The Long-Lost Restaurants of Houston: A Journey into the American Palate

Houston, the bustling metropolis of Texas, has always been a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Over the years, it has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous legendary restaurants that played a significant role in shaping the American palate. These establishments may have vanished into thin air, but their stories continue to evoke nostalgia among locals and food enthusiasts alike.

In this article, we will embark on a journey down memory lane and explore some of the lost restaurants of Houston, taking a closer look at their iconic dishes, ambiance, and the impact they had on the local culinary scene. Join us as we unearth the forgotten treasures and rediscover the hidden flavors that once graced the tables of these historic establishments.

1. The Elite Cafe: Where Southern Comfort Meets Elegance

The Elite Cafe, located in the heart of Houston, served as a gateway to the culinary traditions of the American South. With its Georgian-style architecture and white tablecloths, it exuded an old-world charm that captivated diners. From mouthwatering fried chicken and smoky ribs to fluffy buttermilk biscuits, this iconic eatery was a haven for soulful Southern comfort food.

Lost Restaurants of Houston (American Palate)

by Sally Johnson MA RD LD CFMP (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8033 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	293 pages
Paperback	:	40 pages
Item Weight	:	2.56 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.1 x 9 inches

FREE

The nostalgic scent of freshly brewed coffee would fill the air as patrons indulged in a slice of their famous pecan pie, a sweet and nutty delicacy that became a symbol of The Elite Cafe’s legacy. Sadly, this beloved establishment closed its doors in the early 2000s, leaving behind memories of a bygone era.

2. The Tower of the Americas: A Sky-High Dining Experience

No exploration of Houston's lost restaurants would be complete without mentioning The Tower of the Americas. Rising majestically above the cityscape, this iconic landmark once housed a revolving restaurant that offered panoramic views of Houston as guests savored a unique dining experience like no other.

During its heyday in the 1970s, this revolving restaurant was the epitome of sophisticated dining. It allowed Houstonians to dine amidst the clouds while relishing a variety of fine American dishes. Whether it was savoring succulent steaks or sipping on classic cocktails, every visit to The Tower of the Americas was a magical affair.

However, as times changed and newer dining trends emerged, The Tower of the Americas, along with its revolving restaurant, ceased to exist. Yet, its memory lives on as a testament to Houston's evolving culinary landscape.

3. Felix Mexican Restaurant: Bringing Authentic Mexican Flavors to Houston

For over six decades, Felix Mexican Restaurant served as a gateway to the vibrant flavors of Mexico in the heart of Houston. Established in 1948, this family-owned eatery captivated diners with its mouthwatering tamales, sizzling fajitas, and indulgent enchiladas.

Their secret ingredient? Love. The recipes were passed down through generations, ensuring that every bite carried the warmth and authenticity of homemade Mexican cuisine. Famed for their tableside guacamole preparation and vibrant margaritas, Felix Mexican Restaurant was a culinary gem that brought a taste of Mexico to the Houstonian palate.

Despite its loyal following, Felix Mexican Restaurant shuttered its doors in 2013, leaving a void in the hearts of many who had come to cherish its traditional dishes.

4. The Brownstone: A Culinary Haven for Gourmands

The Brownstone, nestled in the trendy Montrose neighborhood, was a gastronomic paradise that epitomized fine dining in Houston. The restaurant was celebrated for its innovative fusion of American and European cuisines, presenting avant-garde dishes that pushed the boundaries of culinary creativity.

The Brownstone offered an elegant and intimate setting where food enthusiasts could indulge in dishes like escargots bourguignon, duck confit, and crème brûlée. It was a place where culinary arts met contemporary sophistication, leaving an indelible mark on the food scene in Houston.

Regrettably, The Brownstone eventually succumbed to the ever-changing landscape of the restaurant industry. It closed its doors, taking with it the unique flavors and experiences that once thrilled diners.

5. Hofbrau Steaks: A Taste of Bavarian Delights

In the heart of Houston's Downtown stood the legendary Hofbrau Steaks, a gastronomic haven that united the flavors of Texas and Bavaria. A crowd-favorite since the 1930s, Hofbrau Steaks delighted diners with hearty plates of perfectly cooked steaks and traditional German fare.

Inside the restaurant, patrons were greeted with lively oompah music, as the aroma of sauerkraut and bratwurst filled the air. Hofbrau Steaks offered an unforgettable dining experience that remained etched in the memories of long-time Houstonians.

As the years rolled by, the restaurant faced the inevitable passage of time, eventually closing its doors for the last time. Nevertheless, the spirit of Hofbrau Steaks lives on, reminding us of Houston's cultural diversity.

The lost restaurants of Houston may have vanished, but their legacies endure, weaving a rich tapestry of flavors, memories, and stories that continue to shape Houston's culinary landscape. Exploring these forgotten treasures allows us to appreciate the evolution of American cuisine and the influence of cultural diversity on gastronomy.

Although these restaurants may only exist in photographs and memories now, their impact on the local dining scene cannot be overstated. Their stories remind us of the importance of preserving culinary heritage and supporting the vibrant restaurant industry that continues to thrive in Houston today.

Lost Restaurants of Houston (American Palate)

by Sally Johnson MA RD LD CFMP (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8033 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	293 pages
Paperback	:	40 pages
Item Weight	:	2.56 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.1 x 9 inches

FREE

“Stories of immigration, culture-clash . . . and old-fashioned hard work are told through the history of Houston’s long-gone, but still-beloved restaurants.” —Yesterday’s America
 
With more than fourteen thousand eating establishments covering seventy different ethnic cuisines, Houston is a foodie town. But even in a place where eating out is a way of life and restaurants come and go, there were some iconic spots that earned a special place in the hearts and stomachs of locals. Maxim’s taught overnight millionaires how to handle meals that came with three forks. The Trader Vic’s at the Shamrock offered dedicated homebodies a chance for the exotic, and Sonny Look’s Sirloin Inn maintained the reputation of a city of steakhouses. From Alfred’s Delicatessen to Youngblood’s Fried Chicken, Paul and Christiane Galvani celebrate the stories and recipes of Houston’s fondly remembered tastemakers.
 
“In the book, the Galvanis share Houston’s history and love of food. They take the reader on the banks of the bayou when the city received its first inhabitants before time hopping from the Original Mexican Restaurant to The Original Kelley’s Steakhouse. Other stops include Alfred’s Delicatessen and the San Jacinto Inn.” —Houston Business Journal