A Taste of New Orleans in Houston
Brennan’s of Houston has been a staple in the city since its 1967 opening. The restaurant’s rich history and delicious Creole cuisine have made it a beloved destination for Houstonians and visitors alike.
A Family Legacy
The Brennan family’s legacy in the restaurant industry dates back to the early 1900s, when Owen Brennan’s Irish grandparents and their six children settled in New Orleans. In 1943, during World War II, Owen Brennan purchased the Old Absinthe House on Bourbon Street, which marked the beginning of the family’s journey in the restaurant business. Three years later, Owen founded his family’s namesake restaurant across the street from the bar, where the famous bananas Foster dish was created.
The Story Behind Bananas Foster
The story behind bananas Foster is a fascinating one. The dish was created when Owen’s brother, John, who had married into a family with a fruit-importing business, had an oversupply of bananas at the port that were being dumped into the river. John’s father-in-law suggested sending them to the restaurant, where the kitchen transformed them into the now-famous recipe. The dish is flambéed tableside with Caribbean rum, dusted with cinnamon, and served over vanilla bean ice cream.
Expansion to Houston
In the mid-1950s, the Brennan family moved their restaurant to its current space on Royal Street in New Orleans. The next logical step was to expand beyond Louisiana, and Houston, a city with a symbiotic relationship with New Orleans, was the perfect choice. The family searched for a space in Houston and found a property that was nearly a replica of their restaurant building in Louisiana. Brennan’s of Houston opened in 1967, and it has since become a destination for those seeking a taste of the French Quarter without the six-hour drive.
A Hollywood Connection
Brennan’s of Houston has also been featured in the 1983 film Terms of Endearment, which was filmed on location at the restaurant. The movie’s lunch scene was shot in what is now known as the "Terms of Endearment room," which has since been redesigned as part of the restaurant’s renovation of the Courtyard Bar. A photograph of the lunch scene is still on display in the new bar.
Menu and Hospitality
The restaurant’s menu features staples such as Haute Creole seafood gumbo, shrimp remoulade, and snapping turtle soup. Seasonal plates like crawfish enchiladas blend Tex-Mex and Creole traditions, while the chef’s table experience debuts inventive dishes inspired by the team’s creativity. The hospitality at Brennan’s is woven into every detail, from the pickled deviled eggs and hearty muffuletta sliders on the back patio to the refreshed drink menu featuring cocktails like the Parisian Gas Lamp.
A Labor of Love
Brennan-Martin, who has been part of the family business since 1984, says that running a restaurant is a labor of love. Despite the challenges the industry poses, he believes that giving up is never an option. The success stories, loyalty, and commitment of the restaurant’s staff to serve Houstonians are what keep the family restaurant going. Brennan-Martin often adheres to his uncle Dick Brennan’s enduring motto: "We’ve got the easiest business in the world. When our customers walk in the front door, they’re in a good mood. Let’s not screw it up."
Conclusion
Brennan’s of Houston is a true Houston institution, with a rich history and a commitment to serving delicious Creole cuisine. From its humble beginnings in New Orleans to its current status as a beloved destination in Houston, the restaurant has remained true to its roots while evolving to meet the changing tastes of its customers. Whether you’re a longtime Houstonian or just visiting the city, Brennan’s of Houston is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of New Orleans in the heart of Texas.
