Simon’s Cafe

In the bustling heart of downtown Houston, where finding a quick, satisfying, and comforting meal is a daily necessity for many, Simon's Cafe offers a taste of homestyle American classics. Located conveniently on Dallas Street, this establishment aims to provide familiar and hearty dishes that cater to the fast-paced lives of local Texans. While the downtown culinary scene is diverse, Simon's Cafe has established itself as a go-to for those seeking straightforward, flavorful meals, particularly during the busy lunch rush. It's a place where you can expect to find a selection of popular protein options paired with comforting sides, making it a practical choice for a quick and fulfilling midday break.

Simon's Cafe's menu focuses on a variety of grilled and prepared meats, often served as part of a meal that includes a starch and additional sides. This setup is designed to offer a complete and satisfying plate for individuals looking for a traditional American meal without an extensive wait. They feature daily specials that highlight different preparations of chicken and fish, alongside staples like meatloaf and chopped steak. While online reviews indicate some inconsistent experiences with customer service and portion sizes, the core offering is a classic cafeteria-style experience aiming for efficiency and a taste of home amidst the urban hustle. This article will provide a detailed overview of Simon's Cafe, exploring its location, service model, and what makes it a relevant dining option for Houston locals.

Location and Accessibility

Simon's Cafe is strategically located at 500 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77002, USA. This address places it squarely within the heart of downtown Houston's vibrant business and commercial district. For the countless professionals working in the numerous office towers that define the city's skyline, Simon's Cafe is often just a short walk away, making it an incredibly convenient spot for a lunch break. Being situated on a major downtown street means it's easily identifiable and accessible for anyone navigating the central business district on foot.

The downtown location also benefits from excellent connectivity via Houston's extensive public transportation network. Various METRORail stations and numerous bus stops are within a comfortable walking distance, providing a practical option for those who commute using public transit. For individuals who drive, while downtown parking can sometimes be a consideration, being on Dallas Street typically means there are public parking garages or metered street parking options nearby. This prime location ensures that Simon's Cafe is a readily available and practical dining choice for a wide array of customers, from local office workers to visitors exploring the urban core.

Services Offered

• Homestyle Meal Plates: Simon's Cafe primarily offers "Simon's Meal" options that typically include a choice of protein, a starch (like white rice or herbed pasta), two additional sides, a dinner roll, and a drink. This provides a complete and balanced meal.
• Variety of Protein Options: The menu features a range of grilled and prepared proteins. Examples found include Grilled Chicken (various marinades like Sriracha, Cajun, Zesty with lemon cream sauce, Teriyaki, Poblano Cream), Rotisserie Chicken, Lemon Pepper Snapper, Blackened Snapper, Tilapia with Pico de Gallo, Chicken Fried Chicken, Meatloaf, and Chop Steak.
• Daily Specials: The cafe often features daily specials, with specific chicken and fish preparations available on different days (e.g., Zesty Chicken and Tilapia with Pico de Gallo on Mondays; Teriyaki Chicken and Blackened Tilapia on Tuesdays).
• Side Dish Selection: While some reviews mention a prevalence of starches, typical side offerings include various potato preparations, possibly steamed vegetables like broccoli, and other comfort food staples.
• Chopped Salads: Simon's Cafe also offers chopped salads, allowing for a lighter or more customizable meal option.
• Pita Sandwiches and Wraps: In addition to meal plates, they provide subs and wraps, emphasizing fresh ingredients for a healthier alternative to typical fast-food burgers.
• Asian/International Cuisine Options: Some menu descriptions indicate the availability of Japanese Teriyaki and other Asian/International cuisine selections, offering a broader culinary range.
• Breakfast Items: For early risers, the menu includes breakfast options such as Egg & Cheese Croissants, Sausage/Bacon & Egg Burritos, and assorted baked goods like muffins and danishes.
• Beverages: A selection of hot and cold beverages is available, including coffee, lattes, teas, refreshers, and specialty drinks.
• Takeout Service: Given its downtown location and nature, Simon's Cafe is well-suited for takeout orders, providing a convenient option for those with limited time.
• Dine-In Option: There is an indoor seating area for customers who prefer to eat their meal at the cafe.

Features / Highlights

• Homestyle Comfort Food: A key highlight is the focus on traditional American comfort food, offering familiar and hearty meals that resonate with many patrons seeking a taste of home.
• Variety of Proteins: The diverse selection of chicken and fish preparations, including various grilled, baked, and fried options, provides ample choice for different preferences.
• Convenient Downtown Location: Its prime spot on Dallas Street makes it incredibly accessible for the large workforce in downtown Houston, ideal for quick lunch breaks.
• "Simon's Meal" Offering: The structured meal plate (protein, starch, two sides, roll, drink) provides a complete dining solution, taking the guesswork out of ordering and ensuring a fulfilling meal.
• Quick Service Model: Designed for efficiency, Simon's Cafe operates with a focus on getting orders out quickly, crucial for busy downtown patrons.
• Breakfast Availability: The inclusion of breakfast items caters to early morning commuters and provides an additional service beyond lunch.

Contact Information

For more information, to inquire about daily specials, or to plan your visit to Simon’s Cafe in downtown Houston, here are their contact details:

Address: 500 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Phone: (713) 751-0011 (This number was found via NetWaiter, which lists "Simon's Homestyle Cafe" at this address)

While a mobile phone number was not consistently available in public data, the primary phone number listed should allow for direct communication with the cafe during their operating hours. Patrons often find success by checking online delivery platforms for direct ordering or more detailed contact information, which might also include an updated mobile number if applicable.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Simon's Cafe in downtown Houston is a suitable option for locals primarily due to its strategic location and its focus on providing quick, homestyle American meals. For the vast population of professionals working within the central business district, the convenience of a nearby eatery offering substantial and familiar comfort food is a significant advantage. During a busy workday, the ability to grab a complete meal, often including a protein, starch, and sides, without a lengthy wait, caters directly to the practical needs of Houston's fast-paced workforce.

The variety of protein choices, from various grilled chicken options to baked fish and classic meatloaf, ensures that there's usually something to appeal to diverse tastes. While some customer feedback points to inconsistencies in service and protein portions, the underlying model of providing a hearty, pre-structured meal remains a strong draw for many. For those who prefer a less adventurous or more traditional lunch, Simon's Cafe offers a dependable option.

Moreover, the inclusion of breakfast items and other prepared foods like salads and wraps broadens its appeal, making it a relevant choice for more than just midday meals. Despite occasional negative reviews, the cafe serves a vital role in providing accessible, quick, and relatively affordable homestyle food in a high-demand urban environment. For locals seeking a straightforward, no-frills meal that reminds them of home cooking in the midst of downtown Houston, Simon's Cafe continues to be a go-to spot.

Simon’s Cafe

500 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77002, USA