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Empire Café in Texas

Discover Empire Café at 1732 Westheimer Rd, Houston. Enjoy a menu of American eats, coffee, cocktails, and more. See hours, reviews & dining options.

4.5 3,085 reviews $10–20 Cafe American · Southern

1732 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098, United States

FoodPlacee Passport United States · Texas · 58832
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Empire Café

Hyde Park, Houston, TX, USA

Fried Chicken and Waffles Breakfast Carrot Cake French Toast with a Side of Eggs Shortbread Cookie
Rating★ 4.5 / 5
Price$10–20
CategoryCafe
Today 07:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Overview

About This Food Place

Empire Café is a vibrant café and restaurant nestled in Houston, TX, known for its classic American eats served in a uniquely renovated gas station setting. This spot offers generous breakfasts and indulgent desserts that celebrate local flavors and comfort food traditions.

With a relaxed, cozy atmosphere complemented by great coffee, an extensive beer and wine list, and attentive fast service, it's a favored destination for everyone from college students to tourists. The menu features everything from specialty coffees and teas to hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and popular signature dishes like Fried Chicken and Waffles Breakfast.

Gallery

Photos from Empire Café

Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.

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Local favorites

Why People Come Here

This cozy and trendy café in Houston offers a delicious blend of classic American dishes and specialty drinks that keep visitors coming back for more.

Fast Service

Efficient and friendly staff serve up meals quickly, perfect for those on a tight schedule or grabbing a quick bite.

Exceptional Coffee & Drinks

The café is known for expertly crafted coffee, great beer selection, cocktails, and an impressive wine list to complement any meal.

Welcoming to All Groups

Popular among college students, groups, and tourists, the atmosphere suits solo diners and those working on laptops alike.

Prime Houston Location

Situated in a renovated gas station on Westheimer Rd, the spot offers convenient parking options including free and paid spaces.

Versatile Dining & Service Options

Dine in, takeout, delivery, outdoor seating, and even drive-through services provide flexible ways to enjoy the menu.

Highly Rated American Eats

With 4.5 stars from over 3,000 reviews, favorites include fried chicken and waffles, carrot cake, and their signature Empire Café Benedict.

Accessible & Family-Friendly

Wheelchair accessible throughout with seating and restrooms, plus amenities ideal for families including high chairs for kids.

Experience

When & How to Enjoy This Place

Empire Café suits a variety of occasions, from energizing morning meals to laid-back dinners, offering diverse dining options in a warm and inviting environment.

The blend of hearty American classics with excellent coffee and drinks creates an ideal setting for both solo visitors seeking a quiet spot to work and groups looking to share a casual meal in Houston's vibrant Westheimer Road area. — FoodPlacee editorial note

Morning Coffee & Breakfast

Start the day right with expertly crafted coffees such as the Empire Java or Chai Latte, paired perfectly with favorites like the French Toast with a Side of Eggs or the Empire Café Benedict.

Casual Group Dining

Enjoy a lively meal with friends or family, featuring large plates like Fried Chicken and Waffles or the Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad Wrap, supported by quick and friendly service.

Late-Night Hangout

With extended hours on weekends and offerings like happy hour drinks and late-night food, Empire Café provides a cozy spot to unwind after dark, complete with a great beer and wine selection.

Working or Studying

A quiet yet trendy atmosphere paired with free Wi-Fi makes this location ideal for solo diners who want a comfortable place to focus while enjoying quality coffee and healthy meal options.

On-the-Go Takeout

Those in need of a quick bite can take advantage of convenient takeout, drive-through, and delivery services, perfect for busy days without compromising on taste or quality.

Best for

Breakfast Lunch Dinner Solo Dining Working Spot Outdoor Seating Mobile Payments

Guest sentiment

What People Feel

A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.

MH
Maria H 2 week ago

"Great place for large plates at very reasonable prices. I had the shakshuka and a mimosa with cranberry juice. My husband had the migas. Both dishes we very good and the mimosa was in a 16oz glass. The patio was nice and they had heaters for the colder weather. Recommended!"

AM
Anna Muthalaly 3 week ago

"One of my all over fave places in Houston. Impeccable vibes, cool clientele, plenty of space to work or read or gossip, easy parking. And not to be cliche, but they really treat you like family! I went today for my annual pre new years bite and ordered the empire waffles when I meant to order the traditional chicken and waffles (which, by the way, come with an over easy egg and are delicious and a fantastic deal). When I went to go buy my actual desired meal, the gorgeous and lovely manager said it was on the house. God bless her Tl dr, this place is so cool, so queer, so easy and so yum. My go to place for a meal in Houston!"

