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Best Modern Southern American Restaurants in Downtown

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Hull & Oak Southern Kitchen restaurant
1. Hull & Oak Southern Kitchen
4.2
Awesome(70)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary southern • Downtown
Booked 11 times today
Hull & Oak Southern Kitchen, nestled in The Laura Hotel in vibrant downtown Houston, is a treasure trove of Southern-inspired American cuisine. Guests rave about their unforgettable dining experiences, emphasizing the "flavors as big and bold as Texas itself." With dishes that are both hearty and exquisitely crafted, diners particularly love the Sunday brunch, described as downtown's best, complete with live DJ and bottomless mimosas. Reviewers consistently highlight the stellar service, with one noting, "Cedrick was beyond fabulous! He went above and beyond to give us everything we wanted," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to exceptional hospitality. Hull & Oak is the perfect spot for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Southern American flair in a welcoming, upbeat setting.
A photo of State of Grace restaurant
2. State of Grace
4.8
Exceptional(3350)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary southern • River Oaks
Booked 18 times today
State of Grace is a coastal, South Texas neighborhood restaurant in the refurbished Lamar-River Oaks Shopping Center. Elegant but casual, its elevated comfort food by executive chef Bobby Matos is executed at the highest level in a welcoming, beautiful space. The jubilant medley of old favorites played with new spice, accent, and freshness lends itself to southern, American, Latin, Gulf Coast, German and Asian influences. Chef-owner Ford Fry’s first venture outside of Atlanta, State of Grace is located in the neighborhood where Ford grew up and nods to his childhood memories fused with Houston’s evolution into a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.
A photo of Eunice restaurant
3. Eunice
4.7
Exceptional(2595)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary southern • Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor
Booked 25 times today
Eunice, nestled in the Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor of Houston, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary Southern cuisine with its modern Cajun-Creole brasserie flair. Inspired by the childhood flavors of South Louisiana native and Executive Chef Drake Leonards, Eunice artfully blends Gulf Coast ingredients with European techniques. Patrons rave about the "traditional Creole/Cajun fare with modern twists" and celebrate its atmosphere as "just the right blend of elegance and Louisiana fun!" Whether it's the divine cornbread, exceptional gumbo, or the bustling happy hour featuring $1.50 oysters, Eunice delivers an unparalleled dining experience that’s both authentic and innovative. Join the chorus of satisfied diners who insist, "Don't think about it, just go!"
A photo of Lost & Found- Midtown restaurant
4. Lost & Found- Midtown
4.2
Awesome(60)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary southern • Montrose
Booked 16 times today
Lost & Found- Midtown in Montrose, Houston, is a gem for Continental cuisine lovers, blending an eclectic atmosphere with culinary delights. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and quality of dishes like the "delicious and well-seasoned Salmon Bowl" and the "delish lobster pasta," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to flavor and quality. The vibrant environment is complemented by "colorful craft cocktails," making every visit a memorable experience. Patrons consistently praise the service, noting servers like Mijo and Lo enhance their dining experience with exceptional care and expertise. Lost & Found- Midtown is the go-to spot in Houston for a genuine taste of Continental cuisine in a lively setting.
A photo of Quad HTX Restaurant and Sports Lounge restaurant
5. Quad HTX Restaurant and Sports Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(28)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary southern • Midtown
Booked 1 time today
Quad HTX Restaurant and Sports Lounge in Houston's vibrant Midtown is a beacon of Contemporary Southern cuisine, offering a unique blend of traditional flavors with a modern twist. Guests consistently rave about the "delicious" food and "impeccable" service, highlighting dishes like the "mouth-watering fried ribs" and perfectly seasoned burgers. The atmosphere is described as "a grown and sexy vibe," ideal for adults seeking both relaxation and excitement. Notably, the "Vybe is crazy" and the ambiance is "in a class by itself," with live music and an upscale setting that enhances the dining experience. Quad HTX is more than just a restaurant; it's a dynamic venue where every visit promises a memorable gastronomic journey through the South, making it a must-visit for those in search of authentic and innovative Southern fare.
A photo of Scott Gertner's Rhythm Room restaurant
6. Scott Gertner's Rhythm Room
4.8
Exceptional(537)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary southern • River Oaks
Booked 2 times today
