The Absolute Best Takeout Restaurants in Houston [Updated 2024]

Get ready to indulge in the most mouthwatering, finger-licking dishes the city has to offer, all conveniently enjoyed from the comfort of your own home. With a whopping 17 fabulous restaurants reviewed, you're guaranteed to find your new go-to spot for takeout satisfaction.

From sizzling tacos to tantalizing curry, we've got you covered. So, whether you're craving a late-night snack, a lazy Sunday brunch, or a mid-week pick-me-up, Houston's finest takeout spots await.

Let's dive in and discover the culinary delights that this vibrant city has in store for us!

The Rice Box

Highlights
Super nice cashier
Amazing food
Cozy interior
Vegetarian options
Small parking lot

As soon as I walked into The Rice Box, I was greeted by a super nice cashier, who made me feel instantly welcome. The staff's friendliness definitely added a special touch to my takeout experience.

Let's talk about the star of the show: the food. Oh my, where do I even begin? The food at The Rice Box was simply amazing! Each bite was bursting with flavor and the portions were generous. I ordered their famous General Tso's chicken, and it did not disappoint. The chicken was perfectly crispy, and the sauce had just the right amount of tang and heat. This place definitely knows how to deliver on taste.

As I waited for my order, I couldn't help but notice the cozy interior of the restaurant. The warm lighting and comfortable seating made me feel right at home. It's the kind of place where you can easily relax and enjoy your meal, even if you're just picking it up and taking it home.

What I also appreciated was the vegetarian options on the menu. As someone who occasionally likes to opt for plant-based meals, it was refreshing to see a variety of choices that catered to different dietary preferences.

One thing worth mentioning is the small parking lot. If you're planning to visit during peak hours, be prepared to hunt for a spot or consider parking nearby and walking a short distance.

In conclusion, The Rice Box is a gem among Houston's takeout restaurants. From their amazing food to their cozy interior, it's a place that truly delivers on taste and ambiance. Whether you're a meat-lover or a vegetarian, I highly recommend giving The Rice Box a try. You won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Houston.

Huynh Restaurant

Highlights
Authentic Vietnamese
Spicy wok-fried noodle
Unique noodle cake dish
Generous portions
Great service

Let me start by saying, if you're looking for an authentic Vietnamese takeout experience, then Huynh Restaurant is a must-visit. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted with vibrant colors and the irresistible aroma of Vietnamese cuisine.

When it comes to their menu, one dish that truly stole the show was their spicy wok-fried noodle. It was a flavor explosion in my mouth, with just the right amount of heat to ignite the taste buds. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the vegetables added a refreshing crunch to every bite. Trust me, this dish is a guaranteed winner for those spicy food lovers out there.

Huynh Restaurant also offers a unique dish that I haven't found anywhere else in Houston: the noodle cake. It's a delightful combination of crispy rice noodles topped with a medley of savory ingredients. The texture of the noodle cake was incredible, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Portion sizes at Huynh Restaurant are not to be underestimated. The owners really believe in providing generous portions to their customers, ensuring that you'll leave with a satisfied appetite and maybe even some leftovers for later.

Lastly, I can't write this review without mentioning the exceptional service I received. The staff at Huynh Restaurant were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They were more than happy to answer any questions and ensure that my takeout experience was top-notch.

In conclusion, Huynh Restaurant is a standout among the best takeout restaurants in Houston. Their authentic Vietnamese cuisine, particularly the spicy wok-fried noodle and unique noodle cake, along with their generous portions and great service, make for an unforgettable dining experience. So, if you're in the mood for some delicious Vietnamese food, be sure to give Huynh Restaurant a try.

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Katy.

Frank's Pizza

Highlights
Best American style pizza
Located in the heart of downtown
Open until 3am on weekends
New York style pizza
Classic cheese slice is a winner

When it comes to American style pizza, Frank's Pizza in Houston truly takes the crown. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this gem has quickly become a favorite for those seeking a tasty slice on the go.

What sets Frank's Pizza apart from the rest is their dedication to quality and authenticity. Specializing in New York style pizza, they bring a taste of the Big Apple right here to Houston. The thin, crispy crust is the perfect base for their array of delectable toppings, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors with each bite.

