Taste Kitchen + Bar image

Taste Kitchen + Bar

Restaurant Breakfast restaurant American restaurant Southern us restaurant Food and drink

Late-night chicken & waffles menu plus fusion Southern fare & cocktails served in a casual space. People often mention waffles, good, time, chicken, great, wait, service, amazing, nice, Taste,


Address

420 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

Website

www.tastedowntownhtx.com

Contact

+1 713-485-5803

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.00 (3.2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 8 am to 10 pm
  • Friday: (Good Friday), 8 am to 12 am, Hours might differ
  • Saturday: 8 am to 12 am
  • Sunday: (Easter), 8 am to 10 pm, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 8 am to 10 pm
  • Tuesday: 8 am to 10 pm
  • Wednesday: 8 am to 10 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: waffles (26) good (26) time (25) chicken (23) great (20) wait (19) service (14) amazing (13) nice (13) Taste (13)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 3/5 Lourisi R. 1 year ago on Google
    Online it shows that they open at 11 am, well they don’t open at 11am we got there 10 minutares before the restaurant opens because we know this is a popular place and food is great. However, this last Sunday I was very disappointed. First of all , they let us in to wait in the patio area around 11:45 am and gave us a table around 12:10 or so. But they are supposed open at 11 am. I used to eat here a lot when I used to stay in downtown area because the food used to taste amazing, well not this time. The food didn’t have much flavor. My favorite dish is chicken and waffle because so far I thought that’s as the best I had in town. However Last time I ordered chicken and waffle I got a wing and a breast. However, this last visit I got two wings along with the waffles because they didn’t have chicken breast at all. So I ordered chicken strips on the side, along with the Mac & cheese what was also poor seasoned as well. I rated 3 starts because the customer service it’s always great. I hope they improve their opening times, as well if they don’t have enough food or a dish on the menu just don’t offer the food or take out of the menu for that day. People drive from different part of town just to support and eat great food.
    18 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Jin D. 7 months ago on Google
    Reservation: If you call to make a reservation, there will be a $50 hold per person on your card. If your meal ends up costing less than the hold, you get a gift card refund of the balance. In other words, if you are a party of 4, there is a $200 hold on your card. If your meal ends up being- let's say $180- you get a $20 gift card for your next visit. Would be nice if you're told beforehand the medium of your refund. Parking: You have to park across the street, no valet, sometimes parking costs $12, other times it costs $20. We paid $20. Ambience: Very airy, quite lively, gives young life vibes. Food & Drinks: The food was delicious, with good portion size, I couldn't even finish my meal, and it was very well cooked. The drinks were great also, I had the Mai-Tai, it was refreshing. Price: I wouldn't say it is expensive, but definitely not cheap- our meal came out to be almost $180. I don't know if I'd envisioned spending $180 on brunch. Service: Our waiter was attentive and friendly. Overall was a good experience, I just don't know if it was unique enough to go there again- other more affordable and equally enjoyable alternatives.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Barbrah K. 2 years ago on Google
    I'd give 5 stars but the wait time was a bit more than I'd expected. Prepare to wait at least a couple hours before reaching the hostess, who will then inform you of another hour or so wait time before being seated! The food was good but didn't match the time it took us to be seated. I was visiting my granddaughter who suggested the place, anything for her. Would I go again, probably. We actually arrived around 11:30AM which was a good time, the line wasn't wrapped around the corner. Drinks, Hookah, Food and Music.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rikka B. 1 year ago on Google
    Me and my friends went to Taste before we headed back home to Georgia. The place was a who vibe with indoor and outdoor seating. It was really hot that day so we chose to sit inside. The music was good and the waitress (I forgot the man name) but he was the absolute best. Ima definitely go back there to see him every time I go to Texas. I tried the Cajun chicken and waffles and I got a side of that macaroni and cheese, it was all delicious. I also tried the red velvet waffles and I been wanting to try them for a long time. They was good as well. This is a spot you definitely want to go to if your in Houston. I loved everything about it.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jade D. 1 year ago on Google
