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Local picks in Texas

Pasta and queso

A bowl of pasta is never truly complete without a side of queso to round out the meal.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Las Favela Restaurant image 1
Las Favela Restaurant image 2
Las Favela Restaurant image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Colorful, handmade Mexican tile tables and traditional religious dรฉcor create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. The space is bright and clean with a modern touch, offering a pleasant and calm vibe. Family-run energy brings authenticity and a sense of care to the environment.

Green spaghetti stands out as a unique side dish served with pork chop and milanesa de pollo. The spaghetti pairs well with various dishes and is consistently well-liked.

Queso stands out with its homemade quality and use of real cheese. It pairs well with chips and salsa for a solid starter.

People are saying

"These enchiladas are so delicious, they melt in your mouth."

"The tres leches French toast is perfectly sweet."

"The green pasta here is unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 8 PM on Thursdays with discounted drinks.

2

Expect generous portions; three tacos cost about $20.

3

The menu features a mix of Tex-Mex and traditional Mexican dishes.

02
Landmark Bar & Kitchen image 1

Mechanical bull and huge TVs create an energetic sports-bar vibe with bright lighting and lively music. The space feels compact but fun, attracting people looking to watch games or enjoy casual hangouts. Free bull riding and interactive bar features add a unique twist to the atmosphere.

Cajun pasta stands out with bold flavors and gets strong recommendations. The cabin pasta earns praise for its quality, while the spaghetti lacks appeal and feels basic.

Flaming queso offers a unique and exciting start to the meal. The Birria Picadillo grilled cheese pairs well with it for a rich, flavorful combo.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the recommendations from the staff."

"The queso here is amazing, I will be back only for it."

"The Cajun pasta Dora recommended did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

The place turns into a nightclub after 11 pm with decent music.

3

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

03
Derby Restaurant Houston image 1

Restaurant overlooks a showroom of fine automobiles, creating a unique dining backdrop. Atmosphere blends engine sounds and car activity with a lounge and bar setting upstairs. Space attracts car enthusiasts and those who appreciate a distinctive environment.

The Cajun pasta stands out with its creamy texture and bold seasoning, packed with flavor. Mushrooms in the pesto pasta have a unique taste similar to chicken, and the lasagna offers a hearty serving with great flavor.

Brisket queso stands out with its rich, smoky flavor and creamy texture. Appetizers like the spinach dip complement the brisket queso well, making it a solid choice to start with.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The Cajun pasta is perfectly seasoned and creamy."

"You have to try the brisket queso; it's out of this planet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a $15 tour of their car collection.

3

Happy hour specials are available on weekdays with discounted drinks.

04
Quotes image 1
New American restaurant

New American restaurant offers live DJ and guitarist, creating an energetic and engaging atmosphere. Elegant interior with private event rooms and outdoor patios supports both lively gatherings and intimate celebrations. The vibe blends class and authenticity, making it a standout dining experience.

Cajun oxtail pasta stands out with rich, bold flavors. The seafood pasta offers a delicious, well-seasoned taste. Mac and cheese dishes, especially with oxtail, impress with creamy texture and depth.

Seafood queso stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with fish and shrimp platters. Oxtail quesadillas also complement the soul food vibe alongside dishes like catfish.

People are saying

"I thought the food and drinks were delicious."

"The pasta here is seasoned to perfection and so flavorful."

"The seafood queso here is on point."

Good to know

1

The daily Happy Hour runs from 11 AM to 7 PM with a special menu.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

3

The happy hour menu features a variety of culturally inspired options.

05
Pizzeria Sprezza image 1
Italian restaurant

Wood-burning ovens create authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with a distinctive charred crust. Cozy, Italian-inspired atmosphere features soft music and a relaxed vibe ideal for conversation. Outdoor patio next to a green space offers a family-friendly setting with space for children to play.

Lasagna comes with a rich beef sauce and stands out as very flavorful. Angel hair pasta with meat sauce and bolognese both deliver solid, meat-based sauces with no disappointment.

Queso Italiano stands out with its creamy texture and pairs well with pizza crust for dipping. It serves as a popular appetizer and complements dishes like Margherita pizza.

People are saying

"I found the best pizza I've ever tasted right here."

"The bolognese pasta here is just right, with zero disappointment."

"Laura made the experience amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2pm to 5pm most days with great deals.

