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    Barnaby's Cafe

    4.2 (425 reviews)
    Open 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

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    BARNABY'S CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed
    Good for kids

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    Reviews With Photos - Barnaby's Cafe

    Jason Z.

    This appears to be the OG Barnaby's location in Houston. Located in Montrose, this is definitely the least modern interior location that I've been to. It feels a bit old school and dive bar esque but the menu seems fairly similar. There is parking, which is decent because parking in this area is fairly tough. The interior is a bit older and if you like clean and modern, then this ain't it. Got their white queso and chips and Asian wings for appetizers. The wings were cooked well and were tender but the Asian sauce was a bit bland and not very Asian. The white queso was slightly watery and not my favorite to be honest. The chips were definitely pre-made and tasted like it. I got their free range buffalo burger for my main with a side of sweet potato fries. The burger was requested as medium but was definitely a well done by the time it got to the table. The buns were pre-made / not made in house; there was also some seasoned oil or spread on the buns that I wasn't a fan of. The burger itself was alright; if not a bit bland. I could not tell it was buffalo. The fries were crispy and cooked well; these are also confidently not freshly cut. Overall, this is an alright meal for a fairly popular Houston chain. The burger wasn't impressive and at its price point, it's fair to say it is fairly average in terms of quality and taste. Their menu is pretty expansive so I might've accidentally skipped their heavy hitters.

    I got here early to beat the lunch crowd.
    Rubén L.

    Great place with friendly staff and awesome food. The dining area is very kitschy and that style fits nicely as the restaurant is in an old house. Mathew, our server, was very helpful telling us about the menu, as some items were interesting like the Coronado Beef or Newport Chicken. But I opted for the blue cheese hamburger and it was so juicy and tasty on a sweet ciabatta roll. Now, I can put away most burgers but this one was super filling and well worth it. We also ordered the Newport Chicken, which is a grilled chicken breast with slices of ham under melted cheese, and an epic hotdog that was grilled and split down the middle. Both of these were super good. This is the only location of Barnaby's I've been to, but I am confident that the food and service at the other locations is just as good.

    Huge wedge salad yum
    Robert S.

    First dinner in Houston. Had a drink at a nearby bar and Barnaby's was recommended. Had a french dip and a wedge salad. The wedge salad was enough for two actually, half an iceberg lettuce. It was good. Being a french dip connoisseur, it was also good, 8 out of 10. Appropriate bread roll and Lots of thinly sliced beef. The au jus was just about the right beefy flavor, not too salty. A few little stringy pieces of beef but not bad. Service was friendly and efficient

    Storefront at night
    Lou C.

    Cute little restaurant right across from George Country Bar. I remember going to other Barnaby's Cafes but could never find parking to this one on Fairview. As I was looking at the black awnings across the street, they looked like doggy's eyelashes winking at me. So, here I was. This restaurant seems to be an old house converted to a functional restaurant. As I walked in, waitress greeted me and say "it's open seating. You can sit anywhere." Lovely, I found a table for solo diner looking at the kitchen and the front of house. The menu is a placemat on the table. I quickly glanced at the categories and I picked lowest priced item - Chicken Salad Sandwich at $14.00. My waiter took the order and brought my food so quickly, I didn't get a chance to read the reviews. I think Barnaby and dogs are related. Dog motifs are everywhere, including the ceiling. Part of my meal was french fries, which dressed it like a shaggy dog without ears. Because the fries were so fresh I couldn't believe I actually finished them before getting into my sandwich. I was already full eating half of my sandwich and all the fries. I enjoyed my leftover next day. It was as delicious as the day before. The restaurant was filled with happy customers during the New Year's Day dinner hours. Waitress was very energetic as she waited more tables than my waiter. I don't go out to gayborhood much. It's always nice to see many young people enjoyed eating at Barnaby's Cafe.

    Menu
    Smith Family O.

    Great food, good service, busy place with casual ambiance. Homey looking old school business. Started with spinach dip and chips, very good. Huge portions served, enough for 2 meals or to share. I tried the lasagna today. It was very meaty and not dry at all. Lots of gooey cheese. Ordered a chicken salad and that was huge and looked delicious. I recommend coming here. Matthew was our server today.

    the interior of the restaurant
    Charles L.

    Enjoyable meal with family. Friendly service. Delicious and large wedge with blue cheese. Salmon cooked to a tender grilled tastiness. Noodles and macaroni were enjoyed by the younger children. Reasonable prices. Solid meal in a simply furnished, comfortable setting.