NT
Nicole TheCaulkArtist 1 month ago

"Empire Cafe is a solid spot for a relaxed bite and great coffee. The avocado toast was pretty good, fresh and nicely prepared, but could’ve used a little more seasoning to really make the flavors pop. Still, it’s a satisfying option and pairs well with their menu offerings. Where Empire Cafe really shines is the coffee, rich, smooth, and expertly made. It’s the kind of coffee that keeps you coming back, whether you’re stopping in for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. With a comfortable atmosphere, friendly service, and excellent coffee, Empire Cafe is a dependable go-to for casual dining and caffeine done right."

OI
Omer Ikram 2 month ago

"The wheat grain sandwich with chicken and sweet potatoes is a solid 10/10 — flavorful, filling, and perfectly balanced. The chicken salad with avocado is also super fresh and really good. Everything tasted clean and well made. Highly recommend!"

RP
Review Places 2 month ago

"Love this place. Great customer service, very friendly! It wasnt that busu when we went there for a quick lunch. Food taste good - pizza was tasty and spaghetti was taste good. We will come back again."

OK
Olha K 2 month ago

"Amazing place to enjoy delicious food! Clean and beautiful outdoor area, we were really lucky to get a table at the backyard corner - so cozy and welcoming, with light breeze and birds beautifully singing Friendly service, great choice of meal, served nicely and exactly as good as it looks! Moreover, portions are big enough to fully enjoy it! Clean washrooms which is always much appreciated :) This is absolutely well deserved five stars Café"

K
Kaitlyn 3 month ago

"Food was great. I recommend their Avocado toast and sugar daddy drink. Cute art in the clean bathroom. Dog friendly patio and our pup loved it."

TS
Tahir Savani 3 month ago

"Empire Cafe was a pleasant brunch spot for my girlfriend and I. We were looking to enjoy the beautiful weather and were appreciative of the control to pick a seat that best suited our needs. Good freedom other places should follow suit with. The food was great as well as the coffee. My gf got the French toast and enjoyed it. Would definitely recommend if you want a laid back spot with good energy"

Visit info

When to Visit

Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.

Today Open now · until 10:00 PM
Weekly hours
Monday 07:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday 07:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday 07:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday 07:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday 07:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday 07:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday 07:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Hours may change. Please confirm with the business before visiting.

Best time to visit

Open daily from early morning until late evening, the café suits breakfast, brunch, and late-night cravings, with visits typically lasting 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Weekdays 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM for a relaxed meal or work session Fridays & Saturdays until 11:00 PM for late-night dining and drinks Weekends popular for brunch and group gatherings Happy hour available on select evenings for cocktails and small plates Parking options make daytime visits easy and convenient

On the map

Where This Food Place Lives

Find your way to Empire Café in Texas .

Address 1732 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098, United States
Phone +1 713-528-5282
Area Texas
Call Address copied ✓

Questions answered

Food Place Questions

Find answers to common questions about Empire Café, including hours, menu, amenities, and dining options to help plan your visit.

Empire Café is open daily from 7:30 AM. Monday to Thursday and Sunday close at 10:00 PM, while Friday and Saturday stay open until 11:00 PM. Hours may vary during holidays or special events.

The menu features classic American dishes with a variety of options including breakfast all day, pizzas, sandwiches, small plates, and desserts. Beverage selections include coffee, tea, cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Yes, the café offers vegetarian, vegan, and healthy options. The diverse menu accommodates different tastes and dietary needs to ensure a satisfying meal for most visitors.

Outdoor seating is available, allowing guests to enjoy meals in an open-air atmosphere. Dogs are permitted in the outdoor areas, making it a dog-friendly spot as well.

Onsite bar, free Wi-Fi, accessible restrooms, and parking options including free and paid street and lot parking are available. Multiple service options include dine-in, takeout, delivery, drive-through, and no-contact delivery.

The café is fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly entrances, parking, restrooms, and seating areas to ensure comfort and convenience for all guests.

Reservations are not accepted. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended during peak times.

Popular favorites include Fried Chicken and Waffles Breakfast, Carrot Cake, French Toast with Eggs, Shortbread Cookies, and Empire Café Benedict, offering hearty and flavorful options.

For owners

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Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.