2

The restaurant does not have a liquor license yet, so no cocktails or beer are available.

3

Only wine is served, with no beer or cocktails on the menu.

06
Five Four Restaurant & Drafthouse- S Austin image 1

Upscale restaurant combines rock 'n' roll memorabilia with spacious seating and multiple big TV screens for sports viewing. Patio offers fire pit and retractable ceiling, creating a versatile outdoor space. Atmosphere blends fresh, clean design with a lively, slightly formal vibe.

Chicken bucatini stands out among the pasta dishes, offering a solid option. The rattlesnake pasta delivers a distinct flavor that many find enjoyable.

Queso stands out as amazing and pairs well with fresh waffle fries. Chips served with the queso are exquisite and complement the dish perfectly.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and hot."

"The rattlesnake pasta was pretty good and delicious."

"The queso here is amazing, especially with the chips."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9 PM to close with $5 beers and $6 long islands.

2

Parking can be difficult; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, primarily high barstools.

07
Fusion Grill & Bar image 1

Jungle and rainforest decor creates a sleek, modern space with top-tier aesthetics. Music plays at late-night dance club volume with a live DJ setting an energetic atmosphere. Burgers and cocktails stand out as best in town offerings.

Pasta options include burrata pesto, Greek mushroom, and Chicken Alfredo varieties. Dishes pair well with steaks and offer a solid mix of flavors.

Chips come with complex, gourmet queso that packs a lot of flavor. The queso stands out as very good and pairs well with the crunchy chips.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and full of great flavor."

"I tried the chicken pesto pasta and it was seasoned to perfection."

"The chips and queso here were awesome."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-off drinks on select items.

2

Brunch is available on weekends with an extensive menu.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for busy times.

08
Birdie's Eastside image 1

Outdoor patio offers spacious seating, fire pits, and backyard games with a pet-friendly atmosphere. Noise level rises in the main dining area, where kids run freely, creating a lively, family-oriented vibe. Two bars with multiple TVs provide spots for adults to relax and watch games.

Penne pasta comes in a rich vodka sauce with sausage. Kids' pasta dishes arrive with a generous amount of sauce. The pasta pairs well with spicy margaritas and blood orange margaritas.

Queso comes with crispy salty chips and offers a packed with flavor taste. It pairs well with brisket tacos and stands out as a consistently delicious option.

People are saying

"The outdoor space is kid-friendly and welcoming for dogs."

"The pasta here is absolutely amazing."

"You have to try the queso; it's packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events in the back room.

2

Happy hour on the patio is a great option for groups.

3

The venue accommodates private events for up to 30 people.

09
Tequila 45 mexican restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with chic Day of the Dead decor and lively colors creates an upscale, bright atmosphere. Live Mariachi music and a full-service bar energize the space, encouraging dancing and socializing. Specialty margaritas and a well-curated drink menu complement the vibrant setting.

Seafood pasta delivers fresh shrimp, fish, and mussels with a flavorful kick. Pasta Del Mar stands out alongside sides like fried plantains and asparagus.

Chips come with creamy queso that is served complimentary. Owners often offer queso on the house, adding a welcoming touch. The queso pairs well with excellent sauces and margaritas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and outstanding."

"The queso fundido had excellent flavor with brisket."

"The seafood pasta was flavorful with a tiny kick."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with special menu items.

2

Live music performances occur on Fridays featuring local bands.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

10
Privacy Houston image 1
Cocktail bar

Small, tight space with a run-down interior sets an intimate scene. DJ blends 90s to present hits, creating a lively, dance-friendly vibe. Hookah and cocktails stand out as notable features amid the club atmosphere.

Cajun pasta stands out with a nice kick and shrimp that adds flavor. It consistently tastes amazing and delivers a spicy, satisfying meal.

Shrimp queso has a salty flavor but remains enjoyable. Chips come with about 4 ounces of cheese and cost $12, paired well with egg rolls and wings.

People are saying

"I thought the food and drinks were bomb."

"The Cajun pasta here is amazing and delicious."

"The drinks here are good and the vibe is good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required even for walk-ins, so make one before arriving.

2

Parking costs $20 across the street, but can be $40 with attendants.

3

Happy hour offers $5 lobster and lemon drops on Thursdays.

