Backstreet Cafe
(713) 521-2239
1103 S Shepherd Dr
Houston,
TX
77019
29.7554
-95.4085
Neighborhoods: Neartown/ Montrose, Central

What People Are Saying About Backstreet Cafe
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
This River Oaks favorite is tucked in a tree-flocked corner of Shepherd Drive. Ever-changing New American choices prepared by Chef Hugo Ortega include salads like goat cheese with pears, toasted walnuts and warm bacon dressing, or entree-size salads like lentils and feta in garlic vinaigrette. The meat loaf tower, a lunch and dinner favorite, comes with garlic mashed potatoes, sauteed spinach and mushroom gravy. Finish with warm apple tart topped with house-made vanilla-bean ice cream.
User Reviews
obika
August 06, 2008
Oh my god where do I begin???? First of all the restaurant is incredibly cute. The food is sooooo good and the service is even better. Our waiter, I think his name was Jose, was very knowledgable and answered all of my questions about the menu and the wine. The food runners were also very nice and the bartendar made my sister an incredible drink. Before I left I made reservations to bring my father back for his birthday. Highly recommended and we can't wait to go back.
read full reviewtxbrowneyedgirl
July 20, 2008
I went to Backstreet for my birthday dinner with my family and boyfriend. We showed up a few minuted after our reservation time and we were still seated promptly. The waitress was very nice and extremely helpful in helping us decide what to order. The menu was great and they have a huge wine list. We ordered the crab cakes and salmon tacos as appetizers and they were both excellent. I got the fettucine pasta as an entree which was amazing and everyone else loved their food too. My boyfriend had bought cupcakes from Crave and the waitress brought them out on a nice platter that said "Happy Birthday" on it. Then the manager brought me a complimentary drink. The only complaint I have is that it was a little noisy but we were upstairs where a few other large groups were. But really, everything else was so wonderful that I can't complain. There is also free valet service which is nice because there's nowhere to park around the restaurant.
read full reviewKingwoodgirl
July 14, 2008
No more Sunday brunch here -- TOO LOUD!!! Although I have been a fan of Backstreet Cafe for years, I will definitely think twice before venturing there again for Sunday brunch. Our visit this past Sunday (12:30 reservation for 7) was undoubtedly the LOUDEST dining experience imaginable. We requested indoor seating, and were subsequently directed to the normally quiet and pleasant upstairs rooms. As soon as we entered the front door, the noise was overwhelming, and increased as we headed up the stairs (reminiscent of a very packed and joyous happy hour). Upon being seated, we found that we literally had to SHOUT to communicate across the table. Any attempts at conversation were useless. The rauccous table of 6 next to us was yelling (literally), and their frequent outbursts would jolt you out of your chair. Our waiter seemed to add to the furor, as each visit from him resulted in additional loud yelling and laughing. Increased noise level when the place is packed (which it was) is expected, but it made for a very unpleasant experience. The food was fine, as always, but be warned that one should be in the mood for shouting out their lunch conversation.
read full reviewThe Details on Backstreet Cafe
When to Go:
Backstreet's popular jazz brunch featuring the Bob Chadwick Trio is served on Sundays from 11am until 3pm.
The Extras:
Upstairs, two private rooms offer a secluded dining spot or a party venue for up to 35. Both rooms also have a fireplace.
Know Before You Go:
Backstreet only serves their burgers and addictive lobster sandwich on weekdays from 11am to 3pm.
Where to Sit:
For prime people-watching, request an umbrella-covered table on the front terrace. Or, for a touch of romance, sit by the cozy fireplace.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, Discover, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Family-Friendly Dining, Private Rooms, Lunch Spot, Date Spot, Romantic Dining, Brunch, Outdoor Dining, Notable Chef, People Watching, Fireplace, Notable Wine List
General Info:
Cuisine:
Notable Chef:
Chef Hugo Ortega
Smoking Permitted:
Yes








