‘Fine casual’ dining with killer cocktails | Go inside Brennan’s renovated courtyard bar in Houston

In this episode of “Eat Like a Local”, we’re heading to a place that’s really special to me, Brennan’s of Houston. I spent nine incredible years there during my early culinary and wine life. Honestly, that time shaped so much of who I am today. I learned what it means to truly run a restaurant, to lead a kitchen, and to be part of something bigger than yourself.

• Watch “Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC and KPRC 2+

Getting to sit down and interview the very people who taught me so much, it’s just pure joy. I have a million great memories and stories from those years, and so many friendships that are still going strong today. Brennan’s helped set me on the path that led me right here with all of you, and I’ll always be grateful for that.

Now, let’s talk about what’s happening today. The team at Brennan’s recently did a little remodeling, and y’all… the new Courtyard Bar is absolutely stunning. It’s got energy, it’s got life, and it’s got some seriously good drinks. We’re talking killer cocktails, a sharp wine list, and a bar menu that’s next level.

• PREVIOUS EPISODE: Houston’s pizza scene is rising: Chris Shepherd explores top spots for every style

And since it’s the Brennan’s team behind this new bar, you know they went beyond expectations. Most restaurant bars give you a paired down version of their dining room menu or maybe a few fun apps to share at the bar. Not here.

Brennan’s lets you go all in - you can order anything from their dining room menu or try something from their new bar-specific menu.

You can grab a bowl of gumbo, a Po’ Boy, or go all out with the Hot Dog and Slider Tower. Yep, you heard that right. Imagine a seafood tower but swap the ice and oysters for house-made prime ground brisket sliders, mini-Full Tilt hot dogs dressed with southern chow-chow served with creole fries and andouille queso. It’s a total party move and a perfect example of what I call Fine Casual—they nailed it.

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I enjoyed making it. It means so much to share these stories, these restaurants, and our local food ways with you. Thanks for following along as we continue our search for what’s next!

-- Chris Shepherd, Host of “Eat Like a Local”

“Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” is your guide to the best food in Houston. Watch new episodes Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.

Season 3 of “Eat Like a Local”

• SEASON 3, EPISODE 56: Season 3 of ‘Eat Like a Local’ launches with chefs recognized by the James Beard Awards
• SEASON 3, EPISODE 57: Beer + Bites: Discover two of the Houston-area’s best craft breweries
• SEASON 3, EPISODE 58: Hungry for a short trip? 4 flavorful restaurants to try in Baytown
• SEASON 3, EPISODE 59: Not your typical Chinese takeout! Houston’s regional Chinese restaurants serve up authenticity in every bite
• SEASON 3, EPISODE 60: From tortas to paletas: Generations of Mexican-American flavor in Houston
• SEASON 3, EPISODE 61: Farmed Fresh: Gulf Coast oysters make waves in Houston restaurants
• SEASON 3, EPISODE 62: Houston’s pizza scene is rising: Chris Shepherd explores top spots for every style
• Watch seasons 1 & 2 of “Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd”