Bubba's Texas Burger Shack — Restaurant in Houston

I've been coming to Bubba's since probably 2016-2017 but have decided now to write a review because I've had probably my worst burger from them that I feel like I need to say something. Let me start off by saying when I first started coming here, the bison burger was great. The buns were lightly toasted, the patties were seasoned very well--it all was a smash hit. However, as the years have gone by, I've noticed their quality has gone down. A couple years later, I noticed they changed their buns to another brand possibly, because it just never tasted the same ever since. But the biggest problem I've noticed that really spread throughout all the years was the inconsistency in the burger quality. Sometimes it was incredible--cooked/seasoned right, buns were lighted toasted, etc. and some days everything was off. Today was the worst I've had, which made me write this review, not so much to bash on Bubba's, but really in hopes they can go back to the good ol' days. Tonight's burger was completely off. The buns were mashed in and burned on both sides. The meat patty was bland. I think they forgot to season it or something. I couldn't believe it. The buns were also a little chewy. The lettuce looked old. I couldn't believe how off the entire burger was. It's quite upsetting because I loved Bubba's and to see how it's gone downhill ever since I first came here, is frustrating. It used to be my go-to for a quick, non -greasy burger that was cheap and near me. I don't know if it's because the original crew/owners who use to make the burgers aren't there any more or what, but the 2016-2017 burger vs now is totally different, look and taste.

I use to recommend this place to all my friends, especially those who have never had a buffalo burger, but now I no longer feel confident that if they go, they'll have a good experience when I, someone who use to go every week, can barely say my experience now is just mediocre at best. I hope Bubba's can figure it out.

2023 Update: Lately I've been giving Bubba's a few more shots and it's gotten better than what I experienced in my last visit in my original review. The burger is more in line with what I'd expect from Bubba in the past. I'd like to give it a few more tries before I'm sold that it's improved, but for now, I've increased this to 4...

The Vegas burger was quite good, but not necessarily the most amazing burger ever, so 4 stars for the burger. The bacon was better than most because it was cut a little thicker, crispy, and lightly peppered. The main downside for this place is that they DON’T MAKE FRENCH FRIES OR ANY DEEP FRIED SIDE DISHES?!?!?!?! as has been discussed in many other reviews and amongst my friends that I went with, most people want to eat french fries, onion rings, or tater tots with their burgers. However, when I asked about it, they said they do not have a deep fryer and would have to remodel to get one, so they just haven’t done it. They only offer chips or jalapeño potato salad for the side. I really like chips in general, and I really enjoy chips with sandwiches, but not with my burger. Yet on the contrary, I would not like fries with a sandwich, either. I guess that’s an association that has been created and reinforced by restaurants, but it’s just difficult for me to go against it. I don’t like potato salad personally, but my friends really enjoyed the jalapeño potato salad and I thought it was at least an interesting version of a dish I don’t like. The picture I attached shows the Vegas Burger, with the jalapeño potato salad on the side (my friend gave me a small sample, it does not come with the burger).The employees were very friendly and the outdoor seating is nice when weather is good like yesterday. Not having deep fried side orders is a MAJOR NEGATIVE, so even though the burger is pretty good, I can’t say that it’s worth driving to this isolated location just for a burger without french fries, so 3...

Wow! What can I say that hasn't been said already? I came here based on the burgers, but you know what was 1000 times better than the burgers? The service. I had the red carpet rolled out for my two children and I last Friday (March 7th 2025) I was greeted by Juan, who is truly a genuine human being. Positive vibes all around with Juan. After my order (I ordered a Houston Burger with Bison patty) I told Juan that I never had a Bison Burger before and he told me if I didn't like it he'd make me a regular burger for free. While waiting for the burger we had a nice chat. Juan told me he never had a customer service job before, which was shocking as he was so nice and helpful. Another worker came and showed my kids and I one of the displays that shows a hand painted map of Texas as well as old school money from back in the day. Upon getting my food, Juan handed me my food with smiles all around. The food was really good and I didn't need to get a different burger. The price was also good for the value.

So yeah, Bubba's Burger Shack was a wonderful experience. A little family owned shack that has soul amongst Houston's franchise bullies. This small shack is packed with great people, vibes, and food.

I will def come back with my family and also suggest you take a...