    On my recent visit to Houston I had the pleasure of trying Taste Bar + Kitchen. Food and service were impeccable. We went on Saturday morning and also decided to come back Monday before heading home to Louisiana. Leslie gave such amazing service and he is also a deciding factor on why we decided to double back. The food was so delicious on both visits. It's worth the wait in line. I would definitely suggest coming about 1030 and valeting. One less head ache to worry about paying to park. The ambiance was great and also the food portions were nice. Each time there was plenty to take as left overs. You won't be disappointed!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 X A V I E R. 2 years ago on Google
    The best Shrimp and grits I've ever had! This place made me feel right at home. The music was everything, the customer service was phenomenal to say the least, and the different combinations of mimosas was to die for! Establishment was very clean, and even though it was a long wait time, they had a nice patio section you could sit on while you wait. Food was fresh and the cooks did an amazing job seasoning every portion of our entrees! I had the Shrimp & Grits and it literally melted in my mouth. I kid you not the best Shrimp and Grits I've had so far. I can not wait to come back next time I visit Houston!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Robert J. 2 years ago on Google
    My wife and I were in town visiting my daughter and she suggested we eat here. While the wait was long, the food and the service was excellent. I had the chicken and waffles and they were the bests that I’ve had. Yes, the best. My wife had the shrimp and grits and loved it as well. I will add that seating is a little tight for my liking, the music is a very nice touch, but good luck finding a parking spot… If you’re in the area, give them a try, you won’t regret it….
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 B. M. 2 years ago on Google
    Wife bought me here for birthday brunch and we were the first ones there. We chose to sit outside which is spacious and quiet with music playing at a reasonable volume. Ordered the Cajun Chicken & Waffles and Taste Breakfast. Food was good overall. Waffles were the best thing on our plate. Chicken was suppose to be cajun but I couldn't pick up the flavor. Both of our eggs were runny like and my wife sent hers back to get them fried harder but it wasn't much of a change. Overall nice place which I would recommend to try to see if you like it.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Syl F. 1 year ago on Google
    The food was mediocre. The drinks were good. We went there for brunch. We arrived at 11:30. The restaurant opened at 11. When we got to the podium they told us it would be a 2 1/2 hour wait. That wasn’t expected especially when they had just opened. Once we ordered it took forever for the food to come. Needless to say we were there for hours. On top of that they put a 9% tax on bank cards. Something I wish I would have known in advance because I definitely would have brought cash!! So that was an additional $15 on top of a $285 ticket in which I don’t mind spending on good experiences. The bartender was amazing though!! They really should incorporate reservations.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kay D. 6 months ago on Google
    LOVED this place, will be back for sure!! I’m sometimes hesitant to rate black owned businesses but this one was easy to make! There was a 45 min wait around noon on Sunday but there was an option to reserve online for $50 per guest beforehand. The aesthetics were classy and nice, a photographer came around offering framed photos. There’s a downstairs (basement), main floor, and 2nd story option for seating. My friends and I were initially sat in the basement but was accommodated when we told them we weren’t comfortable. Great size of the meal, fair prices, and strong drinks (Keep in mind I am a light weight). I got a drink and the 2 catfish fillet meal with macaroni and cheese, DELICIOUS! Luckily the day we went Patron had a rep offering free shots, so that was fun! Our waiter was a bit everywhere and ended up mixing up some of our order. All in all, great brunch, girls day, or family spot. Definitely worth the try, you won’t be disappointed!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Thalia B. 8 months ago on Google
    Phenomenal service. Fair pricing. Plenty of seating and well-lit. Great temperature and tasteful decor. I had the catfish and grits and cleaned the plate. The portions are very generous and my friends enjoyed their drinks. Our server was very patient and kind and we appreciated her help in deciding what to order. Highly recommend.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dee Dee F. 2 years ago on Google
