50 Best Southern Restaurants in Houston

“Great experience and got to meet Zakk Wylde“

“We flew from Pensacola FL and had to visit. When I saw EVERYTHING was on point and delicious. Staff was so friendly, food was hot & fresh and I have NEVER had better tasting food from a restaurant. I normally can’t say everything was good when I visit a new place. We can on Saturday and again this morning before our flight. See y’all soon ??❤️“

“Great food at a reasonable price Waiter was awesome. Definitely worth it and will be back again“

“I went during happy hour, they have some really good deals. Lamb chops, Fried mushrooms & Smoked Gouda Macaroni: 10/10❕Collard greens 6/10, Lemon drop 8/10🍋🍸. The food came out within 10 minutes & it was fresh 🤯 The bartenders weren’t as welcoming, they seemed to be annoyed to be there & like they didn’t want to be bothered, even the person beside me said the same. Definitely kind of threw off the vibe but I made the best of it laughing with the patrons beside me. The manager was personable & very friendly. I had an issue and she was right on top of it.“

“The food was AMAZING.. I got the Salmon with charred Brussel Sprouts and the Basil Coleslaw on the side 10/10. It was so delicious. The biscuits with the sauces 10/10. My significant other and I tried this place for the first time yesterday and we’re ready to go back! 🤤“

“First time to dine at Field and Tides and it was fabulous. I will be back😉“

“This is definitely one of the best place to have breakfast in downtown Houston. The food was well prepared and I absolutely loved it. I was served by Ms. Toni, and by goodness, she is excellent at what she does and her recommendation was spot on. I definitely recommend and will be back again.The ambience is cosy and tastefully put together.“

“Came here on my way out leaving Houston and it was amazing! I had the country fried chicken over mashed potatoes with greens! *chef’s kiss* When I visit Houston again, I will definitely be back! Complimentary valet too! The service was also amazing. Our waitress was super sweet as well as the hosts. (:“

“visiting from out of town, found them through Google search. THIS PLACE IS AMAZING!!!! We ordered smothered chicken, smothered pork chops and fried porkchops. Was not disappointed and you won't be either.“

“Hickory Hollow is one of my favorite places to eat. The food is always excellent and the staff is always friendly, accommodating and very courteous.“

“The food is absolutely amazing here!“

“A delicious date night. Terrific food and excellent service thanks to Dominic.“

“The place is beautiful. I appreciate that they enforce the dress code, which is what I like to see in a restaurant like this. Every staff member was so nice. Our particular servers in the smaller dining area, were great. Very knowledgeable about the menu and offerings. The bartenders deserve recognition as well for the fast and friendly service. I regret that i haven’t tried this restaurant before but i will definitely be back.“

“We were in town for the Metallica & Pantera concert and finally had a chance to try out Truth BBQ. Everything was excellent including the service.“

“Lots of reasons to like Tumble 22...tasty menu, hip atmosphere, friendly...great deserts too.“

“Good spot for great BBQ dining!“

“In town for business and stopped by for Sunday brunch solo. The live music was amazing, great atmosphere and the food was good. My waiter was busy behind the bar so not as attentive but since I was chilling it didn't matter much. The host at the door has excellent customer service so I will definitely return!“

“The food was delicious! The staff was willing to work with us regarding some food allergies and accommodated them without sacrificing quality. The service was personal, friendly and cheerful. We each had plenty of scrumptious food for a second meal. We enjoyed the casual atmosphere of family members walking in and out and the unusual experience of the location in the gas station. You can’t go wrong eating here. 5 stars all around.“

“came here randomly never heard of it, don't usually eat soul food but I do love Cajun food. the place was MUCH fancier than I was expecting and I loved the food quality. they really care about what they do and they have events. seems like a very cool casual/semi formal place. staff was super friendly“

“Curating a great experience is what this place should be known for. I've wanted to check this place out since I knew Chris Williams was involved. I went for a late lunch on a Friday, sat at the bar and was not disappointed. Had an amazing crudo dish that was flavorful with a crunch on top that rounded out the dish. I also ordered the fried roots and sauted greens which both were not over complicated on the seasoning. When it came to service, Tyreek provided some amazing cocktails and provided great insight on the menu. I had the chance to meet the General Manager, Danny who was personable and completed the experience. I will absolutely go back for the full dinner experience.“

