I recently spent five days in Houston and discovered something even better than visiting NASA. When I told my British friends about my trip, they questioned what I would do in Houston besides visiting NASA. On the other hand, my American friends assured me that I would enjoy the food scene, and they were absolutely right.

With 10,000 restaurants, Houston offers a diverse culinary experience that surpasses many other cities, including London, which has about 20,000 restaurants despite having six million more people. The city’s cultural diversity is reflected in its cuisine, from Tex-Mex to Southern comfort food, as well as a significant Nigerian population and an eight-mile-long Chinatown parallel to the Mahatma Gandhi district.

Upon arriving in Houston, I was eager to indulge in the city’s gastronomic delights. However, I discovered that Houston is also renowned for its vibrant graffiti scene. Despite my initial cluelessness about activities beyond food, I found myself immersed in the city’s unique offerings.

One of the first places I visited was Truth, a popular barbecue spot known for its long queues and delectable offerings. The mouthwatering menu features a variety of smoked meats, and I was particularly impressed by the passion and expertise of the owner, Leonard Botello IV, whose dedication to his craft was evident in every bite.

My culinary journey continued with a visit to Lucille’s, where I sampled Southern comfort food with global influences. Named after the owner’s great grandmother, the restaurant offers a menu that pays homage to traditional recipes while infusing them with international flavors.

My experience in Houston not only exceeded my expectations but also opened my eyes to the city’s rich cultural tapestry, vibrant food scene, and artistic expressions. While NASA may be the city’s most famous attraction, it’s clear that Houston has much more to offer than intergalactic exploration.