News Summary
Houston’s vibrant restaurant community came together to celebrate at the 2025 Texas Restaurant Awards, where local establishments received prestigious recognition. Christie’s Seafood & Steaks’ owner was inducted into the Texas Restaurant Association Hall of Honor, and Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue was awarded the Deep in the Heart honor for its exceptional contributions. The event highlighted the importance of the restaurant industry in Texas, recognizing the efforts and commitment of individuals and businesses across the culinary landscape.
Houston’s Culinary Scene Shines at the 2025 Texas Restaurant Awards
Houston’s vibrant restaurant community celebrated significant recognition at the 2025 Texas Restaurant Awards held on July 20, where two local establishments received prestigious honors. Christie’s Seafood & Steaks, Houston’s oldest restaurant, saw its owner George Christie inducted into the Texas Restaurant Association Hall of Honor. Additionally, Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue, located in nearby Tomball, was awarded the Deep in the Heart honor, highlighting exceptional restaurants located outside major metropolitan areas.
Recognizing Culinary Excellence
The annual Texas Restaurant Awards are part of the Texas Restaurant Association’s Texas Restaurant Show, which attracted over 6,000 attendees and featured around 450 vendor booths from across the country and globally. The awards celebrate individuals and businesses that significantly contribute to the restaurant industry and their communities.
George Christie, whose family has owned Christie’s Seafood & Steaks for three generations, was honored for his distinguished career in the restaurant business. He previously held leadership positions, including the presidency at the Greater Houston Restaurant Association, and has served on the board of the Texas Restaurant Association, demonstrating a commitment to superior business ethics within the industry.
Christie’s Seafood & Steaks has a rich history, spanning 108 years, which adds to its esteemed status in Houston. The Hall of Honor recognition represents the highest accolade from the Texas Restaurant Association, underscoring the value placed on integrity and leadership in the restaurant sector.
Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue’s Recognition
Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue’s owners, Greg Moore, Scott Moore, and Michelle Holland, received the Deep in the Heart award for their commitment to quality and excellence outside of major city centers. This Tomball-based restaurant has already made a name for itself by receiving the Bib Gourmand designation in the Michelin Guide and securing an honorable mention in Texas Monthly’s 2025 list of top 50 barbecue joints.
A Broader Celebration of the Industry
Alongside the recognition for Christie’s Seafood & Steaks and Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue, the awards highlighted several other distinguished individuals and businesses within the Texas culinary landscape. Notable winners included:
- Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year: Allison & Jeff Balfour, Southerleigh Hospitality Group, San Antonio, TX.
- Community Impact Award: Gary LeBlanc, Mercy Chefs, Portsmouth, VA.
- Excellence in Journalism Award: Alicia Kelso, Nation’s Restaurant News.
- Rising Star Award: Deborah Williamson, James Provisions, Hurst, TX.
- Chef Tim Kelly Award for Educator Excellence: Chef Carlos Ramos, Milby High School, Houston Independent School District.
- Outstanding Partner of the Year: Ben E. Keith Foods, Fort Worth, TX.
- Restaurant Industry Champion Award: Kelly Hancock, former Texas state senator.
- Carmelo Mauro Spirit of Generosity Award: Andy Merrett, Raising Cane’s.
- Skeeter Miller Excellence in Advocacy Award: Blanca Aldaco, Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine, San Antonio, TX.
The Importance of the Restaurant Industry in Texas
The Texas restaurant sector is a critical component of the state’s economy, comprising over 57,000 restaurants and employing more than 1.4 million people. Events like the Texas Restaurant Awards reinforce the significance of recognizing excellence, innovation, and ethical leadership in an industry that plays a vital role in the daily lives of Texans.
As the population and culinary scene in cities like Houston continue to grow, events such as the Texas Restaurant Show and Awards showcase the talents and dedication of those who make Texas one of the premier dining destinations in the country.
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Additional Resources
- CultureMap Houston
- KXXV News
- Eater Houston
- Amarillo Globe-News
- Wikipedia: Restaurant Industry in the United States
