1929 Po-Boy Kitchen

For Texans with a craving for the soulful, rich flavors of New Orleans, a culinary gem awaits in the heart of downtown Houston: 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen. More than just a "seafood restaurant," this establishment brings the vibrant spirit and authentic tastes of Creole and Cajun cuisine right to your plate. Located within the bustling Lyric Market Food Hall, 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen is a celebration of Louisiana's culinary heritage, specializing in its namesake po-boy sandwiches, alongside hearty gumbos and the unique, comforting dish known as Yakamein. It’s a place where every bite tells a story of tradition, flavor, and a deep passion for food, exemplified by owner and executive chef Monica Landry.

1929 Po-Boy Kitchen is dedicated to honoring the history of the po-boy, offering a wide variety from classic seafood to "surf n' turf" options, all "dressed" the traditional New Orleans way. Beyond sandwiches, their menu is a testament to the diverse and delicious world of Creole and Cajun cooking, featuring robust gumbos that are full of flavor and the distinctive Yakamein, often hailed as a New Orleans "hangover cure" or simply a comforting bowl of noodle soup with a Creole flair. The restaurant aims to provide not just a meal, but a warm and memorable experience, driven by friendly service and genuine hospitality. This article will guide you through the essence of 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen, detailing its prime location, the array of services it offers, and the special features that make it a must-visit for locals.

Location and Accessibility

1929 Po-Boy Kitchen is ideally situated at 411 Smith St, Houston, TX 77002, USA, within the dynamic Lyric Market Food Hall. This puts it at the heart of downtown Houston's thriving Theater District, making it an exceptionally accessible dining destination. For professionals working in the myriad of surrounding corporate buildings, it's an easy walk or quick trip through Houston's convenient tunnel system, offering a climate-controlled route to grab a flavorful meal, especially during the hot Texas summers or unexpected rain showers.

The Lyric Market's central location ensures excellent connectivity via Houston's public transportation network. Various METRORail stations and numerous bus stops are within comfortable walking distance, providing a practical option for those who rely on public transit. For individuals driving, while downtown parking can sometimes require planning, the Lyric Market often provides or is adjacent to parking facilities, making visits straightforward. This strategic placement within a popular food hall ensures that 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen is a readily available and practical dining choice for a wide array of customers, from local office workers and theater-goers to visitors exploring the urban core.

