South of the city lie suburban areas that have become part of Houston’s sprawling metropolis, but they still retain their own character. Bellaire abuts the West University area and has seen an influx of various cuisines, including the countless restaurants that abound in its Asiatown—one of the largest in the southern United States. Meyerland is further west and has long been considered the heart of the Jewish community in Houston.
Both areas have vibrant communities that have weathered construction and natural disasters, yet the neighborhoods remain resilient. That strength can be seen in the businesses and family-owned restaurants that continue to thrive despite the challenges they have faced.
Consider this guide of some of the best restaurants that populate the area—from trusted standbys to some new spots worthy of a try.
Exodus Bar & Grill
Once home to Genesis Steakhouse & Wine Bar, this Meyerland establishment recently rebranded as Exodus after losing its kosher certification. Guests will still find a nice atmosphere with a Texas twang. Owner Jason Goldstein and executive chef Arturo Macias have created an extensive menu from sushi and burgers, to premium steaks and fresh seafood. While the restaurant is no longer kosher, guests can ask for kosher beef or chicken for an additional cost. Some of the specialties include pecan Texas fried chicken and smoked brisket bolognese. 80 Braeswood Sq., Houston, exodusbarandgrill.com
Aya Sushi
Leading the kitchen at this Japanese restaurant and sushi bar is Tokyo-trained chef Yoshi Katsuyama. Not only does his resume include restaurants like Uchi and Soto, but he has created a following for his big personality, making his omakase experience one of the most unique in Houston. The bites are curated by chef Yoshi and often include a mix of sashimi, nigiri, tempura, and pork belly or wagyu beef. There is an extensive a la carte menu, plus one of the largest sake lists in the country. The interior is just as pleasing as the food, with warm wood finishes and lighted beams overhead. Aya’s happy hour is a perfect way to get acquainted with the menu before splurging on the full omakase experience. 5407A Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire, ayasushi.com
Betsy’s at Evelyn’s Park
Betsy’s is located in a bright yellow house at Evelyn’s Park, which is always buzzing with family-friendly events, activities, and fitness classes. The inside is airy and bright, and there are picnic tables outside, shaded by huge oak trees. Part of Adair Concepts, Betsy’s menu is casual with items such as chicken tender baskets and fish tacos, and there is a dedicated kids menu too. Grown ups will appreciate the wine and cocktail list, plus a generous weekday happy hour. The breakfast taco shop is open daily until noon. 4400 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire, betsysbellaire.com
Blood Brothers BBQ
The story behind this acclaimed barbecue joint is about as Houston as it gets. Founded by three childhood friends from Alief, Blood Brothers BBQ has become one of the most popular spots to grab some 44 Farms Texas brisket that might be rubbed with Chinese spices, or a Creole-style boudin that gets a kick of green curry. The pitmasters create new items on a daily basis, but guests will usually find gochujang pork ribs and brisket fried rice on offer. The pork belly burnt ends are heavenly. There’s a reason this restaurant received a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide, and that’s just one of its many accolades. 5425 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire, bloodbrosbbq.com
Cafe Piquet
You don’t have to go to Miami to find true Cuban cuisine in the states. This family-owned cafe has been serving its generational Cuban recipes for two decades in Bellaire. The interior echoes the welcoming vibe of a family home, while the outdoor gazebo is a charming place to enjoy a mojito al fresco. There are simple bites like ham croquettes, beef empanadas, and a loaded El Cubano sandwich, but also specialty dishes such as ropa vieja and picadillo. Most entrees are served with a side of congri, a mix of rice, black beans, and ham bits. 5757 Bissonnet St., Bellaire, cafepiquet.net
Dandelion Cafe
There are now three locations of this coffee shop and daytime cafe, which first opened in Bellaire in 2016. Its all-day breakfast includes breakfast tacos, build-your-own omelettes, and a decadent lemon blueberry French toast made with brioche. The lunch menu features sandwiches like turkey, club, or smoked salmon, plus a super food salad that will fulfill your nutritional needs for the day. Check out daily specials like Taco Tuesday, and Mimosa Monday with buy one, get a second for a penny, mimosas. 5405 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire, dandelioncafehouston.com
