Barnaby's Cafe (BC) in Midtown is right on Gray street between Taft and Stanford. They have their own dedicated lot. Parking is somewhat limited, but seems like spaces are usually available. They are in/near an area that is being/has been gentrified. Their menu has a good selection of various types of American cuisine: salads, Southern, sandwiches, burgers, desserts, and all day breakfast. We posted menu photos and their specials listed on the table, but check their website for the most updated menu. We got their chopped salad and chicken Alfredo noodle with a side of broccoli. The portions of both were huge. We could not finish either. The quality of both dishes was wonderful. Looking around at other tables, it seemed like all of their portions are very large. As opposed to most other places now-days that have post-COVID and inflation high prices with smaller portions, BC large portions make you feel like you are actually getting your money's worth. The interior is somewhat upscale as in keeping with similar restaurants in the area. On a Monday around 6:00-6:30 for dinner there was good business, but it was not overcrowded and was only moderately noisy. While 2-3 people helped us, our main server was Danielle and she did a great job. She checked back on us numerous times and was efficient in taking the initiate to clear plates and anticipate our needs etc. Although we did not interact with her a lot, she was pleasant and she left us with a great impression so that we would want to come back and have her help us again. We had a great experience here and would recommend giving them a try for a great value and good service. read more

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We wrapped up our staycation weekend with brunch at Barnaby's Café Midtown, and it ended up being a pleasantly surprising experience. I'll be honest--on first look, I wasn't completely sold. But once we got inside, things quickly turned around. We were seated right away, and although our server was busy at first, the host made sure we had water and let us know Cricket would be with us shortly. When Cricket came over, she was definitely a whole personality--in the best way. She had on bunny ears for Easter and face paint that matched the restaurant's dog-themed vibe. It added a fun, quirky touch to the experience. The entire restaurant leans into that theme--dog photos everywhere and even painted details on the ceiling. It's unique and playful, but I do wish there was something explaining the story behind "Barnaby." I found myself curious about it the whole time. Now for the food: I ordered the steak & eggs with breakfast potatoes, and the steak was cooked perfectly medium well--no complaints at all. The eggs were good, but next time I'll definitely ask for extra cheese because I like mine cheesy-cheesy. My partner had the chicken & waffles with a side of scrambled eggs, and everything was really good. The only suggestion I'd make is to slice the chicken breast before serving--it just makes for a better eating experience. We also tried the strawberry mimosa (they call it a "Strawmosa"). It was decent--about a 7/10--but you have to add quite a bit of the strawberry lemonade to really get the full flavor. One thing I really appreciated was that we didn't feel rushed at all. We sat for about 15-20 minutes after finishing our meal, and the staff just let us enjoy the moment. Overall, I have to give this place a 10/10. Great service, solid food, fun atmosphere, and a relaxed brunch vibe. Definitely a spot I'd come back to. read more

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Barnaby's Cafe is easily a new favorite. Everything we ordered was incredibly tasty and fresh, and the portions are massive--you definitely won't leave hungry! The highlight for me was the cake; it was absolutely delicious and the perfect way to end the meal. Every dish we tried was a hit. I will definitely be back for more! read more

I finally tried this chain after hearing n wondering about it. Such menu diversity too. Last night I ordered the Lasagna for dine-in and a jumbo Beef Hotdog togo for a post-midnight workout snack n lunch the next day. Both were very delicious and comforting with great flavors to them. The lasagna was full of chunky red tomatoes, sauce, cream and meat with just the right amount of cheese. I don't like when lasagna is smothered in cheese and prefer more sauce on it. The layers were soft and cooked well. The meat / cream / cheese layers were so tasty, well-seasoned and savory. The red sauce was contrasting and noticeably on the sweeter side. The meat n all balanced out the sweetness and the sweetness balanced out the grease. The massive hotdog was very good, beefy and quality too. The buns were toasted well. The meat was crunchy with a soft, seasoned inside and cooked with great grilled heat on its outer layer. It actually reminds me of a hotdog from Five Guys, but better ! I also added tomatoes to it for some refreshing coolness. The service from my server and two other employees I came across was very welcoming, friendly and helpful. I need to try their chocolate cake one day as well. read more

