downtown houston has its share of hidden food and drink gems and one of them is the moonshiner’s southern table & bar. located on the corner of prairie and main streets, this lounge/restaurant brings together southern charm and signature drinks for a memorable afternoon or night on the town.
this restaurant is quaint and comfortable and features a short but memorable menu of southern inspired foods. i was tempted by many of the food options on the menu but was in the mood for a burger so i went with the moonshiner’s signature burger with fries. the burger was prepared exactly as i ordered, with a juicy medium- well beef patty topped with applewood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles. it was one of the best burgers i’ve had in downtown and a menu item i recommend. there are other interesting menu options too, like brisket grilled cheese, rainbow trout, pulled pork tacos, honey bbq chicken, and other choices. and if you’re worried about the typical high fat and calories found in most southern style food dishes, don’t worry- they offer and assortment of salads for a more healthful meal.
most people come here for the drinks and there are some great drinks to try, as well as a nice selection of craft beer. i loved the porch sipper- a drink made with american born dixie moonshine- and there were other tempting drinks as well, like the apple pie, peachy keen, and strawberry moon. the only thing that bothered me is that i didn’t have time to sample more, but this provides the perfect excuse for a return visit.
moonshiner’s southern table & bar features a small but cozy atmosphere, with high- back, southern dining room style chairs at the tables and televisions tuned into sports of different sorts. there is an outdoor patio and because the restaurant is on main street, it is right next to the houston metro rail, which is very convenient for those who use this mode of transportation.
drinks are, indeed, reason enough to visit the moonshiner’s southern table & bar, but don’t drink and leave- bring your appetite and try one of the signature meals. they have some very interesting and tasty food to try, much of which matches perfectly with a mixed drink, wine, or craft beer. and the service is great as well. like the large sign on the bar’s interior says, southern hospitality is a key ingredient of a comfortable and memorable visit to the moonshiner’s southern table & bar, a downtown establishment every resident and tourist should seek out.