It’s Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo season, which means it’s time to grab your stretchy jeans and chow down. Figuring out what to eat at the rodeo can be overwhelming, though; where are the best places for barbecue, carnival food, and sweet treats? I’m sharing some tips. Plus, Dominic Palmieri, aka The Midway Gourmet, also shares some of the wild food creations for this year’s rodeo.
The Must-Try Food Items
You can’t go to the rodeo without having barbecue! The best places for classic Texas barbecue are Goode Company BBQ near NRG Center and Killen’s Barbecue inside NRG stadium. I get a brisket sandwich from Goode Company every year! This year, Trill Burgers and Killen’s are teaming up to offer their Trillen Burger, where you can add Killen’s barbecue sauce and brisket to your Trill burger. This combo is only available at their Rodeo Plaza stand near the Astrodome, but if you’re headed to a rodeo concert you can find Trill Burgers in multiple sections inside NRG stadium. Make sure to add Cajun Cowboy to your list too, for their award-winning deep-fried jambalaya egg rolls, and Biggy’s, near the Astrodome, for their new Nashville Hot Chicken Tots. Finally, plan a trip to the only sit-down restaurant on rodeo grounds: The Ranch Saloon & Steakhouse.
The Best Sweet Treats
On a hot day at the rodeo, refresh yourself with aguas frescas, topped with chamoy, tajin, and fresh fruit at Michelaguas. Make sure to stop by Granny’s Cheesecake for some delicious fried cheesecake, and The Original Minneapple Pie for their deep-fried cookie dough. And, you don’t want to miss the s'mores pie and deep-fried bread pudding from Cajun Cowboy.
The Wildest Foods at the Carnival
You can’t leave the rodeo without feasting on some wild creations at the carnival. If you love banana splits, then Dominic Palmieri suggests trying the Dole Whip Pickle split featuring a pickle topped with pineapple ice cream. It’s an out-of-this-world creation that you’ll find at Nitro Treats, near the Big Ferris Wheel. Enzo’s Pizzeria offers great New York-style pizza, but if you want something truly crazy, try their Hot Cheeto cheese pickle pizza. I had it last year, and let’s just say, it’s not for the weak. Finally, who wouldn’t want a Texas Twinkie? This unique twinkie features a giant, spicy jalapeño stuffed with beef brisket and cream cheese, and wrapped in bacon. Enjoy one at the large barbecue stand on Circle Drive.
Want more wild rodeo food suggestions? Then make sure to listen to today’s podcast episode.
