don't let that deter you. I was offered samples of their gumbo, which I gladly tried, and then ordered one of. It was absolutely delicious, with a generous portion too.“

“LOVEEEEEE this spot. They are so friendly and welcoming. The food is so dang good and the pricing is very reasonable. The fried chicken, smoked turkey, Mac n cheese, greens, and yams are my favorite. ALSO, they have the best peach cobbler I have ever had at a restaurant period.“

“From The appetizer through 3 courses we were progressively impressed. Food is delicious, service is kind and helpful & atmosphere is peaceful. With Deep Roots In The Houston Heights Including my Great Grandfather an immigrant from Germany I am so happy to find such a nice place with a little bit of memory of the Houston Heights I grew up playing in.“

“Tumble 22 has landed in Houston and I couldn't be happier! During the pandemic, I paid a lot of visits to Austin, TX and fell in love with Tumble 22 soon after my first bite! When I found out the first location in Houston would be just 15 minutes from me, I was ecstatic!!! This location in Vintage Park has friendly staff, squeaky clean facilities, and impeccable and consistent food quality. They recently did updates to their app, so reward credit is now earned based on the card you use. Whether you order dine in or takeout, you'll still earn credit! This is a game changer for regulars like myself! I also look forward to the new exclusive sandwiches every month. The Texas OG has been my absolute favorite so far and needs to become a part of their regular menu!! The customization options, monthly exclusives, and consistent new menu items is enough to keep me coming back, but the friendly staff, manager that treats his customers like family, and exceptional food quality makes it really hard to choose to eat anywhere else. If you're debating on eating here, just do it! You won't regret it. Just note that the spice levels run a bit hotter than you'd think they do. Whatever you think you can tolerate, I'd recommend jumping down a level, for your first time at least. I also HIGHLY recommend getting the mac & cheese. It is, by far, the best I've ever had!! Thank you Tumble 22 for doing it right!“

“My wife and I wanted to try a new barbecue spot. This one was 10/10 amazing. Yes there's a line but it goes quickly. Well worth the wait. We had the 3 meat combo. The Mac and cheese was the best so was the tater tot casserole. The ribs were on point really everything here was on point including the tea. Worth the 40 minute drive for us.“

“Mia’s table is a favorite with our family for after events, like softball games or productions. The portions are crazy huge! Always enough to take home. Service is great. I highly recommend the Jalepeno gravy. Get it no matter what and use it as a dip!“

“We were at the Japanese Gardens in Herman Park area of Houston enjoying the weather and scenery. I decided to look for food and remembered that Gus's opened in Houston awhile ago and haven't tried it since they came to Texas. We love the Memphis Gus's so we loaded up the car and went to the Kirby location. This location is a stand alone Resturant in a large shopping center with a lot of parking, which was fantastic. Large Resturant with plenty of seating. Our server was Stephanie and she was amazing from the time we came in the door. She noticed we were a family of five and noted there was a big table and pointed it out. You come in a sit where you like then the server comes over. She ordered our drinks and appetizer. We ordered the fried green tomatoes which were prepared wonderfully. The tea is fresh and delicious. We ordered our meals and they were hot and fresh. Great tasting. Everyone was kind and friendly. Kudos to Stephanie for being the cherry on the top of a fantastic family outing. Thank you from Willis, TX If you're in the area go try them!“

“Everything was excellent! We had 4 types of oysters from their "Gulf Gems". Really great choices, all with different, distinct tastes.The pickle juice mignonette was a new thing for me. Very nice.We had a variety entrees, served family style. Grilled Gulf Shrimp, Roasted Oysters, Fried Chicken, and Blackened Snapper collars. The Blackened Snapper Collars were fantastic! My favorite.Service was excellent. Our waitperson was attentive without hovering. Food came out as it was completed in the kitchen.I'll be back.“

“Busy but with plenty of seats. Order in the front and they will bring the food out to you. Ribs were tender and good flavor along with the chicken fried steak was good. Sides was good with the mashed potatoes coming with white gravy. Overall, great ambiance and place to get lunch or dinner.“

“I came into Skeets looking for a place with good food and drinks . Didn't expect such fantastic service . Kendall, Jas, and Romeo have been so sweet, attentive and efficient .There are not many places in pearland to kick back but these bartenders have made this spot my absolute favorite . if you are in this area come visit them you won't regret it“

“OMG everything is great about this Treebeards location! Food and staff were AWESOME and the restaurant and patio are amazing ?. My wife and I ate here and I had the chicken fried chicken, collard greens and mashed potatoes and she had the shrimp etoufee and we had some wonderful jalapeño cornbread. All of it was just fabulous and the service was amazing. We sat on the outdoor patio because the weather was perfect. Highly recommended!“

