Patriotism on a plate? You bet. Here are dishes that deliver:

The Red, White and Blue Burger at Lankford Grocery topped with roasted red bell pepper, red onion and blue cheesThe Red, White and Blue Burger at Lankford Grocery. This burger is topped with roasted red bell pepper, red onion and blue cheese. And frankly, it’s a hot mess (as you can see from the photo) but it’s delicious and well-worth the sacrifice of six napkins.
88 Dennis, 713-522-9555

Apple pie at Barnaby's. This small, local chain likes to show off its giant slices of cake, but we’ll take the spiced-just-right apple pie any day. And on most we have it with a scoop of vanilla.
Find the nearest location at barnabyscafe.com.

American Liberty breakfast at Liberty Kitchen. This manly breakfast offers plenty of fuel for the day as it comes with two eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, tomato-arugula salad and toast.
1050 Studewood, 713-802-0533

All American macaroni and cheese at Jus’ Mac. Gotta love the simplicity of this little skittle of comfort food: perfectly cooked elbow mac in a rich, creamy sauce made with a blend of cheeses. A generous layer of bread crumbs provides a pleasing contrast of textures. Even on a hot day, the dish doesn’t weigh you down.
Sugar Land: 16525 Lexington Blvd., 832-886-4757
Heights: 2617 Yale, 713-622-8646

A hot dog at Watson’s Pub. Does anything go better with a cold brew than a hot dog? We think not. Watson’s serves its all-beef dogs on toasted poppy seed buns with kettle chips. Consider the Bacon Chili beast, which just a sprinkling of raw onion for crunch.
14656 Grisby, 281-920-2929

More July 4th information
Freedom Over Texas
Brews and bourbon bus tour
Fireworks around town
Best burgers around town