Looking for a trendy spot to grab a bite before or after an event? Check out our guide to the best restaurants near Toyota Center in downtown Houston. From Tex-Mex to Latin steakhouse fare, and Italian to modern American, discover five top-rated places that explore varied flavors, within easy walking distance of the arena.
Downtown Houston is home to a bunch of world-renowned live event venues, including the Houston Rockets’ Toyota Center. The multi-purpose area is also a favorite destination for big concerts, apart from basketball games. The energy of the crowds headed to an exciting event at Toyota Center can make you work up an appetite. Fortunately, the neighborhood is brimming with some of the best dining options in the city.
From fine dining to casual eateries, you’ll find something to satisfy all your cravings. Check out our top five picks of restaurants near the Toyota Center – all within a short walking distance of the arena. So, that you can park your car early and explore the neighborhood on foot. Trust us – parking for a longer duration at the same garage is cheaper than paying hourly rates at multiple downtown Houston parking lots.
Also See: Houston Rockets Home Games: Everything from Tickets to Parking
5 Foodie-Favorite Restaurants near Toyota Center
If you’re planning to catch a game or concert at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, there’s no shortage of great dining options nearby. From trendy gastropubs to high-end Italian eateries, Houston’s thriving culinary scene offers something for everyone. It’ll take more than one article to list down every good restaurant near Toyota Center, but here are just a few of our favorites with exception ratings.
Flying Saucer Draught Emporium
705 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
0.7 miles from Toyota Center / 15-minute walk
The taproom on Main Street is popular among Houston Rockets fans who like to start their game day early. The beer-focused eatery is only steps away from the Central Main St. station and within walking distance of Toyota Center. Open from 11 am to midnight, Flying Saucer Draught Emporium Houston has a menu featuring pub favorites like burgers, fries, and wings to go with the relaxed vibe. But the spotlight is on the drinks – you can choose from over 200 global brews and local craft beer. So, if you are looking to fuel up before a big game or concert, the Flying Saucer is an easy choice for a casual, affordable meal.
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The Grove
1611 Lamar St
0.1 mile from Toyota Center / 2-minute walk
The Grove is an easy choice if all you are looking for is a great place to eat near Toyota Center. Relaxed and set in an urban park, the ambiance of the modern American restaurant is the highlight of the experience. It’s on the south end of the Discovery Green Park, steps away from Toyota Center entrances. Reserve a table, arrive early, park near the arena, and chill at The Grove till you need to find your seats for the game or a concert. Salads, steaks, sandwiches, and sides are on the menu, with fresh ingredients and a rustic Texan touch you can’t miss. The airy, contemporary interiors of the restaurant offer a perfect blend of the new and classic American dining experience.
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Toro Toro – Four Seasons Houston
1300 Lamar St
0.2 mile from Toyota Center / 5-minute walk
Fine dining on your mind? The Four Seasons Hotel near Toyota center has a top-rated steakhouse that suits your refined taste. Toro Toro is an award-winning Latin steakhouse concept by Chef Richard Sandoval, and their Houston restaurant space is minutes away from the Rockets arena. Feast on Rodizio-style Churrasco steaks and wash it down with a selection of Latin cocktails and wines. Small plates for sharing, sushi, and ceviche are also available. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner – pick your time to indulge in a luxe culinary experience in downtown Houston.
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Guadalajara Del Centro
1201 San Jacinto St
0.3 mile from Toyota Center / 5-minute walk
Your go-to Mexican food joint in downtown Houston, Guadalajara Del Centro has an extensive menu of classic and contemporary favorites. The Tex-Mex platters are popular lunch specials for groups and families. You can also take your pick of fajitas, enchiladas, grilled seafood, salads, tacos, and more. Don’t miss quesadillas, nachos, and made-to-order guacamole for appetizers. The casual and affordable restaurant is right next to the House of Blues, at the intersection of San Jacinto and Dallas streets. Toyota Center is only a few blocks away and the quick walk should help your burn the big meal you’re likely to order.
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Grotto – Downtown Houston
1001 Avenida De Las Americas Suite A
0.4 mile from Toyota Center / 5-minute walk
If Italian seems like the pick of the day, The Grotto location in Downtown Houston is less than half a mile’s walk from the Toyota Center. It is at Avenida Houston entertainment district, next to the George R. Brown Convention Center. Grab some lunch before heading to the arena to enjoy classic Italian flavors in a rustic warehouse-style restaurant space. You’ll find pizzas, pasta, sharable plates, fresh salads, craft beer, Grappa, wine, and more on the menu for a chic and easy-going dining experience. Grotto is a great place to start if you have extensive pre-game/concert plans to explore the neighborhood around Toyota Center.
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*Restaurant ratings, menu, prices, timings, and other rules are subject to change. Visit the respective official website. Or call to confirm details about reservations and other requirements.
Parking for restaurants near Toyota Center
Now that you have a few options to consider, don’t forget to figure out parking before you head to the restaurant. During game days and events at Toyota Center, parking in downtown Houston could get a bit hectic. Remember, there are more than one or two popular venues in this area of the city.
Most restaurants near Toyota Center offer on-site valet or self-parking spaces for a fee; some might even validate parking at nearby garages. Valet parking is available at The Grotto and Toro Toro, among the restaurants listed above. The rest are conveniently close to a number of parking lots in the vicinity of Toyota Center. However, it’s best to abandon drive-up parking plans. Instead, book a parking space when you make your restaurant reservations or buy tickets to the game/event.
Toyota Center’s Tundra Garage has limited parking spaces. So, consider an off-site lot or garage within easy reach of the arena and the restaurant you choose.
Check out these Houston parking deals for affordable event parking near Toyota Center.
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