Shop, Dine & Relax
At William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), travelers can enjoy quick bites, local flavors, and favorite food spots before takeoff. From Killen's BBQ and The Spot to Velvet Taco, HOU offers a range of restaurants and food places ready to serve. Looking for 24-hour food near me or fast-food open? We've got you covered. Specialty coffee drinks, snacks, and essentials are available throughout the terminal. Most locations meet accessibility guidelines, and store hours may vary by vendor.
Hub for Houston Local Restaurants — Tex Mex, BBQ, & More
Traveling through William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the city's vibrant food culture. In fact, you can start (or end) your trip with a delicious dive into Houston local foods, right in the terminal. HOU is home to a variety of eateries that showcase the flavors, heart, and soul of Houston culture. Whether you're craving Tex Mex, burgers, or locally sourced American fare, HOU gives travelers a true taste of greater Houston without ever leaving the airport.
Here are three standout local restaurants at Hobby Airport where travelers can eat like a Texas foodie while waiting for their flight:
1. The Spot
Originally a local hot spot from Galveston, TX, The Spot has made a name for itself across Texas. Known for its laid-back vibe and casual American menu, it’s a perfect grab-and-go option with big flavor. Expect juicy burgers, wings, and Gulf Coast favorites made with Texas pride. While you won’t find the open-air deck of the original beachside location, The Spot at Hobby captures that same relaxing energy and coastal hospitality. It’s the ideal place to get a feel for Houston food.
2. LaTrelle's Tex-Mex Kitchen
No visit to Texas is complete without great Tex Mex, and LaTrelle's Tex-Mex Kitchen delivers it in spades. Run by the James family, this beloved eatery has been serving travelers at Hobby Airport for more than three decades. From freshly made breakfast tacos to sizzling grilled fajitas, cheesy quesadillas, loaded burritos, and bold chili con queso, every bite is full of flavor. Don’t forget their famous housemade margaritas, which have become a favorite among seasoned travelers. This is Houston local food at its finest.
3. The Rustic
Straight from the heart of Houston and Dallas, The Rustic brings farm-fresh flavor and down-home charm to Hobby. The Rustic proudly uses locally sourced ingredients to create wood-grilled dishes that highlight Texas foodie staples. Whether you’re stopping in for a hearty meal or a well-crafted drink before takeoff, you’ll find the kind of care and quality you’d expect from one of Houston’s top restaurants.
A Taste of Houston Culture
These restaurants aren’t just airport conveniences—they’re an extension of the Houston culture. They represent what locals love about their city: bold flavors, family-run businesses, community pride, and a melting pot of culinary traditions. At Hobby, travelers don’t just grab a snack; they taste Houston.
Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the U.S., and its food scene is a direct reflection of that. That diversity is on full display at HOU.
Supporting Local Means Supporting Houston
Both HOU and IAH airports understand that airports are more than just points of departure—they’re cultural gateways. That’s why they work closely with local restaurants and homegrown talent to make sure travelers experience an authentic taste of the city.
These eateries also serve as a delicious invitation. For visitors passing through on layovers or first-time flyers to Texas, local airport dining is often the first (and tastiest) impression they get of the city. That first bite might just inspire a return trip.
Come Hungry. Leave Happy.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer, first-time visitor, or local heading home, William P. Hobby Airport is a destination all its own when it comes to food. With a growing list of standout Houston local foods, HOU is proud to be more than just a travel hub—it's a culinary one, too.
So next time you fly, plan to taste Houston before you even hit the street. You're not just having a meal—you're experiencing the flavor of Houston culture firsthand.
Family-Friendly Dining & Fun at HOU:
Where to Eat, Play, and Relax with Kids
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful, especially when you’re flying through William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a sweet treat, or a place for your little ones to stretch their legs, HOU makes family travel easier with a wide selection of kid-friendly restaurants, shops, and play areas.
Here’s your guide to the best family-friendly concessions at HOU to make your journey smoother, happier, and a little more fun.
Family-Friendly Food and Treats
Chick-fil-A – A Family Favorite
It’s no surprise that Chick-fil-A is one of the most popular family-friendly dining options at Houston Airports. With a menu full of kid favorites like chicken nuggets, waffle fries, and fresh fruit, Chick-fil-A makes it easy to grab a quick, satisfying meal before your flight.
Why it’s family-friendly: Fast service, kid’s meals, and plenty of familiar comfort food to keep little travelers full and happy.
Dunkin – Coffee for Parents, Treats for Kids
For parents in need of a caffeine boost and kids who love donuts, Dunkin is a must-stop. From fresh coffee to quick breakfast sandwiches and sprinkle-covered donuts, Dunkin has options for the whole family.
