20 Best Fancy Restaurants in Houston, Texas
Houston’s selection of upscale restaurants invites discerning palates to go on a unique culinary adventure in a city that values culinary quality. These extraordinary restaurants take customers to a world of pleasure and sophistication while captivating them with their painstakingly designed menus. When embarking on the fine dining scene in Houston, use this list of the best as a guide for your excursion.
List of Top 20 fancy restaurants in Houston
Here is the list of the top twenty fancy restaurants in Houston:
- Brenner’s on the Bayou
- The Chef’s Table
- Hearsay On The Waterway
- d’Alba – Garden Oaks
- Gatsby’s Prime Steakhouse
- Musaafer
- Palinuro Italian Cuisine
- Marmo
- Pearl & Vine
- Bludorn
- TRIS
- Steak 48
- Traveler’s Table
- Amrina
- Avanti Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
- Ambrosia
- Bloom & Bee
- Taste of Texas
- Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood & Crab
- Uchi
1. Brenner’s on the Bayou
Address: 1 Birdsall St, Houston, TX 77007
Brenner’s on the Bayou is a classic for Houston residents, established over seven decades ago and impressing patrons ever since. The steakhouse also offers fresh seafood and sits right on Buffalo Bayou, providing a beautiful backdrop to your exquisite meal.
But remember to save room for dessert, as this establishment is known for its decadent treats such as the apple strudel and croissant bread pudding.
Hours
Mon-Wed 5-9 P.M.; Thurs 5-9:30 P.M.; Fri-Sat 5-10 P.M.; Sun 11 A.M.-9 P.M.
2. The Chef’s Table
Address: 110 Vintage Park Blvd Bldg J, Ste P Houston, TX 77070
Renowned chef Paul Friedman opened his newest restaurant, The Chef’s Table, in 2018 after many successful jaunts all over the globe, most recently the South African fusion restaurant Peli Peli.
The Chef’s Table is described as a “culinary journey,” and that it is, offering unique dishes from acorn chili to jerk snapper. The chef himself is known to visit tables to ensure the restaurant is living up to its name.
Hours
Mon-Thurs 11 A.M.-9:30 P.M.; Fri-Sat 11 A.M.-10 P.M.; Sun 11 A.M.-9 P.M.
3. Hearsay On The Waterway
Address: 20 Waterway Ave Ste 105 The Woodlands, TX 77380
This swanky establishment in the Woodlands is both picturesque and memorable. Offering unique brunch dishes such as a short rib hash, as well as a fantastic variety for lunch and dinner, you’re sure to find something up your alley here. The venue sits right on the water and serves up an inspiring drink menu to boot.
Hours
Mon-Thurs 11 A.M.-11 P.M.; Fri-Sat 11 A.M.-12 A.M.; Sun 11 A.M.-10 P.M.
4. d’Alba – Garden Oaks
Address: 3715 Alba Rd, Houston, TX 77018
With locations in both the Heights and the Montrose area, d’Alba impresses with its diverse food and cocktail lists. Chefs Geoff Hundt and Mike Hartley from the well-known Local Foods and Brasserie 19, this spot was sure to succeed from the start.
This restaurant does not follow any rules, offering an array of well-balanced dishes, each followed by complementing wine recommendations.
Hours
Mon-Fri 11 A.M.-11 P.M.; St 10 A.M.-11 P.M.; Sun 10 A.M.-9 P.M.
Other Location
Montrose – 3304 Milam St. Houston, TX 77006
5. Gatsby’s Prime Steakhouse
Address: 4319 Montrose Blvd Houston, TX 77006
A classic steakhouse that caters to locals, Gatsby’s Prime serves the best cuts of meat from local farmers. The romantic ambiance and excellent service make this a perfect date night spot. They serve up perfectly cooked steaks on plates heated to 500 degrees to keep your food hot throughout your meal.
Hours
Closed Mon; Sun, Tues-Wed 5-9 P.M.; Thurs 5-10 P.M.; Fri- Sat 5-11 P.M.
6. Musaafer
Address: 5115 Westheimer Rd Ste C-3500 Houston, TX 77056
The best Indian fine dining in Houston, Musaafer’s chefs, led by Executive Chef Mayank Istwal, took a 100-day pilgrimage through India’s 29 states, prompting the restaurant namesake Musaafer, or traveler.
The attention to detail in both their food and the restaurant’s decor is impressive. Reviewers describe feeling “like a guest in an Indian palace” and compliment the chefs’ unique interpretations of classic Indian dishes and flavors.