One thing that surprised me was their convenient hours of operation. Frank's Pizza is among the few takeout places that caters to late-night cravings. They keep their doors open until 3am on weekends, offering a satisfying solution for those midnight munchies.

Now let's get to the star of the show – the classic cheese slice. This simple yet iconic pizza exemplifies perfection. The combination of the gooey, melted cheese and flavorful tomato sauce on their thin, crispy crust is truly a winner. Each bite transports you to the streets of New York, evoking a sense of nostalgia and pure culinary bliss.

If you're in the mood for an outstanding takeout pizza experience, look no further than Frank's Pizza in Houston. With their dedication to crafting the best American style pizza in town, their convenient downtown location, and their late-night availability, you simply can't go wrong. So go ahead, treat yourself to a taste of New York right here in Houston – you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best patio restaurants in Houston.

Baoz Dumplings

Highlights
12 dumpling combo with variety
Delicious pan fried and steamed dumplings
Fast and friendly service
Large variety of boba selections
Spicy sauce is quite good

As I stepped into Baoz Dumplings, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of perfectly steamed and pan-fried dumplings. The menu offered a 12 dumpling combo with a mouth-watering variety of fillings to choose from. Oh, the choices! It was a dumpling lover's paradise.

The fast and friendly service ensured that my order was promptly taken, and I didn't have to wait long to receive my delicious parcel of joy. The dumplings were a delightful culinary masterpiece, with each bite bursting with flavorful goodness. The pan-fried dumplings boasted a perfectly crispy exterior, while the steamed dumplings were wonderfully tender.

But Baoz Dumplings didn't stop at dumplings. They also had a wide selection of boba to pair with your meal. Whether you wanted a classic milk tea or a fruity concoction, they had it all. As a boba aficionado, I was thrilled at the diverse choices available.

One standout element was their spicy sauce. It brought a delightful kick to every bite, elevating the dumplings to new levels of culinary delight. It was the perfect balance of heat and flavor, leaving my taste buds dancing.

Overall, Baoz Dumplings is a delightful addition to the Houston takeout scene. With their delectable dumplings, fast service, and wide variety of boba selections, they truly deserve a spot on the list of the best takeout restaurants in Houston. So go ahead and indulge your dumpling cravings at Baoz Dumplings - you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best cajun restaurants in Houston.

Mona

Highlights
Great food
Friendly people
Cheap on the go
Good customer service

Let me start by saying that Mona is a hidden gem when it comes to takeout in Houston. This place truly hits the spot if you're looking for great food that's both delicious and affordable.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a team of friendly people who were more than happy to help me choose from their extensive menu. The aroma of their dishes filled the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

I decided to go with their signature dish, the Mona Special. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Tender pieces of chicken cooked to perfection, accompanied by a medley of flavorful vegetables and aromatic spices. The portion size was more than generous, ensuring that I would have enough to savor for later.

But what really stood out to me was the customer service. The staff at Mona went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience. They took the time to explain their menu options, offering suggestions based on my preferences. They even threw in a complimentary drink, which was a thoughtful touch.

Mona is the ideal spot for the busy Houstonian on the go, with their quick service and affordable prices. Whether you're looking for a satisfying meal for yourself or to feed a hungry group, Mona has you covered. Trust me, you won't be disappointed when you choose Mona for your next takeout adventure.

You might also want to check out the best patio restaurants in Katy.

Bird Haus

Highlights
Outstanding
Amazing find
Great food
Right amount of spicy
Recommended dishes

Bird Haus is an outstanding addition to Houston's takeout scene. Tucked away in a cozy corner, this restaurant was an amazing find that left my taste buds dancing with joy.

Their menu offers a wide variety of options, but it was the great food that truly stole my heart. Each dish was a delightful combination of flavors and textures that left me craving for more. From the crispy chicken wings to the savory noodles, every bite was a moment of pure bliss.

One thing that impressed me about Bird Haus was their ability to strike the perfect balance of flavors. The dishes had the right amount of spicy that ignited a gentle fire on my palate, bringing a pleasant warmth without overwhelming the taste.