Why it’s family-friendly: Easy grab-and-go meals for busy mornings and a little sweet pick-me-up for kids.
Dylan’s Candy Bar – A Sweet Stop
Bright, colorful, and full of treats, Dylan’s Candy Bar is the perfect place to surprise kids with a sweet treat before or after a flight. From colorful lollipops to gourmet chocolates, this candy wonderland is guaranteed to put smiles on little faces.
Why it’s family-friendly: A fun, whimsical stop that doubles as a reward for good airport behavior.
Fat Cat Creamery – Ice Cream with Local Flavor
Fat Cat Creamery brings Houston’s favorite handcrafted ice cream to the airport. With small-batch flavors made from locally sourced ingredients, it’s a sweet stop that parents and kids will both enjoy.
Why it’s family-friendly: Classic flavors for kids and creative options for adults make this a win for the whole family.
Pink’s Pizza – Shareable Comfort Food
Pink's Pizza is a local Houston favorite, featuring all manner of pizzas by the slice, craft beers and a full bar for. The Mediterranean pizza is a favorite, and of course there is always cheese pizza for the kiddos.
Why it’s family-friendly: Easy to share, filling, and ideal for picky eaters.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory – A Sweet Adventure
Serving chocolate treats, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is full of sweets kids (and adults) will love.
Why it’s family-friendly: A candy-shop feel with plenty of fun choices.
Sprinkles Cupcakes – Colorful & Fun
Sprinkles is a cupcake vending machine featuring colorful, sweet treats topped with, you guessed it, sprinkles! Kids will get a kick out of watching their cupcake selection come to life in the vending machine.
Why it’s family-friendly: Perfectly portioned desserts that brighten any travel day.
Starbucks – A Stop for Everyone
Parents can grab their caffeine fix while kids enjoy cake pops, hot chocolate, or snack boxes. Plus, if you’re a Starbucks rewards member, you will earn points for your purchases.
Why it’s family-friendly: Options for both adults and kids, with plenty of grab-and-go choices.
Wendy’s – Familiar Favorites
With burgers, chicken nuggets, and fries, Wendy’s makes it easy to grab a quick, satisfying meal before boarding.
Why it’s family-friendly: Familiar, affordable meals that work for kids and parents alike.
Entertainment & Play
Booklink – Stories on the Go
Booklink is the perfect stop for families who want to keep kids entertained on the plane. It’s a self-service kiosk that allows Houston Public Library customers to check out and return library books including e-books. With a wide selection of children’s books and travel-friendly reads, you can stock up on stories to keep young travelers occupied. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some screen-free entertainment.
Why it’s family-friendly: Booklink offers a variety of books that can turn waiting at the gate into storytime.
Children’s Play Area – Let Kids Be Kids
Travel days are long, and sometimes kids just need to move. The Children’s Play Area is designed with little ones in mind, giving them a safe and fun space to play before boarding. For young children, the Children's Play Area is a space-themed, padded playground with a rocket ship and slide, comet for climbing, interactive light board and adult seating.
Why it’s family-friendly: Kids can burn off energy, stretch their legs, and have some space-themed fun, helping ensure a smoother flight for everyone.
Lego – Build While You Wait
The Lego store offers building kits and fun displays that spark creativity and imagination.
Why it’s family-friendly: Hands-on fun that keeps kids engaged during downtime.
Gameway – Gaming While You Wait
Got older kids or teens? Gameway is a high-tech gaming lounge where travelers can enjoy the latest video games in a comfortable space. Kids and teens can plug in while parents relax nearby. Each personal gaming station is equipped with the newest technology, Razer gaming accessories, high speed internet, and luggage storage, as well as a selection of snacks and soft drinks.
Why it’s family-friendly: Keeps kids entertained during layovers or delays with fun video games.
Tips for Traveling with Kids at HOU
- Plan food stops ahead of time. Knowing where the most kid-friendly restaurants are saves time and reduces stress.
- Take play breaks. Use the Children’s Play Area or grab a treat at Dylan’s Candy Bar to keep kids happy and moving.
- Pack surprises. A new book from Booklink or a donut from Dunkin can go a long way in keeping spirits high on the plane.
- Balance treats and meals. With options like Chick-fil-A and Fat Cat Creamery, you can give kids the fun food they want alongside the hearty meals they need.
- Use entertainment wisely. Stop by Gameway to keep older kids engaged, especially during long layovers.
Shop, Dine & Relax at HOU
Flying with kids is easier when you know where to find the right concessions. From healthy meals to sweet rewards, fun play spaces to gaming lounges, HOU has everything families need to travel with less stress and more smiles.
Explore more family-friendly options on the HOU Shop, Dine & Relax page.