HOUSTON, Texas – Houston is often recognized for its traffic and its vibrant food scene, at least in some households.
Regardless of whether you agree, it’s undeniable that Houston’s culinary landscape is bustling.
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In celebration of Black History Month, here are a few Black-owned restaurants in the city that are worth a visit.
Frenchy’s Chicken
Specifically, the original location in Third Ward is a must-visit. However, no matter which location you choose, be sure to try this Houston staple, renowned for its authentic Southern and Creole flavors since 1969. If you’re unsure of what to order, you can’t go wrong with one of their chicken meals, fish, and Southern sides.
Burn’s BBQ
If you’re in search of top-notch BBQ, look no further—this is the place to be. Burns BBQ has been perfecting its craft since 1973, offering delicious food and fostering community in the Acres Home area. Whether you visit the original location or any other, you might encounter long lines, but rest assured, it’s worth the wait.
CHÒPNBLỌK
This relatively new restaurant is introducing traditional West African dishes and cuisine to the Houston area. The flavors are bold, powerful, and fresh.
“I grew up in a Nigerian household and my grandmother instilled a sense of pride upon me about my heritage,” owner Ope Amosu said in an interview with Black Enterprise. “Like many other West Africans and West African-Americans who grew up in the U.S. over the 1980s through now, our pride was often challenged when we assimilated with broader society. This was usually rooted in ignorance surrounding West African culture.”
The first stand-alone restaurant opened in 2024 in Montrose after three years of serving Jollof jambalaya, stewed plantains, and other creative West African dishes out of Post Houston’s food hall.
Lucille’s
A Houston staple since 2012, this Southern cuisine restaurant is known for serving some of the best brunch in the city. On weekends, the line for dishes like catfish and grits, shrimp and grits, and the oxtail omelet is always long, but Houstonians insist it’s a must-try.
The Breakfast Klub
The Breakfast Klub, situated in Houston’s Midtown neighborhood, has been recognized as one of the best breakfast restaurants in the nation by Good Morning America, USA Today, and Forbes Magazine. Offering traditional breakfast dishes like fish, fried chicken, waffles, eggs, and grits, you might find yourself waiting for your meal, but the generous portions and Southern flair will have you coming back for more.
Triple J’s Smokehouse
Located on the north side of Houston, this mom-and-pop BBQ smokehouse has been serving the community since 1994. Known for its huge stuffed baked potatoes, smoked brisket, and sausage on a stick, it’s another Houston-area favorite for those craving delicious BBQ meats.
Cool Runnings
This Jamaican and Caribbean restaurant is introducing jerk chicken, oxtail rice and peas, and authentic Caribbean cuisine to the Houston area. Located at 8270 W Belfort Ave., it is open seven days a week.
The Honey Hole
The new brunch bar in Uptown Houston is celebrated not only for its brunch and dinner menu, featuring dishes like stuffed French toast, wings, and funnel cake, but also for its Instagram-worthy aesthetic.
Taste Kitchen + Bar
Situated in downtown Houston, this brunch restaurant offers not only delicious food but also a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for brunch with friends, special events, dates, or just because. It’s also renowned for its crafty cocktails and unique twists on dessert favorites like vodka peach cobbler, bourbon pecan pie, and vodka cotton candy.
Davis Street at Hermann Park
Chef Mark Holley is blending New Orleans flavors with the international flair of Mexico’s Oaxacan cuisine, hints of spice from Vietnam, and quintessential Caribbean zest at Davis Street, introducing Southern soul to modern elegance. Currently, guests can enjoy their winter prix-fixe dinner menu for $60 per person, which includes bread, two courses, and a dessert.
Gotti’s
Founded in 2021 by Irv “Gotti,” a native Houstonian and entrepreneur from Third Ward, this Cajun and Creole restaurant specializes in fried catfish, shrimp and grits, chicken fried chicken, fried lobster, cornbread hushpuppies, and a selection of soul food dishes.
Mo’ Brunch and Brews
For those seeking vegan delights, Mo’Brunch is a true gem in the Houston community. This spot combines brunch, coffee, and nostalgic vibes with its collection of vinyl records, creating an atmosphere you’ll never want to leave. As for the food, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re eating traditional meat dishes, but everything is vegan and fresh. From boudain balls to shrooms and grits, this brunch and coffee shop has you covered in the best way. It’s located at 1201 Southmore Blvd.