This cozy spot in a Montrose bungalow is known for serving dishes that blend Southeast Asian spices with locally-sourced ingredients, like masala lamb lollipops, Gangnam ribs with gojuchan glaze and cucumber relish, and basil crab fried rice with miso-pickled pumpkin. call (713) 393-7211 for takeout.

This neighborhood hangout, popular with Rice employees, offers dishes like pecan-crusted chicken, chipotle honey-glazed pork chips with black bean and corn salsa, and shrimp and crab enchiladas. The spacious, plant-covered outdoor patio is a nice spot for lunch, or order dleivery through Postmates.

This tropical-inspired joint from the minds behind Nobie’s offers up unusual rum drinks in a thatch-and bamboo-covered space, alongside Asian-inspired sharable dishes like pork dumplings, chickpea curry and a truly melt-in-your-mouth fried eggplant with vadouvan. Toasted Coconut sells cocktails and food to go through the Toast app.

Houston’s oldest Japanese-owned restaurant, founded in 1986, offers bento boxes, sushi rolls and all manner of noodles in an unassuming, wood-paneled space. Try the comforting udon with clear dashi broth, topped with thin slices of ribeye and scallions, or the unagi rice bowl.

The flavors of Catalan take center stage at this spot, including dishes like marinated octopus in potato puree, fisherman’s soup with branzino and shrimp, and lost of dishes featuring Ibérico pork. There’s also a full vegan menu that makes heavy use of gorgeous, plump fruits and vegetables. Order takeout through the Toast app.

This unassuming taco shop is actually one of the best in the city for no-frills, modern, casual Mexican cuisine. Diners can build their your own burrito bowls or breakfast tacos, or order up a rotisserie chicken quarter with salsa and tortillas. Don’t forget the margaritas. Order takeout through Bodega’s website.

This cute little cafe is run by a Vietnamese couple who also own a coffee farm in Hawaii. In addition to drinks like Hanoi egg coffee, made with their Kona-raised beans, they also serve up beer, wine and have a small bar. Food includes Asian and Hawaiian-touched dishes like the Nui wrap, with pineapple-marinated Huli Huli chicken, avocado, arugula, and jicama, or the Loco Moco plate, pulled pork with a spicy-sweet barbecue sauce served over a bed of white rice and topped with a fried egg. Order online through the restaurant’s website.

This restaurant serves up elevated Southern comfort food, with dishes like catfish and grist, roasted Gulf seafood with mustard greens and Hoppin’ John, and steak smothered in shiitake gravy. Lucille’s has also been active in the community during the pandemic, hosting local bartenders to raise money for the hospitality industry, and delivering free meals to food-insecure areas throughout Houston. Call (713) 568-2505 for curbside pickup.

Fadi’s Eatery is an offshoot of the longtime local Mediterranean chain with a focus of fresh and healthy ingredients, including build-your-own salads, kebab plates with an extensive choice of proteins and sides, and entrees like spiced rice with ground lamb, or lemon butter baked fish. Order online through Fadi’s website.

This popular brunch spot, known for its chicken and waffles, is located at the north end of the Museum District, close to Match Theater and the Buffalo Soldiers Museum. In addition to the wings and waffles, TBK also served up catfish and grits, decadent breakfast sandwiches and daily lunch specials. Skip the long line by ordering takeout through Toast.