Hours
Mon-Thurs 5-9 P.M.; Fri 5-11 P.M.; Sat 12-11 P.M.; Sun 12-10 P.M.
7. Palinuro Italian Cuisine
Address: 27131 Cinco Ranch Blvd #650, Katy, TX 77494
The magic in this Katy restaurant is clear in its authentic Italian dishes with big portions and personable owners. Gabriel and Roberto make an effort to know their patrons.
The cheese wheel pasta is certainly their specialty: fresh, homemade pasta is thrown into a parmesan cheese wheel aged over 24 years, tossed then plated with an indulgent serving of black truffles on top.
Hours
Closed Mon; Tues-Wed 5-9 P.M.; Fri-Sat 5-10 P.M.; Sun 5-8 P.M.
8. Marmo
Address: 888 Westheimer Rd Ste 109 Houston, TX 77006
Marmo is an Italian steakhouse with great vibes all around. Usually, there is a live musician performing to set the mood, and the restaurant offers free valet (with validation inside) and a happy hour menu.
The restaurant is known for its squid ink campanelle and juicy porterhouse steaks. The servers are friendly and knowledgeable, making this experience even more enjoyable.
Hours
Sun-Thurs 11 A.M.-10 P.M, Fri-Sat 11 A.M.-12 A.M.
9. Pearl & Vine
Address: 26151 Nelson Way, Katy, TX 77494
Pearl & Vine is a charming Katy restaurant that offers delightful fresh seafood with live music performances every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from 7 to 10 P.M.
The restaurant keeps guests coming back with its seasonal menu, fairly priced wine selection, and an enchanting setting of floor-to-ceiling windows and patio seating by a small lake.
Hours
Mon 4-9 P.M.; Tues-Thurs 4-10 P.M.; Fri 4-11 P.M.; Sat 10:30 A.M.-2 P.M., 4-11 P.M.; Sun 10:30 A.M.-2 P.M., 4-9 P.M.
10. Bludorn
Address: 807 Taft St, Houston, TX 77019
Bludorn is an exceptional restaurant right by Eleanor Tinsley Park that showcases the culinary genius of Michelin-rated chef Aaron Bludorn. With a New American cuisine infused with French-inspired flavors, the restaurant offers a unique and sophisticated dining experience.
Guests can indulge in a decadent array of delicacies such as caviar and seafood towers, carefully crafted with exquisite attention to detail, reflecting Chef Bludorn’s expertise.
Hours
Mon-Thurs 5-10 P.M.; Fri-Sat 5-10:30 P.M.; Sun 11:30 A.M.-2:30 P.M., 5:30-9:30 P.M.
11. TRIS
Address: 24 Waterway Ave #125, The Woodlands, TX 77380
TRIS is an inventive restaurant located in the Woodlands. Executive Chef Austin Simmons is personable and even offers an out-of-restaurant experience if you’re looking to make a night even more special. Cureight at Home is an eight-course fine dining experience that takes place in your own residence, personalized for you and your guests.
Hours
Closed Sun-Mon; Tue-Thurs 4-9 P.M.; Fri-Sat 4-10 P.M.
12. Steak 48
Address: 4444 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77027
Established in 2016 by the acclaimed restaurateurs Jeffrey and Michael Mastro, Steak 48 stands out among numerous River Oaks restaurants by offering guests a unique dining experience every time in its charming and distinct dining nooks.
With a focus on the finest steaks and seafood, the menu showcases the highest quality ingredients prepared to perfection. It’s worth noting that Steak 48 has a dress code, so be sure to check the website before your visit.
Hours
Mon-Thurs 4-10 P.M.; Fri-Sat 4-11 P.M.; Sun 12-9 P.M.
13. Traveler’s Table
Address: 520 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77006
With a globally-inspired menu, a talented team of chefs handpicked dishes from around the world to serve up at Traveler’s Table. This spot is perfect for an upscale night out with a group of people who all crave different flavors. They also serve a decadent brunch with plenty of options!
Hours
Mon-Tues 5-9:30 P.M.; Wed-Thurs 5-10 P.M.; Fri-Sat 10 A.M.-2:30 P.M., 5-11 P.M.; Sun 10 A.M.-2:30 P.M., 5-10 P.M.
