Downtown Restaurants

Coined one of the most diverse cities in America, it’s no surprise that Downtown Houston’s restaurant landscape mimics the makeup of its residents — a claim to fame that earned Houston the title of “The New Capital of Southern Cool” by GQ Magazine. From the perfect patio eateries to power lunch hotspots and nightlife staples, downtown’s multifarious dining offers a front row seat to Houston’s true essence. This is your recipe for a perfect day of eating downtown.

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PATIO DINING

A stone’s throw from Discovery Green, The Grove offers urban patio dining with an aerial view of downtown’s 12-acre  grassy oasis. The restaurant’s rooftop garden helps power its New-American menu, which showcases everything from Sweet Potato & Kale Enchiladas to Blackened Farm Raised Red Fish. At Batanga, enjoy modern Latin American tapas and drinks on the restaurant’s vibrant, umbrella-lined patio space. 

Courtesy of @xochihou on Instagram​ 

BUSINESS LUNCH 

Power moves happen over power lunches, and Downtown Houston is layered with outposts perfect for closing the deal. For the big spender, Potente — a concept from Houston Astros owner Jim Crane — offers an upscale, Italian dining experience that’s sure to wow with its modern takes on all things pasta, pesce, and carne. At Xochi, James Beard award-winning chef Hugo Ortega showcases a one-of-a-kind dining experience that explores and celebrates the culinary and indigenous richness of Oaxaca, Mexico and its varied geographic regions — all nestled on the ground floor of the Marriott Marquis. For a more casual business affair, dive into downtown’s food hall explosion via Bravery Chef Hall, Finn Hall, Underground Hall, and The Understory.

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Weekend Picnic 

Thinking about dining al fresco at Discovery Green? Pick-up a picnic spread from The Lake House Cafe, which is right on the premises of the urban park. Stationed right on DG’s Kinder Lake, guests can indulge in American classics like burger variations and Texas-style hot dogs alongside a collection of salads and vegetarian options. Or channel an afternoon in Paris, and walk over to Brasserie du Parc to fill your picnic basket classic brasserie plates, crepes, and more.

Courtesy of @fshouston on Instagram

Downtown Nightlife 

Get your live music fix at The Rustic — a concept by country musician Pat Green. Dance the night away under the venue’s retractable roof. Take the MetroRAIL up and down Main Street to experience downtown’s vibrant bar scene which ranges from historic downtown bar and lounge Dean’s to whimsical mezcaleria The Pastry War. Or grab a group of friends and head to Four Seasons Top Golf Suites.