“My wife and I hired Southern Q to cater the rehearsal party for our son's wedding at our home this month. We entertained 30-40 guests outside under the carport. From the time that my wife first spoke to them, to the day of the event, we could not have been happier! They met our every need! Not only was the food outstanding, but so was the service! Pleasant people who went above and beyond to make sure that everyone had more than enough to eat. The BB-Q brisket, chicken and sausage was some of the best that I have ever had here in Houston. All of the side dishes were terrific as well. Darn good deserts also! Everyone at the party could not stop commenting on how good the food was. We would recommend Southern-Q to everyone!“

“When I’m in houston i’m always bigging my back. I made the drive to this food truck and it exceeded my expectations. Food was made to order but I called ahead for a headstart. Food came out piping hot and fresh and didn’t take long at all! I had the honey garlic dry rub fried chicken wings, regular chicken wings, and fried catfish & shrimp. I sampled all 3 dishes and it was phenomenal. Seasoned and fried to perfection! Would highly recommend and will be back again!“

“This food truck is IT! Our food was seasoned to perfection, it was still hot when we received it and service was provided in a reasonable time. I will definitely ask our apartment community to invite them back so I can try more menu items. My son and I ate so fast, we didn't even get a chance to take a pic. That's just how good it was.“

“Great serviceExcellent locationFree parking for the first two hoursMy shrimp pasta was delicious and the drinks were smooth and strong. What more can you ask for... and not to mention the music lit. #Culture for the #Kulture. #LetsGOThis is a real review. ? courtesy of #CloseWithTiff“

“1 of the best seafood restaurants in the city that happens to serve an amazing burger! So good it's hard to describe actually. They are a hot menu item limited quantity as the they grind the meat fresh daily. This is fresh made to order food & restaurant not fast food. Friendly, family atmosphere. Always good food, music & company!“

“It was my first time visiting this restaurant. I enjoyed the food. Even the next day, the food was just as delicious. I recommend the chicken fried steak. That’s why hubby ordered. I ordered the 3 meat plate, sausage, brisket , and chicken baked potato and a salad. The meat portion is enough. It’s not too much or too little. The brisket was tender, the chicken moist. We also tried their onion rings. Very delicious!“

“We've been wanting to try this place out since moving to the area and driving by 1000 times. I was driving home from work very late one night and their kitchen was surprisingly open late! Called in a to-go order, everything was super easy and ready quickly. Food was 10/10 and we will definitely be coming back.“

“Y'all the absolute best customer service at the Vintage location. Every time we come here, we are greeted with the warmest welcome. We always have to sample something new. They are helpful with recommendations. It's absolutely delicious every time.“

“This is now a TOPS in my food establishments to venture to. Highly recommend this establishment to look into open this in Dayton. Dayton is booming like Mont Belvieu is. If you don't open here, I WILL still drive 30 minutes to Humble but closer means more money. I spend $13. and make 6 awesome sandwiches out of the large take home containers. Went there Feb 2nd and Will go back today. Not waiting for Feb. 22nd (that special you had for February). This is crazy but I couldn't stop eating that Fruity chicken salad. I will have 1 or 2 sandwiches TODAY but have to drive to Humble first.“

“I always enjoyed Flying Biscuit when I lived in Atlanta. So I was super excited when I found out they were in the Houston market. And yesterday, my mom and I dropped in on our way home from the airport. Janet greeted and seated us. She brings so much good energy to the front door. Our server was sweet and the food was perfectly prepared. We both had scrambles that were both well sized and delicious - veggie and vegan. My mom added a side of bacon - which she commented was great. Of course the biscuits and grits are worth the visit on their own, but we added the fried green tomatoes too. I loved the topping combination...but they were good without as well (which my mom chose). I am just hoping that they consider opening a location further west on I-10...maybe near the Buc-ee's. Hint Hint.“

“This Is Really Nice Ducked Off Establishment This Is Good Ole Down Home Soul Food I Had Oxtails Rice And 40weight And Also I Got A To Go Jambalaya And Sampled It Hurry Up And Packaged It To Go Complimentary Parfait Gone Be For Late Night Sweet Craving Go Check This Place Out Mr.Cecil And Mrs.Pam Gone Get You Right I'll Be Back Soon Because They Close To My House ??‼️?????“

“Had the catfish atchafalaya with fried catfish covered in etouffe over rice with the tastiest cabbage and candy yams I also tried the fried green tomatoes I can’t forget the egg rolls and the juice (green jolly rancher) I could’ve kissed the chef! A must try again.“

