Taste of Texas

Taste of Texas has been a Houston institution since 1977 and holds the distinction of being the busiest independently owned restaurant in the state of Texas and the sixth busiest in the entire country, all from a single location. The owners have deliberately chosen never to open a second branch, preferring to remain hands on in the operation every day. The restaurant seats around 325 guests at a time and serves over 1,000 steaks daily. Inside, every item on display is a genuine Texas antique, making it as much a living museum of Texas history as it is a restaurant. All steaks are certified Angus beef, wet aged for 45 days, and selected by the in house butcher from a refrigerated display case that guests can visit before their meal. The restaurant is equally celebrated for its world renowned all you can eat salad bar, which has maintained its reputation and quality at a time when salad bars have largely disappeared from American dining.

Taste of Texas offers an immersive steakhouse experience that goes beyond just food, blending Texas history with legendary hospitality. The reviewer highlights the restaurant’s bustling atmosphere, the warmth of the staff, and the impressive scale of operations, serving over a thousand steaks daily. Standout moments include meeting owner Nina Hendee and enjoying both the food and the unique museum-like ambiance. The visit is described as an honor and a true Texas destination.

The experience at Taste of Texas is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Texan culture, hospitality, and history. The reviewer’s admiration for the restaurant’s scale, warmth, and the personal touch from owner Nina Hendee shines through. The food, from the massive tomahawk steak to the decadent snickers pie, is matched by the sense of being welcomed into a Texas institution. The visit leaves a lasting impression of comfort, satisfaction, and genuine connection, making it clear why Taste of Texas is considered an icon.