“We chose to gather for brunch to celebrate our August birthdays. All staff that we encountered we friendly a polite. From the hostesses that greeted us to our server. I'm assuming the lady that checked on our table was a manager. She was pleasant as well. We shared a brunch board“

“OUTSTANDING ALWAYS. BEST TEXAS BBQ IN HOUSTON“

“My late wife and I have been to both locations of brisket House barbecue. They are located on Woodway in Houston and on Cypress Creek Parkway near FM 1960. I have not been to this location in years since my wife passed away. My brother and I decided to go out to eat Monday, August 11 at the Woodway location. They did not disappoint. The food was great and the young lady that assisted us was very sweet. I hope to return soon.“

“Mia’s Table is amazing food is delicious and Customer Service is a 10+ Excellent !!!“

“The food was great and the staff was friendly and helpful. There was a lively and somewhat loud crowd at Mia’s during our Sunday dinner making it difficult to hear. Even so, it was a fun dining experience.“

“If you're looking for true Southern comfort elevated, La Lucha delivers in spades. From the moment you walk in, you already know you’re in for something special: warm vibes, a touch of glam, and that unmistakable aroma of seafood and fried chicken doing their thing.

Red Fish on the Half Shell: This was something else. The fish was fresh, flaky, with just the right char, and sitting on that half shell added a theatrical flair. Briny, clean, and full of Gulf flavor. Every bite felt like it had been crafted with intention.

Fried Chicken (with 4 sauces): If heaven had a taste, this chicken nailed it. Crispy, perfectly fried skin that stayed crunchy even after a few minutes. The chicken inside? Juicy, moist, and absolutely comforting. And those sauces? Honey‑sambal, oyster mayo, green harissa, and a seasonal jam all doing different flavor pivot...sweet, spicy, tangy, umami...so no matter how you dipped, it was good.

Shrimp / Pork Dumplings: A brilliant break from the usual Southern lineup. These dumplings brought some texture (those soft, chewy wrappers) and richness from the pork and shrimp blend. Flavorful sauce, good heat, and just enough to want more.

Sides & Atmosphere: Warm biscuits, perfect pickles, maybe even a jam or two; the supporting cast is strong. The place feels polished but not pretentious: good lighting, friendly but not overbearing service, and a bar that’s worth grabbing a drink at.

Service: Attentive. Knowledgeable. When you want recommendations, they’ve got them. When you just want to take your time and enjoy, they give you space.

Value: It’s not “cheap eats,” but what you get: quality, flavor, portion size, everything makes it absolutely worth it. You end up feeling well fed, happy, and like you didn’t settle anywhere less than excellent.

Sometimes flavors can skew salty especially on fried things. Not always, but when the batter is especially bold, it can lean that direction.

Valet parking is the norm, and parking spots can feel tight or a bit of a hassle if it’s busy. But again, small price to pay for the payoff on the plate.

La Lucha isn’t just one of the best Southern / seafood‑fusion places in Houston, it is one of the best. If you’re craving fried chicken that knocks, oysters that sing, dumplings that surprise, or fish that hits that sweet spot between rustic and refined, this is your spot. Everybody buzzing here for good reason.“

“Treebeards is fantastic - I have been going for years, and the food is consistently very good (both quality and taste). The salads, main courses, sides and desserts are all great - a few of my favorites are the salads (with vinaigrette), the étouffée, the baked and the fried chicken, the chicken and sausage gumbo, the squash casserole, and the brownies!“

“Like this place but love the staff, especially Sacha and Lex. Try the friend fish plate, definitely a must!“

“Treebeards is fantastic - I have been going for years, and the food is consistently very good (both quality and taste). The salads, main courses, sides and desserts are all great - a few of my favorites are the salads (with vinaigrette), the étouffée, the baked and the fried chicken, the chicken and sausage gumbo, the squash casserole, and the brownies!“

“I enjoy the food there with grits being my favorite! Food is delivered in a timely manner.“

“I have never had a bad meal at Millie's. It's become a once a week habit! Staff is amazing. Support local!“

“Food was great, staff was great, We had lunch here for my grandsons birthday and it did NOT disappoint, so glad we made the drive.“

