Otto’s

For generations of Texans, barbecue is more than just food; it's a culinary heritage. In the heart of downtown Houston, Otto’s Barbecue & Hamburgers at 500 Dallas St, Suite T24, represents a piece of this cherished tradition. Otto's has a rich history in Houston, dating back to 1951, evolving from a grocery store to a bustling eatery renowned for its classic American fare and, eventually, its barbecue. This downtown location aims to bring that same legacy of flavor and quick service to the city's central business district.

Otto's prides itself on combining time-honored traditions with "ole'-fashioned, country cooking." Their commitment to using quality ingredients, like Certified Angus burgers ground fresh daily and briskets slow-smoked over hickory logs for 18 hours, speaks to their dedication. While a popular spot for its classic hamburgers, the barbecue offerings are also a significant draw for many. This article will delve into what makes the Otto's at 500 Dallas St a notable option for locals seeking a taste of authentic Texas barbecue and hearty American classics in the bustling downtown area.

Otto’s Barbecue & Hamburgers is conveniently located at 500 Dallas St # T24, Houston, TX 77002, USA. This address places it directly within a prime downtown Houston building, making it highly accessible for the numerous professionals who work in the surrounding skyscrapers and for anyone exploring the city center.

A significant advantage of this location is its integration into Houston's extensive underground tunnel system. Being located in the tunnel means patrons can easily access the restaurant in a climate-controlled environment, a major benefit during Houston's hot summers or inclement weather. This allows for a comfortable and efficient trip from nearby office buildings and other tunnel-connected establishments. For those utilizing public transportation, METRORail and various bus routes have stops within walking distance of the Dallas Street area. While parking in downtown Houston generally involves paid garages or lots, the tunnel access minimizes the need for street-level navigation once you're in the area. This strategic placement ensures Otto's is a practical and convenient dining destination for busy Houstonians.

• Dine-In Service: Customers can enjoy their meal within the casual setting of the restaurant.
• Takeout/Pickup: Otto's offers convenient options for customers to place their orders and pick up food to go, ideal for those on a tight schedule.
• Online Ordering: Customers can typically order online through the Otto's website or third-party delivery platforms for pickup or delivery (delivery availability may vary by platform and location).
• Catering Services: Otto's provides comprehensive catering, offering various packages including breakfast tacos, breakfast pastries, country breakfast, and barbecue buffet bars with choices of meats (brisket, pork, turkey, sausage) and sides. They also offer boxed lunches with sandwiches or burgers, and a selection of desserts and beverages, making them suitable for corporate events and gatherings.
• Full Menu of American Classics: Beyond barbecue, Otto's offers a wide range of American comfort food, including various sandwiches (brisket, pulled pork, chicken), a selection of burgers (Otto Burger, Cheeseburger, Mushroom Burger), quesadillas, salads, and traditional entrees like fried catfish and smoked chicken.
• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Limited Hours): The downtown location typically operates during weekday business hours, offering options for breakfast and lunch. Their general hours are Mon-Fri: 6:30 AM - 4:00 PM.

• Long-Standing Houston Institution: Otto's has a history dating back to 1951, known for its "time-honored traditions" and "ole'-fashioned, country cooking," bringing a sense of local heritage to its downtown location.
• Slow-Smoked Brisket: A key feature of their barbecue, Otto's slow-smokes briskets over hickory logs for 18 hours, aiming for tender and flavorful results.
• Classic American Fare: In addition to barbecue, they offer a wide array of classic American dishes, including burgers made with Certified Angus beef ground fresh daily, various sandwiches, and salads.
• Downtown Tunnel Accessibility: Located within the climate-controlled downtown tunnel system, providing exceptional convenience and comfort for patrons accessing the restaurant from nearby office buildings and other connected establishments.
• Diverse Menu Options: From barbecue platters and sandwiches to different types of burgers, quesadillas, and salads, Otto's offers a varied menu to cater to different tastes and cravings. Specific items include Brisket Tacos, BBQ Quesadillas, and various chicken sandwiches.

It is important to acknowledge, however, some customer feedback that suggests areas for consideration:

• Brisket Quality Concerns: One review specifically noted that the brisket in their brisket tacos "is not brisket. Very much pot roast," indicating a potential inconsistency or deviation from traditional brisket preparation.
• BBQ Sauce Taste: A customer found the BBQ sauce to taste "like tomato sauce," which might not appeal to those expecting a more complex or smoky barbecue sauce flavor.
• Salad Quality: One review mentioned a "chopped salad" having "wilted greens and was drenched in dressing and vinegar," suggesting issues with freshness and dressing application.
• Limited Chopped Beef in Baked Potato: A customer was disappointed with "very little chopped beef" in their BBQ beef baked potato.

For more information about Otto’s Barbecue & Hamburgers, to inquire about their menu, or for catering services at their downtown Houston location, you can reach them using the following details:

• Address: 500 Dallas St # T24, Houston, TX 77002, USA
• Phone: (713) 659-6886

It is always recommended to check their official website or call ahead for the most current operating hours and menu details, especially for specific barbecue item availability.

For Houston locals, particularly those working or frequenting the downtown area, Otto’s Barbecue & Hamburgers offers a slice of local history and convenient American comfort food. Its prime location at 500 Dallas St, specifically within the downtown tunnel system, is a significant advantage. This unparalleled accessibility means that busy professionals and urban explorers can easily grab a meal in a climate-controlled environment, bypassing the Houston heat or rain, making it an incredibly practical choice for daily lunches.

Otto's appeal for locals stems from its long-standing presence in the Houston culinary scene and its dedication to classic American fare. While the feedback on specific barbecue items like brisket has been mixed, the restaurant's overall commitment to slow-smoked meats and freshly ground Certified Angus beef for their hamburgers suggests an effort to provide quality options. For those craving a quick and hearty meal, whether it's a burger, a sandwich, or a taste of smoked meat, Otto's offers a familiar and convenient option in the urban core.

Furthermore, the availability of comprehensive catering services makes Otto's a suitable choice for local businesses looking to provide meals for corporate events, meetings, or office gatherings. Their diverse menu, extending beyond just barbecue to include salads and other American classics, provides versatility to cater to various tastes within a group setting. While potential diners might want to manage expectations regarding certain barbecue specificities based on reviews, Otto's remains a convenient downtown spot for a quick, traditional American meal. Its history and central location make it a viable option for Houstonians seeking a taste of classic comfort food during their busy workdays.

Otto’s

500 Dallas St # T24, Houston, TX 77002, USA