Introduction to Houston’s Theater District
Houston’s Theater District is a vibrant and exciting area that is home to nearly 13,000 seats for live performances, ranking second in the nation in size. This impressive 17-block district plays host to nine world-renowned performing arts organizations, offering some of the best shows you can find anywhere. In addition to the excellent performances, the area is also known for its diverse and delicious dining options.
Top Dining Spots in the Theater District
With Houston Theater Week just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about where to go for a preshow bite. Here are some top picks for dining in the area ahead of a performance.
Andes Cafe
Andes Cafe is a South American restaurant located in Post Market, showcasing dishes from Colombia, Ecuador, Argentina, Bolivia, and Venezuela. Highlights include the refreshing ceviche plates and Peruvian staples like lomo saltado and pollo a la brasa. Diners can also opt for popular street food, including Colombian-inspired beef empanadas and Venezuelan sweet corn pancake.
Barbacana
Barbacana is a newer addition to Houston’s dining scene, located in Downtown. This hidden gem offers a dinner menu filled with smaller, shareable plates, such as Texas Wagyu carpaccio, grilled cauliflower, and butter onions with jumbo crab. The chef’s tasting menu is also available for those who want to try a little bit of everything.
Birraporetti’s
Birraporetti’s is an Italian restaurant located across the street from the Wortham Theater Center. This Theater District mainstay has been open for nearly 50 years and offers favorites like lasagna, crab cakes, and lobster ravioli. The stone-oven cooked pizzas are also worth trying, with toppings like pepperoni, Italian sausage, and chicken Alfredo.
Brennan’s of Houston
Brennan’s of Houston is a Cajun-Creole classic that recently renovated its Courtyard Bar, making it a perfect pre-theater pit stop. While it’s not located directly in the Theater District, Brennan’s offers a shuttle service to the Hobby Center, Alley Theatre, Jones Hall, and Wortham Theatre Center. Diners can enjoy dishes like shrimp rémoulade, jumbo lump crab cakes, and roasted bandera quail.
ChòpnBlok
ChòpnBlok is a West African restaurant with a popular stall in Post Houston’s food hall. This pop-up series turned full-blown restaurant offers nourishing meals with bold spice blends. Must-try dishes include the Motherland, a coconut curry with black-eyed peas and sweet plantains, and the Golden Bowl, made with smoked jollof jambalaya and curry.
Diana American Grill
Diana American Grill is located inside the Hobby Center, making it a convenient option for a pre- or post-performance dinner. The dinner menu includes plates like smoked gouda pimento and cheese, creamy spinach and artichoke dip, and blue crab cake. Main courses include a flavorful Wagyu beef bolognese and a grilled 10-ounce strip loin.
Hearsay Market Square
Hearsay Market Square is a classic gastropub housed in one of Houston’s oldest buildings. The food menu features classic American fare, including rib eye, pork chops, burgers, pastas, and shareables like deviled eggs. The robust wine and cocktail menu makes it a great spot for a quick drink before a show or a long one after curtain call.
Kokoro
Kokoro is a Japanese restaurant located in Bravery Chef Hall, specializing in sushi and yakitori. This innovative restaurant offers a bevy of nigiri and sashimi options, as well as sushi rolls. It’s an ideal spot for a satisfying but light dinner ahead of a performance. Consider starting with one of the restaurant’s crudos before ordering a sushi set, and don’t forget to add some sides, like the chicken fat rice.
Conclusion
Houston’s Theater District is a vibrant and exciting area that offers something for everyone. With its diverse and delicious dining options, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite before or after a show. Whether you’re in the mood for South American cuisine, Italian pasta, or Japanese sushi, there’s a restaurant in the Theater District that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not explore the area and discover your new favorite dining spot? With its rich cultural scene and excellent restaurants, Houston’s Theater District is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves food, theater, and music.
