Cleburne Cafeteria is hands down one of the BEST restaurants in Houston. If you live in Houston or…read moreare just visiting, you absolutely need to eat here at least once. This is true, old-school Houston comfort food done right, and it never disappoints. The blacken chicken and grilled chicken are incredible--perfectly seasoned, juicy, and some of the best chicken you'll find anywhere. The chicken fried steak is phenomenal and exactly what a great Texas chicken fried steak should be. And the sides are just as good. Their macaroni and cheese is unbelievable--rich, creamy, cheesy, and the kind of mac and cheese you keep thinking about after you leave. And DO NOT leave without getting a blueberry muffin. They are absolutely amazing. Honestly, you could come here just for the blueberry muffins and be happy. What makes Cleburne Cafeteria so special is that everything tastes like real, homemade Southern cooking. There are so many choices, the portions are generous, and you can put together a completely different meal every time you come. Houston has an incredible food scene, but Cleburne Cafeteria is one of those places that truly feels like HOUSTON. It's been a Houston institution for a reason. Whether you've lived here your whole life or you're visiting the city for the first time, put Cleburne Cafeteria on your list. Blackened chicken, grilled chicken, chicken fried steak, mac and cheese, blueberry muffins--you seriously can't go wrong. Five stars without question. One of my absolute favorite restaurants in Houston! The valet on Sundays is a great touch because the parking lot can get over full! The valet guys, especially, Brett are so amazing, hospitable, loving. They make you feel welcomed arriving and leaving.

Historically significant. Excellent food as you can see from the reviews…read more So I'll just post photos. My default ? Lemon cod, tabouli, coconut pie. The fried chicken is not good enough to recommend. As you will see, George M., the manager did respond to my comment. And I thank him for his response. (Though I was amused by how he phrased his response). Keep in mind. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE Cleburne. I grew up in a Houston with Picadilly, Weldon's, Brittain's, Luby's, Wyatt's and more. Cafeterias in the 50's and 60's were an important way for families to dine out economically, and go to for the Sunday after church dinner. I visit Cleburne as often as possible, and my wife and I still reminisce about the matriarch at the register who could calculate everyone's bill in her head as they showed up to pay. Such wonderful memories. But as a person who has done fried chicken for decades, creating The Fried Chicken Blog (www.thefriedchickenblog.com) to document the fried chicken picnics in the German Czech communities of central Texas, and having fun with many different fried chicken recipes, I read his response about his chicken being one of the "best in the country," with amusement; so I will leave it up to you. Look at the photo of the dry, fried chicken on JUne 15, 2026, and then compare it to the photo I have just added for what I think fried chicken would look like at the best places (One example would be Barbecue Inn on Crosstimbers). There are some tricks to fried chicken. That is, once you decide on which traditional method you choose to go with. Example of one such: The batter of course, where you add a little moisture into the flour before the dipping and frying so that pieces of the wetted flour clump and will be picked up. Getting back to the Cleburne recipe. My guess is that this is one of the classic Southern, dredge in flour and pan fry, but not a buttermilk soak, dip, dredge, redip, dredge, fry method. This one is more akin to the classic skillet fry method and a simpler flour coating (I'm guessing). Which can be really good. But for me, I'd say, pass on the fried chicken and go for one of their other entrees.

If you're craving real Southern comfort food, Mikki's is definitely worth a visit. We stopped in on…read morea busy day, and the line was almost out the door, which is always a good sign. Even with the crowd, the line kept moving, and there was no shortage of delicious-looking options on the steam table. From fried chicken and turkey wings to baked fish, spaghetti, cabbage, green beans, mac and cheese, dressing, black-eyed peas, collard greens, candied yams, mashed potatoes, and more, it was hard to decide what to order because everything looked homemade. I ordered the turkey wing with collard greens, black-eyed peas, mashed potatoes with gravy, rice, a corn muffin, and sweet potatoes. I also grabbed a Suicide Punch, which is a mix of all their Kool-Aid flavors. First, let's talk about those sweet potatoes... BABY!! They absolutely stole the show. They were piping hot, buttery, perfectly sweet, and hands down the best thing on my plate. I could've easily eaten another serving. The collard greens were seasoned beautifully with a rich, smoky flavor and plenty of pot liquor. They were tender without being mushy and tasted like they had been cooking all day. The black-eyed peas were creamy, well-seasoned, and comforting, while the mashed potatoes were smooth and paired perfectly with the savory gravy. The rice soaked up every bit of that gravy, and the corn muffin was soft with just the right touch of sweetness. The turkey wing itself was tender, juicy, and covered in flavorful gravy. My only surprise was that I was expecting just the wing portion, but instead I received the whole wing with the drum attached. It wasn't a big deal because it was still delicious--I just personally prefer getting only the wing. The Suicide Punch was another winner. If you grew up drinking Kool-Aid, you'll appreciate it. It's sweet, refreshing, and a fun mix of all the flavors. My family ordered several other dishes, so we got to try quite a variety. We had baked chicken, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, and black-eyed peas, and everything was generously portioned. The baked chicken was moist and well-seasoned, and the mac and cheese had that creamy, homemade taste you hope for from a soul food restaurant. My only real complaint was that some of the food was served lukewarm instead of hot, which took away from the experience a little. Soul food just hits differently when it's fresh and piping hot. Ironically, the sweet potatoes were the one item that came out nice and hot, and they were absolutely perfect. Overall, Mikki's serves authentic soul food with generous portions and flavors that remind you of Sunday dinner at a family member's house. The food is comforting, the selection is impressive, and it's easy to see why the place stays busy. If everything had been served hot, this would've easily been a five-star experience. Pro tip: Don't leave without getting the sweet potatoes and a Suicide Punch. Trust me--you'll thank me later. sweet potatoes and a Suicide Punch free refills. Trust me--you'll thank me later.

