Favorite Business Lunch Restaurants in Houston

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Business lunch spots are a must in any city. Houston, one of America's largest cities, is certainly no exception. But, in a city so large and full of options, how do you find the best dining spot for your business solution?

Whatever option you choose, be sure that it fits your business needs. For instance, if you are meeting your boss about an important client, you don't want to choose a fast food restaurant. You would choose something more upscale and formal.

Below I have compiled a list and overview of what I consider to be the best business lunch spots in Houston. There are a variety of options, so no matter your lunchtime business need, these suggestions should be able to help you out.

Texas Land & Cattle

If you're looking for a steakhouse, Texas Land & Cattle could be your choice. There are many menu options at this popular steakhouse. You don't have to be restricted to steak here. You can also find many chicken dishes, as well as specialty salads. The only qualms some have about this restaurant is the lack of choice for vegetarians. It seems the only menu item available for a vegetarian is a salad. While this is a steakhouse, it is still a great spot for either one-on-one lunch meetings or group meetings. Group dining is available here. Texas Land & Cattle is at the average price range for steakhouses.

Pappasito's Cantina

Pappasito's is the ideal business lunch location for a variety of business needs. Pappasito's is a Tex-Mex restaurant, boasting a variety of flavorful menu options. Not only is this a great sit-down restaurant for one-on-one business lunches, it's also perfect for larger parties. There is even a separate area that can be rented out for private parties or meetings - and a Mariachi band will play for you as well. The prices are fair and the food is exceptional. If Mexican food isn't your thing, the same company chain (Pappa's Restaurants) also has Pappadeux Seafood Kitchen, Pappa's Bros. Steakhouse, Pappa's BBQ, Pappa's Seafood House, Pappa's Greek Kitchen (Yia Yia Mary's), Pappa's Burger and Pappa's Grill. All of these are favorites among Houstonians. These restaurants have various locations around the Houston area.

Taco Cabana

If you enjoy Tex-Mex, but aren't looking for the restaurant feel, Taco Cabana might be your choice. You can dine-in or get your food to go. Taco Cabana also has a drive-thru if you and your business partners prefer to take your lunch back to the office or elsewhere. If you choose to eat at Taco Cabana, expect to order your food at the counter and choose your own seating area. Once your order number is called, you'll need to go to the counter to pick up your order. There is also a salsa station so that you can add the salsas of your choice to your food tray. Taco Cabana has many locations all over Houston.

Olive Garden

Olive Garden is an Italian restaurant that is famous for its salad. The lunch menu has items you would expect to see at an Italian restaurant, such as lasagna, filled pastas, soups, salads, pizza and chicken scampi. There are many more delectable foods to choose from, including a wine menu and dessert. This restaurant is great for one-on-one business meetings or average-sized groups. If your party is a fairly large size, you should call ahead to alert the staff.

Chili's

Chili's is a traditional American-style bar and grill restaurant. Here you can get most traditional American foods, such as hot wings, salads, burgers, nachos and also some specialties exclusive to Chili's. Southwest Eggrolls are a favorite among many Chili's patrons. There is also an alcoholic beverage menu. These items can be ordered from a table or from the bar. If your business meeting is casual, Chili's is an excellent place to go for lunch. You can expect to pay an average of about $9 per entree. However, some are less and some are more.

P.F. Chang's

P.F. Chang's is a bistro-style Chinese restaurant. Here you can find traditional Chinese food, such as lettuce wraps, peking dumplings, wontons, spring rolls, spare ribs, wonton soup, lo mein and more. At P.F. Chang's, you will find menu options for vegetarians as well as meat eaters. This is a more formal dining experience than the previously-mentioned restaurants, which makes it perfect for important business meetings. You’ll get your meal served to you in courses. Expect to pay above average prices for this meal.


*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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