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Named after the owner's good dog Barnaby (now resting in Heaven), home of the original "Rainbow Cake" served in 9 locations building community across Houston, this is a Cafe for everyone. They boast of treating their staff as family, creating atmosphere more like home, with specials 5 days a week and menus covering every dietary preference and restriction (along with a special Puppy Menu!). I enjoyed a giant Cobb Salad heaping with bacon, egg, shredded chicken, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and avocado. Honey Mustard perfection! We spent an hour, could have been an afternoon. This one will keep me coming back, can't wait for the return! read more

Barnabys Cafe - A hearty Cobb - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

Found this cute little spot while looking for brunch the morning of Christmas Eve, very cute and welcoming staff. The chicken & waffles were decent (3/5) IMO, it was a lot of chicken for the waffle and the breading of it was not too crispy, had very little flavor to it. The chicken parm was pretty good I think the pasta wasn't exactly my favorite but my boyfriend thought it was really good, claimed it was better than Olive Garden's chicken parm, I don't know about that but he made a very bold statement. The portion is a pretty large size and very filling for sure. Overall nice experience, definitely look forward to going back and trying other things in their menu. Not to mention their entire decor was so cute and such a lovely staff! :) read more

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If you've been to Barnaby's, you already understand that it doesn't get ANY better! Absolutely huge portions, incredible food and the nicest staff ever. Ample parking as well, which is rare in Houston. An every weekend staple, at bare minimum. read more

Barnabys Cafe - Blue Cheese and Bacon Burger - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

Service was great. The portions are huge. No one finished their plates they have daily specials and love the movie themed Christmas decorations! read more

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Super nice staff Very good vibes, lots on the menu + specials HUGE portions Fresh lemonade In love read more

Barnabys Cafe - Chicken Fried Steak and Lebanese Chicken Fattoush salad - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

Food is always great! Love their diverse menu. Our favorites are the Chinese chicken salad with the peanut dressing. The Gale's meatloaf is the best in the world, the sauce is sweet & savory. Even the plain ole grilled chicken is delicious. They're also good for a hearty burger. Ironically, I have to compliment their napkins as well. If I don't use what they bring to the table, I take them home because they're too thick & absorbent just to waste. They have several locations in the Houston area, but still just our local favorite. read more

Ask for MITCHELEN! I went with my family of 6 and we are a pretty demanding bunch lol. She went the extra mile with recommendations, suggested alternatives and the personal touch to her customer service was unmatched. She even stepped out to take our group photo out front so we could have this memory captured. The food was great but she was the highlight of our experience. Will be returning! read more

Got here around 12:30pm on a Saturday, was seated super fast. It's open seating. The restaurant is super spacious. Waitress Debbie C. came over as soon as I sat down and took my drink order. I already knew what I wanted so I ordered my meal when she brought me my coffee. Everything came out super fast! I love their green eggs! Also comes with a side of toast. After a morning yoga session this is what I was craving. The waitstaff were all super friendly. Plenty of parking and plenty of street parking available. Will definitely visit this location again. Had a great experience! read more

Great takeaway spot, good food, friendly service. Neighborhood gem in Montrose. Can get very busy.

