If you're at IAH, The Woodlands may be closer - Perry's Steakhouse (get the 7-finger pork chop) or Fleming's.

If you go downtown, Vic and Anthony's. Ask for Reynard Levigne as your waiter - he used to be at the Commander's Palace in NOLA pre-Katrina...he is one of the best waiters in Houston.

For BBQ - Pizzitola's off of I-10 & Sheperd - but they are best for lunch. I went at about 7:00 PM and the ribs were a little past their prime. Lunch though...awesome.

http://pizzitolas.com/