Introduction
The roar of the crowd, the squeak of sneakers on the court, the opening chords of your favorite band echoing through the arena – there’s an undeniable energy surrounding an event at Houston’s Toyota Center. But before you immerse yourself in the excitement, or after the final buzzer sounds, there’s a crucial question to answer: where to eat? Navigating the downtown Houston dining scene around a major event can feel overwhelming. Finding a place that’s not only delicious but also convenient and fits your budget can be a challenge, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. This guide provides a carefully curated selection of the best food options near the Toyota Center, covering a spectrum of cuisines, price ranges, and dining experiences, ensuring your pre- or post-event meal is just as memorable as the main attraction. Discover the best of Houston’s downtown dining scene, steps away from the heart of the action!
Quick Bites & Casual Dining Delights
Sometimes, all you need is a quick and satisfying meal before or after an event. These casual dining options offer delicious food without requiring a lengthy commitment, allowing you to maximize your time and get back to the excitement.
Pizza Perfection: Slices of Heaven Near the Arena
For a classic and crowd-pleasing option, pizza is always a winner. One excellent choice is Frank’s Pizza, a Houston institution known for its late-night slices and New York-style pies. Located a short walk from the Toyota Center, Frank’s offers a variety of toppings, affordable prices, and a no-frills atmosphere. It’s perfect for a quick and tasty bite before or after a game. Expect to pay around ten to fifteen dollars for a generous slice or individual pie. Another great option is Pizza Lillo, which provides authentic Italian style pizza and pastas. Offering a slightly higher price point than Frank’s, but well worth it if your looking for authentic Italian food with great flavors. The atmosphere is slightly more up-scale which is perfect for a pre-game meal.
Burger Bliss and Sandwich Sensations: Handheld Happiness
If you’re craving a juicy burger or a satisfying sandwich, downtown Houston has you covered. Hubcap Grill is a local favorite, known for its creative and over-the-top burger creations. Located a short ride from the Toyota Center, Hubcap Grill offers a fun and lively atmosphere, with a menu featuring burgers piled high with unique toppings. Expect to pay around twelve to eighteen dollars for a burger and fries. For a more classic sandwich experience, try Jimmy John’s, known for its quick service and tasty sub sandwiches. Jimmy John’s is a perfect option if you are looking for a quick and affordable meal to bring into the game! This provides a reliable option when you just want something easy!
Fast Casual Flair: Bowls, Tex-Mex, and More
For a fresh and flavorful option, consider one of the many fast-casual restaurants near the Toyota Center. Local Foods offers a variety of healthy and delicious bowls, salads, and sandwiches, using locally sourced ingredients. With several locations downtown, Local Foods is a convenient and healthy choice for a pre- or post-event meal. Expect to pay around fifteen to twenty-five dollars for a satisfying and nutritious meal. If you’re in the mood for Tex-Mex, Freebirds World Burrito allows you to customize your own burrito, bowl, or salad with a wide variety of fillings and toppings. Located a short drive from the arena, Freebirds offers a quick and affordable Tex-Mex fix.
Sit-Down Restaurants & Upscale Dining Experiences
For a more refined dining experience, downtown Houston offers a variety of sit-down restaurants with diverse cuisines and sophisticated atmospheres. These options are perfect for a special occasion or when you want to savor a leisurely meal before or after an event.
Steakhouse Sensations: Indulge in Prime Cuts
For a truly memorable meal, consider one of the steakhouses near the Toyota Center. Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse is a renowned Houston institution, known for its impeccable service, elegant atmosphere, and, of course, its prime cuts of beef. Located a short walk from the arena, Vic & Anthony’s is a popular choice for special occasions and business dinners. Expect to pay a premium for this exceptional dining experience, with entrees ranging from fifty to one hundred dollars or more. Another excellent option is Guard and Grace, a modern steakhouse with a lively atmosphere and a menu featuring both classic and contemporary dishes. With a stylish bar area and a spacious dining room, Guard and Grace is a great choice for a pre- or post-event celebration.
