Cheap and Delicious Eats in Houston

One word: Hamburgers. Hamburgers are the reason to come to this tiny grocery store–restaurant that’s still one of Houston’s best-kept secrets. Here’s a sample of the life-changing combinations you’ll find on the menu: the South of the Border (Monterey Jack, pico de gallo, avocado, and cilantro dressing); the Grim Burger (mac and cheese, bacon, a fried egg, and jalapeño); and the loaded Triple-Meat burger. If for some inexplicable reason you want to order something without beef, try the heavenly chicken strip sandwich. And keep an eye out for the daily specials, too—they’re fantastic. Open Monday, Wednesday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Saturday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Check out the Moon Tower Inn if you are feeling adventurous. This place is a bit remote, on the outskirts of downtown, but they serve outstanding gourmet hot dogs (yes, gourmet hot dogs) made from animals ranging from wild boar to elk and pheasant. Toppings are equally as bizarre, and the beer selection is fantastic (66 taps!). Be prepared for a wait.

BBQ is serious business in Houston, as in the rest of Texas, and any local will have a strong opinion about where you can find the holy grail. Gatlin’s, however, is a favorite among many. Fall-off-the-bone tender ribs, respectable brisket, pulled pork, and all the usual fixin’s made with love. Photo via Gatlin’s BBQ Facebook page

The Eatsie Boys has long been considered one of Houston’s best food trucks thanks to the “gourmet grub” made with locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. These days it’s holding down a daily residence at 8th Wonder Brewery, Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Menu offerings include S.L.A.B. Fries (pulled pork, mozzarella, barbecue sauce, avocado crema, diced tomatoes, pickled onions, and jalapeño); the Hello Nasty burger (house-ground 100-percent beef brisket patty, grilled onions, pickled jalapeño, cheddar cheese, bacon, and barbecue sauce); and the What the Falafel (house-made falafel patty, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and tzatziki).

Paulie’s is a cute Italian cafe and deli run by second-generation restaurant owner Paul Petronella. Pastas and cookies are made in-house, and the prices are super reasonable. People love the shrimp BLT, cucumber water, and the cookies, of course. Photo via Paulie’s.

Eat at Torchy’s Tacos and you might get an addiction. They’re ridiculously good and priced between $2.25 and $4.75 a piece. Try the Fried Avocado and The Democrat for a good time. They’re open from 7 a.m. on weekdays and from 8 a.m. on the weekends for breakfast. Photo via Torchy’s Tacos Facebook page

Max’s Wine Dive asks, “Champagne and fried chicken? Why the hell not?!” which pretty much sums up their concept of pairing comfort foods with wine or champagne. This place gets packed at peak hours, yet the waiters stay attentive and friendly. If you want to experience Texas’s “classy comfort food movement,” Max’s is a great place to do it.