saddle up
Ben Berg's historic Ranch steakhouse makes sizzling return to Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo’s only sit down restaurant will return for 2023. Berg Hospitality will bring back The Ranch Saloon + Steakhouse for the Rodeo’s full run of February 28 - March 19.
First introduced last year, the Ranch is a dual concept, almost 16,000-square foot restaurant that’s constructed out of climate-controlled tents and decorated with Western-inspired touches. The Saloon is a more casual setting that’s first-come-first serve, while The Steakhouse is a fine dining concept that takes reservations. Notably, the Ranch is the only venue outside of NRG Stadium to offer cocktails on the Rodeo grounds, which helped make it a smash hit in 2022.
“Due to the amazing support we received last year, I am excited to announce that The Ranch is now an official sponsor of Rodeo Houston and back with a new and improved layout, including 80 additional seats, lounge seating by the stage, and larger bathrooms, along with extended hours and more live music acts,” Berg Hospitality founder Ben Berg said in a statement.
Those extended hours specifically refer to a new, post-concert experience that Berg Hospitality has dubbed “The Ranch After Dark.” It will feature DJs spinning tunes until as late as 1 am on Friday and Saturday nights. VIPs will be able to reserve tables near the stage for a $500 food and beverage minimum.
The restaurant’s menu pulls from a number of Berg concepts, including B&B Butchers, The Annie Café & Bar, and B.B. Lemon. At the more upscale steakhouse, look for B&B Butchers signature dishes such as Chef Tommy’s Bacon, Carpet Bagger oysters on the half shell, and a full lineup of USDA Prime steaks. Two of The Annie’s most popular dishes, crab tostadas and tortilla soup, will also be available. Those looking to splurge will find caviar, king crab, and Japanese wagyu beef.
The menu at the Saloon starts with favorites from B.B. Lemon such as campechana, blue crab beignets, and wagyu beef burgers. Other items include a lobster roll, pork chop, and steak frites. Food from both concepts is available at the Saloon, but Saloon dishes are not served in the Steakhouse.
In addition to eating and drinking, diners will enjoy live music throughout the evening. The restaurant also offers private dining rooms that seat up to 35 people.
Reservations for the Steakhouse are available now on Open Table. For lounge reservations, call 713-818-2310.
“If you are headed out to NRG during those 20 days, come grab a great meal and listen to some live music before or after the main concert,” Berg added. “Plus, we are offering private dining options again for Rodeo committees or any larger groups who want to celebrate.”