Pretty good experience as always, but I'm taking off a star because my sweet potatoes were left out…read moreof my order. I think the employee handling the sides may have been having an off day. She seemed a little disengaged, was speaking very softly, and I believe that's where the mix up occurred. The correct sides were prepared, but they ended up on the wrong plate. I was definitely looking forward to my sweet potatoes, so it put me in a bit of a funk. Next time I'll check my order before leaving to make sure everything is there.

The rookie which is gumbo and shrimp etouffee was really really delicious! Thank god my friend from…read morearound the area brought me here. Super affordable food for the correct portions! Delicious! Service was fast and good! I love it! Something I would miss in Houston 100% (I am from California).

Was serving in jury duty and they ordered food from this establishment. I ordered the fried chicken…read morewhich was a boneless piece of chicken with a crispy skin, ordered green beans and mashed potatoes with it. All was flavorful, chicken was moist inside and crispy on the outside. Green beans were a bit on the salty side but not terrible. The mashed potatoes were good, nicely whipped. All in all i would go to this restaurant and try other things on the menu.

Food - very good! Fresh and hot Service- nice and friendly…read more Ambiance- nice, clean and relaxed This is one of the better Luby's I have ever been to

But the time we decided to get dinner all the goodies were sold out!…read moreNo liver, broccoli, new potatoes ugh But we decided to get 2 kids meals of chicken tenders both with corn and jello, I got the chicken fried chicken and it was slightly undercooked but ok. This is a very busy location so you have to get in early because the line is always long.

I love Luby's. The food isn't anything gourmet, but it carries a comforting nostalgia--like a…read morehome-cooked meal from simpler times. The quality at this location is surprisingly good: not overly salted, not greasy, just a well-made, straightforward plate of food. The design of the restaurant hasn't changed since the beginning of time--and I mean that in the best way. It's classic cafeteria-style: you grab a tray, move down the line, and the friendly servers pile your plate with whatever catches your eye. After paying, you bring your tray to a table where a server will check in, offer any missing condiments, and make sure you're taken care of. The staff are genuinely friendly, and a full meal runs about $15. It's hearty and filling--I promise you won't leave hungry. Don't expect a fancy dining experience, but if you're looking for a healthier, more satisfying alternative to fast food, this place delivers.

So disappointed. Spent nearly $100 on lunch here with my kids. The fruit was nasty, the dessert…read morewasn't good, I got the chicken fried chicken and halfway through it I found paper that was mixed in the breading! Left majority of our food on the table and walked out. Never again!

Love Luby's but they nickel and dime for everything now. I bought a $3.29 strawberry lemonade and…read morethen then I wanted to get a sprite to go after my meal. They said I had to pay an additional $3.29 if I wanted a soft drink because the strawberry lemonade is a separate thing. Most ridiculous thing I've ever heard! And also the manager can be heard yelling and belittling his staff in the kitchen. Will never return. Managers name was Mike I believe.

I remember when I was younger going to cafeteria with my adopted grandmother (we adopted her, our…read moregrandparentslived in the Caribbean).. She loved cafeterias. You could get really simple and tasty southern style food for a good price. Us kids loved going because not only could we pick out a delicious entree and two sides of our choice, out health nut parents allowed us to get a dessert of our liking as well as a drink of our liking because the value was so good. Also, if other people from church came, aside from plenty hugs, we sat by ourselves close by and roared with laughter until our church members got in on the jokes and the whole section was laughing. Good times. Grandma often paid for everyone since it was affordable to her and she loved us to pieces. I said all that to say that Luby's gives that nostalgic feeling of my youth. Now, the food isn't at the level that it needs to be but it is comforting. I can just hear grandma asking everyone if they are okay and enjoying their meal! My favorite items from her are the homemade dressing, mashed potatoes, savory green beans, delicious butter corn kernels, mac and cheese, whole wheat rolls, cabbage, and cornbread. Basically the sides. The mac and cheese is not yellow but it is very cheesey and nice! So delicious and creamy. They have a good dessert list but my sweet tooth hasn't picked back up. Would recommend!