“This place is very cool, the food is fantastic and the portion size is great. The vehicles were a bit lackluster but the setting was good. It would be a great venue for a date and or car groups o get together. I'd definitely visit again.“

“We eat from here ever time they come to the apartment complex and it is a wonderful experience. The food is incredible and the people running the truck are even better I can not say enough great things about this food truck.“

“Ordered to go! Great food!“

“Great place to eat. Friendly staff. Barbara was very helpful and caring! Thank you!“

“Never disappoints! Friendly staff and fast service!“

“Treebeards is fantastic - I have been going for years, and the food is consistently very good (both quality and taste). The salads, main courses, sides and desserts are all great - a few of my favorites are the salads (with vinaigrette), the étouffée, the baked and the fried chicken, the chicken and sausage gumbo, the squash casserole, and the brownies!“

“The Food is Outstanding...You have to try it“

“Greeted as soon as we walked in and went over the menu with us. Food came out hot and quick. Was so nice to find this gem. The red beans and rice, the Mac and cheese, the catfish were all executed with great detail and skill. Will be back.“

“James is hands down one of the best bartenders I’ve ever met. Not just at Edgar Hermanos, but anywhere. He remembers your name, your friends’ names, what you drink, and probably what you were venting about last time. From the moment you sit down, it feels like catching up with a best friend who actually listens. That kind of consistency and energy is rare, and it’s the reason I became a regular almost instantly.

Martha deserves her own spotlight too. Her drinks always hit, and the margaritas she makes for me are easily some of the best I’ve had. She’s locked in every time.

And the food? Never had a bad plate. Edgar Hermanos is a true gem, and with people like James and Martha behind the bar, it’s on another level.“

“The best waitress ever! Had chicken waffle“

“We arrived with no reservation as a party of 9 on a Saturday so we expected a long wait. We were told at least an hour. No problem. 25 minutes later a hostess offered us 2 adjoining tables. Perfect! The moment we sat down upstairs our waitress took drink orders and I swear they magically appeared less than ten minutes later and were as beautiful as they were potent! We ordered appetizers that were as filling as entrees! Our food came out fresh and piping hot! The mac and cheese was chef's kiss! We were so full that we didn't even eat DINNER later that night! LOL! Definitely a 10/10!“

“Gumbo is on point, quesadillas are super good and the tacos are amazing! 🔥🔥“

“You can tell their delicious food is cooked with experience and love. Nurtures your body and soul! Highly recommended.“

“Must try this place for brunch! We went on a Sunday and I was so impressed and happy I gave it a try. It was a busy Sunday but our waitress was great food came out quick. Their lattes are so good! Variety of American & Mexican dishes. Food was so good I didn’t even snap a pic lol. Will be back for sure!“

“OMG ONE OF MY FAVORITES! This food is sooooooo good!!! Friendly atmosphere and great vibes!!!“

“Me and my Hubby visited Houston over the weekend for our birthday and stumbled upon this Gem! The food is absolutely Amazing 😍 we had a great experience! Donnie, Glenda and Pat were the workers Friday night. They were very friendly. Ms. Glenda came to our table a couple times to make sure everything was ok! I will absolutely make this place a must stop the next time we're there! Keep up the good work guys 💯“

“First of all I should of left when I pull up and seen this lady getting out of her car with a apron on I ask are yall open her smart remarks was pointing at signs saying open like I said we just left a place open sign was on but was closed we order 3 Lunch 3 drinks I wanted just a fried pork chop for my grandbaby the owner says we sale plates Lunch only okay order a turkey wing plate To go to find out I have to ask for rice to go with smother turkey wings for addition charge the Manger owner or whatever she call her self talk to the workers like they are nothinh very rude same way with customer I was told to try this place promise will not go back this lady talk her self out of 3 sales to go arguing with me if I wouldn't had paid 1st I would have left learn how to talk to people we don't have to come to your place to eat lady you are so RUDE to be the owner I feel sorry for your workers they can do better somewhere else you better look around thats why your lot was empty.“

“Something you would never expect from inside a gas station...my plan is try everything on the menu...this is my 3rd time and so far have not been disappointed...if you get a chance check it out...the chicken so far is my favorite...but on "soul food Sunday's" the oxtail is the best...“