Houston, a city known for its diverse culinary scene, boasts a surprising number of establishments dedicated to the art of the perfect french fry. From classic steak fries to inventive loaded options, the possibilities are endless. This guide dives into 14 of the best places to indulge in this beloved side dish, highlighting what makes each location truly special. We'll explore different fry styles, unique toppings, and the overall dining experience to help you navigate the crispy landscape of Houston's fry scene. Get ready to embark on a spudtacular journey!
The Classics: Perfectly Executed Traditional Fries
These spots nail the fundamentals – perfectly crisp exteriors, fluffy interiors, and just the right seasoning.
1. The Original Ninfa's on Navigation: A Houston Icon's Take on Fries
Ninfa's isn't just known for its Tex-Mex; their steak fries are a legendary side. Thick-cut, golden brown, and seasoned to perfection, they are a perfect complement to their famous fajitas. The simple seasoning lets the potato's natural flavor shine, making them a classic for a reason. Many consider these fries a must-have alongside any meal at Ninfa's.
2. Killen's Barbecue: Smoked Perfection Meets Crispy Fries
Killen's, famed for its smoked meats, offers unexpectedly incredible fries. Their thick-cut fries are perfectly crisp and offer a delightful counterpoint to the rich, smoky flavors of their barbecue. The fries are simple but expertly executed – a testament to quality ingredients and preparation.
3. State Fair of Texas: A Yearly Fry Fest
While technically seasonal, the State Fair of Texas offers a rotating selection of creative and sometimes over-the-top fried delights, including various kinds of french fries. This is a fun option for those seeking unique fry experiences, as new creations often appear each year. Be warned, portions are often quite large!
Gourmet Fries: Elevated Spuds with Unique Toppings
These establishments elevate the humble fry to an art form, incorporating gourmet toppings and creative flavor combinations.
4. Hubcap Grill: Loaded Fries with a Twist
Hubcap Grill's loaded fries are a Houston institution. They offer a variety of toppings, from chili and cheese to bacon and jalapeños. The generous portions and creative combinations make them a popular choice for a satisfying meal. Their unique chili cheese option is particularly noteworthy.
5. The Burger Joint: Gourmet Burgers and Equally Gourmet Fries
The Burger Joint takes its fries seriously, offering thin-cut options that are perfectly crispy. These fries pair perfectly with their high-quality burgers. The simplicity of these fries allows the burger's flavors to take center stage without overwhelming the palate.
6. B.B. Lemon: Sophistication Meets the Humble Fry
B.B. Lemon, a fine dining establishment, offers a sophisticated take on french fries. Their fries often feature unique seasonings or are served with gourmet dipping sauces. This is a great option for those seeking a more upscale fry experience. Expect higher prices to reflect the quality and ingredients.
Beyond the Traditional: Creative Fry Variations
These restaurants explore beyond the classic fry, experimenting with different potato cuts, seasonings, and preparations.
7. Hopdoddy Burger Bar: Creative Fries for Creative Burgers
Hopdoddy offers a range of fry options, often including sweet potato fries and truffle fries. Their creative fry offerings mirror the adventurous nature of their burger menu. They often feature seasonal specials, keeping things fresh and exciting.
8. Shake Shack: A National Favorite in Houston
Shake Shack's crinkle-cut fries are a classic for a reason. Their consistency across locations ensures a familiar and reliable fry experience. The crinkle cut adds an interesting textural element that differs from traditional straight-cut fries.
9. Good Dog Houston: The Perfect Side to a Gourmet Hot Dog
Good Dog’s fries are a great complement to their creative hot dogs, maintaining a simple but effective profile. The classic style lets the focus remain on the hot dog, but the fries add a satisfying element to the meal.
Hidden Gems: Unexpected Fry Delights
These lesser-known spots offer surprisingly amazing fries, often a well-kept secret among locals.
10. Pink's Pizza: Pizza and Fries? A Surprisingly Great Combo
Pink's Pizza offers great fries as a side to their pizza. They manage to provide a solid fry experience despite specializing in another food category. The fries offer a nice balance to the richness of the pizza.
11. Local Foods: Fresh, Local, and Frylicious
Local Foods' fries are made with fresh, local ingredients. Their commitment to quality shines through in the flavor and texture of their fries. A commitment to sourcing local ingredients also supports the Houston community.
12. Flying Fish: Seafood and Fries: A Classic Pairing
Flying Fish, known for its seafood, offers fries that hold their own against their seafood dishes. The fries complement the seafood flavors without overwhelming the palate. A great place to explore seafood and fries together.
Loaded & Specialty Fries: Fries Taken to the Next Level
These establishments go all out, creating loaded fries that are meals in themselves.
13. The Rustic: A Texas-Sized Fry Experience
The Rustic’s loaded fries are massive and satisfying. They're a feast for the eyes and stomach. Their variety of toppings and generous portions make them a must-try for those looking for a full meal in a single dish. Be prepared for a serious food coma.
14. Cabo Bob's: A Taste of Mexico on Your Fries
Cabo Bob's offers unique takes on loaded fries with a Mexican flair. Their creative combinations of flavors and toppings offer a distinctive spin on the traditional loaded fry. A great alternative to more standard loaded fry offerings.
This list provides a starting point for your Houston fry adventure. There are many other fantastic fry options throughout the city, so feel free to explore and discover your own personal favorites! Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm hours, menus, and availability, especially for limited-time specials. Happy frying!