    Parking is challenging, however there is Valet Parking. We called first thing in the morning and put our name on a wait list. The outdoor patio was completely full by 1130am on Friday. We were seated right away at the bar upstairs. There was a little room between us and other patrons, which was nice. More than 75% of the people did not have on mask (we did). The server was nice. The food arrived in a timely matter. We had to send the shrimp and grits back because they were 🥶 🧊 cold. Once the food came out the second time, everything was perfect. The fried lobster tails were fabulous. We ordered an extra one. The smothered chicken was great. The Mac-N-Cheese was good. I love Gouda Cheese. We did not have any drinks and still paid $123.00 for 2 for lunch. This was our second time and we would return to The Taste Bar again.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kris M. 8 months ago on Google
    Went there with my wife and kids. The atmosphere is more for dates and meet-ups, but we had a great time! The food.... THE FOOD!!! So so so so GOOD! I had cinnamon toast crunch waffles with with my Cajun chicken... (Homer Simpson gurgling noise)
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Radia Z. 9 months ago on Google
    I’m not one to wait for food. Especially almost two hours!!! But that was my fault for not making a reservation. However this place is worth the wait and they even have something for the little ones. The drinks were great and the food was perfectly seasoned. We already have our next meal and drinks planned. Thank you T and and Missy for the phenomenal service.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Decline H. 7 months ago on Google
    Reservation: There’s a $50 hold per person on your card, and if you don’t spend the Reserve you will not get your money back. I.e Party of 4 $200 to make a reservation what you don’t spend out of the $200 you’ll lose, At least that’s how it was explained to us. Parking: You have to park across the street, no valet and parking at the time was $25.00 dollars. There was cheaper parking but it was at least 4 blocks away. Ambience: Nice music gives young life vibes, however we had an upstairs table and it was quite dim in Sure it’s better during daylight it was just very dim you could barely see the menu. Food & Drinks: The food was simply amazing, with good portion size, I couldn't even finish my meal, and it was very well prepared. Every drink I order from the menu was unavailable due to lack of ingredients. I order Five drinks before there was one they could actually make. We also were giving plastic utensils to eat with due to the fact they ran out of silverware and the same with the glasses. Price: I wouldn't say it is expensive, but definitely not cheap, like therefore mentioned if you make a reservation make sure you spend all of your money. We had a party of 4 with a reservation ($200) and we were advised if we went any amount over the 200 we’d have an automatic gratuity. Service: Our waiter was attentive and friendly however she had a soft voice and the music was loud so that was not a good combo.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shaquaya Tatiana E. 4 months ago on Google
    This was my first time visiting but definitely not my last. It started off great with a friendly greeter that seated me right away. Then a handsome bartender that took my order. Extremely polite and funny and he knew how to make the most delicious watermelon lemon drop. The food was still the highlight. I ate until I was stuffed as a pig. Next time I’m leaving room for the bread pudding desert. I definitely recommend this place to all in Houston or visiting!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rebecca T. 1 year ago on Google
    I really enjoyed my time here. Whenever I come to Houston I will definitely be back and recommending it to my friends. I had chicken and waffles. I thought it was interesting that you had to choose between dark meat or white meat but it still turned out really good. I got red velvet and fruity pebble waffles which were amazing I would recommend. The drinks were also great I would come just for drinks! Before I forget if you like bacon try the bacon Mac & cheese
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nikishiah M. 8 months ago on Google
    I had a great experience! The food was amazing, and the service was even better. Our waiter Telandus was the best. He was personable and so much fun. Drinks were delicious yet strong. I will definitely be back... soon!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Deon O. 10 months ago on Google
    Went on a Tuesday around 2 pm and it was amazing !! It wasn’t packed !! The waffles were good ..I got regular waffles with bacon and grits but the waffles with the extra on it looked really good, my friend got them! The service was great !! Drinks were top-notch.. The dessert is a pass for me next time .. Had to pay to park but it was fine. Over all had a great experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 J W (. 5 months ago on Google