    Menu
    Lee A. S.

    Great place to eat. I love the artwork on the ceilings. Staff is very friendly. The texas chili burger was very good. The meat was cooked exactly how I like it (medium well). My friend, who is vegetarian, loved the impossible meat burger. Prices are reasonable. Food portions are huge. I preferred the chips instead of fries with my burger.

    Homemade Potato Chips
    Waverly H.

    Have not been here in a long time. Decided to pop in for lunch and it was a great reunion to be back at the original Barnaby's. The atmosphere is bustling and lively just as I remember. Noah was our waiter and he was attentive, fun and made sitting in his section a delight. If he is there, sit in his section. I ordered the Spicy Asian Wings and it was more than enough. Spicy and tangy with nice pickled cucumbers to graze on. So good. My friend ordered the huge egg salad sandwich with homemade potato chips. It was so good I could not keep my hands off his chips and egg salad. Stop into Barnaby's if you are in the area. It's a local's hotspot.

    Falafel Burger
    Beth A.

    Always friendly service at the locations I have visited. I love their falafel burger! Had it for lunch and it delicious with the warm bun they serve it on! Every thing I have tried has been yummy!

    Charlie B.

    Love this place so much and was so sad to find out that the beloved Black Labrador I frequented during college had closed, after 33 years ;( Driving down aimlessly on Montrose Blvd, I was heading toward Allen Parkway and remembered, BARNABYS Cafe on Fairview. The Original. Was super happy and surprised with all the locations now opened: The Heights, River Oaks, Museum, Midtown, Woodway - jeez, they keep on going! Was pretty hangry for a salad, as my body was craving roughage. And the super nice waiter gave me the rundown on the ingredients on the 8 delicious salads on the menu where I picked the Chinese Chicken Salad $16, there is a smaller salad size available for $2 less, however, you want to order the large one. When it arrived at the table, people gawked as it was so ginormous...and delicious filled with thin sliced chicken, carrots, cilantro, crunchy cabbage, wonton crisps, and topped with a super thick peanut sauce. I tried my best to eat my way through it, however, I was beat by this salad! Taking it home, I enjoyed TWO more meals as the nice waiter was kind enough to provide me with extra peanut dressing. Great food, great service, great location with small private parking lot. Inside tables have plastic see through partitions for extra safety. Thank you! I look forward to coming back and eating my way through this menu, too!

    Falafel burger with spinach and feta
    Charlene P.

    I have been coming here for years. Omg. Like more than 20! I remember giving blood and then having the best meat loaf of my life here. I'm vegetarian now (although, I still think about that meat loaf) and I love their falafel burgers. Sweet potato fries are also hot and delicious. Service today was quick and friendly. I enjoyed a glass of $5 Pinot Grigio too. Eating here always makes me happy. Reminds me of the old Montrose.

    Sweet Potato Fries

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    2 years ago

    Food is good. Cute ambience or scenery. Staff is friendly. But you don't need it all.

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    3 years ago

    Everything on the menu is great! The portion size won't leave you asking for more. Big fan of their salads!

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    4 years ago

    I love the sliders and chicken tenders. I wish I had the recipe. Oh and if you were wondering who left a 5 star review it was me.

