Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Houston | Upscale & Vegan

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Houston | Upscale & Vegan

• The Paleta Bar — Mexican · rated 5/5: This vibrant dessert destination invites guests into a kaleidoscope of flavor, where traditional Mexican ice pops are elevated into customizable, hand-dipped masterpieces. Each velvety cream or refreshing fruit bar serves as a frozen canvas for rich chocolate drizzles and a crunch of artisanal toppings, offering a playful, multi-sensory escape that reimagines the classic summer treat.
• Oma Sushi — Japanese · rated 5/5: Oma Sushi serves as a serene neighborhood sanctuary where the comforting steam of simmering oden and savory udon creates an immediate sense of warmth and welcome. The kitchen balances these soulful broths with a vibrant array of textures, from the delicate snap of chilled squid salad to the indulgent, golden crunch of rock shrimp tempura nestled atop fresh greens. It is a destination where traditional Japanese flavors are celebrated through a lens of freshness, offering a dining experience that is both light and deeply satisfying.
• Betelgeuse Betelgeuse — American · rated 5/5: This celestial-inspired hideaway hums with a rebellious spirit, offering a playful escape where unconventional comfort food takes center stage. Golden, crispy "Space Balls" and savory "Brick Sticks" emerge from the kitchen alongside burgers charred in the intense heat of a pizza oven, creating a menu that is as imaginative as it is indulgent. Every bite, from the tangle of fried spaghetti to the mountains of garlic-parm fries, celebrates a bold, high-energy dining experience that defies the ordinary.
• Rainbow Lodge — American · rated 5/5: Set within a historic log cabin, this rustic-chic retreat invites guests into a world of sophisticated wild game and Southern comfort where the aroma of smoked duck gumbo and warm lodge rolls fills the air. The kitchen masterfully balances rugged flavors with refined artistry, elevating Texas staples into elegant plates like crispy quail bites and decadent tater tots crowned with trout caviar. Whether sharing a sprawling "Big Board" of seasonal treasures or savoring tender lollipop lamb chops, diners find a soulful escape that celebrates the rich, untamed bounty of the landscape in an atmosphere of timeless warmth.
• Mornings Kolaches — American · rated 5/5: The scent of freshly baked yeast and rich, gourmet coffee beckons from the doorway of this morning sanctuary, where golden, pillowy dough is transformed into a kaleidoscope of sweet and savory treasures. Guests can savor the comforting warmth of kolaches bursting with savory sausage or vibrant fruit preserves, alongside decadent cinnamon rolls and hearty breakfast tacos that turn the first meal of the day into a soulful celebration. Each bite captures the essence of artisanal baking, offering a soft, buttery embrace that lingers long after the last sip of coffee.
• 2 Guys 1 Pit BBQ and Catering — American · rated 5/5: The intoxicating aroma of slow-burning wood and savory spice hangs heavy in the air, welcoming diners to a rustic haven where the art of the pit is celebrated in every smoky bite. Glistening, melt-in-your-mouth brisket and caramelized burnt ends anchor a menu of deep-down comfort, perfectly paired with indulgent sides like velvety sweet potato casserole and golden, loaded fries. This is a destination for those seeking the soul of barbecue, where the rich flavors of charred ribs and hearty chili create a communal experience of pure, unpretentious satisfaction.
• Corkscrew BBQ — American · rated 5/5: The air at this bustling smokehouse is thick with the intoxicating aroma of post oak, drawing diners into a rustic space where butcher paper serves as the canvas for Texas-style artistry. Velvety prime brisket and glistening pork ribs take center stage alongside indulgent sides like creamy mac n cheese, creating a soulful dining experience that honors the slow-smoked traditions of the South.
• Abe's Cajun Market & Cafe — American · rated 5/5: Abe’s Cajun Market & Cafe captures the vibrant soul of the Bayou, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of house-made boudin and the irresistible sizzle of spice-rubbed chicken kabobs. Guests are welcomed into a lively, unpretentious space that celebrates the bold flavors of Louisiana through golden-fried crab cakes and rich, seafood-stuffed esplanades. It is a neighborhood staple where the warmth of Southern hospitality meets the authentic, rustic charm of a traditional Cajun smokehouse.
• Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken — American · rated 5/5: The air at Gus's is thick with the irresistible scent of hot oil and secret spices, drawing diners into a no-frills space where the focus remains squarely on the legendary, deep-golden bird. Each piece of chicken boasts a shatteringly crisp, bronze crust that gives way to succulent meat with a signature slow-burning kick, perfectly balanced by cooling scoops of creamy macaroni and cheese and condensation-dusted glasses of ice-cold sweet tea. It is a soulful, unpretentious celebration of Southern tradition where the clatter of beer bottles and the crunch of perfectly fried skin create a symphony of pure comfort.
• Dickey's Barbeque Pit — American · rated 5/5: The air at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is thick with the savory perfume of slow-smoldering hickory, drawing guests into a rustic space where the art of the pit-master takes center stage. Diners craft their own hearty feasts from a bounty of tender, pit-smoked meats and oversized baked potatoes piled high with toppings, capturing the soulful, unpretentious joy of a true backyard barbecue.
