A trip to the tiny Texas town of Round Top isn’t complete without a visit to this quirky country cafe. From the savory fried chicken to a solid selection of pies, everything is homemade. The decadent sweet n’ salty pie got a nod from the Food Network as one of the top five chocolate desserts in the country.

Located in Washington, east of Brenham, the luxurious Inn at Dos Brisas is home to a rising star of a restaurant worth the scenic drive. The farm-to-table establishment cultivates fresh ingredients from its organic farm for a rotating menu. With a 7,000-bottle wine cellar and sweeping Hill Country views, this destination restaurant makes for a romantic getaway.

Despite a recent claim to fame on “Parts Unknown,” this family-run joint has been a Palacios staple for years. What started as a convenience store for the fishing community now serves up some of the best Vietnamese food around. From banh mi to pho, everything is made fresh—including the head chef’s mean breakfast tacos.

This casual country outpost in Lake Conroe is a Montgomery County staple. Hot, generous portions of fried catfish, hushpuppies, and green tomato relish are served up in a no-frills setting.

Best to arrive early at Corkscrew BBQ in Old Town Spring, as they tend to sell out most afternoons. Its moist brisket and tender beef ribs (which are only offered on Saturdays) recently earned it a top 10 spot on Texas Monthly’s coveted barbecue list.

This unassuming Indian restaurant is one of Humble’s hidden gems. The family-owned joint prepares authentic dishes, each bursting with spice and flavor. The melt-in-your-mouth lamb, shrimp biryani, and refreshing mint lemonade make this a go-to lunch spot.

Creative Thai food and an extensive wine selection make this cozy Seabrook restaurant a standout. Curries are the real star here; add your choice of meat or seafood and as much spice as your heart desires. Chow down in the Merlion Restaurant’s stylish digs or on the charming patio.

Kemah staple T-Bone Tom’s is well-known for its lively atmosphere and expansive “Backyard,” featuring live music on the weekends. Fill up on armadillo eggs, aka brisket-stuffed fried jalapenos, before ordering a chicken fried steak or marinated rib eye.

This popular Galveston spot is known for hearty American grub like burgers, onion rings, and fried shrimp. With a multi-level deck and ocean views, it’s the perfect pit stop after a long day at the beach. Top it off with a milkshake, homemade dessert, or frozen concoction at the adjacent Tiki Bar.

When you’re in the mood for a steaming pot of gumbo, look no further than Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar. If you’re really hungry after a day of strolling The Strand in Galveston, you won’t be after ordering a “big daddy” portion. Aside from the gumbo, it offers a wide seafood selection including po-boys and oyster platters.

Housed in an 1870s building in the East End Historic District of Galveston, Mosquito Cafe is a breakfast and brunch favorite. Highlights of the casual cafe include the house eggs benedict with sautéed shrimp, scratch-made pancakes, and shrimp tacos.