Houston boasts a diverse culinary scene. Having recently been named the “Newest capital of great food” and “The country’s most exciting food city,” the food scene in the city is constantly growing.
In recent years, Houston has become a serious rival to well-known food cities like New York, Los Angeles and New Orleans. In H-Town, residents and visitors alike can find a wide variety of foods, inspired by cuisines from almost all parts of the world.
Constantly gaining recognition for its innovation, and with over 10,000 restaurants representing over 70 cuisines, the city has only solidified its place as a culinary destination.
In Chinatown and Bellaire, foodies can try authentic Asian cuisines, as well as the renowned Vietnamese-Cajun crawfish, a dish unique to Houston.
Hillcroft, on the other hand, has become the heart of Indian cuisine in Houston, offering everything from traditional dishes to fusion styles like Indo-Chinese and Indo-Pak.
For breezy evenings, Historic Heights is there to provide a top-notch wining and dining experience.
For more authentic Houston dining experiences, there is the Market Square Historic District, which houses the oldest bar in Houston, La Carafe. Here, foodies can find American and Tex-Mex food.
Eating in Houston also means eating from high achievement chefs and establishments.
Benchawan Jabthong Painter of Street to Kitchen was the first Houstonian to win Best Chef: Texas in 2023. Thomas Bille of Belly of the Beast recently won the 2025 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Texas as well.
Houston chef Tristen Epps won the 2025 season of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” showcasing his Afro-Caribbean cuisine and becoming the first Houstonian to win the title.
In the early 2000s, the restaurant Irma’s received the James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classic Award, highlighting its timeless appeal and reflection of the city’s culture.
More recently, modern Indian restaurant Musaafer became the sixth Michelin-starred restaurant in the Houston area. Musaafer guests can try various Indian fusion dishes, including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
What sets the Houston food scene apart, though, is the accessibility and authenticity.
From different cuisines and fusions to street food and Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers a highly accessible and dynamic food landscape. There is always something for everyone. You name it, you’ll find it.
With the growing popularity of influencers, many food critics have also naturally found themselves drawn to the Houston food scene. Christina Autry, for one, focuses on international cuisine being offered in the city. Autry also shares many unique food experiences diners might not be aware of. And on behalf of those who love to keep up with new openings, Daniela Gulmar regularly visits the newly opened, local mom-and-pop spots.
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