Abbas Dhanani started as a food blogger, creating a popular Instagram account chronicling Houston’s evolving food scene. Today, Dhanani owns the popular smashburger restaurant Burger Bodega, which he opened in 2022.
City Cast Houston spoke with Dhanani on how Burger Bodega is changing the game. Here’s a preview of that conversation:
How has Houston's food scene evolved since you started your HoustonEatz account in 2011?
“Houston has become more of a foodie city over the years. As far as talent, it's way more widespread throughout the city, and with that, the concepts have expanded and become even more diverse. Previously, there were only a few premiere chefs like Chris Shepherd, Justin Yu, and Hugo Ortega. Now everywhere you see, there's talent, not just in the city, but nationally recognized talent. It was rare for Houston chefs to get recognized by James Beard (Awards) in the past, but now we're a perennial city for nominations, paving the way for Houston as one of the top food cities in the country.”
Your family operated several franchises across the city and you helped them as you grew up. How did those skills transfer into launching Burger Bodega?
“Without the family business experience, I wouldn't have had the confidence to do Burger Bodega. It would have been challenging to set it up as I did. Being a manager at the previous fast food restaurants under the Dhanani Group also gave me the experience of learning how to be a leader and lay the blueprint for succeeding.”
What's another Houston burger spot you love, and why?
“Nancy's (Hustle) is already one of the best restaurants in Houston, but their burger might be the best thing on the menu. Stanton's City Bites, it's a Houston classic staple. Tornado Burger, more of a fast-food-style burger, but it's amazing. The spicy patty is incredible.”
