3. Damian's

Damian's has been one of the city's best Italian restaurants going on 30 years, and shows no signs of stopping. Look for the house special osso bucco that's served only on Friday and Saturday nights. And although Damian's is in Midtown, it offers a private shuttle to the Theater District that will drop you at the door of the Wortham, Jones Hall or the Alley Theatre. Just remember to make reservations.

2. Line & Lariat at the Hotel Icon

The grand, theatrical dining room at Line & Lariat is a great pre-opening act, and chef David Luna's food is guaranteed to draw applause. The Theater District is within easy walking distance, but if you're taking in shows at the Rodeo this season, Line & Lariat has you covered there, too: Valet for $6 and leave your car parked at Line & Lariat after dinner; just hop on the Metro Light Rail that's right outside and get dropped off at Reliant Park.

1. Brennan's

Brennan's offers a dedicated shuttle to the Theater District -- with drop-offs at the Alley, the Wortham, Jones Hall and the Hobby Center -- during both lunch and dinner, so you can valet your car at the restaurant without worries. Reservations are required, of course, as one would expect at Houston's grande dame Cajun restaurant with a fabulous French Quarter flair. Brennan's is fine dining at the peak of its game, and has been my choice for pre-theater dining since my mother first took me there before the Nutcracker when I was ten years old.