The Rodeo's First-Ever Sit-Down Restaurant Saddles Up for Year Three

The Rodeo's First-Ever Sit-Down Restaurant Saddles Up for Year Three

The Ranch Saloon + Steakhouse (photo by Jenn Duncan)

THE HOUSTON LIVESTOCK Show and Rodeo roared back in 2022 after a pandemic-induced hiatus, and one of the buzziest parts of the whole thing was restaurateur Ben Berg's brand-new sit-down concept, a first for the Rodeo.


In 2023, The Ranch Saloon + Steakhouse's return was highly anticipated, and expectations were exceeded, as Berg added more seating and live music. So what's on tap for 2024? Well, lots of... taps, actually. There will be four new satellite bars serving special concoctions in addition to beer and wine; expect one each dedicated to tequila, whiskey, Cosmos and Aperol Spritzes. In addition to the more casual Saloon and upscale Steakhouse components, Berg will also debut The Skillet, a walk-up booth serving elevated versions of classic carnival fare — think bacon-on-a-stick with truffle honey, and a pretty stellar smash burger.

Ben Berg at The Ranch (photo by Jenn Duncan)

Snake River Farms pork chop (photo by Alex Wu)

Wasabi-crusted tuna (photo by Kirsten Gilliam)

BBQ chicken sandwich (photo by Kirsten Gilliam)

Au Poivre (photo by Alex Wu)

The Ranch After Dark, a late-night experience with live performances and DJ-spun tunes, returns nightly. Guests can reserve tables from 9pm until close, with a $500 minimum per table. High rollers can also book the Steakholder tables for dinner, featuring private restrooms and a private bar (from $15,000 for six guests).

The Ranch Saloon + Steakhouse is erected in a high-end, climate-controlled tent that spans 16,000 square feet and is decked out this year by Visit Round Top and HGTV's Junk Gypsies. Lots of great photo ops here!

The Ranch is taking reservations now via OpenTable.

Photo by Jenn Duncan

Photo by Jenn Duncan

Leadership in Action: Entrepreneur Saba Syed of Moroccan Bath Determined to Build ‘Lasting Legacy’

Saba Syed, Founder of Oasis Moroccan Bath

How did you get to where you are today? My journey began with a need to be financially independent and an even a deeper drive to create a lasting legacy. The centuries-old Hammam tradition has always fascinated me—not just for its relaxation benefits, but for its holistic approach to cleansing the body, mind, and soul. So, combining my passion with a vision to bring an authentic yet luxurious Hammam spa experience to Houston, I took the leap less than two years ago to open my own spa.

Keep Reading Show less

Out magazine cover and Avery Belyeu

ONE OF CITYBOOK'S ‘Cool 100’ has been named to another top 100 list!

Keep Reading Show less
People + Places

AS WE MOVE into Movember, men’s mental health is a big topic. In fact, men can get a lot of benefit, both mentally and physically by taking advantage of everything a spa has to offer. LeBrina Jackson, owner of Escape Spa, has the answers

How does Escape Spa cater to men? We designed Escape Spa to ensure both men and women feel comfortable and welcome. From our earth tones to our luxury brown unisex robes, this is not a pampering palace but a rejuvenation destination.

Keep Reading Show less