Seafood Sensations: Dive into Fresh Flavors
If you’re a seafood lover, downtown Houston has several excellent options to choose from. McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, as well as steak and other entrees. With a classic and elegant atmosphere, McCormick & Schmick’s is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Expect to pay around thirty to sixty dollars for an entree. Another great option is Truluck’s, which is known for its fresh seafood and classy vibes.
A World of Culinary Delights: Exploring Diverse Cuisines
Beyond steakhouses and seafood, downtown Houston offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. Grotto Ristorante is a popular Italian restaurant, serving classic dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Located a short walk from the Toyota Center, Grotto is a great choice for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. The price is very reasonable and the food is well worth it. For a taste of Asia, consider Huynh Restaurant, a Vietnamese restaurant known for its authentic flavors and affordable prices. Located a short ride from the arena, Huynh is a great choice for a casual and flavorful meal.
Bars & Pubs with Food: Game Day Grub and Lively Libations
If you’re looking for a place to grab a drink and a bite to eat while catching up on the latest sports scores, downtown Houston has plenty of bars and pubs to choose from.
Sports Bar Spectacles: Cheers to Your Favorite Team
For a classic sports bar experience, check out Lucky’s Pub, a lively spot with multiple TVs, a wide selection of beers, and a menu featuring pub fare like burgers, wings, and nachos. Located a short walk from the Toyota Center, Lucky’s Pub is a popular choice for pre- and post-game celebrations. Little Woodrow’s is another great choice known for its friendly atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and patio seating.
Craft Beer & Cocktail Creations: Sip and Savor
If you’re a fan of craft beer or creative cocktails, downtown Houston has several bars that cater to discerning palates. Flying Saucer Draught Emporium offers a wide selection of craft beers from around the world, as well as a menu featuring pub fare and international cuisine. It’s a great place to discover new brews and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. If cocktails are more your style, check out Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar & Spirit Lodge, which offers a creative cocktail menu in a dimly lit and atmospheric setting.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Restaurant Near the Toyota Center
With so many options to choose from, selecting the perfect restaurant near the Toyota Center requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Proximity: How far are you willing to walk from the arena? Some restaurants are located within a block or two, while others require a longer walk or a short ride.
Price: Establish your budget beforehand. Options range from affordable fast-casual restaurants to upscale steakhouses.
Time: How much time do you have before or after the event? Quick bites are ideal for those in a hurry, while sit-down restaurants are better suited for leisurely meals.
Group Size: Is the restaurant suitable for large groups? Some restaurants have limited seating or may require reservations for larger parties.
Reservations: Are reservations recommended, especially on event nights? Reserving a table in advance can save you time and ensure you get a table at your preferred restaurant.
Dietary Needs: Does the restaurant offer options for dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan dishes?
Parking: Evaluate the Parking situation and make sure there is easily accessible parking.
Getting Around: Transportation and Parking Near the Toyota Center
Navigating downtown Houston can be challenging, especially on event nights. Consider these transportation and parking options:
Toyota Center Parking Garages: The Toyota Center has several parking garages located nearby. However, parking can be expensive and fill up quickly on event nights.
Downtown Parking Garages: Several public parking garages are located throughout downtown Houston. These garages may offer more affordable rates than the Toyota Center garages.
Public Transportation: Houston’s Metro Rail system has several stations near the Toyota Center. Taking the train can be a convenient and affordable way to get to and from the arena.
Ride-Sharing Services: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in downtown Houston. These services can be a convenient option, especially if you plan on having drinks.
Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of Downtown Houston
As you can see, the area surrounding the Toyota Center boasts a diverse and exciting culinary landscape. From quick and casual bites to upscale dining experiences, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. Planning your dining experience in advance will not only enhance your overall event experience but also allow you to discover some of Houston’s hidden culinary gems. Take the time to explore these recommendations, make a reservation if necessary, and prepare to savor the flavors of downtown Houston before or after your next event at the Toyota Center. Your taste buds will thank you! So, whether you are looking for a quick bite, or an exquisite dine in experience, Houston provides all that you are looking for!