• Dimassi's Mediterranean Buffet — Mediterranean · rated 5/5: Step into a vibrant marketplace of Mediterranean flavors where the scent of warm, pillowy pita and toasted zatar fills the air. A kaleidoscope of fresh salads—from zesty chickpea to crisp kale Caesar—invites guests to build their own colorful plates alongside savory grape leaves and golden, herb-flecked falafel. This sun-drenched buffet experience celebrates the bounty of the region, offering a communal feast that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
• Eighteen Twenty Lounge — American · rated 4/5: Eighteen Twenty Lounge serves as a sleek, high-tech sanctuary where the hum of lightning-fast fiber optics and the crisp clarity of professional IP phones replace the traditional clatter of a kitchen. The space pulses with the invisible energy of robust T1 connectivity and seamless ADSL streams, offering a sophisticated digital landscape where business goals are realized through flawless web hosting and unwavering bandwidth. It is a modern retreat designed for the hyper-connected professional, blending the comfort of a premium lounge with the raw power of a world-class data hub.
• Holler Brewing Co. — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant, industrial-chic taproom hums with the energy of a neighborhood gathering spot, where the rhythmic hiss of draft lines and the clinking of glasses set the stage for a social afternoon. The air is thick with the inviting scent of toasted malts as guests explore a diverse spectrum of pours, from the crisp, sun-drenched refreshment of the Dollar Pils Y'all to the rich, brooding complexity of the Dark Artifact. It is a celebration of craft and community, inviting visitors to settle into the lively atmosphere and discover the artistry behind every meticulously brewed pint.
• MKT BAR — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: MKT BAR serves as a lively urban sanctuary where the clink of craft beer glasses and the aroma of searing steaks create an inviting, high-energy atmosphere. Guests gather to share velvety bowls of hummus before diving into the bold, savory layers of the signature Kamtastic or a perfectly charred steak dinner, all paired with rotating local draughts or a crisp house sparkling wine. The space hums with a social vibrancy, making it the quintessential destination for a spirited happy hour or a relaxed, flavor-forward evening in the heart of the city.
• Truck Yard — American · rated 4/5: This sprawling outdoor oasis hums with the high-energy spirit of a permanent backyard festival, where eclectic decor and communal tables invite guests to linger over ice-cold pints of MexTex Mexican Lager. The kitchen turns out soul-warming comfort food, from juice-dripping smash burgers and crusty cheesesteaks to mountains of loaded nachos that are best enjoyed under the glow of string lights. It is a vibrant, unpretentious retreat where the sizzle of the grill and the clink of glasses create the ultimate soundtrack for a laid-back afternoon.
• Platypus Brewing — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant gathering spot pulses with a unique fusion of Australian flair and local charm, where sun-drenched afternoons are best spent over overflowing brunch boards and the rhythmic shake of craft cocktails. The experience is anchored by an inventive beverage program that reimagines the classics, inviting guests to linger over a smoky Pigskin Old Fashioned or a refreshing, botanical-infused Pimm’s Cup in a space that feels both adventurous and effortlessly welcoming.
• Alamo Tamale Company — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air is thick with the comforting scent of masa and slow-simmered barbacoa, drawing guests into a bustling space where every tamale is a hand-wrapped labor of love. Diners can dive into the rich, melted indulgence of quesabirria or explore a kaleidoscope of sweet pan dulce and delicate cakes that brighten the counter. From the first sip of a frothy, handcrafted coffee to the last bite of a golden empanada, the experience is a vibrant celebration of authentic heritage and sugary delights.
• The Teahouse — Chinese · rated 4/5: This vibrant sanctuary invites guests into the heart of Taiwanese tea culture, where the earthy aroma of premium loose-leaf brews mingles with the playful energy of a bustling boba bar. Skilled hands craft everything from delicate, traditional infusions to whimsical milk teas studded with chewy tapioca pearls, offering a refreshing escape that scales from a single, perfect cup to impressive custom gallons designed for sharing.
• Bad Astronaut Brewing company — American · rated 4/5: This industrial-chic taproom hums with a rebellious, cinematic energy, where the clink of glasses filled with crisp Helles lager sets the stage for a night of cosmic exploration. The kitchen turns out bold, irreverent pizzas with perfectly charred crusts and cheeky names, pairing bubbling cheeses and savory meats with artisanal snacks like warm, salt-dusted pretzels. It is a space where pop-culture nostalgia and craft brewing collide, inviting guests to settle into a lively atmosphere that feels both otherworldly and intimately familiar.
• Pho Ben Noodle House — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: The air at Pho Ben Noodle House is rich with the savory aroma of charred meats and the irresistible crunch of golden-fried egg rolls. Guests delight in translucent spring rolls bursting with fresh herbs and tender proteins, alongside crusty baguettes stuffed with vibrant Vietnamese fillings that offer a symphony of sweet, salty, and spicy notes. It is a welcoming sanctuary where traditional street food flavors are elevated into a comforting, soul-warming dining experience.
