Looking for the best places to eat and drink in Upper Kirby and Greenway Plaza, Houston? This vibrant pocket of the city is home to some of Houston’s most beloved locally owned restaurants, bars, and coffee shops—all within walking distance of Lodgeur Upper Kirby and nearby neighborhoods. From Gulf Coast seafood in a vintage railcar to craft cocktails overlooking Levy Park, Upper Kirby blends big-city flavor with a distinctly local touch. Whether you’re planning a date night, happy hour, brunch, or just a casual coffee run, these Houston originals deliver.
A Houston-owned dessert shop since 1995, Dessert Gallery on Kirby Drive is famous for its decadent cakes, pies, and cookies. With colorful displays and cozy seating, it’s a sweet stop after dinner in Upper Kirby or for a midday coffee. If you’re searching for the best dessert in Upper Kirby Houston, this is the place.
Top recommendations: Mom’s Chocolate Cake, Italian Cream Cake, Tres Leches, and a brookie (brownie and cookie combo) paired with a latte.
Just across from Levy Park, Slowpokes Kirby Grove is a locally owned coffee shop serving locally roasted beans, pastries, and light bites. With plenty of seating, beer, and wine, it’s a flexible spot for working, relaxing, or meeting friends. A prime example of Houston coffee culture in Upper Kirby, it’s both casual and community-focused.
Top recommendations: Cold brew or flat white, seasonal latte, breakfast tacos or pastries in the morning, panini or avocado toast midday, and local beer or wine later in the day.
Located near Upper Kirby and Greenway Plaza, Goode Company Seafood is a Houston institution for fresh Gulf Coast seafood. Set in a vintage railcar diner, this family-owned spot serves mesquite-grilled fish, shrimp po’boys, and its signature Campechana de Mariscos—a zesty shrimp and crab cocktail that’s a Houston favorite. With its laid-back vibe and dedication to Texas coastal cooking, it’s a must-visit for anyone searching for the best seafood in Upper Kirby Houston.
Top Recommendations: Campechana de Mariscos (add Campechana Extra), mesquite-grilled red snapper, seafood gumbo, oyster po’boy, and grilled oysters when available.
For fine dining in Upper Kirby Houston, Kiran’s blends modern Indian flavors with French technique. Chef Kiran Verma is known as the “godmother of Indian fine dining” in Houston, and her restaurant near Greenway Plaza offers elegant dishes like lamb chops, lobster in curry, and housemade naan. The warm, upscale atmosphere makes it one of the best date night restaurants in Upper Kirby, with a cocktail and award winning wine list to match. Attire is dressy/smart casual, and dogs are welcome on the patio—complete with puppy bowls for four-legged guests. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.
Top Recommendations: Tandoori Sizzler, Vindaloo, Chicken tikka masala, garlic naan, and chai-spiced desserts.
Owned by Houston’s Johnny Carrabba, Grace’s serves Southern-inspired comfort food with a Texas twist. From chicken and waffles to shrimp and grits, every dish celebrates family recipes and local ingredients. Known for its welcoming hospitality, Grace’s is ideal for brunch, lunch, or dinner, making it a must-try Upper Kirby restaurant for those seeking homestyle dishes in an inviting setting.
Top Recommendations: Chicken & waffles, shrimp & grits, chicken pot pie, fried green tomatoes, and bread pudding.
A staple in Houston’s Upper Kirby dining scene, Picos delivers bold regional Mexican cuisine, from Oaxacan mole to Yucatecan cochinita pibil. Its extensive tequila and mezcal selection makes it one of the best margarita spots in Upper Kirby Houston. Whether you’re stopping in for happy hour or a full dinner, Picos offers a festive atmosphere and authentic flavors that keep locals coming back.
Top Recommendations: Nachos Jorge, Macha Manteles, tableside guacamole, ceviche, and house margaritas.
A Houston original since 1972, Hobbit Café on Richmond Avenue is a quirky, health-conscious eatery known for its vegetarian-friendly menu and shaded patio. Popular with locals near Greenway Plaza, the café serves sandwiches piled high with fresh veggies, hearty burgers, and smoothies. It’s a go-to for patio dining in Upper Kirby Houston and a laid-back brunch or lunch.
Top Recommendations: Gollum’s Seafood Tacos, Boromir’s Boudin Burger, smoothies, and pancakes.
Located right inside Levy Park, Gaspachos Mexican Bites is a vibrant, Houston‑owned, full‑service Mexican bites stand known for its fresh fruit bowls, tacos, tortas, and mangonadas made with a pop of lime, tajín, and cotija. A popular neighborhood favorite, the chicken street tacos consistently earn praise for authentic flavor and just the right level of heat. The stand’s fruit-centric creations—the namesake gaspacho and raspados—make it a perfect snack stop while enjoying the park. With counter service and an easy pace, it’s ideal for families, park-goers, or anyone craving bold, fresh Mexican flavors in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Top Recommendations: Asada or chicken street tacos, tortas, mangonadas, and the namesake gaspacho fruit cup
The original Kirby Ice House on Eastside Street is a sprawling Houston patio bar that celebrates Texas and local craft drafts, pouring 51 beers on tap from one of the longest bars in the state. The vibe is laid-back, dog-friendly, and perfect for groups, with yard games, live sports, and plenty of shaded seating. A major draw is their daily rotating lineup of 1–2 food trucks, posted on their official Upper Kirby food truck calendar and often featuring local favorites like Mingo’s Latin Kitchen, LoveBird Hot Chicken, and Monster Munchies. Whether you’re here for happy hour, a casual night out, or a weekend hang with friends (and pups), Kirby Ice House delivers a true Houston patio experience.
Top Recommendation: Since you’re in Houston, make the most of it—try the best Texas and local beers on tap, and don’t be shy about asking the bartenders for their favorites.
Overlooking the green space of Levy Park, Hearsay is a stylish bar and restaurant offering craft cocktails and elevated comfort food. Its Houston ownership and unique location make it a favorite for park-goers and after-work drinks. Perfect for cocktails in Upper Kirby Houston, it offers both a lively indoor dining area and an outdoor patio.
Top Recommendations: Hearsay Old Fashioned, Espresso Martini, rosemary parmesan fries, Hearsay Cheeseburger, and Chicken Milanese.
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, an extended work trip, or just exploring your own city, Upper Kirby and Greenway Plaza offer an array of opportunities to eat and drink. And when it’s time to unwind, Lodgeur Upper Kirby puts you steps away from the neighborhood’s best restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. Our fully furnished apartments feature stylish and thoughtfully designed interiors, equipped kitchenettes, a 24/7 gym and pool—plus a prime location that lets you enjoy Houston’s vibrant dining scene without ever needing to get in the car.
