A Foodies Guide to The Woodlands
Mouthwatering aromas of char-grilled steaks and blackened fish. Innovative desserts crafted with unexpected ingredients. A glass of wine under a fabulous Texas sunset. Few places have the culinary appeal of The Woodlands, where dining is an experience for all the senses. From chef-inspired creations at first-class restaurants to cuisine from around the world, dining at any of the more than 150 restaurants is a true sensory experience that can’t be fully appreciated in just one visit. Come hungry and you’ll always leave wanting more.
See why The Woodlands is such an amazing destination for foodies below, then sample it all for yourself when you visit.
THERE ARE PLENTY OF RESTAURANTS WITH GREAT VIEWS
A hearty serving of your favorite meal is a wonderful thing, but pairing it with a fantastic view makes it even better. Nearly everywhere you look in The Woodlands, you’ll find a multitude of restaurants that offer al fresco dining. Toast a vibrant sunset over Lake Woodlands with a craft margarita, and sizzling fajitas from the patio at Escalante’s Fine Tex-Mex, one of several waterside restaurants in Hughes Landing. The neon-lit trees that line The Woodlands Waterway create a romantic backdrop for an evening at Churrasco’s, where flaky empanadas, bacon-wrapped stuffed shrimp, and a host of savory steaks perfectly compliment something from the impressive cocktail and wine menu. With a host of restaurants offering outdoor dining in Waterway Square, you can't go wrong.
If you’re in the mood for health-conscious fare and some fresh air, head to True Food Kitchen. Perched on the outer edge of Market Street, this chic eatery serves up everything from grass-fed steak tacos and lasagna Bolognese to turkey burgers and cauliflower polenta. The eclectic menu has ample options for vegans and vegetarians, and its diverse selection of cocktails, beer, and wine offers much to taste and delight in.
These are just a few of the many restaurants with patios in The Woodlands, so grab your friends (or your sweetheart) and enjoy outdoor dining at its finest.

Town Green Park
Town Green Park is a four-acre green space that features a large lawn that plays host to some of the largest events in The Woodlands like The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival... Learn More
Lake Woodlands
The Woodlands is known as an oasis on the water surrounded by the woods, and Lake Woodlands is a premier spot to experience it firsthand. This 200-acre freshwater lake offers... Learn More
Places to Stay
When you book a room in The Woodlands, you’ll rest easy knowing all of our hotels offer prime locations, amenities and value regardless of where you stay. If that doesn’t... Learn More
Lakes Edge Boat House
The best way to take advantage of the mild weather and abundance of water throughout The Woodlands is to spend the day paddle boarding or kayaking in The Woodlands. Lakes Edge... Learn More
Town Center Trolley
The Trolley provides easy transportation along a 4.1-mile route connecting The Woodlands Mall, Market Street, The Woodlands Waterway, and Hughes Landing. This free... Learn More
Hughes Landing
Hughes Landing is a 66-acre mixed-use upscale “lifestyle” development that features Restaurant Row. Here can you go to enjoy great food, live music, shopping, the arts, boat... Learn More
Visitor Info Center
The Visitor information desk at Market Street offers a variety of services and assistance to visitors of The Woodlands. Through a partnership between Market Street and Visit... Learn More
Market Street
Market Street offers luxury boutique shopping in an open-air main street atmosphere. You’ll love their complimentary umbrellas and on-site concierge with a bag check and... Learn More
The Woodlands Mall
Head to The Woodlands Mall, a distinguished fashion center with more than 160 shops and restaurants under one roof, for unbelievable finds. This luxury mall has fine dining,... Learn More
Riva Row Boat House
The best way to take advantage of the mild weather and abundance of water throughout The Woodlands is to spend the day paddle boarding or kayaking in The Woodlands. Riva Row... Learn More
Swan Boats
Enjoy a fun afternoon pedaling down The Woodlands Waterway on a swan boat. Riva Row Boat House offers a variety of rentals for water recreation including swan boats, water... Learn More
Waterway Square
Waterway Square features a water fountain with synchronized choreography to music, along with a variety of outdoor art. The one-acre public plaza is the home of Waterway... Learn More
The Woodlands Waterway
The Woodlands Waterway can be considered the lifeblood of the city. It winds through the Town Center, spilling into Lake Woodlands and connecting all the attractions along its... Learn More
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
The Woodlands is home to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, one of the most popular places for concerts and live music. Consistently ranked as one of the “Top 10 Outdoor... Learn More
Texas TreeVentures
Texas TreeVentures is an outdoor aerial adventure course that will have you climbing to new heights! Set amongst the trees, this unique course is both mentally and physically... Learn More
Golf
From disc golf with the family or a serious round of PGA approved golf with the gang, The Woodlands area has plenty of options to fulfill all of your golf needs. Area courses... Learn MoreHIGH-END RESTAURANTS OFFER UPSCALE NIGHTS OUT
Pan-seared Japanese scallops, wagyu ribeye steaks, ravioli stuffed with veal, and a globe-spanning selection of red and white wine. Whether you’re celebrating something special or you’re seeking your next favorite dish, The Woodlands is the place to be. Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of northern Italy at Avanti Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, where such dishes Lasagna della Nonna and Salmone alla Griglia are prepared using house-made pastas, braised meats, and the freshest seafood around. Sip on one of more than 250 wines, then treat yourself to the positively decadent, espresso-soaked tiramisu or the delightful crème brûlée.