If you're unsure of what to order, let me give you a little advice. The menu is a treasure trove, but there are a few dishes that are truly recommended. The Spicy Basil Chicken is a must-try, with tender chicken cooked to perfection and a rich and aromatic basil sauce that will transport you to culinary heaven.

The staff at Bird Haus were friendly and attentive, ensuring that my takeout experience was nothing short of delightful. The packaging was also well thought out, with sturdy containers that kept the food warm and secure during my journey home.

In conclusion, Bird Haus is definitely one of the best takeout restaurants in Houston. Its outstanding food, amazing finds, and great flavors make it a winner for any food lover. So, get your phones out and place an order for a delicious meal from Bird Haus - you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best patio restaurants in Galveston.

Wokker

Highlights
Pork belly fried rice
Nice bit of heat
Good portion of food
Cowboy Katsu
Tasty and piping hot/fresh

Wokker truly lives up to its name as a wok of art when it comes to takeout in Houston. From the moment I placed my order, I knew I was in for a treat. The star of the show was undeniably the pork belly fried rice. This delightfully flavorful dish combines tender, juicy pork belly with perfectly cooked rice, creating a symphony of deliciousness that dances on your tastebuds. The balance of savory flavors and a nice bit of heat left me craving for more with every bite.

But the goodness doesn't stop there. Another standout item is the Cowboy Katsu. This dish is a masterpiece, featuring a crispy, breaded chicken cutlet drizzled with a tangy, mouthwatering sauce. The chicken was tasty and piping hot, bursting with flavor and freshness. The portion size was generous, ensuring that I would be savoring every last bite.

What sets Wokker apart from other takeout restaurants is their attention to detail and commitment to quality. Each dish was carefully prepared with the finest ingredients, resulting in a truly satisfying meal. The staff were pleasant and accommodating, ensuring that my takeout experience was enjoyable from start to finish.

If you're in the mood for delicious Chinese takeout with a twist, I highly recommend giving Wokker a try. With their innovative menu, bold flavors, and dedication to delivering a top-notch takeout experience, Wokker is undoubtedly one of the best takeout restaurants in Houston.

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Houston.

Thai Cafe

Highlights
Good Thai food
Friendly service
Cozy and elegant cafe
Scallop options

When it comes to Thai cuisine, Thai Cafe in Houston offers some phenomenal takeout options. The food here is simply exquisite. From flavorful curries to fragrant stir-fries, this place knows how to satisfy your Thai food cravings. Whether you're in the mood for some spicy Tom Yum soup or tangy Pad Thai noodles, Thai Cafe has got you covered.

What sets Thai Cafe apart is their friendly service. The staff greets you with a warm smile and is always ready to assist you with any questions or special requests. They truly make you feel welcome and appreciated, even when ordering takeout.

Moreover, the ambience of the cafe is worth mentioning. It strikes a perfect balance between cozy and elegant, making it a delightful place to have your takeout experience. The soothing decor and dim lighting create a relaxed atmosphere that transports you to the streets of Thailand.

One thing that really impressed me is the variety of scallop options on their menu. As a seafood lover, I couldn't resist trying their scallop dishes, and they did not disappoint. The scallops were cooked to perfection, tender and succulent. It's rare to find such high-quality seafood in a takeout joint.

In conclusion, Thai Cafe in Houston is a gem when it comes to Thai takeout. With its good food, friendly service, and cozy ambiance, it's an ideal choice for satisfying your Thai food cravings. Don't forget to explore their diverse menu, especially the delightful scallop options.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Houston.

Doozo's Dumplings & Noodles

Highlights
Delicious dumplings
Consistent and fast
Homemade sauce is perfect
Efficient ordering process
Going strong during these times

Let me start by saying, Doozo's Dumplings & Noodles serves up some truly delicious dumplings that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Whether you're in the mood for traditional pork dumplings or adventurous shrimp and vegetable dumplings, they've got you covered.

In addition to their mouthwatering dumplings, what struck me about this place was their consistent and fast service. They truly understand the importance of efficiency, especially when it comes to takeout. I ordered over the phone and my food was ready in no time. No waiting around and no cold food - just piping hot dumplings ready to be devoured.

