In the heart of Houston’s Five Corners District, Take the Wheel is serving up authentic Detroit-style cuisine that’s capturing the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Located at 3121 W Orem Dr Unit E, Houston, TX 77045, this family-owned restaurant brings a unique culinary experience to Texas, infused with the rich flavors and traditions of Detroit.
A Family Journey Rooted in Flavor
The story of Take the Wheel begins with Corey Orr, originally from Detroit, who moved to Houston with a dream of sharing his hometown’s distinctive food culture. “My uncle Corey started the food truck here in Houston,” Jasmine Connor shares. “He wanted to bring that home cooked Detroit taste to a new audience.” The food truck quickly gained popularity, offering dishes that reminded fellow Detroit natives of home.
Seeing the potential, Corey’s brother Rodney—Jasmine’s father—decided to join him. “My dad came down from Detroit to help out,” Jasmine explains. “We wanted to expand and bring more of our family’s cooking to Houston.” Together, they worked on the food truck, with Jasmine joining them to contribute to the growing business.
As demand increased, space became a limiting factor. “It got so busy that we needed more help, but there’s only so much room on a food truck!” Jasmine recalls with a laugh.
Finding the Perfect Spot
As demand increased, they sought a more permanent location. Opportunity knocked when they discovered a daiquiri shop on West Orem Drive with an unused kitchen. “The owner wasn’t using his kitchen and offered it to us,” Jasmine says. “It was a win-win situation—his customers got to enjoy our food with their daiquiris, and our customers loved having a place to sit and relax.”
This collaboration allowed them to establish their first brick-and-mortar location without the typical hurdles of starting from scratch. “The West Orem location was our first brick-and-mortar spot,” Jasmine notes. The food truck was eventually retired, but the family continued to expand.
Corey established a new location on Highway 6, an area significant to them from their food truck days. “We still consider Highway 6 as our first location because that’s where it all began, with our food truck,” Rodney explains.
A Menu That Stands Out
Take the Wheel offers a diverse menu that stands out in Houston’s food scene. Their specialties include dishes inspired by Detroit classics like chili cheese fries and chicken pitas. The loaded cheese fries, topped with cheese, bacon, ranch, chicken, and jalapeños, have become a top seller. “You can only get that here,” Jasmine notes proudly.
Another crowd favorite is the fish and shrimp basket, featuring two pieces of fish, five shrimp fried to perfection, and hush puppies. “It’s probably one of our top sellers,” she adds.
Understanding that not everyone wants hearty comfort food all the time, they’ve also crafted healthier options. “We have salads that are big, look good, and taste good,” says Jasmine. “We sell out all the time.” They offer grilled alternatives to fried items, sautéed veggies instead of fries, and dishes like grilled salmon for those seeking a lighter option.
Weekend Brunch with a Detroit Twist
On weekends, the restaurant introduces a brunch menu that’s quickly gaining attention. “We offer shrimp and grits, fish and grits, lamb chops, salmon—anything you can think of for brunch,” Jasmine shares. The brunch menu continues their mission of bringing Detroit flavors to Houston. “We bring that Detroit influence to everything we serve,” she says.
Embracing the Five Corners Community
Since opening in 2021, Take the Wheel has found a welcoming home in the Five Corners District. “The community here is amazing,” Jasmine reflects. “Everyone has been so supportive. We have regulars who come in all the time.” The family atmosphere is a core part of their appeal. “We’re a family, and we want people to feel like they’re part of that when they come in,” Jasmine says warmly.
Their reach extends beyond the neighborhood. “People are traveling from all over Houston who find us on Instagram and see the food looks really good,” she notes. “It’s great to see how far our food has reached.”
Plans for Growth
The Connors have their sights set on continued growth. “Hopefully, we can get more locations in other areas,” Jasmine says. “We have a pretty big menu, and we want to share it with as many people as possible.”
Plan Your Visit
If you’re eager to experience authentic Detroit-style cuisine without leaving Houston, Take the Wheel invites you to their welcoming establishment on West Orem Drive. “Whatever you try, you can’t go wrong. You’ll love it,” Jasmine assures. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty comfort food or something on the lighter side, Take the Wheel offers a unique dining experience that’s sure to leave you satisfied.
Check out their menu and place an order online at www.takethewheel2.com.