Update EOY 2024 - getting to be a little hit or miss on the burger temps. They normally hit the mark whenever we order medium or medium-rare, but the last few times, it's come out well-done. Will see if it's a pattern with their Sunday chef, not sure, but will update as time goes on. Would be super disappointing if this becomes a regular thing. read more

This place never disappoints. The staff is friendly as soon as you enter the cafe. The waiters are very attentive and helpful with selecting menu choices. Food came out in a reasonable time. It was hot and fresh. The portions are huge. I wanted dessert but had no room for it. Great food. Great service. Great atmosphere. read more

Barnabys Cafe - Menu - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

4.1 - French Dip. Great bread. 3.5 - Fries, Waffle 3.5 - Hamburger 4.1 - Veggies. Green Beans. read more

Looking for a good burger? Come to Barnabys Cafe. Another great Gem that me and my business partner stumbled upon. Very cute cafe and it stays busy. Service was great. Will definitely be back. Forks Up!! read more

Barnabys Cafe - Bacon burger - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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It doesn't get any better than this place.......my wife and I went there for lunch, as we wanted a salad.....Russell was our server, and was nothing short of amazing.......we asked if a salad would be big enough for 2 to share, and he said, "All of our portions are big." Understatement of the year, but in a good way......this was made with the freshest of ingredients, and was gigantic. It was fantastic! So, we then decided to return for dinner the next day......John Z was our server, but Russell also stopped by to say hello. We asked about the burger versus the French Dip, and John advised to get the burger......fantastic choice I might add. Prior to the burger, we had the spinach and artichoke dip, which was the best I have ever had. We definitely loved the food, but the service made us feel welcome and at home......Will definitely come back in the future! read more

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The Chicken Mediterranean Salad is always a great choice. And they offer very generous portions!

I keep forgetting why I hate this place had a dinner date with a frind and I ordered the fried shrimp and to my surprise the shrimp had no seasoning. They were cooked to perfection but not one drop of salt, pepper or peprika a very sad affair. And I usually leave no shrimp behind...Staff was friendly but to recomend the worst thing on the menu feels like a setup. read more

Toda la comida riquísima , sweet potatoes deliciosa la limonada de fresa me encanta toda la comida he venido aquí por años el servicio la atención de sus meseros muy amables y rápidos read more

The salads are huge & awesome. My favorite is the Lebanese Chicken Fatoush. As I am GF & Dairy free, they leave off the pita chips & feta cheese & it's still incredible! We love going to any of the Barnaby's. Service is always great! read more

By far my #1 favorite comfort food restaurant in Houston. This review will reflect my opinion of the South Shepard location as well as West Gray location. Where to start.....SERVICE. While just about every restaurant in Houston has friendly staff, Barnaby's sets the bar high. It is always a great experience with friendly and attentive staff. I've even experienced other wait staff check in on me even if I wasn't their table. They clearly hire people that care about ALL guests. Including dogs, although I don't have pets. The ambiance is very playful with a dog theme throughout. Barnaby was the owner's dogs name (if I remember the story correctly). The South Shepard location has an outside patio (with cooling fan and umbrellas) so you can enjoy your meal with your fur baby. The best way for me to describe the food is comfort food. Not necessarily in the traditional sense, but in the sense that to me it feels like a very good home cooked meal. My go-to that I've probably ordered 50 times is the grilled chicken sandwich. I really love it and often day dream about it LOL. The chicken breast is usually quite large and somehow they can keep it juicy while getting a good grill on it. The salads are quite good as well, and very big. There are no descriptions of the salads on the printed menu, but if you go to their online menu there is a description with pictures. Iced tea, it is as it should be....UNSWEET. I'm one of the only Texans that hate sweet tea. I've tried their burger with chilis a few times. It's been hit and miss for me but I am just really picky with my burgers. Tried the steak, like I said feels like a good home cooked meal (in a good way). I don't remember what else I've tried over the past 10 years but I have NEVER had a bad meal. Oh! The fries! My absolute favorite. They are like McDonalds style fries. Perfect! That and and crinkle cut are my favorites so they win extra points with me. If you like desserts, they have you covered. Very large portions, good to share. When o have a sweet tooth I get their mini brownie that has a scoop of ice cream. Perfect size for me. Do yourself a favor and give them a try if you haven't been there. I recommend them to EVERYONE. Multiple locations to choose from, but South Shepard and West Gray are my favorites. read more

