Banh mi is one of the Houston region’s most celebrated sandwiches, and Vietwich in nearby Stafford gets it right – stacking its baguettes with pickled vegetables, homemade pate, and a host of proteins, like lemongrass grilled chicken or pork, meatballs, caramelized pork belly, or glazed fried tofu.

Serving cuisine from Northern and Southern India, with a slew of Indo-Chinese offerings, this restaurant and takeout offers traditional favorites like tandoori and butter chicken, an array of curries, and seven types of freshly baked naan to choose from.

Yes, there’s a line of cars at the drive-thru, and for good reason. If you’re hankering for a breakfast burrito or taco, this is your place. Locals rave about the consistent service and huge tacos stuffed with eggs, barbacoa, and the toppings of your choice. Can’t make up your mind? Try the potato queso bowl, topped with your choice of meat, or the $6 Street Taco Fiesta combo, which comes with four tacos stuffed with spicy ground beef, shredded chicken, shredded pork, and barbacoa.

Step into this charming wine bar, and transport yourself and your favorite people to France. Whether you lean toward a Nuthouse Riesling or a Totus Tuus Red Blend paired with flatbreads and charcuteries, this experience is bound to be a social one. Try the bacon-wrapped feta-stuffed dates or the spiced meatballs drizzled with a cream sauce for a flavorful start to a meal. Vegetarian and gluten-free options abound here, as do French desserts and espresso coffees.

This Mediterranean grill serves up a variety of Middle Eastern, American, and vegetarian delights. While kebabs and gyro wraps are ideal for quick lunches, Red Oak offers a variety of favorites like the classic beef or chicken shawarmas, accompanied by hummus and tabouleh, and the Mediterranean vegetarian plate served with a spinach pie, stuffed grape leaves, and falafel.

Down-to-earth enough to make kids happy, and elevated enough for the most discerning burger connoisseur, Brandani’s burger and taco joint pleases crowds, families, and couples. Try the mushroom burger with sherry mushroom gravy, or take a culinary leap with the brie and candied bacon burger. Grown-ups can indulge in a craft brew, or pamper their inner child with a frothy dulce de leche shake.

Husband-and-wife team Ron and Claire Brandani are the namesakes behind this Missouri City gem. The couple’s first restaurant endeavor has grown to become a hit among Fort Bend county residents, and has since gone on to include a less formal counterpart, Brandani’s Burgers, Tacos, & Brew, in the same development. The menu touts elegant, well-presented plates like jumbo lump crab cakes with lemon beurre blanc and pork tenderloin Milanese, and offers a popular 3-course lunch special for $18.

For almost 30 years, this Chinese establishment has provided over-the-top service, savory General Tso’s chicken, and a wonton soup hearty enough to serve as a meal. Vegetarian dishes like asparagus and broccoli and pescetarian entrees like shrimp and Chinese vegetables skip the sauces and provide lighter options. For an unbeatable deal, go all out with the soup, three appetizers, and an entree family meal for dine-in or takeout for just $11.50 per person.

Chef George Micheaux has earned a reputation for serving up soul food staples like tender oxtails and smothered pork chops, along with a host of traditional sides. Choose from more than a dozen options, like the okra and tomato medley, sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread to accompany your meal. Take a slice of Coca-Cola cake, peach cobbler, or bread pudding with rum sauce for the road.

Serving up Thai food that is made from scratch and generous in portions, this bistro is a hit among Thai aficionados. With charming paper umbrellas and colorful decor that evokes the bustling streets of Bangkok, the restaurant cooks up a standout duck pad kee mao and a fried rice that keeps guests coming back for more. In need of suggestions? Ask the personable counter servers for their take.