The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: a place to show off your inner cowboy (or cowgirl) and rope out your lasso, sure, but also to indulge in food galore. As the world’s largest livestock exhibition, RodeoHouston runs from March 2 to 22 and hosts games, rides, concerts and competitions like bull riding and saddle bronc. If you are new to Houston and have never been to the rodeo before, we have some culinary must-tries for you.
- Cotton candy bacon on a stick
Look, we love cotton candy and bacon. Separately. The mix of savory and sweet is a genius invention for some, but we believe that these two food items were never meant to mix. Since it’s served on a stick, like many rodeo foods, after a while, it just becomes a large, sticky mess. It gets worse in the Texas heat and crowded atmosphere.
- Corn dog
It’s a classic, the ultimate food item for carnivals and festivals. As a quick energy boost after chasing around your family and friends at the carnival, the corndog is the best cheap option. The corn dog is the way to go. Still, it’s a little too boring for our taste. Why settle for less when you can push yourself out of your comfort zone?
- Fried Pickles
Pickles are delicious—there’s no changing our minds. And fried pickles are equally pleasing. We recommend you dip them in a sauce, so that they become exactly like fries or chips. But at a place like the Houston rodeo, you can certainly find something bolder and even better to eat.
- Fried apple pie
Apple pie always reminds us of the fall season, but the Houston rodeo has shown us that a good old fried apple pie is delicious year-round, especially in the spring season. Add some ice cream to a slice of fried apple pie, and you have yourself a delicious dessert. The sugar and spiced apple flavor pair so well together. You can’t go wrong with this option.
- Fried Oreos
The idea of a fried oreo rouses both disgust and intrigue. Yes, Oreos can get more unhealthy. On one hand, who doesn’t love oreos? On another, the idea of a soggy mush of sugar encrusted in a crispy batter engages our gag reflex. When we go to the rodeo, though, we always get them because of their celebrity status.
- Sausage on a stick
This staple has such a good smoky flavor. While not the most popular food you can find at the Houston Rodeo, it is always a safe bet. Our favorite place to get it is definitely Triple J’s Smokehouse’s.
- Trill burger
Owned by Houston rap legend Bun B alongside other notable chefs and business owners, this Houston-based smashburger deserves all the hype. You know it’s good if it wins “Best Burger in America” from Good Morning America. The beef patties are perfectly flavored, and go so well with the cheese, onions, pickles and “Trill sauce” on equally delicious buns. You have to try this at least once… and what better place to try than the Houston Rodeo?
- Turkey Leg
Although it might be expensive, it is insanely huge. Like they say, everything is bigger in Texas…and these turkey legs are no exception. We remember it being the size of our faces! But the turkey leg is super savory and has that fall-off-the-bone tenderness that makes it so delicious. We know you’ll love it like we do, so go enjoy this hearty food at the Rodeo!
- BBQ Brisket
If any food is the most Texan, it’s this one. It’s the perfect way to get your authentic experience of Texas and have a delicious meal at the same time. Juicy meat, savory barbecue sauce, our mouths are watering already. Don’t walk to get brisket, run!
- Funnel Cake
This one needs no explanation. Funnel cake is the staple at any carnival, and that doesn’t exclude the Houston rodeo. Delicious, fried to perfection, and beautifully sprinkled with powdered sugar, who doesn’t love a good funnel cake? There are so many varieties and add-ons you can try now with the funnel cake, so have some fun!