Barnabys Cafe - Grilled Chicken Sandwich - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

What an amazing lunch experience today. The salad and service were exceptional. Thank you Eric for the great service!!!! read more

Barnabys Cafe - Chicken Mediterranean salad - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

Stopped in waiting for an appointment in the neighboring shopping center. Plenty of parking and seating, I came for a late lunch and was greeted and seated right away. My waiter was attentive, helpful and funny. The menu is vast with lots of tasty options. I got a salad and it was huge and excellent. I ate a good amount and still had plenty to take home for dinner. Was decorated for Halloween and loved the spooky ambiance. Enjoyed my experience, 10/10 and will be back. read more

Barnabys Cafe - Huge menu - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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If you're looking for a local, down home no frills great breakfast without the hour long line for an overhyped brunch this is your place. Real wait staff, good food, mimosas and service with a home feel. read more

Our waitress Dee gave us the best service and we enjoyed every bite of our dishes (white queso & Chinese chicken salad) we will be back for sure! read more

Really good lunch spot. It's dog friendly too! They also have a dog menu. For drinks I got the strawberry lemonade and it tasted so refreshing. I orders the chicken and brown rice for my dog and he loved it. I got the black bean burger and this was light delicious this comes with a side of fries My husband got the chili burger with bacon, he said this was okay he would probably would not get this again. Spinach artichoke appetizer was delicious! read more

Great food as always an amazing service from Hudson!!! He went the extra mile. To me the prices aren't so bad because you get big portions and fresher ingredients, but my mom who is older thinks they're a bit pricey. I love coming and eating here, I just wish they had more options going up north/northeast. I hate traveling downtown any time, so we really only come for special occasions. Inside is so nice and they had it all decorated for Halloween. They also have a little dog area patio that's available. The paintings inside are very nice and lift the spirits of the place. read more

Pop in on a wimp.... to try dessert. Warmest welcome I've ever got downtown this year! Charity is the BEST LADY here with knowledgeable suggestions. I'll definitely be back for more desserts!. Side of fries is a huge portion! And the HOME MAKE they honey mustard! How original. Plus they ice cream come from local shop Annie's ice cream shop. Love how they support their locals! read more

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I went to Barnaby's for the first time. I was optimistic. However, my visit was not great. In fact, I left feeling uneasy and unsatisfactory. My server introduced herself as "Cricket." She seemed like a spunky and nice person at first. I was happy coming into the restaurant as I had just come from a full body massage. But when I was not ready to order within five minutes, Cricket got impatient. She continued to walk by my table and ask me if I was "ready yet." I would ask her to give me more time. And she seemed annoyed. Then, when I finally was ready to order, I asked her for her opinion on the best burger at the restaurant. I told her I was tied between the bbq and the guacamole burger. She told me, "I don't know, do you like guacamole or do you like bbq?" I told her I liked both, hence the tough decision. She then said "well I can't tell you what to eat." It felt awkward at this point. All I wanted was a suggestion, since it was my first time at this restaurant. I just picked a burger randomly (the guacamole) but at this point on I did not feel happy with my decision at eating at Barnabys. Then, once I was done with my food (which was pretty mediocre) I waited patiently for cricket to charge my card. I waited for 40 minutes after I put my card visibly in the check on the table. She never came back. In fact, another sever noticed and charged me, giving me an apologetic smile. I wish I enjoyed my visit a lot more. But I do not see myself returning to this establishment. read more

Barnabys Cafe - Waffles Fries with blue cheese - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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First timer! This was my first time visiting this cafe and what a delight it was. I had a glass of their House Cabernet and their amazing mushroom swiss burger w/seasoned fries. The service was very quick to say that there was a good amount of customers there. The food was fresh and flavorful, my server was very friendly. I love the way everyone works together to assist the customers right from the moment you walk in the door with a very warm welcome. I'm not sure what type of seasoning they use on their fries, but OMG it is sooooo good! I cannot wait to go back! read more

