Hopdoddy's Coming
Popular Austin-based burger joint appears headed to Houston's River Oaks District
Hopdoddy, the Austin-based burger chain known for its all-natural beef patties, craft beer selection and boozy milkshakes, looks to have finally decided to come to Houston. Several sources in the real estate community confirm that the first Houston outpost will be coming to River Oaks District in the spring of 2016.
Since it began in 2010, Hopdoddy has spread from Austin to Dallas, Scottsdale, Denver and California. The restaurant's founders are Larry Foles and Guy Villavaso, who created and then later sold Eddie V's and Wildfish Seafood Grille. The concept has been incredibly successful. Half hour waits to order are common at both the Austin and Dallas locations.
Hopdoddy sets itself apart with a variety of patties — beef, bison, lamb, chicken, turkey, tuna and black bean — as well as upscale toppings like brie, arugula and truffle aioli. It's a decidedly more upscale affair than locals like Bernie's Burger Bus or Hubcap Grill. The closest local comparison might by Fielding's Wood Grill in The Woodlands, which is also looking to move into Houston.
Writing for DFW.com, CultureMap Dallas food editor Teresa Gubbins praised Hopdoddy as a standout in the crowded burger field: "The Magic Shroom ($8.50) with Angus beef was flavorful, with goat cheese and sautéed mushrooms. The patty looked hand-formed, and thick enough for a contrast between its slightly pink center and charred crust. A toasted, buttered bun, green-leaf lettuce and a large slice of tomato made for a picture-perfect experience."
Hopdoddy joins several restaurants that have already been announced for River Oaks District including Dallas-based pizza chain Thirteen Pies, Phoenix-based steakhouse Steak 44 and San Francisco-based French-Vietnamese restaurant Le Colonial.