Marty, Marty, Marty.... By some awesome quirk of fate, my…read morefriend John and I happened past this quaint little Diner in downtown Houston on our way to a meeting. Just before closing, we had the place to ourselves and got to shoot the S with the owner who gave us its very cool history. 38 years in, and a few miles on his ledger, Marty still cranks out some fabulous food! The place was like walking into the 50's, with the old school metal tables and ample linoleum. I LOVE Louisiana cooking, and it couldn't have been more authentic. The only problem I had with my shrimp gumbo is the bowl was too small (actually a filling portion) and loaded with succulent, tender shrimp. Yummmmm! The cornbread was sublime and dipping it in the gumbo was killer! John had a Po Boy and said it was heavenly. The fries were obviously fresh cut and perfect. We finished with the bread pudding as we are both connoisseurs, and boy did it not disappoint. Thank You for yet another 5 star experience and a return visit will be on the horizon! Cheers, JimG

I finally tried this place out! Their hours are 12pm to 2pm most days but on Thursdays they open…read moreat 12pm close at 2pm then reopen at 5pm to 8pm. However the food was great tasting and the place is full of family history, the staff was very accommodating! Small portions though. Reasonabley priced for the portion size. They do not serve alcohol.

I'm not real happy with the fact that the marketplace in the Houston Methodist Hospital has chosen…read moreto go to cashless AI automated kiosk one of the first things they can do is to have a live cashier on duty at all times while the cafe is an operation it should be the choice of the customer whether to receive live contact or AI automated cashless prompts I believe Earl mark has a lot of issues that they need to improve on while I found the best thing to do is not to go in between breakfast lunch and dinner because they don't have the appropriate staff to man this location thanks for letting me vent NAC thanks for your consideration this manner look forward to hearing from other reviewers

Market Place under going renovations, phase 1 opened this week. I think this new Mediterranean bowl…read moreis the best meal I have ever had in my long career here.

I have mixed feelings about Luby's. I grew up eating at…read moreLuby's and I always liked it. Being a child going through the line having a choose your own adventure lunch after church was always so fun. As an adult, I'm less enthused or impressed... We only come to Luby's when someone invites us and even then we debate just coming home and finding something for lunch. It's not that it's gross, it's just that it's hit or miss with very limited options. If you're looking for healthier foods, you can find some... but the flavor is lacking. As far as side dishes go, there are some vegetable options or a salad. If you're looking for not so healthy options, there are plenty... the fried fish in its weirdly rectangular shape is my favorite. This location has been hot the last few times I've been there and I don't know about you, but eating while I'm hot is one of my least favorite things and it makes my stomach hurt. So then I leave here sweating, with a tummy ache, and a bag of leftovers because I couldn't eat anymore due to the heat. Take that as you will. It's fine. Good for a group after church and always full of the after church crowd. I'd rather go next door to Fuddruckers.

Lubys use to be great. It was fairly priced good food with good portions. As a family, it was…read moreone of our go to places to take kids. Lubys macaroni has always been legendary. I'm not sure whar has happened lately. If its this location or all. They are super stingy on their servings now. They wont fill their scoop when serving. Maybe 3/4 full at best. Ive even seen them serve food on the plate then remove some...like they are worried they gave you too much. The sides use to heap over...now they don't even fill the little bowl. Their macaroni has also lost its magic. It just tastes bland and lifeless now. Its never changed in the 40 years ive gone to Lubys but it definitely different. If this is the new norm then they might lose us as long time customers

4.5 I'd say. The only con was that we were seated outside in Texas summer weather, and they didn't…read morehave fans or umbrellas for the patio tables to the side. Luckily our server was able to move us to the covered outdoor seating after a little while which was a little better. The covered patio has fans. However, bonus for sitting outside is that they're having a promo during HRW where happy hour drink specials are going on all day. The food and drinks were all yummy though. We got the yum yum fries for the table to share. I ordered the duck duck shroom pizza and the aperol spritz. The portions of everyone's food were huge so I'd say a good bang for your buck. We experienced multiple servers with our table switch and they were all nice and helpful.

Located across the street from St. Thomas in a renovated house. Street parking is available in the…read moresurrounding area, they also offer parking validate in the near by garage. Getting seated was a little chaotic. Indoor seating was pretty limited and not managed well. We end up sitting on the patio (still pretty toasty around sunset time). The giant pretzel we ordered for appetizer was excellent, highlight of the meal. The sourdough pizzas were pretty thin, overall I'd give the pizzas a 3/5. Of the 4 pizzas we tried, my personal ranking: 1. Spicy Goat 2. Duck Duck Shroom 3. Heirloom Margherita 4. Sweet & Spicy Pepperoni. Service was also disorganized and a little slow. I'd come back if I'm craving that pretzel.