Houston Restaurant Weeks 2019 is here! If you’ve been following me, then you know I write about this local holiday every year. It’s probably my favorite time of year, because it always coincides with my birthday. Regardless of if you’re a foodie or not, this is a great time to get out and enjoy some of Houston’s best restaurants. Houston Restaurant Weeks is the largest annual fundraiser for America’s largest food bank, the Houston Food Bank. It’s a month long dining extravaganza featuring specially priced lunches, brunches and dinners at restaurants from The Woodlands to Galveston, Texas. Participating restaurants can donate 100% of the funds raised to the Houston Food Bank. Join me as I celebrate Houston Restaurant Weeks Restaurants August 1 through Labor Day.
I usually highlight each restaurant that I visit in separate posts. Last year I shared places like Common Bond, Bistecca and Fig & Olive. But this year I am kicking off the month by highlighting my Top six lunch picks. Given my new dietary restrictions I was very selective in deciding where to go. Scouring every lunch menu listed to come up with my six top picks. Hopefully this list will make it easier for my vegan and vegetarian friends (and those with similar dietary restrictions) to decide where to visit for lunch. Now I will say, there are desserts listed that I will unfortunately not be able to eat. But for the most part the main courses are acceptable.
A FEW FAVORITE PLACES
Weights + Measures is a local favorite known for their fresh baked breads and pastries. I’ve been a couple times, but never for Houston Restaurant Weeks. Weights + Measures’ Carrot Pizza and Grilled Salmon options are what landed them on my list. People rave about the carrot pizza, sadly it contains nuts, but if you’re a vegetarian I definitely suggest you try it. Chef Hugo Ortega never disappoints, his downtown Houston restaurant Xochi, has tons of delicious options for everyone. You can also request a full vegan menu if you don’t see anything you like.
Although Third Coast only offers two courses, it’s possibly one of the best menus. If you’re into seafood then I suggest adding them to your Houston Restaurant Weeks lineup. This restaurant is on my list because I love ceviche and black drum fish. Third Coast is located in the John P. McGovern Texas Medical Center Commons. It may be a bit hectic during the lunch hour but they offer complimentary parking for up to three hours in the attached garage.
A FEW IMPORTANT NOTES FOR DINERS
It is highly suggested that you call or visit the web site of your chosen restaurant(s) to verify days of the week for meal service times for brunch, lunch and dinner. For the most part, reservations are not required, but the restaurant’s menu page will specify these details. Most all restaurants accept walk-ins, I have never had an issue with seating for lunch, unless I am traveling with a group. Also, upon arrival, I alter the staff that I would like the Houston Restaurant Weeks 2019 special menu.
If using OpenTable.com to make your reservation, please write ‘Request HRW Menu’ in the comments field.