• Ojos Locos Sports Cantina — Mexican · rated 4/5: This high-octane sports cantina pulses with the electric energy of the crowd, offering a vibrant escape where the thrill of the game is matched by the bold, zesty flavors on the plate. Guests gather over overflowing platters of citrus-cured ceviche and spicy green aguachile, balancing the refreshing heat with indulgent chipotle queso and golden-fried jalapeños for a spirited dining experience that celebrates both sport and spice.
• Cloud 10 Creamery — American · rated 4/5: This sleek, modern creamery invites guests into a world of elevated indulgence where traditional frozen treats are reimagined through a lens of culinary artistry. Velvety textures meet bold, unexpected pairings, ranging from the aromatic warmth of banana cinnamon and maple butter pecan to the vibrant, citrus-kissed notes of Earl Grey and lemon mint. Each scoop serves as a sophisticated escape, balancing the rich intensity of dark chocolate with the refreshing, sun-ripened clarity of handcrafted fruit sorbets.
• Saint Arnold Brewing Company — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the grand, cathedral-like windows of this bustling beer hall, where the clinking of pint glasses harmonizes with the savory aroma of warm pretzels and bubbling Lawnmower queso. Guests gather at long communal tables to feast on inventive plates like creamy burrata topped with root beer-glazed bacon or hearty sausage platters, making every meal feel like a spirited celebration of local craft and community. This vibrant destination blends industrial charm with a soulful kitchen, offering a dining experience that is as bold and welcoming as the brews themselves.
• Trash Panda Drinking Club — American · rated 4/5: This high-octane social hub pulses with a rebellious energy, where neon-lit interiors and flowing mimosa carafes set the stage for a bold, flavor-forward brunch party. The kitchen turns out irreverent, Mexican-inspired comfort food like the "Chila-dilla" and masa pancakes, blending playful creativity with a laid-back atmosphere that invites guests to linger over every spicy, savory bite.
• Barbecue Inn — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into this timeless haunt feels like a nostalgic journey where the air is thick with the sweet perfume of hickory smoke and the irresistible aroma of golden-fried classics. Generous platters showcase a masterclass in Texas comfort, from the tender, slow-smoked brisket and glazed St. Louis ribs to the crisp snap of their legendary onion rings and chilled, zesty shrimp cocktails. It is a soulful destination where every bite celebrates the enduring heritage of slow-cooked barbecue and coastal-inspired starters in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Cavatore — Italian · rated 4/5: Cavatore reimagines the quick-service experience as a vibrant culinary playground where the rustic charm of Italian-inspired snacks meets the bold, savory allure of gourmet comfort food. Golden-fried mushroom bites and succulent honey-glazed chicken lead a menu of inventive flavors, while artisanal burgers and decadent breakfast sweets offer a playful, elevated twist on familiar favorites. It is a welcoming haven for those craving a fast yet flavorful escape, where every bite is designed to surprise the palate and satisfy the soul.
• Happy Go Lucky — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant tropical oasis invites guests into a world of sun-drenched flavors where every chilled creation feels like a miniature vacation. From the zesty, chili-dusted allure of a Mangonada to the creamy, nostalgic swirl of a Dreamy Dreamsicle, each treat transforms fresh fruit and icy textures into a kaleidoscope of refreshing delights. Whether diving into a coconut-infused Coco Loco or the brilliant layers of a Happy Rainbow, the experience captures the carefree spirit of a perfect summer afternoon.
• Nobi Public House — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood hub blends the communal energy of a classic public house with the vibrant, aromatic soul of Vietnamese-inspired comfort food. Steam rises from fragrant bowls of Sunday pho while the kitchen turns out golden, crispy egg rolls and savory pork-topped fries designed for sharing over cold craft beers. Whether you are tucking into zesty fusion tacos or savoring a tender, seared pork chop, the atmosphere invites you to linger in a space where bold, cross-cultural flavors take center stage.
• Big Tyme Billiards — American · rated 4/5: The rhythmic clack of pool balls and the vibrant glow of neon lights set the stage at this high-energy social hub, where the spirit of friendly competition meets the comfort of classic American snacks. Between shots, guests dive into bubbling, oven-fresh pizzas and golden baskets of crispy chicken strips and mozzarella sticks, the perfect fuel for a long night at the tables. It is a quintessential neighborhood hangout where the savory aroma of melted cheese and the lively buzz of the crowd define an evening of effortless, late-night fun.
• Fyzas Alhadi — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Fyzas Alhadi invites diners into a vibrant world of Mediterranean flavors, where the air is perfumed with the scent of toasted spices and fresh-chopped herbs. Velvety swirls of hummus and smoky baba ghanouj share the table with golden, crisp falafel and zesty cilantro potatoes, creating a tapestry of textures that celebrate traditional Middle Eastern hospitality. Whether diving into a bright, lemon-kissed taboulee or a hearty salad topped with tender gyro, every plate offers a refreshing journey through sun-drenched culinary traditions.