    The service staff was patient and very friendly. There was a wait of people when we arrived so my date and i ended up at the bar. Taking a long time to place the order , they told me they couldn’t do the jerk chicken and waffles until someone else came up stating they still could. I will say the chicken was flavorful could taste the jerk seasoning even without the skin and the general tso tossed chicks strips were spicy and seasoned well. My issue is later in the day, i was oh so sick. Felt like i had food poisoning. My date later was sick, believed she got it from tasting the general tso chicken because that was the only thing we ate together. And at all that day. I saw the bartender drop an orange garnish on the bar counter top, i will say i didn’t see them throw it away. It looked like they put it back. That should’ve been my sign to leave 😭😭
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bree P. 6 months ago on Google
    Food was delicious! Taste has a lot of unique combinations. You can get whatever you want on the menu, for an example - pancakes & collard greens on the same plate. I was able to order breakfast food during nighttime hours. The red velvet waffles were my favorite. The music was good & loud. The restaurant is downtown, so that means searching the whole downtown area for a parking spot. Also, it’s best to make a reservation!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 MsMoody713 4 months ago on Google
    I've been here twice and haven't been disappointed yet! Each time I've ordered the same thing which is the Taste of Soul. I've had it smothered and fried...each one was good. I have tried the smoked gouda mac and cheese, sweet potatoes, and the collard greens...oh yeah, it also comes with rice and gravy. The collard greens were okay but they had too many stems in them for my liking. The cornbread waffle is delicious! I wanna try the lamb chops but they're a little too expensive for my pockets! The Taste of Soul is $25, but I ate off my plate and the side of Mac three times atleast. Sorry about the pictures...I didn't have my phone at work, so I took them when I got home! 😁
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Joi J. 2 years ago on Google
    First time having shrimp and grits and it made me fall in love. I have never had grits before. I hope that I can find food at home just as good, and the drinks are even better. The only issue was that the severs and buss people were hanging around where the food comes out with no masks on.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sam H. 2 years ago on Google
    First impressions are key and the staff at Taste Bar + Kitchen made a very good one. From the gentleman that opened the door for us, to the host that sat us where we wanted to be seated, to the waitress that was fun, professional, and new her stuff. Everyone was very nice and welcoming. Indoors is a little small for me but very nice and intimate. The outdoor patio area is very roomy and they have a full bar. My friend and I knew we wanted Lamb Chops and although she knew what her sides would be, I didn’t. Our waitress “Samantha” was on it with the recommendations. The lamb was a little over charbroiled and was told they are always like that. I think it’s the seasoning. They were delicious!! I will definitely be going back. If I could get it delivered, I would.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Winnie L. 2 years ago on Google
    Went to Taste on a Saturday morning and from reading the reviews anticipated a long wait. We arrived a little before 11am (opening) stood in line for 30 minutes just to put our name on the list for seating. Was told it would be an additional 1.5-2 hour wait. They have an outdoor waiting area or you can wait around the restaurant. Wait time was pretty accurate as we were seated around 1:30. Waitress was great and helpful. Drinks were strong and tasty. Food was amazing, everything was seasoned well. The waffles were good but not on par with the rest of the food, flavor wise in my opinion. I did enjoy the cornbread waffles more than the sweet ones. Everyone in my party enjoyed the food. Also we had automatic gratuity but we were also a party of 5. By the time we left around 3ish there was no longer a line and a lot of empty tables. Overall I would visit Taste again but on a weekday, to avoid the long wait.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Toya W. 8 months ago on Google
    The wife and I went on a date here. The ambiance was exactly what we were looking for. The music was old school R&B, the staff was very nice. And the food was GREAT! We had the smothered chicken (I had my gravy on the side) with greens and candied yams. My wife had jerk lamb chops with mac and cheese, spinach, and mash potatoes. When I tell you, it was all good. It was! This is a great place for a nice date or hanging with friends. Very grown and sexy vibe.