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    Page 2 of 11

    Barnaby's Cafe Reviews in Other Languages

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    Lost & Found

    Lost & Found

    3.8
    (1.1k reviews)
    0.6 mi
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    "Not All Who Wander Are Lost"...And what I found was some great food! Atmosphere is casual, service…read moreis friendly, the vibe is definitely Viking (and from what I have heard, it's really popping during brunch!). We came on. Friday after work during happy hour and the prices could not be beat, especially with their lobster bites (was sitting at about $30, and we got them half off!) Drinks were fantastic! I selected the "Golden Cadillac" that comes with a miniature bottle of Grand Marnier inside of it. Very good. My company decided on an array of appetizers for his "main course", while I went with their Fried Salmon (served with Mac and cheese, and collard greens). Omg! So tasty! The pepper was prevalent throughout, but it did not over power the flavor! I make collard greens at home (and learned from one of the best), and even I found theirs to be pretty good! My company selected fried ribs, along with the lobster bites, and crawfish queso dip, and their wings! I tasted what he got, and we both agreed that the wings were "off the chart" delicious with a beautiful straight off the grill smoky flavor! So good that he got another order to go! Lol. What made our experience there amazing was our server Ray (Rajean = think "the 90's TV Show "Living Single"..."smooches"!)...she was the best!! From her hello, to walking us through the menu (as first-timers), her recommendations, her energy, her smile, and her being very relatable. Loved her! My only gripe was the bathrooms, the ladies room needed attention (and could use a spruce all around). It doesn't help that it is a bit small, but yeah, they need to focus some efforts on ensuring it's upkeep. As for seating and parking, there is a bar area and limited seating toward the front of the restaurant, but it does extend to back of the house with additional seating. There is also patio seating as well. Because this place seems popular, it is best to reserve ahead to ensure your seating. Parking is very limited! They do however, offer valet (but at $20+). There is off-street parking, but be careful since this is a residential area and nothing is secure. All in all, I really had a great time and left with my belly full! Definitely worth checking out! What was lost is now found! Enjoy!

    Came in on a Saturday night around 9:340ish... we ordered…read more.... fried salmon a side of fries While the salmon came out...... my fries didn't lol! The bartender even mentioned about the fries coming out first. But I sat for a longggg time before my side of fries NEVER CAME! At 10:13 I canceled my fries! Usually I'd chuck it up to it being packed.... But baby this place wasn't packed...... I'm ngl I feel a lil played.. but whatever. I heard back in the day this was the place to be.. but babyyyy not no more smh! Honestly the prices don't match the place or match the menus (they were clearly done, and needed to be replaced) Overall will I be back.......!? Nahhh I'm good!

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    Killen's

    Killen's

    4.0
    (524 reviews)
    1.6 mi
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    One of the best meals I've had all year, hand to GOD. If this place is even remotely on your radar,…read moreget there before they shut down in mid-July. It's worth making the trip now, not later. The menu is exceptionally well-curated, hitting that sweet spot of what Houston does best. comfort, creativity, and just enough flair to keep things interesting. The space matches the vibe: modern and minimalist with a subtle Chip-and-Joanna-Gaines touch. The drink menu is just as thoughtful. Even the well spirits are solid. We kicked things off with the deviled eggs topped with maple pork belly, easily some of the creamiest I've ever had. Do not split an order. Everyone at the table should get their own. For the entrée, I went with the Sunday enchiladas made with Killen's famous brisket. Smoke, salt, pepper and exactly what you want from a dish like this. It typically comes with Mexican rice and refried beans, but the rice was running behind during my visit, so I swapped in scrambled eggs (it was brunch) no complaints. They were simple buttery, creamy and just damn delicious. peach bread pudding that was downright decadent. Easily one of the best desserts I've had in a long time. Make you wanna slap yo momma.

    Interesting conversation: No room without a reservation…read more Cool, can I sit at the bar when it has a seat available ? Not without a reservation. OK so I can reserve a seat at the bar? No! I guess I'll come back when it's a Whataburger

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    Interior
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    Buttermilk Fried Chicken
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    Grace's

    Grace's

    4.2
    (1.6k reviews)
    2.0 mi
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    I can't believe it. It's been 10 years since I reviewed Grace's. I've probably been here 35 or 40…read moretimes since then. I bring family and friends here all the time along with business partners. This is one of my favorite restaurants in Houston, Texas. You will experience the best food and the best service here every single time! Today was the first time I decided to get some food to go. Bradley was an absolute professional. While I was leaving, Johnny Carrabba came out and talked to me for a second. What a nice guy. Full of natural charisma. Reminds me of an old wise guy from casino or Goodfellas. We had a great conversation. I told him how my grandmother was born in Bryan Texas in 1927. He told me about his family that migrated there in 1905. He also mentioned his family had a store on Canal Street. I had no idea. An exceptional person, a legend in the restaurant industry here in Houston, Texas. It was great to meet you today Johnny. Thank you for your professionalism and hospitality and also thank you for serving some of the best food in Houston, Texas! Food: as you can see from all my pictures of the food is simply amazing. The best cornbread in the world. The best pot roast. The best sticky ribs. The best desserts. Everything here is phenomenal. Lunch dinner brunch you cannot go wrong. It was an absolute pleasure to meet Bradley and Johnny today I've been coming to this location for years and I will continue to come and support this restaurant.