Barnabys Cafe - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I've been frequenting Barnaby's Cafe for over 18 years. My favorite location is on W. Grey. The customer service is always consistent. The staff is always professional, kind and witty. The decor is cute and has the fun decor with dogs with wings and as a plus this location is always clean. Their menu is full of flavor packed items. Ive pretty much tried everything on their menu. My favorite items are the Queso, Impossible burger, Lasagna, Fries, Sweet potato fries and multiple salads that they offer! This visit was all about the Impossible burger. I ordered my burger like the house cheeseburger just with the Impossible patty. It was so delicious once again. The fries and quest are always my ULTIMATE combination so I dip my fries in the queso Every time Lol! The prices are reasonable and the food is always cooked to order and comes out hot and fresh! It was a an overall win for me! I would be remiss to not say that the Barnabys on Binz is closest to my home but I will not be visiting that location ever again. Multiple disappointments including dirty floors (food everywhere), cold queso, lack of good customer service, horribly long wait times both to order and for food to come out. My Spouse once ordered a buffalo burger medium and when he bit into the burger he realized it came out raw. it was really bloody. So the server took the burger back to remake it and he brought the burger back with the bite missing (SUPER DISGUSTING)! When we asked why they would cook it and he'd bitten into it, they said that they have a side grill that they cooked it on! Still very Disgusting, why didn't the just remake the burger was our question!? They of course did not charge us for his burger but still charged me for my food (which is fine) but you'd think there would be better customer service for such an unsanitary situation. We have not returned since! Again, overall, I will return to Barnabys as it has become a family favorite over the years! read more

Barnabys Cafe - Impossible Burger and fries w/cheddar cheese - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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You know eating at Barnaby's is always a delight because I have enough food for two meals. What I really like is the food is fresh and home cooked . I like I can dress in casual and can go with the hangout group of friends. It is a great place for salads or burgers; meaning the menu is diverse. I have been several times and they never disappoint me. Even the desserts are great. read more

Barnabys Cafe - Cobb salad - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

The servers are so nice! The portions are huge. It's good place to take home left overs. I usually get a salad but get the sour cream and stuff on the side so you can eat it the next day. read more

Reading reviews, I had to try BOTH the Fondu Waffle Fries AND the Fattoush Chicken Salad. Any normal person could easily make a meal out of either. I finished BOTH and am trying to finish the review before I explode. I poked a little fun toward a Famous Houston Yelper who liked this place 10 years ago, but had not returned. Now I know why: she's probably still full!' Great Big Salads, wonderful service, and hipster, funky decor....but lost a star with no internet, and no music read more

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Always fresh abundant, and great service! Barney's is and always will be a Houston staple

