When the weather is just right, there’s something irresistible about taking the long way. A scenic drive beyond the city limits might be just what the weekend needs, especially when there’s something delicious waiting at the other end.
Katy is home to incredible chefs and eateries, but every now and then, we crave a little adventure — both on the road and for our taste buds. So next time you’re looking to travel where the wind and savory smells take you, let your appetite for adventure lead the way to what our small-town neighbors have been cooking up.
From country backroads lined with white picket fences, to the historic downtown charm of a railroad town, to the expansive prairie landscapes of our neighbors to the north, each stop has a character — and flavor — all its own. Here are four culinary destinations we think are definitely worth the drive.
Anthonie’s Market Grill, Simonton
There’s no mistaking your arrival in Simonton, where sunset skies and white picket fence-lined highways unfold just west of Fulshear. Tucked amid the sprawling ranch country is Anthonie’s Market Grill, an unexpected epicurean epicenter where elevated Texas fare meets the great outdoors.
One bite of their crowd favorite Shrimp & Grits, and it’s easy to see why patrons venture from near and far. The experience spills beyond the table onto a vast, climate-controlled patio, where live music and wide-open countryside set the scene. It’s a dining experience that feels both refined and unmistakably Texan. And if the setting hasn’t surprised you enough, you might even catch a helicopter taking off from the back field. More at Anthonies.com
Truffle & Rye, Richmond
A fresh addition to downtown Richmond, Truffle & Rye is already making a signature name for themselves in downtown Richmond with their chef-crafted menu for breakfast and lunch. Combining wild flavors like their whipped Ricotta + Fig Toast or their Pig sandwich of Fra’mani mortadella, stracciatella and pistachio pesto - your taste buds will not know what hit them. Top it all off with handcrafted coffees or locally-made pastries and T&R is your new favorite brunch spot. Chef Joey Chavez even offers private dining experiences for the night owls too. More at TruffleandRye.com
CorkScrew BBQ, Spring
A MICHELIN-starred meal might sound worthy of a plane ticket, but this one only requires a drive north to Spring. At CorkScrew BBQ, owners Will and Nichole Buckman have earned culinary acclaim with their signature red oak-smoked meats and an unwavering commitment to quality.
Plan your drive early, as this celebrated barbecue spot is known to sell out quickly. Unassuming, a little quirky and unmistakably Texan. From the pit to the stars, CorkScrew has made its mark. More at CorkScrewBBQ.com
Ol’ Railroad Cafe, Rosenberg
Historic Rosenberg is brimming with small-town charm, antique treasures, and deep railroad roots—and tucked among it all is one delicious destination worth the drive: Ol' Railroad Cafe. This destination-worthy dining spot pairs the nostalgic charm of Old Rosenberg with Southern comfort food that feels both familiar and indulgent. Settle in for brunch standouts like Chicken & Waffles and Shrimp & Grits, or plan an evening around Bison Bolognese and signature hand-pressed burgers. Come hungry, leave time to explore, and turn lunch or dinner into a day trip—because with comforting flavors, storied surroundings, and a taste of Southern tradition, this is one delicious trip down memory lane you won’t want to miss. More at OlRailroad.com