    I finally made it to Grace's on Kirby and left with mixed feelings. The dining area is a little…read morecompact (not super small though) but it's not a quiet, romantic spot. The main highlight was the 5 star service by Eric! He's enough to make me want to go back! I'll definitely ask for him every time! 2nd highlight is that cornbread because whew...bussin. Pair it with the collard greens and that's a five-star combo all day. I was undecided on what to order, so I went with the cajun stuffed chicken exactly as it comes, along with mac & cheese and collard greens. The meal wasn't bad, but it wasn't that good either. The chicken, I'd probably skip next time, I took most to go and it went bad cause I couldn't do it. Mac wasn't anything to write home about either but again, them greens and cornbread are absolutely getting reordered. My friend ordered the key lime pie and enjoyed it, so that seemed to be another solid choice. But back to the real MVP of the visit which was our server, Eric. He made menu suggestions without being pushy, kept my glass full the entire meal, was kind, patient, and anticipated what we needed before we even had to ask. That level of service is becoming harder to find, and it definitely elevated the experience. Overall, the food landed somewhere in the middle for me, but Eric's service easily pushed this visit to four stars. I'll definitely be back...mainly for that cornbread lol.

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    Chef's seating
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    The Pot Roast
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    Tumble 22

    Tumble 22

    4.4
    (281 reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$

    Came here with a friend before going climbing at Momentum! I always drive past it, so I'm glad we…read morewere able to give it a try; we had to carpool, though, since the parking situation is fickle. Tumble 22 did NOT skip out on the portions, cause tell me why 8-piece chicken nuggets nearly obliterate me. Service was also friendly and quick! The orders came with a slice of bread that was placed under the chicken; overall, the chicken was prepared well & the quality was evident! I wish the bread had been provided separately, because after a while, the chicken made it soggy, so it deterred me from eating it. They had a unique "Korean" version of their chicken, marinated in spicy Gochujang sauce, and I ordered the Honey Mustard as my dip. While it was delicious, it was a bit salty, so next time I come, I wouldn't get the Korean version. They also had unique Szechuan fries that I'd love to try!

    Tumble 22 is a chain fried chicken / hot chicken sandwich restaurant. This location is right on…read moreWashington and Houston. It's a bit difficult to get in and out of the parking lot onto the street. The menu is very simple and fast food esque; chicken sandwiches, tenders, and fries / sides. The sandwich was fairly good sized and comes with one side. The chicken itself was a bit bland; the cole slaw out of everything was well seasoned and had good flavor. The fries are the typical frozen shoe string fries. Service is okay; again, this spot borders on a fast food restaurant so it's quite simple service. Overall, it's okay; the chicken isn't spectacular but it's a step above Canes or Laynes in some ways but flavor wise also missing something special.

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    Josephine's Gulf Coast Tradition

    Josephine's Gulf Coast Tradition

    4.4
    (307 reviews)
    0.7 mi

    I love this restaurant! And it's favorite spot to visit when I'm in Houston…read more The food is always fabulous, and I enjoy the libation. My last dish was étouffée with gold tile filet - delicious! TV screens in the background don't interfere with the table conversations. There's street parking.

    *this review is only for crawfish, not their regular menu (which is amazing) *…read more We went here during crawfish season because they've been advertising their $8/lb crawfish, and we trusted that it would be great given the quality of their regular menu. We went on a Saturday for lunch. Hopefully this was just a one-off, but if you're looking for good Cajun boiled crawfish, this is not it. We started off with 6 lbs (group of 4) of their regular crawfish. First off, they put the Cajun seasoning on outside/shell (!!), which is a cardinal sin for Cajuns. They also minimally seasoned the boil, so the meat was lacking salt and flavor. We ordered 3 more lbs with the "wet sauce" (garlic butter), thinking the lack of flavor may be attributed to this being the first-ish batch of the day. Nope, the second batch was even less seasoned than the first. The sauce was good, but it didn't make up for the unseasoned meat. The crawfish were a good size, at least... Come on guys, I expect more from a Gulf Coast seafood restaurant!

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    Inside - back area seating
    Inside - back area seating
    Banana Pudding-$10. Would've loved more cookies! Rich and filling!
    Banana Pudding-$10. Would've loved more cookies! Rich and filling!
    Blue Crab Rice Bowl-$26. RICH!

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    Blue Crab Rice Bowl-$26. RICH!

    Barnaby's Cafe - tradamerican - Updated July 2026

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