“This place is great. It is becoming harder and harder to find good juicy Fried Chicken on the bone in this town. But Gus consistently has the best juicy Fried Chicken in Houston. With the perfect amount of spice. To top it every single time I’ve been here I have had the nicest wait staff, friendly and genuine. They make me smile and feel good when I leave. Thanks Gus Staff. Whatever you’re doing keep doing it. Please!“

“The food had my eyes rolling ??‍♀️ omg!! The fried lobster bites were bussiiiin and my friend got the Cajun chicken & waffles..which was on point. But the garlic & herb lamb chops though?????️GODLYYYYYYGreat service, strong drinks and worth every cent. 10s across the board!“

“Treebeards has been around for more than 30 yrs. It is still as good as the very first time I tried it back in the 90’s. The cafeteria style is fast and the food is amazing. The fried catfish and red beans & rice are the best you will find anywhere. This place is an institution. I hope it continues to be around for many years to come. The people that work here are SO nice…. and all the desserts are wonderful!??“

“Great place to watch sporting events or to just hang out. The food is next level, an excellent place to go visit again and again!!!!Vegetarian options: Just ask, and they will accommodate you.Dietary restrictions: Just let them know what you prefer or what your restrictions are, and they will make sure your order is prepared accordingly.Parking: On-site parking, free, and paid parking. Huge parking lot directly across the street from Cobos, and other parking spaces are available nearby as well.Kid-friendliness: Kid friendly atmosphere.Wheelchair accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.“

“Drive in from Los Angeles and heard this place was the only place I needed to go for BBQ. Tori at the counter helped us pick out the perfect combination of meats for two hungry men and it hit the spot! So glad we came and we will definitely be coming back.Parking: We came with a trailer and had no problem pulling up with trailer in view“

“The food and the service was good. I had the Chicken fajita omelette, with grits and home fries, and orange juice, made fresh from concentrate. (Oxymoron, we got a big laugh out of) And yes there is a story behind that one.Parking: Fenced in parking on the property.Wheelchair accessibility: Yes there is a ramp for mobility limited individuals.“

“We enjoyed sitting at the outdoor patio. Service was quick and the food was tasty. We were all trying to eat healthier than we usually do so asking the 4 of us, we ordered the avocado toast, salmon toast, and the "some kind of cobb" salad. Everyone likes their food. The youngest man in the bunch was still a bit hungry, so he got to finish his wife's leftovers instead of getting to take them home. We had brunch-type drinks that were fairly good. The bill was $120 for 4 including taxes, before the tipThe parking lot is small, but there is valet parking that only costs whatever tip one chooses to give.“

“The pecan fish is soooo delectable. Creamy sauce with the shrimp on top! Yum! We are in Houston for cancer treatments and this is my one request every time we are here!Dietary restrictions: So many choices no matter what your dietary needs are.“

“In all honesty, I was originally going to go next door to Truth BBQ. I called and they weren’t able to do over the phone orders so I came here. Originally trying to place a carry out order, I decided to come in and take in the atmosphere for my first time.And am I glad I did.Pros:Creamed CornPotato SaladPickles and OnionsTurkey BreastPeach Bread PuddingCons:I got the Special Wagyu Brisket and it was the same taste as regular brisket for an additional charge. Neither were bad by any means- Still highly recommend! But you don’t need both like I got!Mac and cheese was made properly but lacked proper seasoning- and also an up charged side dish. Not bad, but I’ve had better.Tldr: Great atmosphere, good food and Amazing service - Devaughn is phenomenal and incredibly patient. He even brought me out a sample of a moist brisket so I could compare which one I liked best. Pleased to have him for my first visit.Definitely recommend this place, and will be coming back!“

“We hosted my friend’s baby sprinkle and it was absolutely perfect. The table setup, food, flowers and service were wonderful and we had the best time celebrating. Special thank you to our waiter Jose and all the staff at Ouisie’s Table for making today special and memorable for Megan.“

“The food was cooked fresh to order. Portion size well worth the wait. Family owned business, where eating there feels like grandma's house. Very friendly and welcoming service. Tables were clean and bathrooms as well. I have no complaints!!“

“Good Southern food fare. The fried chicken was juicy and tender with just the right crunch. The Southern white gravy was so good, the mashed potatoes were smooth and very tasty. The rice and beans with cheese and green onions was great not to spicy but with a little kick. Well done. The restaurant was comfortable and not to cold inside.“