Want to try something new? TRIS’ menu takes you on a culinary journey to places your palate has never been. Choose from such chef-inspired creations as Patagonian toothfish served with wasabi-braised rutabaga or Texas exotic venison, with octopus a la plancha or lamb lollipops as a starter. A variety of cuts of steak, including aged wagyu, are served alongside inventive cocktails and a tempting array of craft beer and wine.
Speaking of steaks, they are also the specialty of Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House. Stepping inside the restaurant is a true sensory experience, and the range of flavors on the menu will make deciding what to order a challenging (but worthwhile) task. All cuts of steak, including the 20-ounce prime ribeye, are broiled at 1,600 degrees to perfection, while the variety of seafood will have pescatarians salivating. Fill your glass with something from the impressive wine list and you’ve got all the makings for a spectacular night out.
Wine Around The World Wednesday
June 07, 2023 The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center Read MoreYOU CAN TASTE CUISINE FROM AROUND THE WORLD
One of the best things about traveling is getting to try new foods that expand your palate. Come to The Woodlands and you’ll discover that all the flavors of the world are never far away. From Cajun and Caribbean to French and Vietnamese fare, The Woodlands serves up a culinary voyage unlike any other. You don’t even need your passport. Start your day like a Parisian with pillowy crepes stuffed with scrambled eggs and other goodies at Sweet Paris Creperie & Café. Stop by later in the day for a Nutella dessert crepe topped with strawberries and bananas, a timeless classic that will have you feeling like you’re on the other side of the world.
Head to southern Brazil for the full churrasco experience at Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, where succulent steaks, pieces of bacon-wrapped chicken, and more are cut right at your table. Get your fill from the eatery’s Market Table, a colorful display of traditional Brazilian fare like feijoada, a black-bean stew served over white rice, as well as specialty salads and seasonal salads. If sushi is more to your liking, find yourself at Sakekawa Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar. Creative rolls with fresh fish; hibachi dinners served with soup, salad, sautéed vegetables, and grilled filet mignon, chateaubriand steak, or sea bass; and some hot sake. What more could you ask for?
HAPPY HOUR IS A SERIOUS BUSINESS
What’s better than drinks with some of your favorite people? Happy hour, of course! The Woodlands is full of unique happy hour spots that have the kind of vibe you prefer. Take in the elegant ambience at The Refuge Bar & Bistro, one of many happy hour spots in Waterway Square, they offer more than 40 cocktails crafted with premium spirits. If you're more of a craft beer drinker, Local Pour has 40 beers on draft and a broad wine selection.
The dark woods and industrial vibe at Jasper’s Gourmet Backyard Cuisine sets the stage for daily afternoon happy hour, but the classic cocktails and Texas beers will make you want to hang out for a while. For lovers of merlots and viogniers, Cru: A Wine Bar is a must visit. Choose from one of 300 bottles of wine from the four corners of the earth and sip the afternoon away as you nosh on a goat cheese beignet or a margherita pizza. It's just one of the many happy hour options at Market Street.
Regardless of the kind of beverage you’re interested in, you’ll find the happy hour for you in The Woodlands. See the complete list of where to enjoy happy hour in The Woodlands here.
UNIQUE DESSERT SPOTS ARE EVERYWHERE
Everyone knows that dessert is the most important meal of the day, and The Woodlands is just the place to be when you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. As appealing as the lava cake and carrot cake are at The Kitchen, the old-fashioned milkshakes made with whole milk and ice cream just might be the star of the show. Divine combinations like cherry amaretto ice cream with chocolate syrup and Chantilly cream and lemon cheesecake ice cream combined with graham cracker crumbles and fresh lemon mean you can’t go wrong with what you choose.
Colorful, delicate, and oh-so delicious, the tiny confections at MACARON by Patisse provide a carnival of tastes that will have you asking for more. Flavors like red velvet, mint chocolate, and blueberry vanilla bean keep things fresh every time you visit. Get a macaron ice cream sandwich or a push pop if you’re in the mood for a frosty treat. Want to indulge on the go? Taste the kaleidoscope of flavors at Popbar Market Street, purveyors of handcrafted gelato on a stick that you can dip and choose your own toppings.
When it comes to all things sugary sweet, The Woodlands can’t be beat. Make sure to leave some space for dessert. You’ll thank us later.
Coffee Spots Worth a Visit in The Woodlands
Coffee enthusiasts and caffeine lovers… this one is for you! Whether you are grabbing a quick to-go cup on the way to the office or you are taking some much needing time off and cozying up with a cup of...
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Waterfront Dining in The Woodlands
One of the best parts about living in and visiting The Woodlands is the beautiful Waterway that runs throughout the area. There are many restaurants and bars that offer a seat with a waterway view. Here are a...
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