  • 3/5 Shawntae M. 2 years ago on Google
    I had the Taste Breakfast with a Peach Cobbler Waffle. It was excellent. The chicken and waffles were a bit cold. The seasoning on the chicken was good. The Watermelon Telley was tasty.

  • 5/5 Sifiso G. 2 years ago on Google
    Second time here and I got the Cajun chicken and waffles (choc chip and pecan waffles) and it was sooo good! I appreciate that they serve the chicken and waffles anytime of the day and not just for brunch. Friend got the lamb chops and Mac and cheese and everything tasted great. Easily one of my favorite food spots in Houston!

  • 5/5 Mo O. 2 years ago on Google
    Came here to treat myself on my birthday. Instantly seated and served. I got the Cajun chicken and chocolate chip waffles. Absolutely amazing. Topped it off with the tropical mimosa. Definitely come here during the weekdays instead of the weekends. Less crowded, better service, and parking everywhere.

  • 4/5 Ondriea B. 6 months ago on Google
    Had lunch here yesterday and the food and service were great! I had the Nashville chicken and red velvet waffles. So good. I love that they have different options of chicken and different options of waffles to choose from. I also had a blueberry lavender margarita. I could have done without that because it was like drinking juice. It wasn't strong at all. It was cute though. All in all, I'd definitely recommend this place.

  • 5/5 Kristen M. 4 months ago on Google
    Staying at a hotel nearby and after traveling all day yesterday just wanted a good breakfast and mimosa. The waffles are epic. Never had waffles with caramels on top. Still served with syrup but I also asked for butter on the side. Was surprised when the butter was melted when served but oh my gosh was it delicious!!! Honestly one of the best waffles I’ve had and I just got back from traveling through Europe! Also got scrambled eggs with cheese on the side because I really didn’t eat much yesterday. The eggs were just basic but the waffles were amazing. Customer service was great. Highly recommend!!

  • 5/5 Jessi M. 2 years ago on Google
    If I could rate higher than 5 stars, I would. Everything from the atmosphere to the service to the food was excellent. Taste Bar + Kitchen deserves all the hype and recognition. The waitress was high attentive, and the entire staff was super friendly and provided a true customer obsession experience. I ordered the Cajun Chicken and Waffles, and when I tell you they were amazing, THEY WERE AMAZING. From the nice spice kick from the chicken to the sweet flavorful taste from the waffles, it was perfect. My partner ordered the Taste Breakfast, and I was able to steal a couple of bites, and it was delicious. I don’t like grits, but these grits were delicious and made me a believer. The drinks were an equal balance of each ingredient, and definitely not lacking on the pours. Overall great experience, and will definitely be returning.

  • 5/5 Britany N. 2 years ago on Google
    So worth every minute and taste. The food was Phenomenal and the Mac n cheese .. Good GOD!!!! The chicken was so juicy and crunchy! My GOD! Waffles were amazing! I had peach cobbler and red velvet with Nashville hot chicken. 😋😋🙌🏾


Call +1 713-485-5803 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Delivery
  • From the business
    • ✓️ Identifies as Black-owned
    • ✓️ Identifies as women-owned

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Southern us restaurants nearby

Aga's Restaurant & Catering image
1
Aga's Restaurant & Catering
Indian restaurant
Relaxed strip-mall restaurant offering a variety of Indian & Pakistani favorites.
$$ $$
4.80 (14.6K reviews)
Turkey Leg Hut image
2
Turkey Leg Hut
Southern restaurant (US)
Narrow, casual venue with a small patio serving Southern comfort classics & cocktails.
$$ $$
4.40 (12.4K reviews)
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse image
3
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Brazilian restaurant
Upscale Brazilian chain for all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside plus an extensive salad bar.
$$$ $
4.60 (9.7K reviews)
Taste of Texas image
4
Taste of Texas
Steak house
Huge steaks from an on-site butcher shop & a vast salad bar star at this family-friendly steakhouse.
$$$ $
4.70 (8.7K reviews)
The Breakfast Klub image
5
The Breakfast Klub
Breakfast restaurant
Hotspot for diner-style American eats & stick-to-your-ribs soul food including chicken & waffles.
$$ $$
4.70 (8.5K reviews)
Last updated:
()