Houston's Oldest Restaurant: A Quest Through Time (and Probably Heartburn)
Ah, Houston. The city of bayous, billionaires, and seriously good eats. But with a food scene that's constantly evolving faster than you can say "artisanal kale chips," you might wonder: where can you find a taste of history alongside your perfectly-seared steak? Buckle up, my friend, because we're diving headfirst into the delicious depths of Houston's oldest restaurant.
The Contenders: A Hodgepodge of History
Houston's culinary crown for "oldest restaurant" is a tightly contested title, with several contenders vying for the top spot. Here's a rundown of the frontrunners, each with their own claim to fame (and probably a secret family sauce recipe):
-
Christie's Seafood & Steak (est. 1917): This nautical-themed gem boasts a history that stretches back over a century. Originally a Galveston seafront hangout, Christie's eventually made its way to Houston, becoming a local favorite for their legendary fried fish po'boys and Texas-sized steaks. Fun fact: they apparently once sold a mind-blowing 10,000 fish sandwiches a week!
-
Yale Street Grill (est. 1923): Nestled in the charming Heights neighborhood, Yale Street Grill started as a pharmacy in the 1920s. But who needs medicine when you have milkshakes, right? They eventually added a soda fountain and a menu of classic diner fare, becoming a beloved spot for locals to cure their hangovers...or whatever ails you with a good burger.
-
Molina's Cantina (est. 1941): Tex-Mex fans, rejoice! This family-owned cantina has been serving up generations of Houstonians with heaping plates of enchiladas, tacos, and enough queso to fill a swimming pool (not that we'd recommend it).
The Verdict: So, Who Wins?
Honestly, it depends on who you ask. Some folks might say Christie's takes the cake (or should we say, the po'boy?) for its longevity. Others might favor the nostalgic charm of Yale Street Grill. The truth is, Houston offers a wealth of historical eateries, each with a story to tell and a plate full of deliciousness waiting to be devoured.
The Moral of the Story? Eat Like a Houstonian!
Here's the real takeaway: whichever restaurant you choose, you're guaranteed a taste of Houston's vibrant past. So, grab your friends, loosen your belt a notch (or two), and embark on your own culinary adventure through Houston's historic restaurants. Just be prepared for a serious case of the happy tummy aches.
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
