Seafood RestaurantFamily Style RestaurantAquariumBarRestaurantAmusement ParkChildren's Party Service
The Aquarium Restaurant offers guests an exciting and unique dining experience in an extraordinary setting. Your underwater adventure begins as you are seated around the 150,000 gallon aquarium with excellent views of giant groupers, reticulated rays, majestic sawfish, and other fascinating creatures as they swim right by your table. The Aquarium is not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the palate. Make a splash with deliciously fresh seafood, steak, chicken and decadent desserts all served in an unbelievable underwater setting.
Multiple reviews highlighted exceptional service from various servers, particularly Sandra, Tyrin, Brian, and Gerald, who were noted for their attentiveness, friendliness, and helpfulness.
Food Quality
Customers consistently praised the food for its deliciousness and quality, with specific mentions of various dishes like the fried shrimp platter and crab cakes.
Atmosphere
The unique dining experience with the aquarium ambiance was frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing a fun and engaging environment for families.
Family-Friendly
The restaurant is recognized as a great family-friendly dining option, with thoughtful menu choices for children and accommodating staff.
Overall Experience
Many customers expressed a strong desire to return, citing memorable experiences and a combination of great food, service, and atmosphere.
LN
L New
Nov 15, 2025
5.0
First time visiting Houston and this Aquarium really exceeded anything I could have imagined as far as the food service. It felt like a 5 star restaurant! Our server was Howard and we were a group of 7 and he did not miss a beat!!!! He even got us to try the fried gator and it was surprisingly great. Howard was extremely attentive, courteous, professional, knowledgeable and friendly! If I DIDN’T come back for the beautiful aquarium I would come back just for the restaurant by itself!
MM
Maddie McClain
Nov 15, 2025
5.0
I had such a great experience at the underwater dining adventure in Houston! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was incredible. The multiple aquariums throughout the restaurant made the whole place feel immersive and exciting. Not only that, but they also have tigers we were able to see which was such a unique added surprise.
Our server, Brian, was another highlight of the night. He was extremely attentive, professional, and made sure we had everything we needed without ever feeling rushed. His friendly attitude really added to the overall experience.
If you’re looking for something fun, memorable, and unlike any other dining experience, I definitely recommend checking this place out!
MM
Michael
Nov 9, 2025
5.0
Gerald provided excellent service during our visit to the Houston Aquarium Restaurant. He was attentive without being overbearing, kept everything moving smoothly, and anticipated what we needed before we asked. His timing was perfect, he checked in often enough to make sure we were taken care of, and he handled everything with a professional, friendly attitude. Overall, Gerald made the experience noticeably better. Highly recommend asking for him.
DR
Dunn Right
Nov 8, 2025
5.0
Family friendly environment. Upbeat music and great selection of food. My 6 year old was impressed with the butterfly shrimp and enjoyed watching the different rays and sharks swim by.
We started with fried gator and shrimp kisses - both cooked perfectly, even the bed of fried onions we fire! For dinner we enjoyed the Fisherman's Platter with blakened fish and shrimp. The star was the lobster tail. Amd dont forgwt the libations.A Sunset MaiTai with a Myers floater. On point.
Howard did a great job explaining the menu, sharing his favorites and making sure we had everything we needed throughout the lunch, while giving us space to enjoy eachother's company. He also took time to tell us about the fish, rays and sharks in the tank. Great job!
JD
Jason Dooley
Nov 1, 2025
5.0
Tonight, I dined alone while my sons attended a concert. From the moment I walked into the Aquarium Downtown restaurant, the atmosphere and employees did not disappoint. The hostess was polite and cordial, and my waiter Gerald, was the epitome of excellence. But how was the food, you might ask. The food was prepared with the skilled hands of professionals, and the taste was perfection. Some might balk at the prices, but trust me, for the amount of food you receive and the experience of seemingly dining under the sea, it was totally worth it. I have been here several times in the past, but usually with children in tow and a complaining wife to contend with. Now my children are grown and I currently enjoy putting the word “ex” in front of “wife” so I was able to take in the sights and sounds and have a wonderful experience! Enjoyable music piped in overhead, the sounds of families celebrating birthdays, and the sight of children mesmerized by the huge tank of frolicking marine life, there is something for everyone. If you’re lucky, Gerald will be your attendant and you won’t be disappointed. Come, make your memories, forget your troubles, and soak in the joy of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aquarium Restaurant
Does the Aquarium Restaurant accept reservations?
Yes, the Aquarium Restaurant accepts reservations and you can book through OpenTable.
What are the operating hours of the Aquarium Restaurant?
The restaurant is open Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Is there a happy hour at the Aquarium Restaurant? If so, when is it?
Yes, Happy Hour is available Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 7 PM in The Dive Lounge.
What types of meals are served at the Aquarium Restaurant?
The restaurant serves lunch, dinner, and happy hour meals, including seafood, steak, chicken, and desserts.
Does the Aquarium Restaurant offer pickup and delivery services?
Yes, the restaurant offers in-store pickup, curbside pickup, and delivery services.
What payment methods are accepted at the Aquarium Restaurant?
They accept American Express, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Diners Club, cash, checks, and travelers checks.
What is the dress code at the Aquarium Restaurant?
The attire is casual, making it a comfortable dining experience for all guests.
What is unique about dining at the Aquarium Restaurant?
Guests dine around a 150,000 gallon aquarium with views of giant groupers, rays, and sawfish swimming right by the table, providing an extraordinary underwater experience.
What nearby attractions can I visit before or after dining at the Aquarium Restaurant?
You can visit the Downtown Aquarium attraction, the Shark Tank amusement park and zoo, or enjoy activities like facepainting and caricatures at The Downtown Aquarium.
Is the Dive Lounge a part of the Aquarium Restaurant, and what can visitors expect there?
Yes, the Dive Lounge is part of the Aquarium Restaurant and offers a bar environment where Happy Hour is held from Monday to Friday, 3 PM to 7 PM.