About Mel's Country Cafe

The History of Mel’s Country Cafe

Where Family, Tradition, and Good Country Cooking Come Together

Mel’s Country Cafe has been a beloved part of the Tomball and Hufsmith communities for generations. What began as a small, family-owned business has grown into a local tradition, built on homemade food, friendly faces, and a commitment to treating every customer like family.

In the early days, the family also owned and operated Weirich Grocery and the Hufsmith Post Office, located right next door. Back then, Tomball and Hufsmith were small country towns where everyone knew their neighbors, and a trip to the “big city” was a special occasion.

Originally known as Mary’s Fried Chicken, the restaurant quickly became a local favorite. Much like the original Ma Goodson’s just down the road, it was known as a wonderful little out-of-the-way place where everything was homemade, the prices were affordable, and you could always count on seeing a familiar face.

In 1985, Mary’s Fried Chicken became Mel’s Cafe, named in honor of Mary's only daughter, Melody. With the new name came a new menu featuring delicious hamburgers, including the famous Mel Burger.

As more families moved into the area, Tomball began to grow, eventually absorbing the small community of Hufsmith. Although the population was increasing and there was pressure to expand, Mary and Melody remained committed to what mattered most: good homemade food, reasonable prices, and happy customers.

Sadly, Mary passed away in 1992. Just one year later, tragedy struck again when the family's grocery store and post office were destroyed by arson.

Determined to carry on the family tradition, Melody embraced a fresh beginning. In 1994, Mel's Cafe officially became Mel's Country Cafe. The menu expanded to include Southern favorites such as chicken fried steak, fried catfish, and other hearty country meals.

The legendary Mega Mel Burger was also introduced, taking the original Mel Burger to a whole new level and challenging hungry customers from near and far.

As the restaurant continued to grow, the building was expanded, and the former site of the grocery store and post office became part of the parking lot. Even today, pieces of the original concrete slab and old floor tiles can still be seen, serving as reminders of the family's history.

In 2007, Collie joined Mary in passing. Both are fondly remembered by longtime customers, employees, friends, and the many people whose lives they touched.

Through the years, Mel's Country Cafe has remained a true family operation. Melody's husband, Jeff, serves as executive chef, bringing the family's love of country cooking to every plate. Charles Jr. serves as business manager, while Philip handles financial accounting. Chris has contributed as both a busboy and waiter.

Continuing the family tradition, Melody's daughter, Marybeth, proudly serves as both a server and manager, helping carry on the values of hard work, hospitality, and family that have made Mel's Country Cafe so special. Whether she's serving customers or helping manage the daily operations, Marybeth plays an important role in keeping the family legacy alive.

One of the most remarkable parts of Mel's history is that some of the original employees from Mary's Fried Chicken, the grocery store, and the post office, along with members of their families, have continued to be part of the Mel's Country Cafe family.

Today, Mel's Country Cafe is more than just a place to eat. It's a place where generations gather, friendships are made, memories are shared, and everyone is welcomed with a smile.

From our family to yours, we invite you to come hungry, bring the kids, meet your neighbors, and enjoy a little taste of country tradition.

At Mel's Country Cafe, you're not just a customer — you're family.