Services Offered

• Authentic Po-Boy Sandwiches: The core offering includes a wide variety of Louisiana-style po-boys. These come "dressed" with remoulade, lettuce, tomato, and pickles, and feature fillings such as:
  • Seafood options: Fried, blackened, or grilled Catfish (Canal St), Shrimp (Magazine St), Fried Crawfish Tails (Frenchman St), Flash-fried Soft Shell Crab (Royal St), and Fried Gulf Oysters with Spicy Mayo and Fried Avocado (French Quarter).
  • "Surf n' Turf": The Bourbon St. Po-Boy (aka The Peacemaker) combines fried shrimp and fried Gulf oysters.
  • Non-seafood options: Buffalo Chicken Po-boy.
  • Customers can also opt to top their po-boys with homemade etouffee or roast beef "debris."
• Traditional Gumbos and Soups: A selection of authentic gumbos, including:
  • Swamp Water (Traditional chicken & andouille gumbo).
  • Bayou Water (Seafood gumbo loaded with chicken, andouille, shrimp, crabmeat).
  • Gumbo Z'Herbes (Green gumbo with leafy greens and vegetables, no meat).
• Signature Yakamein: A unique New Orleans dish, often called "Old Sober." This beef noodle soup with Creole flair includes oxtails or beef rib, noodles, a boiled egg, and green onions in a savory beef broth. Add-ons like shrimp, crabmeat, or collard greens are available.
• Platters: Various seafood platters are offered with two sides (French fries, cold slaw, potato salad, or red beans and rice). Options include Shrimp (fried, blackened, or sautéed), Catfish, or combinations of Oyster and Shrimp, and Fried Softshell Crab.
• Appetizers: Delectable starters like Mardi Gras Beads (deep-fried boudin balls), Creole BBQ Shrimp (jumbo, buttery, spicy head-on shrimp), and Boudin Egg Rolls (boudin and pepper jack cheese).
• Weekend Brunch: The restaurant offers a popular weekend brunch, featuring items like Oxtail Omelet and Strawberry Pancakes, as noted by customer reviews.
• Desserts: Sweet Potato Bread Pudding with praline sauce.
• Beverages: Including Elysian Fields Strawberry Lemonade, sweet tea, unsweetened tea, and bottled water.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options for pickup and delivery are available through various platforms (e.g., Grubhub, DoorDash, Uber Eats).
• Catering Services: 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen provides catering for events, offering customized orders and boxed lunches.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic New Orleans Cuisine: The primary highlight is its commitment to genuine Creole and Cajun flavors, bringing a true taste of New Orleans to Houston through its po-boys, gumbos, and Yakamein.
• Chef Monica Landry's Personal Touch: Owner and Executive Chef Monica Landry is a significant highlight, renowned for her passion, hospitality, and ability to create food that evokes a sense of home and comfort, as seen in customer testimonials. Her "Mama Mo" nickname reflects her nurturing approach to cooking.
• Signature Yakamein: This unique beef noodle soup is a standout dish, highly recommended by patrons, and represents a distinctive fusion of Creole and Asian influences.
• Variety of Po-Boy Fillings: The extensive selection of po-boys, with various seafood, meat, and combination options, ensures there's a favorite for every preference.
• Location within Lyric Market: Being part of a vibrant food hall offers a dynamic atmosphere, huge windows, natural light, and the opportunity to experience other culinary vendors while dining.
• Friendly and Excellent Service: Customer reviews consistently praise the very friendly, helpful, and efficient staff, contributing significantly to a positive dining experience.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The use of fresh ingredients, particularly for seafood and the preparation of complex dishes like gumbos and Yakamein, ensures a high standard of taste.
• Robust Brunch Offerings: The availability of a popular weekend brunch with unique items like Oxtail Omelet and flavorful Strawberry Pancakes adds to its appeal.

Contact Information

To savor the authentic New Orleans flavors at 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen, or for any inquiries regarding their menu and services, here’s how you can reach them:

Address: 411 Smith St, Houston, TX 77002, USA (Located within Lyric Market Food Hall)

Phone: (713) 405-1429

Mobile Phone: +1 713-405-1429

These contact details provide direct avenues to connect with the 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen team at this specific Houston location. Whether you're looking to confirm their operating hours, inquire about their daily specials, discuss catering options, or simply have a question about their menu, their dedicated staff is ready to assist you. The readily available phone numbers ensure a convenient way to reach them during business hours for any questions or requests.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

1929 Po-Boy Kitchen is an exceptionally suitable dining spot for locals in Houston, particularly those in the downtown area, for several compelling reasons. Its paramount appeal lies in its unwavering commitment to authentic New Orleans Creole and Cajun cuisine. For Texans who appreciate the rich, comforting, and spicy flavors of Louisiana, this restaurant offers a genuine taste without the need to travel. The diverse menu, from classic po-boys filled with fresh seafood or savory meats to robust gumbos and the unique Yakamein, provides a comprehensive culinary journey through the heart of Creole cooking.

The personal touch and passion of owner/Executive Chef Monica Landry (Mama Mo) significantly enhance the experience, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with local hospitality. Her dedication to serving food that evokes a sense of home and community makes each visit feel special, as evidenced by heartfelt customer reviews. This personal connection, combined with the consistently praised friendly and efficient staff, ensures a pleasant and memorable dining experience.

Furthermore, its strategic location within the bustling Lyric Market Food Hall offers unparalleled convenience for downtown workers, residents, and visitors. It provides a vibrant setting with ample natural light and easy accessibility, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch, a relaxed brunch, or a casual dinner. The availability of catering services also positions it as a great option for local businesses and events. For Houstonians seeking a taste of New Orleans' legendary flavors, a hearty meal, and warm service, 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen is undoubtedly a must-visit destination that truly embodies the spirit of its culinary heritage.

1929 Po-Boy Kitchen

411 Smith St, Houston, TX 77002, USA