14. Amrina
Address: 3 Waterway Square Pl #100, The Woodlands, TX 77380
Amrina is an enchanting restaurant in The Woodlands that specializes in Indian fusion tapas-style dishes. Led by the talented Chef Jassi Bindra, the kitchen at Amirna creates soulful dishes that blend traditional Indian flavors with innovative culinary techniques.
Its open kitchen allows guests to witness the renowned chefs in action. The dining experience at Amrina is even further elevated by their beautiful desserts and inspired cocktails.
Hours
Closed Mon; Tues-Wed 4-9 P.M.; Thurs 4 P.M.-12 A.M.; Fri 4 P.M.-1 A.M.; Sat 5 P.M.-1 A.M.; Sun 5-9 P.M.
15. Avanti Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
Address: Creekside – 8540 Creekside Forest Dr. Ste C-100 The Woodlands, TX 77375
Set in an intimate, quiet, and romantic ambiance, Avanti Italian Kitchen provides the perfect setting for a memorable evening. The exceptional service and management ensure that every guest is warmly welcomed.
The menu brims with authentic options, and the portion sizes are large. Created by the masterminds behind Via Emilia and led by the talented executive chef Luis Gutierrez, Avanti Italian Kitchen presents a true taste of Italy.
Hours
Mon-Thurs 11 A.M.- 10 P.M.; Fri-Sat 11 A.M.-11 P.M.; Sun 11 A.M.-9 P.M.
16. Ambrosia
Address: 2003 Lexington St. Houston, Texas 77098
Only a few minutes from the Museum District, Ambrosia is a unique and cozy restaurant that serves Asian fusion meals with mainly Southeast Asian flavors. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous meal or simply craving a cozy evening filled with exceptional flavors, Ambrosia is a must-visit for those in search of a truly satisfying dining experience.
Hours
Mon 5-8:30 P.M.; Closed Tues; Wed-Thurs 5-9 P.M.; Fri-Sat 5-10 P.M.; Sun 5-9 P.M.
17. Bloom & Bee
Address: 1600 West Lp S Houston, TX 77027
Located in the lobby of the Post Oak Hotel, once you step into Bloom and Bee, you’re sure to know it will be a luxurious experience. The interior is illuminated by natural light during the daytime, and the pink decor plus the lush outdoor seating environment is lovely, so be sure to visit for brunch or lunch. They make their pasta by hand; every ingredient is fresh and locally sourced.
Hours
Sun-Thurs 7 A.M.-9 P.M.; Fri-Sat 7 A.M.-10 P.M.
18. Taste of Texas
Address: 10505 Katy Fwy Houston, TX 77024
Taste of Texas is truly renowned in Houston, established in 1977, and has had impressive patrons ever since. The steakhouse has won many titles for its decorum and is family owned by Nina and Edd Hendee. Their wine list is also award-winning, and every bite is exceptional.
Hours
Mon-Fri 11 A.M.-10 P.M.; Sat-Sun 3 P.M.-10 P.M.
19. Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood & Crab
Address: 5350 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77056
Truluck’s, founded in 1992, is a renowned restaurant that takes pride in its specialty: Florida stone crab claws. When these delectable delicacies are in season (October to April), Truluck’s serves them with utmost freshness and excellence.
However, during other months, they offer Yucatan stone crab, ensuring a consistently fresh and delightful experience. They are captured by a team of professional crabbers who guarantee the highest quality.
Hours
Mon-Thurs 11 A.M.-10 P.M.; Fri 11 A.M.-10:30 P.M.; Sat 12-10:30 P.M.; Sun 2-9 P.M.
20. Uchi
Address: 904 Westheimer Rd Ste A Houston, TX 77006
Founded by the esteemed Chef Tyson Cole, a James Beard Award winner, Uchi showcases a creative and sophisticated Japanese cuisine experience. With flawlessly crafted sushi, seasonal omakase, and the opulent interior of the restaurant, if you’re looking to impress your guests, Uchi is the place to go. You cannot make any wrong choices food-wise, but be sure to save room for a fried milk dessert.
Hours
Sun-Thurs 4-10 P.M.; Fri-Sat 4-11 P.M.
Conclusion
Houston undeniably holds a place of distinction when it comes to fine dining. The city’s best fancy restaurants have truly elevated the culinary scene, showcasing creativity, exceptional flavors and impeccable service.
From elegant ambiance to expertly crafted menus, these establishments offer unforgettable dining experiences. Whether it’s savoring a perfectly seared steak, indulging in innovative seafood dishes or relishing global flavors, Houston’s top fancy restaurants are sure to impress even the toughest of critics.
