Montgomery County and North Harris County continue to emerge as one of the most exciting culinary regions in Texas. From iconic Tex-Mex and handcrafted barbecue to heartfelt brunch spots and neighborhood taverns, the north side offers exceptional dining experiences rooted in community, craftsmanship, and Texas pride.
Below are four standout restaurants shaping the area’s dining culture—each with its own personality, story, and signature flavors.
Nacho Padres – The Tex-Mex Powerhouse (Spring/The Woodlands)
📍 2121 Rayford Rd, Spring, Texas 77386
🔗 https://nachopadres.com
Nacho Padres has quickly become one of the most recognizable Tex-Mex destinations in North Harris County. With a vibrant atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and a menu full of bold flavors, this locally owned restaurant has become a family favorite.
Their sizzling beef and chicken fajitas—marinated, tender, and served steaming hot—are widely considered some of the best in the region. It’s no surprise that Half-Off Large Fajitas every Thursday has transformed into one of the busiest weekly specials in the area.
From enchiladas to margaritas to seasonal events and holiday pop-ups, Nacho Padres offers both comfort and excitement, making it an essential stop for anyone craving top-tier Tex-Mex with community roots.
Woodson’s Local Tap + Kitchen – A True Neighborhood Staple (Multiple Locations)
Spring Location:
📍 4127 Riley Fuzzel Rd Suite 100, Spring, TX 77386
Magnolia / The Woodlands Location:
📍 14135 FM 1488, Magnolia, TX 77354
Woodson’s Local Tap + Kitchen has earned its place as a beloved neighborhood hangout—laid-back, welcoming, and proudly Texan. Their menu showcases elevated comfort food, craft cocktails, and enough variety to satisfy every palate.
Among their most iconic menu items is the Giant Woodson’s Pretzel—a warm, soft, oversized pretzel served with signature dipping sauces. It’s become a must-order starter and a talking point for locals introducing friends to the restaurant.
With its inviting atmosphere, family-friendly dining rooms, and weekly specials, Woodson’s remains one of the north side’s most consistent and community-driven restaurants.
Honor Café – Exceptional Food with a Mission (Conroe)
📍 103 N Thompson St, Conroe, TX 77301
🔗 https://honorcafe.us
More than a restaurant, Honor Café is a tribute to American veterans. With its museum-like décor, handcrafted meals, and heart for community service, it stands as one of Conroe’s most unique and meaningful dining establishments.
Honor Café’s menu blends hearty breakfasts, smoked meats, pastries, and Southern-inspired comfort foods. But locals know to always check in for the Daily Hotline Special—a rotating chef-curated dish featuring fresh ingredients and creative techniques. It’s one of the best daily values in Montgomery County and an easy excuse to visit often.
Warm, welcoming, and mission-driven, Honor Café offers a dining experience that nourishes both body and spirit.
Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue – A Texas Barbecue Icon (Tomball)
📍 200 N Elm St, Tomball, TX 77375
🔗 https://tejaschocolate.com
Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue is a name that resonates far beyond Tomball. What began as a bean-to-bar chocolate shop evolved into one of the most respected barbecue destinations in Texas.
Every Thursday, Tejas serves one of the most sought-after specials in the state: the Tejas Pastrami. Smoked low and slow, sliced thick, pepper-crusted, rich, and impossibly tender—it has developed a cult following, drawing crowds from all across the Houston region.
Their brisket, sausages, ribs, and chocolate desserts round out a menu rooted in craft and tradition, securing Tejas’ place as a pilgrimage-worthy restaurant for any Texas barbecue enthusiast.
Special Mentions: Weekly Highlights Worth Planning Around
-
Nacho Padres (Spring) – Half-Off Large Fajitas Every Thursday
🔗 https://nachopadres.com -
Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue (Tomball) – Thursday Pastrami Special
🔗 https://tejaschocolate.com -
Honor Café (Conroe) – Daily Hotline Special
🔗 https://honorcafe.us -
Woodson’s Local Tap + Kitchen – Famous Giant Pretzel
🔗 https://woodsonslocal.com
A Region Rich in Flavor, Community, and Craft
From sizzling fajitas to handcrafted barbecue, from heart-driven hospitality to neighborhood comfort, Montgomery County and North Harris County offer a culinary landscape as diverse and vibrant as the communities themselves.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, seeking a new weekend favorite, or exploring local gems, these four restaurants stand among the best the region has to offer.