KP’s Kitchen
Chef-owner Kerry Pauly expanded his modern American bistro to Bellaire in 2024. It offers a similar menu to its Spring Branch predecessor with items like the crispy cauliflower and 12-hour ribs. There are daily specials, including the Tuesday $12 KP double cheeseburgers and fries, and Friday fish and chips. Chef Richard Knight recently signed on as culinary director, which means there will be a few new dishes popping up at KP’s, as well as special multi-course dinners. The restaurant has an impressive wine list, plus a full bar. 5427 Bissonnet St., Bellaire, kps-kitchen.com
James Coney Island
You’d be hard-pressed to find a Houstonian who hasn’t indulged in a chili dog at some point from this Houston institution. While there aren’t as many outposts around as there used to be, the Meyerland location is still rolling out the Coneys on the southside. There are options like the plain Coney, but most people opt for the original or cheese Coney, because of the chili coney sauce. Find the Coney sauce all over the menu—from Frito pie to chili cheese fries. There are gourmet hot dogs, too, plus a variety of burgers. 530 Meyerland Plz., Houston, jamesconeyisland.com
Lankford’s Bellaire
This is the second location of the iconic burger restaurant, which originally opened as a grocery market in 1937. The family opened the Bellaire spot in 2023, staying true to its legacy menu, while expanding the offerings with self-serve craft beer taps and signature cocktails like the Eydie, a margarita named for Eydie Lankford Prior who operated the business for 50 years. Its claim to fame is its old fashioned hamburger, often ordered with onion rings. There are fancier burgers too, and Texas favorites like Frito pie. The patio is dog-friendly and there is a small play area for human babies. 5208 Bissonnet St., Bellaire, bellaire.lankfordsgrocery.com
Molina’s
Considered to be the oldest Tex-Mex eatery in Houston, Molina’s is still going strong after more than 70 years and is still operated by the Molina family. The Bellaire location is one of three serving its Tex-Mex combos and grilled fajitas. Regulars know to order the Original Jose’s Dip as a cheesy and meaty starter. Weekday lunch specials are served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and include Baja-style fish tacos, grilled pollo salad, and beef enchiladas deluxe. Molina’s serves its famous margarita, plus a wide selection of tequilas. 3801 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire, molinascantina.com
Two Hands Corn Dogs
Korean corn dogs have become a huge hit in Houston, partly due to their viral social media presence. This franchise began in California and offers made-to-order battered corn dogs with all kinds of crazy wrappings, from Flamin’ Hot Cheetos to fried potato cubes. The Injeolmi dog is sprinkled with bean powder and drizzled with a secret lechera-based sauce, creating a sweet and savory corn dog like no other. Diners can customize their dogs with fillings, such as mozzarella and sausage. Sides include kimchi fries and elote, and there is a selection of milk teas and slushes. 9393 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, twohandsus.com
ZOA Moroccan Kitchen
This healthy-eating concept was inspired by owner Youssef Nafaa’s heritage, with a menu of bowls, salads, and Moroccan pitas that can be customized for each diner’s dietary needs. Once guests choose their base, there are halal protein options like beef tagine or chicken chermoula, plus a wide selection of toppings such as garbanzo salad and roasted turmeric cauliflower. The sauces are the best part, with spicy choices such as red harissa, and creamy options like mint avocado yogurt. 6700 S. Rice Ave., Bellaire, zoamoroccan.com
Tapester’s Grill
This family-owned eatery has been serving the Meyerland area its home-cooked comfort food for over a decade. It features a coffee bar with espresso, chai, and matcha beverages that pair perfectly with its sinful stickee cinnamon bun. Breakfast tacos are served daily until 11 a.m. and there’s even a daily brunch with chilaquiles and a loaded shredded steak sandwich. There is a variety of burgers, plus a chicken fried steak that takes up most of the plate. Don’t miss out on the hand-battered onion rings. Cold beer is available, along with a nice selection of wines. 4520 Beechnut St., Houston, tapestergrill.com