Scott Gertner's Rhythm Room, nestled in the vibrant River Oaks neighborhood of Houston, is a beacon of Contemporary Southern cuisine, seamlessly blending tradition with modern flair. Patrons rave about their signature dishes, particularly the award-winning Scottie Hottie Chicken Wings, acclaimed for their authentic Southern taste. The restaurant's ambiance, enhanced by live music and a sophisticated setting, perfectly complements the culinary experience. Enthusiastic reviews such as, "Great food great music. Live band," and "The food was absolutely amazing," underscore the exceptional quality and authenticity of their offerings. Whether it's the blackened catfish or the meticulously seasoned lamb chops, Scott Gertner's Rhythm Room promises a delightful and genuine Southern dining experience, making it a must-visit destination.
A photo of Davis Street restaurant
7. Davis Street
4.8
Exceptional(1139)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary southern • W. University / Med Center
Booked 11 times today
At Davis Street in Houston's W. University / Med Center, seafood enthusiasts find a culinary haven where quality and flavor reign supreme. Renowned for its Southern cuisine with Pan-Asian and Pan-American flair, the restaurant, under the guidance of Chef Holley, serves up seafood dishes that are both authentic and inventive. The Thai-Style Snapper and Halibut with Crab topping are particular favorites, celebrated for their impeccable taste and presentation. Diners rave about the "food flavors, ambiance and waiter service," highlighting the "halibut and the redfish entrees" as "super delicious." The commitment to excellence is evident, as Chef Holley personally ensures every guest's experience is exceptional, making Davis Street a must-visit for anyone seeking the best seafood dining experience in Houston.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Andrewvip
    Houston •42 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Incredible Cajun and neo-Cajun and Creole food. Best Louisiana cuisine outside of Louisiana. The honey butter cornbread and oysters are a must. Our waiter, Rocco, was outstanding. Valet parking and secured parking with validation is available. Don’t use Buffalo Speedway to enter the garage. Enter from Richmond (eastbound) instead.
    More info
    EunicePrice: Moderate• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor
    •
    4.7
  • Terryvip
    Houston •47 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had dinner for three in their private dining room - great ambiance, lower noise level. Two dozen east coast oysters were delightful, served ice cold, opened to perfection, with delicious condiments - as always at State of Grace. Being regulars at SOG, we ordered our usual - Caesar salad, blackened redfish, Cacio et pepe pasta, and topped it off with their chocolate pecan ball. All were delightful, which, along with the normal friendly, efficient serving staff and attentive management team, keep us coming back again and again. Keep up the great work SOG team!
    More info
    State of GracePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• River Oaks
    •
    4.8
  • Irene
    Houston •1 review
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 14, 2024
    Everything was good. The only issue was the waiter who seemed to be forgetting to bring our orders until we had to remind him many times that I ordered a long time ago
    More info
    Lost & Found- MidtownPrice: Moderate• Continental• Montrose
    •
    4.2
  • Rashanda
    Cincinnati / Dayton •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 2, 2024
    The ambiance is everything, lets start with that. The waiters were attentive to our needs and knew the menu. FOOD, food was soooo delicious, hot, came out right away, and the smell made my taste buds rise. Don't keep reading, schedule that reservation!!!
    More info
    Hull & Oak Southern KitchenPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Southern• Downtown
    •
    4.2
  • Charlea
    Las Vegas •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Sep 20, 2024
    I absolutely love this place, I take my mom every Friday it’s a vibe. We love the music, food, drinks, waitresses and hookah. The atmosphere itself. My mom call me every Wednesday morning to make sure I’ve made her reservation for Friday…lol…
    More info
    Quad HTX Restaurant and Sports LoungePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• Midtown
    •
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary Southern restaurants in Downtown

Explore the vibrant world of Contemporary Southern cuisine right in the heart of Houston's bustling downtown district. This culinary niche marries traditional Southern comfort with a modern twist, offering an array of dishes that are as inventive as they are satisfying. Each restaurant in this category provides a unique ambiance, from chic and modern interiors to cozy, inviting spaces, perfect for both casual diners and food enthusiasts alike. The dining scene in downtown Houston is renowned for its diversity and quality, with Contemporary Southern spots standing out for their creative approaches to classic flavors and ingredients. These eateries offer an excellent selection of meals that include both innovative dishes and beloved staples like shrimp and grits or smoked brisket, all crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're a Houston native or just visiting, these Contemporary Southern restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience that encapsulates the essence of both the new and the old South.

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