Del's Charcoal Burgers: Richardson's Enduring Flavor Story

There's something truly special, a bit like a warm hug for your taste buds, about a place that has stood the test of time, isn't that right? In Richardson, Texas, a humble burger joint continues to prove that sometimes the best things come in the smallest packages, more or less. We're talking about Del's Charcoal Burgers, a spot that has been serving up smiles and delicious meals for decades, and it's almost a local legend.

This beloved eatery, with its rather distinct vintage vibes, has seen a lot, you know, over the years. It’s a place where memories are made, where families gather, and where the simple pleasure of a perfectly grilled burger just hits differently, apparently. Del's isn't just a restaurant; it's a piece of Richardson's heart, a culinary landmark that keeps drawing people back, time and time again.

Recently, after a fiery hiatus, this Richardson institution, which is actually the oldest restaurant in town, has reopened its doors, much to the delight of its loyal following, and that's a big deal. They are back with the very same vintage feel and, more importantly, the exact tasty burgers that folks have come to know and adore since way back when, so it's a welcome return for many.

Table of Contents

A Rich History of Flavor

Del's Charcoal Burgers has been serving up its signature flame-grilled delights since 1957, which, you know, makes it nearly 70 years old. That's a remarkable run for any restaurant, especially in a place like Richardson, Texas, and it really speaks to their staying power. Del Smith first opened the doors all those years ago, laying the groundwork for what would become a beloved local tradition, and it's quite a legacy.

Over the decades, this establishment, located at 110 S. Richardson, has become more than just a place to eat; it's a gathering spot, a place where generations have shared meals and made memories, in a way. The enduring appeal of Del's, you might say, comes from its commitment to a classic approach, offering comfort food that feels both familiar and deeply satisfying, which is pretty cool.

The continuity of its character, despite the passage of time, is something truly special, you know. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, sticking to what works best, keeping things simple and true, is the very best recipe for long-term success, and that’s a pretty good lesson for everyone.

The Secret to the Taste

So, what exactly is it that makes Del's Charcoal Burgers stand out in a world full of burger options, you might wonder? Well, it pretty much comes down to a few key elements that they have perfected over many, many years, and it's actually quite simple, yet effective. It's not about complicated recipes or fancy ingredients; it's about doing the basics exceptionally well, and that really makes a difference.

The Charcoal Advantage

At the heart of every delicious bite at Del's is the charcoal grilling process, which is rather important. Since 1957, they have been flame-grilling their burgers, sandwiches, and hot dogs to perfection, and that's a consistent method they've stuck with. This method, you see, imparts a distinct smoky flavor and a beautiful char that you just don't get with other cooking methods, and it's a signature touch.

The intense heat from the charcoal, you know, sears the outside of the meat, locking in the juices and creating a wonderfully savory crust, which is really what makes it so good. It’s a technique that requires a certain touch, a bit of experience, to get just right every single time, and Del's has clearly mastered it, more or less.

This dedication to charcoal grilling is a big part of why people keep coming back, honestly. It’s a taste that’s hard to replicate at home, or even at other restaurants, and it gives Del's a very unique identity, so it truly sets them apart.

Fresh Ingredients and Consistency

Beyond the grilling method, the quality of the ingredients plays a very big role, as you might expect. Del's prides itself on using fresh ingredients, which means every burger, every hot dog, every sandwich, is made with care and attention, and that's something customers appreciate. This commitment to freshness ensures a consistently good product, time after time, and it's a cornerstone of their operation.

The simplicity of their offerings, like a cheeseburger with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo, means that each component needs to be top-notch, you know. There's no hiding behind complex sauces or toppings; the flavor of the meat and the freshness of the produce really shine through, and that's actually quite refreshing. It’s this consistent quality, combined with the charcoal flavor, that has built such a loyal following, and it's a recipe for success.

A Community Staple and Its Leader

For a good while now, since taking the reins in 2003, Taher “Hoss” Hossein has been at the helm of this Richardson staple, and he's been quite the leader. He has kept the offering very much the same as when Del Smith first opened the doors, outside of a few additions of his own, which is a testament to the original vision. This consistency, you know, has helped Del's maintain its classic appeal and charm.

Hoss, with his dedication and a clear love for the business, has ensured that the traditions and the quality that customers expect have been upheld, and that's really important. His presence, his commitment to the original spirit of the place, has helped Del's remain a comforting, familiar spot for the community, and it's something people truly value. It’s this kind of steady hand that allows a place to thrive for so many years, honestly.

The fact that a business can have such a long history, with different people guiding it but keeping the core essence intact, is quite remarkable, you know. It speaks to the strength of the initial concept and the dedication of those who have carried it forward, and that's a story worth telling, in a way. Hoss is a big part of that ongoing story, ensuring Del's continues to be a cherished part of Richardson, and that's pretty cool.

A Fiery Challenge and a Triumphant Return

Life, you know, sometimes throws unexpected curveballs, and businesses are no different, apparently. Del’s Charcoal Burgers faced a significant challenge recently when a grease fire occurred on April 25, 2025, during business hours, which was obviously a very serious event. The fire, which started in the restaurant’s vent system, led to the temporary closure of this beloved Richardson establishment, and that was a sad moment for many.

The Richardson Fire Department reported it as an accidental fire, which is important to note. For a while, the community wondered when, or even if, their historic burger joint of nearly 70 years would reopen, and there was a lot of anticipation. The closure was a difficult period, not just for the restaurant staff, but for all the loyal customers who missed their favorite charcoal-grilled meals, and that's completely understandable.