11
Bourbon Street Bar & Grill image 1

Spacious Cajun restaurant with a strong New Orleans vibe and live weekend music creates a homey atmosphere. Large booths accommodate groups, and multiple TVs show sports. The bar offers notable cocktails like hurricanes and Mango Habanero Whiskey.

Cajun Pasta stands out with dishes like the Crawfish Monica and Cajun Chicken Pasta delivering strong, authentic flavors. The shrimp pasta also impresses with its rich taste and quality.

Crawfish queso stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with chips. It complements dishes like Catfish PoBoy and Seafood Gumbo.

People are saying

"Von was such an attentive and personable server."

"I loved the Cajun Chicken Pasta; the taste was spot on."

"I found the crawfish queso absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with good drink options.

2

Live music is available every Friday night.

3

Karaoke with DJ SHDW happens on weekends.

12
Bubba's 33 image 1
American restaurant

Large dining and bar areas fill with numerous TVs showing sports and music videos, creating a lively and family-friendly atmosphere. Bright lighting and well air-conditioned spaces keep the environment comfortable and inviting. The bar features a MEGA screen and serves cold drinks, enhancing the energetic vibe during games.

Creamy chipotle pasta offers a rich, spicy flavor. Lasagna stands out as a tasty surprise and a must-try dish.

Chorizo queso stands out with its rich flavor and hearty texture. Chips and queso come together for a classic pairing that gets recommended often.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always delicious."

"The servers here are so attentive and caring, making the pasta even better."

"You have to try the chorizo queso, it's the best."

Good to know

1

Kids are not allowed in the bar area for safety and comfort.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The kids' meal costs $5.99, which includes a side and lemonade.

13
Kearney's Feed Yard image 1

Converted feedstore offers a rustic charm with live local music and a spacious outdoor patio featuring fire pits and cornhole. Atmosphere stays casual and family-friendly, balancing lively bar noise with quieter dining areas. Seating accommodates groups of any size, blending indoor and outdoor spaces.

Spicy pasta dishes stand out with a nice little kick and bold flavors. Options include Cajun pasta with shrimp or chicken and a creamy chicken alfredo that looks appealing.

Queso here features BBQ pork and brisket, offering a rich, meaty flavor. The addition of hot sauce adds a spicy kick that complements the creamy texture.

People are saying

"The food here was awesome and the portions were large."

"I thought the brisket queso was amazing."

"This spicy Cajun pasta has just the right kick."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers $2 off on mixed drinks and $1 off on beers.

2

Live music happens on Fridays during happy hour.

3

Expect a crowded parking lot, especially during peak hours.

14
Terrebonne's Restaurant & Bar image 1

Small Cajun restaurant offers authentic Louisiana flavors with a cozy, festive atmosphere that feels like home. Full bar and heated patio seating accommodate busy nights with a lively crowd. Known for excellent crawfish and classic dishes like gumbo and jambalaya.

Seafood features prominently with generous portions in creamy, rich sauces. Shrimp penne stands out as fabulous, though some dishes can be notably salty.

Crawfish Queso stands out with its rich flavor and creamy texture. It serves as a popular appetizer that pairs well with other seafood options like boiled shrimp.

People are saying

"The crawfish here tastes like home, perfectly spicy."

"The pasta here is rich, creamy, and delicious."

"The crawfish queso here is amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is currently BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

Expect a wait for a table on busy Friday nights after 5:30 PM.

3

Parking is plentiful and available near the restaurant.

15
Katz's image 1
American restaurant

Diner with bold decor and a modern twist creates a lively, fun atmosphere reminiscent of classic New York and Chicago diners. Full bar and outdoor seating with games keep energy high for both casual and business visits. Large windows and upstairs seating add to a contemporary, beautiful setting.

Shrimp and sausage pasta stands out with its rich flavors and is highly praised. Pasta dishes here are among the few worth ordering alongside the burger.

Large bowls of chili con queso come with chips and cheese curds. Cheese items like queso fries and grilled cheese stand out. The queso is consistently rich and pairs well with appetizers.

People are saying

"It's a great late-night spot for a meal after clubbing."

"The chicken pasta here is so rich and satisfying."

"The chips and queso here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-off drinks from 4pm to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Parking is available, but limited to only two spots.

3

Katz's is open 24 hours, making it accessible any time.

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