In this weekend’s episode of “Eat Like a Local”, host Chris Shepherd takes a deep dive into a Southern staple, the meat-and-three lunch.
The best thing about a great plate lunch is all the choices. You step up, scan the steam table, and make a decision that feels equal parts strategic and emotional: one protein, three sides, maybe cornbread if you’re doing it right. Around here, it’s called a “meat-and-three”.
Esther’s Cajun Cafe & Soul Food | 5007 North Shepherd Drive
🕒 HOURS OF OPERATION: 7 days a week, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
One of Chris’ go-to plate lunch spots is Esther’s Cajun Cafe & Soul Food where there’s almost too many options. Oxtails coated in rich brown gravy, fried chicken, turkey necks, baked chicken, and Creole patties that all demand attention.
Then come the sides—mac and cheese, greens, sweet potatoes, cabbage with a hint of sweetness, and plenty of rice. And if you somehow still have room, desserts are a must. Banana pudding comes stacked high, peach cobbler comes warm and spiced, and everything tastes like it came straight from someone’s family kitchen.
- PREVIOUS EPISODE: Houston coffee gems (Matcha lovers, this one’s for you)
If you’re looking for all the soul of Esther herself, but with a happy hour vibe - check out the bar menu in the video.
Zydeco Louisiana Diner | 1119 Pease Street
🕒 HOURS OF OPERATION:
- LUNCH: Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- DINNER: Thursday - Saturday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Next up, it’s Zydeco Louisiana Diner. This downtown institution started with a few college friends, a shoestring budget, and recipes rooted in Louisiana cooking. More than three decades later, it’s still doing exactly what it set out to do—serve satisfying, no-frills Cajun plate lunches.
Here, the magic is in what owner Chris calls being “inconsistently consistent.” The menu shifts just enough to keep things interesting. You might find crawfish étouffée on certain days, stuffed pork chops on others, seafood specials later in the week. But the experience? That never changes.
Grab a tray, build your plate, and know it’s going to hit. Don’t know where to start? Chris recommends the baked chicken, one of the most popular dishes in the building. It’s shockingly juicy—with a glaze made from brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, and garlic that caramelizes into something unforgettable. The stuffed pork chop is another winner, packed with ground pork, onions, bell peppers, and Creole flavor. Pro tip: ask for the “juice” from the pan on the side. It’s not automatic—but if you know you know!
Aside from the steam table favorites, the fry technique at Zydeco is on point. Chris can’t say enough about the fried Gulf shrimp, get them on their own or in a po’boy with remoulade sauce. You’ll be fully committed at the point, so go ahead and finish it all with bread pudding!
“Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” is your guide to the best food in Houston. Watch new episodes Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.
Season 3 of “Eat Like a Local”
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 56: Season 3 of ‘Eat Like a Local’ launches with chefs recognized by the James Beard Awards
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 57: Beer + Bites: Discover two of the Houston-area’s best craft breweries
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 58: Hungry for a short trip? 4 flavorful restaurants to try in Baytown
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 60: From tortas to paletas: Generations of Mexican-American flavor in Houston
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 61: Farmed Fresh: Gulf Coast oysters make waves in Houston restaurants
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 62: Houston’s pizza scene is rising: Chris Shepherd explores top spots for every style
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 67: Discover Houston Asiatown’s unique snacks with Chris Shepherd
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 69: Chris Shepherd’s Houston-area burger picks include a hot new spot and a 50-year classic
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 71: Win the Hosting Game! 🏈 Game Day recipes & crowd-pleasers from Chef Chris Shepherd
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 72: These meat markets are a cut above when it comes to quality, flavor, and tradition
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 74: Houston coffee gems (Matcha lovers, this one’s for you)