However, true to its resilient spirit, Del's Charcoal Burgers, the historic Richardson burger joint, did reopen, and that was fantastic news. On a recent Friday, they welcomed back patrons, bringing back the same vintage vibes and, more importantly, those tasty burgers that everyone had been craving, so it was a triumphant return. This reopening is a wonderful testament to their enduring strength and the community’s support, and it really shows their spirit.

What to Expect on the Menu

When you visit Del's Charcoal Burgers, you'll find a menu that’s refreshingly straightforward and focuses on the classics, which is actually quite nice. They aren't trying to reinvent the wheel; instead, they are perfecting the simple, comforting foods that people love, and that's a winning strategy. You can expect to find a variety of options that are all flame-grilled to perfection, just as they have been since 1957, and that's a promise they deliver on.

The core of the menu, naturally, revolves around their famous burgers, but there's more to discover, you know. You can also enjoy hot dogs and sandwiches, all prepared with that signature charcoal flavor, and that makes them stand out. They offer combos, which are convenient, along with kids' meals, sides, and desserts, making it a place for everyone in the family, so it's quite inclusive.

Some specific items that get a lot of attention include their hot fried pies, which have 3 photos and 14 reviews, priced at $9.77, so they are clearly popular. The mushroom burger, too, is a favorite, with 5 photos and 12 reviews, costing $8.72, which is a pretty good deal. And, of course, there’s the classic cheeseburger, served with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo, a simple yet utterly satisfying choice, and it's a staple for many.

For drinks, they offer soft drinks, and there are also extras to round out your meal, like your favorite toppings or sauces. The menu, you see, is designed to provide a complete and satisfying experience without overwhelming you with too many choices, and that's often the best approach. It’s all about quality, consistency, and that unmistakable charcoal flavor, and that's what keeps people coming back for more.

What People Are Saying

It’s always helpful, isn't it, to hear what others think about a place before you visit? Del's Charcoal Burgers has garnered a lot of positive feedback from its visitors, which is actually quite reassuring. On Restaurant Guru, for instance, Del's Charcoal Burgers in Richardson is rated a very impressive 4.6 out of 5, which suggests a high level of customer satisfaction, and that's pretty good.

This high rating comes from a substantial number of reviews, with 4587 visitor reviews contributing to that score, so it's a widely appreciated spot. People have also shared their experiences visually, with 344 photos and 5 videos available, giving you a really good sense of the place and its food before you even step inside, and that's quite helpful. You can explore the menu and check opening hours right there, which is convenient, too.

On TripAdvisor, Del's Charcoal Burgers also holds a strong reputation, you know. It’s ranked #8 among 316 restaurants in Richardson, based on 111 unbiased reviews, which is a very respectable position. Learning more about other diners' experiences at Del's Charcoal Burgers can help you decide what to try and what to expect, and it's always good to get that perspective. These reviews really paint a picture of a well-loved and highly regarded local eatery, and that's a great sign.

Plan Your Visit or Order Online

If you're in the McKinney or Richardson, TX area, and you're looking for a classic, delicious burger experience, Del's Charcoal Burgers is definitely a place to consider, you know. They are open, ready to serve you those flame-grilled delights, and they are located at 110 S. Richardson, TX 75081. You can always call ahead with questions at 972.235.9191, which is a convenient way to get information.

For those who prefer the convenience of ordering from home, you can order food online at Del's Charcoal Burgers, Richardson with TripAdvisor, which makes it super easy. This option allows you to enjoy their tasty burgers and other menu items without even leaving your house, and that's a big plus for many people. It’s a great way to experience the Del's flavor, whether you dine in or carry out, and it's pretty flexible.

Whether you're planning a special event, or just want to share a Del’s memory with someone, they would love to hear from you, honestly. You can also view posts on Instagram, like your favorite ones, shared by 🍔 dels charcoal burgers 🍔 (@delsburgers1957), which gives you a visual taste of their offerings. We invite you to learn more about Del's Charcoal Burgers on our site, and to link to this page for more information about their menu.

Frequently Asked Questions

People often have questions about Del's Charcoal Burgers, so here are a few common ones, you know, to help you out.

When did Del's Charcoal Burgers reopen after the fire?

Del's Charcoal Burgers, after a grease fire on April 25, 2025, during business hours, reopened on a recent Friday, much to the community's delight. The historic Richardson burger joint of nearly 70 years is back in business, serving its beloved flame-grilled items, and that's great news for everyone.

What makes Del's Charcoal Burgers unique?

Del's Charcoal Burgers stands out because of its commitment to charcoal grilling, which has been their method since 1957, so it's a long-standing tradition. This technique gives their burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches a distinct smoky flavor and a perfect char. They also use fresh ingredients and have maintained a consistent menu and vintage vibe for decades, which is pretty special.

Who is the current owner of Del's Charcoal Burgers?

Taher “Hoss” Hossein has been at the helm of Del's Charcoal Burgers, this Richardson staple, since taking the reins in 2003. He has kept the offering very much the same since Del Smith first opened the doors, with only a few additions of his own, ensuring the restaurant's classic appeal remains intact, and that's a big part of their enduring charm.

Del's Charcoal Burgers

Del's Charcoal Burgers

Double Cheeseburger from Del's Charcoal Burgers (Richardson, TX

Double Cheeseburger from Del's Charcoal Burgers (Richardson, TX

Menu — Del's Charcoal Burgers

Menu — Del's Charcoal Burgers

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