While I've lived a number of places, I've been in my current area for 27 years, so...
Texas/Houston-
- Tex Mex - things like Chuy's (vs. true Mexican). While Austin is the birthplace of Chuy's, in general, Chuy's is better in TX
- Mexican - some overlap with Tex Mex, but thinking things like carnitas from El Tiempo or street tacos 100% Taquito
- Steaks - they're kind of synonymous with Texas. Even better, find a person who bought a steer at auction!
- Meat in General - so many people hunt or do FFA, that someone always has fresh venison/meat from a show animal
- Whataburger - they continue to expand but TX is home and we have more than any other state
- Kolaches - Czech influence on state, but you'll even find some Lafayette inspired ones w/boudin filling.
- Chili (NO BEANS!) - The source of many chili arguments you'll hear from Texans looking for chili out of state.
- Brisket - I could lump it in with BBQ, but TX brisket always feels like one step above all other BBQ.
- BBQ - Everything beyond brisket...from beef ribs, smoked turkey, pulled pork, sausages...to all the sides!
- Shipley's Donuts - nothing trendy like Voodoo, but beats Dunkin' any day
- Buc-ee's - While not just in TX anymore, Buc-ee's are all over here and they have lots of great food options.
- Louisiana crossover - being so close to LA means lots of LA cuisine in TX. The Rouxpour is a great example.
- Pappadeux - Pappas restaurants in general, but Pappadeux's is the fave.
- Tex-Orleans - you've heard of Tex-Mex? Well, we also have Tex-Orleans (like BB's), which blends those two cuisines.
- Pecan Pie - the origins are debated, but it is the state pie.
- Chicken Fried Steak and Chicken - Supposedly developed in Texas by German immigrants as a version of schnitzel.
- Queso - It should go under Tex-Mex, but it's so embedded in the party/potluck culture here that it stands alone.
- Frito Pie - Never heard of it until I moved here, but it's a thing. Restaurants even elevate it, like Frito Pie Mac N Cheese.
- Anything Landry's Based - Tilman Fertitta is local, so we have nearly every Landry's based option imaginable.