Oh, and let's talk about their homemade sauce. It's the stuff dreams are made of. Bursting with flavor, it perfectly complements their dumplings. The balance of savory, sweet, and spicy is spot on. Trust me, you'll want to ask for extra sauce.

Not only is the food fantastic, but the ordering process at Doozo's Dumplings & Noodles is also top-notch. They have an efficient system in place, making it a breeze to get your hands on their delectable dumplings.

Lastly, I have to mention how impressed I was with their ability to keep going strong during these challenging times. Many restaurants have struggled, but Doozo's Dumplings & Noodles has managed to maintain their high standards and continue serving up quality food.

If you're on the hunt for some tasty dumplings to satisfy your takeout cravings, look no further than Doozo's Dumplings & Noodles. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Galveston.

Deli Deluxe

Highlights
Amazing food
Plenty of options
Authentic Gujarati taste
Best chai in Texas

Walking into Deli Deluxe, I instantly knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of amazing food wafting through the air enticed me, making my stomach growl in anticipation. The first thing that struck me was the extensive menu, offering plenty of options to satisfy any craving. From traditional Gujarati meals to fusion dishes, there was something for everyone.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh my goodness! The flavors were out of this world. Each bite transported me to the streets of Gujarat with an authentic Gujarati taste that made my taste buds dance with delight. The spices were perfectly balanced, creating a symphony of flavors in every dish.

One highlight that deserves a special mention is their chai. Hands down, it is the best chai I have had in Texas. It was creamy, perfectly brewed, and had just the right amount of sweetness. Sipping on it was like a warm hug to my soul.

The attention to detail and quality was evident in every aspect of Deli Deluxe. The packaging was sturdy and well-labeled, ensuring that the food arrived fresh and intact. The staff were friendly, attentive, and took the time to answer all my questions about the menu.

Deli Deluxe truly stands out as one of the best takeout restaurants in Houston. Their amazing food, plenty of options, authentic Gujarati taste, and the best chai in Texas make it a must-try for anyone craving a delightful takeout experience.

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Pearland.

China Garden Restaurant

China Garden Restaurant in Houston surprised me with its flavorful and authentic Chinese dishes. From the crispy General Tso's chicken to the delectable pork fried rice, every bite was a delightful explosion of flavors. The efficient and friendly staff made the experience even better. China Garden Restaurant is definitely a top contender for the best takeout restaurant in Houston.

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Katy.

Houston This Is It Soul Food

Houston This Is It Soul Food in Houston is a soulful culinary delight. The flavors are bold and the portions are generous. The fried chicken is crispy perfection and the collard greens are lick-your-fingers good. Takeout has never tasted so good!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Sugar Land.

Spicy Girl

Spicy Girl in Houston is an explosion of fiery flavor in every bite. With a wide variety of spicy dishes, this place truly satisfies any heat-seeking foodie. From their bold, tongue-tingling Sichuan dishes to their fiery noodles, it's a spicy lover's dream come true.

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Humble.

Star Chef

In my quest to find the best takeout restaurants in Houston for my upcoming article, I had the pleasure of indulging in the culinary delights of Star Chef. This hidden gem truly lives up to its name, delivering stellar meals that are a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Cypress.

Kim Tai

I had the pleasure of trying out Kim Tai, and boy, was I impressed! This little gem in Houston definitely earns a spot on the list of the best takeout restaurants. The flavors were out of this world, and the portion sizes were generous. I can't wait to go back for more!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Baytown.

Leaf & Grain

Get ready for a flavor explosion at Leaf & Grain, a hidden gem in Houston. Their vibrant salads and wholesome grain bowls are a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Plus, their menu is chock-full of fresh, local ingredients. Don't miss this must-try spot in your takeout adventures!

You might also want to check out the best new restaurants in Houston.

Charlie's BBQ & Salads

Charlie's BBQ & Salads in Houston is a finger-licking bomb of flavors! Their BBQ brisket had me at hello and the juicy pulled pork was a party in my mouth. The refreshing salads added a healthy twist to the indulgence. Trust me, you don't want to miss this smoky sensation!

You might also want to check out the best asian restaurants in Houston.