T-Bone Tom's is one of those places that just has personality, and I still love it after all these years.
I used to come here all the time with an ex-boyfriend but haven't been back in years. I made the drive from Katy to Bacliff to pick up some vintage garden trellises, and at just two miles away, I immediately knew lunch had to be at T-Bone Tom's.
One of my favorite things about this place is the absolutely massive outdoor seating area. It's covered, so normally it's a fantastic place to sit without roasting in direct sun, but after several days of heavy rain mixed with Houston humidity and temperatures around 90 degrees, there was absolutely no convincing anyone in my party that sitting outside for lunch was a good idea. Only my second time ever sitting indoors here.
The place was already bustling by 11:30 and packed by noon, which tells you everything you need to know.
We were greeted immediately when we arrived, and even though we came through the back entrance for patio seating, the hostess was cheerful and accompanied us to the dining room, where we were also immediately greeted by one of the indoor hostesses. Our server Joshua was excellent throughout the meal--friendly, attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and always on top of things.
We started with drinks and boudin balls, which came with four and ranch dressing. I tend to go through phases of what I'm addicted to, and right now it's boudin balls. If it's on the menu, I'm ordering them. These were fried to perfection, hot, and delicious. A great appetizer to start the meal.
While we waited to order our main course, there were two things our table seemed to rave about: giant drink glasses and crackers. It sounds silly, but not having to constantly wait around for refills makes a big difference. And crackers on the table? It seemed like memory lane for the older members of our party, who quite enjoy bits of nostalgia. So few restaurants bother doing little things like that anymore, so my lunch selection was awarding me kudos before the lunch even started!
Mom and Mark split the 14 oz. ribeye with spinach and potato salad. Although splitting two sides might have been enough, Mom added a side of mashed potatoes for herself. It's always a toss up with restaurants and steak. True mediums aren't always a true medium--you have to order medium rare or medium well to get it just right. But the medium here is actually a medium. Mom kept talking about how delicious the steak was and said it was one of the best she's had in a long time. If you know my mom, compliments don't come easy. It's a big deal. Ha.
I ordered the plate I always get: the Monterey chicken with fried okra and spinach. It may have been years since I was last here, but this dish is as excellent as it has always been, if not better. The chicken was incredibly tender, cooked perfectly, and covered with flavorful mushrooms and onions. I also really love that their vegetables are homemade rather than straight out of a freezer bag. The fried okra and fresh spinach were wonderful.
Berta ordered the chopped beef sandwich with potato salad. They gave her so much beef, there was enough for two people to enjoy that plate. She ended up taking more than half home.
We finished the meal with vanilla ice cream and their infamous bread pudding, which was warm, rich, and easily enough dessert for four people to share. Mom had ordered it for herself and said she didn't want to share, but when she saw how big the portion was, she asked Berta and I to join in.
T-Bone Tom's is a popular place among locals and tourists alike. It offers great food, a fun atmosphere, friendly service, and remains one of those places that still feels uniquely Texas in the best possible way. We'll definitely be back, and much sooner this time! read more