Let’s face it: life in Houston moves fast. Between work, family, social commitments, and the ever-present Houston traffic, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a luxury. Sometimes, you just want a great meal without the fuss of grocery shopping, chopping vegetables, and washing dishes. Or maybe you’re a visitor eager to experience Houston’s renowned culinary scene but prefer the comfort of your hotel room or a picnic in the park. Fortunately, Houston’s restaurant scene has wholeheartedly embraced the “to-go” concept, offering an incredible array of options to satisfy any craving. From casual burger joints to upscale dining establishments, the best to go food Houston caters to every taste and budget. This article serves as your guide to navigating this delicious landscape and discovering some of the finest to-go experiences this amazing city has to offer.
Houston offers a diverse food scene, with almost every type of international cuisine and local Texas fare available. With the many options, it can be difficult to determine which place offers the best to go food Houston. We have curated this list based on the following factors. We have considered food quality, speed of service, packaging to ensure the food travels well, variety of options on the menu, availability for online ordering and delivery, and finally the price point of the food.
Casual Delights for Takeout: Houston’s Best
When you’re craving something quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious, Houston’s casual to-go scene is a true treasure trove. Here are a few standouts that consistently deliver on flavor and convenience:
Burger Bliss at Lankford Grocery & Market
This Houston institution is legendary for its burgers, and thankfully, they’re just as good taken home as they are enjoyed at their picnic tables. Order online for a quick pick up. The burgers are well packed and still juicy when you get home. The juicy patties, the perfectly melted cheese, and the toasted buns make it the perfect burger, and a must-try when in Houston.
Tex-Mex Fiesta from El Tiempo Cantina
For a Tex-Mex fix that travels well, El Tiempo Cantina is a sure bet. Their sizzling fajitas, enchiladas, and signature margaritas (to-go, of course!) are perfect for a casual family dinner at home. They are committed to making your takeout experience seamless, with efficient online ordering and clearly designated pick-up zones.
Pizza Perfection at Pizaro’s Pizza Napoletana
Craving authentic Neapolitan pizza without the wait? Pizaro’s is the answer. Their wood-fired pizzas, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, hold up surprisingly well during transport. The crust is still crispy when you get home, and the flavors are amazing. Order online, and you can select the time you want to pick it up.
Vietnamese Goodness at Crawfish & Noodles
Houston’s Vietnamese food scene is exceptional, and Crawfish & Noodles is a prime example. While known for their Viet-Cajun crawfish, their pho, spring rolls, and noodle dishes are also fantastic options for to-go. Be sure to try their garlic noodles, which are a flavorful and satisfying meal on their own.
Quick Lunch on the Go: Houston’s Speedy Solutions
Lunchtime often demands speed and efficiency. These Houston spots are experts at getting you a delicious and satisfying lunch in a flash:
Tacos A Go-Go
For a quick and flavorful taco fix, Tacos A Go-Go is a Houston staple. Their tacos are packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Place your order online or by phone, and your lunch will be ready in minutes.
Local Foods
If you’re looking for healthy and flavorful lunch options, Local Foods is a great choice. Their sandwiches, salads, and soups are made with locally sourced ingredients. They are committed to sustainability and use eco-friendly packaging.
Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen Restaurant
Indulge in a New York style deli, from pastrami to corned beef. All sandwiches are packed very well and can feed two people each. They also have soups and potato salad that are a must try. Place your order online and they will bring it to your car.
Healthy and Nutritious Takeout: Houston’s Wholesome Options
Eating healthy on the go can be a challenge, but Houston offers plenty of restaurants that prioritize fresh ingredients and balanced meals:
Salata
Create your own custom salad or wrap at Salata, choosing from a wide variety of fresh greens, vegetables, lean proteins, and flavorful dressings. It’s a customizable and healthy option that’s perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
Flower Child
With a menu focused on fresh, organic ingredients and globally inspired flavors, Flower Child offers a range of healthy and delicious options for to-go. From salads and bowls to wraps and entrees, there’s something for everyone.
Verdine
Located in the Heights, Verdine offers great vegan and vegetarian options. They have a small menu and rotate it depending on the season. Everything is made fresh and very nutritious. Order ahead to pick it up or have it delivered through their website.
Treat Yourself: Fine Dining at Home
Sometimes, you want a truly special meal without the hassle of cooking. These Houston restaurants offer exceptional takeout experiences that bring the fine dining experience to your home:
Uchi
While a reservation at Uchi is highly coveted, their to-go menu allows you to experience their innovative sushi and Japanese cuisine from the comfort of your own dining room. The presentation is still impeccable, and the flavors are as vibrant as ever. Be sure to call in to order.
Brennan’s of Houston
This Houston institution offers a refined dining experience with a Creole twist. Their to-go menu features classic dishes like turtle soup, shrimp remoulade, and bananas Foster, all packaged with the same attention to detail as their in-house service. Call in advance to order.
Da Marco
The top Italian restaurant in Houston also does take out. Order your delicious pasta dishes for your next romantic night in. They are committed to using fresh, seasonal ingredients in the pasta dishes. The tiramisu is a must try as well.
Houston’s Hidden Gems for Takeout
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Houston boasts a wealth of hidden gems offering exceptional to-go experiences. These are the places locals swear by, and they’re definitely worth seeking out:
The Kolache Shoppe
A Houston staple for freshly baked kolaches, these Czech pastries are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on the go. With both sweet and savory options, there’s something for everyone.
Roostar Vietnamese Grill
Roostar is a local favorite with multiple locations around the city. Their banh mi sandwiches are legendary. They are packed with fresh ingredients and authentic Vietnamese flavors.
Gatlin’s BBQ
For true Texas BBQ, Gatlin’s is a must. Their brisket, ribs, and sausage are smoked to perfection. Order online for a quick and easy pick-up, and enjoy a delicious barbecue feast at home.
Tips for Ordering To-Go Like a Pro in Houston
Navigating Houston’s to-go scene can be an art. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth and delicious experience:
Plan Ahead: Especially for popular restaurants, consider placing your order in advance, particularly during peak hours (lunch and dinner).
Embrace Online Ordering: Most restaurants offer online ordering through their website or third-party delivery apps. This saves time and often allows you to customize your order.
Check for Specials and Discounts: Many restaurants offer special to-go deals or discounts, so be sure to check their website or social media pages.
Consider Packaging: Think about how well the food will travel. Soups and sauces can be messy, so opt for restaurants with secure packaging.
Inquire About Allergy Information: If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods.
Double-Check Your Order: Before leaving the restaurant, double-check your order to ensure everything is correct and complete.
Conclusion: Houston’s To-Go Scene is a Winner
Houston’s to-go food scene is a vibrant and diverse reflection of the city’s culinary landscape. From quick and casual bites to sophisticated fine dining experiences, there’s something for everyone seeking delicious meals on the move. The best to go food Houston provides caters to the busy professional, the family on the go, and the traveler seeking a taste of the city’s diverse flavors. So, embrace the convenience and explore the incredible array of to-go options available in Houston. Don’t be afraid to try new things and discover your own favorite to-go spots.
This list is by no means exhaustive, as Houston’s culinary scene is constantly evolving. What are your favorite to-go spots in Houston? Share your recommendations in the comments below! We’re always looking for new hidden gems to add to our list. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, authentic Tex-Mex, or a healthy salad, Houston has the perfect to-go option for you.
