When people talk about finding the best burger in Texas, they usually point to roadside diners or food trucks tucked into dusty corners of small towns. But in downtown Houston, beneath the skyscrapers and city noise, there’s a spot that has built a quiet reputation for grilling the kind of burger that makes people pause mid-bite and say, “This is it.”
Welcome to Cassidy’s Mesquite Kitchen, where we’ve been doing things a little differently — and a lot better — for over a decade.
Where We Are
You’ll find us in the Houston tunnel system, a place that thousands walk through daily but few truly explore. Cassidy’s is tucked between office towers, accessible via the city’s climate-controlled underground walkways. We serve downtown workers, loyal locals, and curious foodies from around the state who’ve heard rumors about that mesquite-grilled burger that lives “somewhere under downtown.”
Not sure how to find us? Get directions and hours here.
Why People Say It’s the Best Burger in Texas
We don’t call our burger the best — our customers do. And when they tell us why, these are the reasons they give:
🔥 Cooked Over Open Mesquite Wood
Most burger joints use flat tops or gas grills. We use an open mesquite flame that brings out a smoky char you just don’t get anywhere else. Mesquite is native to Texas, and that slow burn adds depth and edge to the sirloin we serve.
🥩 100% Ground Sirloin
No fillers. No mystery meat. Every burger we make starts with a third-pound of high-quality ground sirloin, seasoned lightly and grilled to order. We let the fire and the meat do most of the talking.
🍞 Fresh, Soft, Toasted Buns
We don’t bake our own buns — but we do toast them to perfection. Just enough crisp to hold the structure, just enough give to melt into each bite. It’s a classic sandwich build that never distracts from the main event.
🧀 Customization Without Gimmicks
We’re not into wild toppings or novelty builds. We’ll give you sharp cheddar, grilled onions, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and the usual lineup — all quality, nothing showy. Every bite still tastes like a burger.
The Cassidy’s Burger Experience
We’re not a fancy sit-down spot. Cassidy’s Mesquite Kitchen is counter-service, quick-moving, and always buzzing with locals who know exactly what they’re coming for.
A Look at Our Most Popular Burger Orders
| Burger Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Classic 1/3 lb. Sirloin Burger | Charred mesquite flavor, with your choice of toppings |
| Bacon Cheeseburger | Crispy Texas-style bacon, melted cheese, toasted bun |
| Grilled Onion Burger | Extra flavor with slow-cooked sweet onions |
| Double Patty Burger | For those who want more of the good stuff |
| Combo Burger Meal | Add seasoned fries and a drink for the full Cassidy’s experience |
People often add a side of BBQ beans or load up on fresh-cut fries. Our menu stays tight and focused — we’d rather perfect a few things than spread ourselves thin.
Not Just Burgers — Try Our BBQ Too
While most people come for the burger, many stay for the slow-smoked barbecue we serve alongside it. Our BBQ menu includes:
- Smoked brisket sandwiches
- House-made sausage links
- Mesquite chicken
- BBQ plates with traditional sides like beans, slaw, and potato salad
Our brisket gets the same mesquite treatment — smoked low and slow for tenderness and bark.
What Sets Us Apart
There are thousands of burger joints in Texas. Here’s why Cassidy’s stands out:
1. Location and Vibe
We’re off the grid but right in the heart of Houston. No billboards, no drive-thru. Just the aroma of mesquite smoke drifting down the hallway as you round the corner.
The counter is fast, the kitchen’s open, and you can watch your burger hit the flame.
2. The People
We’ve had the same core team for years — that’s rare in this business. They know how to keep the line moving, how to build a burger right, and how to treat regulars like friends. We’re proud of the folks behind the counter, and it shows in the food.
3. Honest Pricing
We serve a $10–$13 meal that fills you up and never disappoints. No hidden fees, no “gourmet surcharge,” no tipping culture confusion. It’s straight value for people who just want something good.
For Locals and Out-of-Towners
You don’t have to be a Houston native to find us. We’ve seen burger hunters from Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, and beyond wander down the tunnel system looking for that one spot they read about online.
Some come back year after year.
If you’re heading downtown, plan a weekday stop and beat the lunch rush. We’re busiest between 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, but the wait is always worth it.
Real Words from Real Customers
“If you’ve never had a mesquite burger, this will ruin you for all others.”
— Marvin B., Houston TX
“I’ve been coming here for ten years. The consistency is unmatched. Never had a bad burger.”
— Kelly W., Cypress TX
“Skip the chain joints. This is the burger that makes you rethink what you thought you liked.”
— Sean L., Austin TX
How to Get Here
Cassidy’s is located underground in downtown Houston, inside the tunnel level at 919 Milam St. Use the tunnels during regular business hours (Monday through Friday), and look for the smell of mesquite smoke. You’ll find us.
🗺️ Get directions and hours here
Summary Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Burger Type | 1/3 lb. Ground Sirloin, Mesquite-Grilled |
| Location | Houston Downtown Tunnel System |
| BBQ Menu | Brisket, Chicken, Sausage |
| Pricing | $10–$13 average |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays, 11:30 AM–1:30 PM |
| Known For | Mesquite Flavor, Consistent Quality |
Come See Us
If you’re after the best burger in Texas, don’t go looking for neon signs or Instagram gimmicks. Come underground. Find the flame. Let that first bite of sirloin, smoke, and spice tell you you’re in the right place.
We’re Cassidy’s Mesquite Kitchen — and we let the fire do the talking.