“We were a tad disappointed after reading these reviews. We had the gumbo, it really was mostly a rice dish. Good but not super delish. The place was very authentic feeling and right in the heart of Houston so easy to get to and certainly a different experience than the city scape. I will say their pea pudding (forget what they call it but to me it was pea pudding) and corn bread was delicious! Also, good value for serving size!“

“Some of the best bbq I've had in Houston. The owner was SUPER nice and friendly too. By 3:30, he was sold out of everything except for 1 link of sausage and a small amount of brisket. That potato salad was GOOD, and I'm very particular about it. Check this place out.“

“Trying to convert my husband to semi vegan or maybe after today all the way vegan. When we got there I was so excited because we just went to a previous vegan restaurant and they didn’t have what we wanted and I have been craving jackfruit so we went in there and thanks to Irene and Tony it was one of the most pleasant and great experiences ever as a restaurant whether vegan or meat. The food in there was so awesome that I can tell you now if there was a competition and they just put sample A and B you would not know the difference for people who really know about flavor that’s very important if you from the south well let me just tell you it’s not sodium flavored it is flavor flavor and it was awesome and then he brought out samples like grits you think such and such has great grits why don’t you just go try their grits. And the most important thing is that Tony is an artist and he’s passionate about his craft and according to him he can make anything vegan so if you’re going to say you want a brisket let Tony show you he will convert that to a vegan brisket and it’s going to taste even better and he’s just up-and-coming so I recommend everybody who wants flavoring even if you just try or sample vegan for the first time I promise you you’ll be hooked and you’ll be back like we will greatest. Five star service and the ambience was nice! Great job overall!?“

“It’s been a while, however we stopped in for lunch last week with visiting family from out of state. Overall it was good. Our Server Chris was super. Professional, menu knowledgeable and charmingly very funny. He made the entire experience.“

“A really positive experience! Conveniently placed in the hotel. The service for breakfast was so speedy and Vicky (the person taking the orders) was such a pleasure to talk to. She was lovely and very efficient. All the staff are wonderful there.“

“Always good food, fresh and the best Hartz I’ve had out of about 6 or 7 Hartz I’ve been to. Also, they recognize and greet me and my parents, whom I generally go with to help my dad with my mom who has dementia. Everyone is always very kind and sweet to them, So that’s like a million star rating for me. The best peach cobbler, fish, chicken tenders, dressing(weekends) .. just don’t come late to the buffet.“

“This is probably one of the most reviewed restaurants in all of Houston. With all the drama I figured I’d better try it before I might not get a chance to try it.We came at 4 pm so we didn’t have any wait to get seated. Once seated it took a little bit before a waitress came by to take our order. But once we put the order in the food came out fairly quickly. I’d imagine they pre make a lot of the classics. We had the Cajun bowl and turkey leg with shrimp Alfredo.I wasn’t sure what to expect since I’m not a huge fan of turkey legs but had to get one when that’s the signature dish.The turkey leg is super tender, reminds me of lamb shank from Dimassis. It’s topped with dirty rice and the covered in Alfredo sauce and giant shrimp. Overall the dish is delicious but super heavy so definitely going to need a to go box. The Cajun bowl was a mix of their signature dirty rice and their crawfish Mac and cheese topped with a piece of blacked salmon. The salmon was meh, so I would opt for the other bowl with fried chicken, as the fish did nothing for the dish. Now that Mac and cheese probably some of the best I’ve ever had.This dish was also super heavy and needed to be taken home as well.We were annoyed as there was a ton of flies circling our food. Overall the food was really flavorful, but it was quite expensive, over $80 with tip for 2 people and no drinks. But if you consider you can make two meals out of it, it’s reasonable.“

“Out with the wifey after a big sibling meeting, and I suggested we try this place. First off the waiter starts you off with some really yummy bread. It's a basket filled with cornbread, biscuits and pretzel bread. It comes with a side of sweet butter. It was heavenly deliciousness! I was so happy we did! I got the two meat brisket and rib plate, which also comes with Vimeo and fries. While the brisket and ribs were not the best I've ever had, it's definitely in the top 5 I've had of all time. I really enjoy it and would definitely come back to get it again.“

“Best brisket in town, I would put it up against killens bbq. The place is small and gets busy during lunch time brisket is scrumptious and cream of corn has small little peppers now that give it a kick. Make sure you have an extra shirt because you will end up smelling like bbq. Also recommend their pbj sandwich ( pulled pork brisket and sausage on a warm ciabatta bun)“

“Such a good place. 2 plates cost less than $20 and the chicken was fresh off the fryer. Chicken wings and stripes were the best I've ever had. The pancakes were so fluffy and soft. Definitely will be back soon. Make sure to order I'm advance because it did take 40 minutes to get our food, but it was worth every minute.“