While I support the corporate politics of the Barnaby chain, including their meaningful participation in the Dining Out For Life programme, not all of their chain locations are created equal. When I worked in Uptown years ago my dad joined me for lunch at the Woodway location for our first and only visit at that location. That is one of the worst lunches I have ever had - they were saddled with one of my more memorable one star reviews during that period of my life. Meanwhile their Museum District location (next to dak&bop) received a four star review shortly after they opened. Shortly before the misery of the first father's day without my dad the remaining bits of the family assembled and for purposes of the baby who was coming this location was chosen, still not sure why having completed my first and only dining-in experience now at this location as well. My first strike against this location is that it was as loud as a wind tunnel inside. It was so loud! You could not have a conversation at a normal volume. We had to shout to be heard and people were not hearing the shouts correctly so there was a fair amount of crossed wires/miscomm - "What are you going to order?!?" (shouted thirty six inches across the table like a frustrated Yossarian) -- "About 7:30!!!!" (shouted back across the table like an even angrier Daneeka.) The resto was very busy and our waiter (who looks like my CPA friend Mike; if it wasn't so MF loud inside I would have seen if they were possibly related) didn't take our order until about 30 minutes in. He was running all over the place and busy, sweating. It's not like he was out back taking a 30 minute smoke break with his feet up. The place was just that busy we were a distant afterthought, which is what happens in busy places and is why I do not go to them when I choose muh restaurants to dine in with dandy foppish gents who would rather be the centre of attention in a quiet place (it's called fashion, sister) rather than one of the crowd in a large nondescript crowd. When the food finally came one of my dining companions found their food inedible, but due to the noise and hustle/bustle of the busy resto was not able to send the food back. Also after waiting that long to get it in the first place some people would chew the business end of a mop ... I am told. The aspect of my salad I enjoyed the least was the bowl architecture - it was monstrously tall shooting into the airspace well above the table surface but relatively shallow, as if eating a salad out of a champagne flute. Keep in mind your table is right on top of your neighbors in a very crowded cramped space so you can't swing the bitch out and get your elbows going as you really put in work on a salad such as this. Instead you peck at it like a delicate little bird so everyone thinks you are genteel and refined, not swearing and saying some very unchristian things at the time that nobody can hear in such a loud resto. Having to eat like that was basically like eating in the prison mess hall where you have to hunch over your food and protect it from Nasty Nate who wants your fruit cup, in more ways than just the one. The high point of the meal was when we were trying to get out of there and the server brought not just a to-go box and a plastic bag for easy carrying, but without having even been asked, provided to-go plastic cups filled with salad dressing. That was a very nice gesture and quite memorable. He did not need to do that. But I appreciated it. Any stars this joint gets from me in the yelp review is just because of his last act. The other high point of the total experience was reviewing the yelp business page photos for pics of the food to avoid my Woodway experience. The third highest rated photo on this thoroughly-contributed-to biz page is the twink holding a piece of cake, which should have been a caution about the food being the aspect of the experience nearly all visiting yelpers feel is worth writing home about. At no point did a $14 salad even come close to impressing me. When Georgia's was still open downtown I thought $15 for a true gourmand's salad at lunch was a bit rich for my blood to have some rabbit food with exquisite fancyboy toppings, but I felt like such a fancy lady who lunched whilst eating it, it became something of a status symbol to flex on everyone else walking into the nearby Subway or Jason's Deli. This $14 salad would have been a slap in Georgia's face, god rest her. This overall was not near as bad as the Woodway location experience, and the homey made it rain with to-go salad dressing containers, so there is no way I could go to one star with the waiter having pulled it out at the end. Two stars seems accurate. I do not intend to go back ever. But the experience could have been slightly worse than it was if someone at my table was actually maced in the face Jack Whitman-style, or if my high school bully was finally off probation and gave me a swirlie in the men's restroom. read more

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Love this place. I had to order delivery. I was very impressed with the clear pressed and seal bag my food was delivered in. No worries if someone has eaten any of your food. I ordered the Mushroom Swiss Burger. It was as delicious as if I were seated in Barnaby's. It was hot and good. Spinach and Artichoke with chips. It was filled to the top. The spinach dip was warm and delicious. I enjoyed my food. read more

Barnabys Cafe - Full container of Spinach and Artichoke dip. - American Near Me - Houston, Texas

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When I step foot in this beautiful haven of doggy loving deliciousness, sit at the bar, nod at the fine staff and they already know I'm there for the pork chops. Served with a large piece of grilled pineapple, along with the teriyaki sauce smothered ever so delicately with the perfect proportion and consistency. Thin chops, take a slice the meat, and add a slice of pineapple, take a bite, realize that you're mouth is in love. It's not just your mouth, you can feel it in your heart, take another bite, it's like the chef is giving you a kiss with every bite. You think, "I'm only going to eat 2 of these 3 thin juicy chops," but as you say that, the third one...you're already biting into. It had no chance, they're gone, and it was a yum time doing it. The Hawaiian Pork Chops are made, and they say I love you. read more