When it comes to great food, the people of Houston are happy to share their opinions. Everyone has at least one favorite restaurant, and most can recommend a dozen great eateries, caterers, and popup food vendors at the drop of a hat. When Houstonians give a menu item their vote of confidence, you can be sure that they mean it. We had this in mind when asked Fooda’s Houston customers to vote in the 2023 Best of Fooda awards, and they did not disappoint. Let’s take a look at this year’s winners.

Popup Awards

Best Popup Entree of 2023 – Lobster Roll & Chips from Maine-ly Sandwiches

mainelysandwiches.com

Who could have expected that one of New England’s most iconic regional delicacies would find an enthusiastic audience on the shores of Galveston Bay? Served on a fresh-baked Italian roll, this homestyle delight showcases the buttery flavors craved by lobster lovers everywhere. Houston-area workers are certainly no strangers to seafood sandwiches, but there’s something appetizingly novel about this decidedly Yankee spin on the classic po’ boy. Add a side of chips, and you’ve got a winning entree!

Runner Up: Chicken Tikka Masala from Madhuram Mirch Masala & Cajun Jambalaya Pasta from Sheriff’s Cuisine (Tie)

Best Customer Service – The Halal Guys

thehalalguys.com

What does it mean for a restaurant to have great customer service? There’s more to it than simply having a friendly front-of-house staff, or a willingness to fix an incorrectly made order. It takes a company-wide culture of excellence, and an ongoing dedication to providing the best customer experience possible. That’s exactly how the Halal Guys do it, starting with authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes prepared to order. If there’s a question or a problem with a dish, they take care of it immediately. Even their popup and delivery customers can expect to receive the same degree of exceptional service. Perhaps this is why more than half of Fooda’s Houston customers voted them into the top spot for this category.

Runner Up: Village BBQ

Most Likely To Visit Outside Of Work – Freebirds World Burrito

freebirds.com

When you’re hungry for a Texas-sized meal with an endless variety of options, it’s time to drop by one of Freebirds World Burrito’s many Houston-area locations. As Fooda’s voters know, this fast-casual Tex-Mex joint boasts both a hearty menu and a proudly offbeat atmosphere. Top-quality proteins (including vegetarian options) and staggering variety of toppings and sauces allow every customer to create the perfect burrito, bowl, quesadilla, taco, or salad to satisfy their most stubborn cravings.

Runner Up: Russo’s New York Pizzeria

Best Overall Popup – The Halal Guys

thehalalguys.com

Where else are Houston’s hungriest workers going to go for lunch when the Halal Guys have an onsite popup? From the first whiff of aromatic spice, there’s no debate about heading anywhere else. The savory scents of perfectly seasoned beef and lamb gyro, chicken, and falafel instantly captivates even the most finicky of palates. This is classic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean comfort food, and it is as filling as it is delicious. Is it any wonder that Fooda’s voters gave the Halal Guys this year’s prize?

Runner Up: Maine-ly Sandwiches