Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the appetite! When people think of the Lone Star State, they often picture wide open skies, cowboy boots, and rodeos.

But let’s be real: the real star of the show is the food. With cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio bursting with flavor, it’s no wonder Texas restaurants are some of the most celebrated in the country.

I’ll be honest—my first trip to Texas was a full-on eating marathon. Brisket in Austin, breakfast tacos in San Antonio, steak in Dallas, and Viet-Cajun crawfish in Houston. It felt less like a vacation and more like a love affair with food.

And if you’re planning your own trip, or just looking for the best bites Texas has to offer, you’ve come to the right place.

So, loosen your belt buckle and grab some sweet tea, because we’re about to take a foodie road trip through the best Texas restaurants.

Table of Contents

1. Bird Bird Biscuit

Review: 4.7
Location: 2701 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722, United States
Phone: +1 512-761-4922
Hours:
- Monday–Wednesday: 7:30 am–2 pm
- Thursday–Saturday: 7:30 am–9 pm
- Sunday: 7:30 am–3 pm

Bird Bird Biscuit is a local gem in Austin, celebrated for its fluffy biscuits paired with inventive toppings. Known for breakfast and brunch lovers, it offers both early morning comfort and extended evening service on select days.

Its menu combines creativity with homestyle goodness, making it a favorite spot for casual dining. Whether you’re stopping by for a hearty start to your day or an evening bite, Bird Bird Biscuit is always worth the visit.

2. Paprika ATX

Review: 4.9
Location: 6539 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78752, United States
Phone: +1 512-716-5873
Hours:
- Tuesday–Saturday: 11 am–6 pm
- Sunday: Closed
- Monday: Closed

Paprika ATX has quickly built a stellar reputation with its fresh approach to flavors. Highly rated for its food quality and service, this Austin favorite is ideal for weekday lunches or early dinners.

Though closed on Sundays and Mondays, it’s a go-to destination for locals during the week. With a near-perfect review score, Paprika ATX is proof that passion and consistency create a lasting impact on Austin’s food scene.

3. Culinary Dropout

Review: 4.4
Location: 11721 Rock Rose Ave #100, Austin, TX 78758, United States
Phone: +1 512-777-3394
Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 11 am–11 pm
- Friday: 11 am–12 am
- Saturday: 9 am–12 am
- Sunday: 9 am–10 pm

Culinary Dropout blends casual dining with an energetic vibe, making it perfect for both day and night outings. Known for its versatile hours, it’s a great spot for brunch, late dinners, or lively weekends.

Guests love the balance of atmosphere, food, and drink options. With friendly service and an inviting setting, Culinary Dropout continues to stand out as a top pick in Austin’s bustling dining districts.

4. Sawyer & Co

Review: 4.5
Location: 4827 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702, United States
Phone: +1 512-531-9033
Hours:
- Monday–Tuesday: 8 am–3 pm
- Wednesday–Thursday: 8 am–9 pm
- Friday: 8 am–10 pm
- Saturday: 9 am–10 pm
- Sunday: 9 am–3 pm

Sawyer & Co is a cozy Austin eatery that delivers comfort food with southern flair. Whether it’s a hearty weekday breakfast, a laid-back lunch, or a weekend dinner, this spot offers something for everyone.

Guests appreciate the extended evening hours midweek and on weekends, making it a flexible option for different schedules. Its welcoming atmosphere and consistent flavors have earned it a loyal local following.

5. Jack in the Box

Review: 3.5
Location: 6133 E Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78741, United States
Phone: +1 512-389-0490
Hours:
- Open 24 hours

Jack in the Box is a well-known chain offering fast and convenient meals at any time of the day or night. While its review score is more modest, it remains a go-to option for quick bites, late-night cravings, and on-the-go dining.

The 24-hour service makes it especially popular with travelers and night owls in Austin. Its consistent availability ensures it always has a place in the local food scene.

6. Nervous Charlie’s Bagels

Review: 4.4
Location: 5501 N Lamar Blvd Ste. B101, Austin, TX 78751, United States
Phone: +1 512-366-5305
Hours:
- Monday–Sunday: 7 am–3 pm

Nervous Charlie’s Bagels has earned a strong reputation for its authentic, freshly baked bagels. With consistent daily hours, it’s a reliable stop for breakfast and lunch.

Locals and visitors love its no-frills approach, focusing purely on quality and flavor. Whether paired with spreads or stuffed for a hearty meal, the bagels here are widely considered some of the best in Austin.

7. Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant

Review: 4.3
Location: 10515 N Mopac Expy Bldg R, Austin, TX 78759, United States
Phone: +1 512-582-2201
Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 11 am–9 pm
- Friday: 11 am–10 pm
- Saturday: 9 am–10 pm
- Sunday: 9 am–9 pm

Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant brings bold flavors and authentic dishes to the Austin dining scene. Known for its hearty meals and welcoming environment, it’s a favorite for both family gatherings and casual outings.

With extended hours on weekends, it’s an excellent choice for brunch or dinner. Its flavorful Mexican cuisine continues to attract food lovers seeking traditional yet vibrant dining experiences.

8. Round Rock Donuts

Review: 4.8
Location: 106 W Liberty Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664, United States
Phone: +1 512-255-3629
Hours:
- Monday–Sunday: 4:30 am–6:30 pm

Round Rock Donuts is an iconic Texas spot, famous for its golden, oversized donuts that draw crowds from all over.

With early morning hours, it caters perfectly to breakfast lovers and those seeking a sweet start to their day.

Known for freshness and flavor, it has achieved near-legendary status in the Austin area. This long-standing favorite is a must-visit for anyone craving classic, indulgent treats.

9. Sapori Italian Roots

Review: 4.8
Location: 800 Brazos St ste 215, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Phone: +1 737-351-9271
Hours:
- Tuesday–Saturday: 11 am–10 pm
- Sunday: Closed
- Monday: 4–10 pm

Sapori Italian Roots delivers refined Italian cuisine with authenticity and passion. Its consistent evening hours make it ideal for date nights, dinners, and family gatherings.

With its impressive reviews, Sapori has carved out a strong reputation for quality and atmosphere. Closed on Sundays, it makes up for it with excellent service and memorable dining throughout the rest of the week.

10. Juliet Italian Kitchen

Review: 4.0
Location: 10000 Research Blvd Building C, Austin, TX 78759, United States
Phone: +1 512-666-3067
Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 11:30 am–9 pm
- Friday: 11:30 am–10 pm
- Saturday: 11 am–10 pm
- Sunday: 11 am–9 pm

Juliet Italian Kitchen is a relaxed Italian dining destination offering a mix of traditional dishes and modern twists.

Its steady hours make it a reliable choice for both lunch and dinner. While it has a more moderate review score, many appreciate its variety and inviting atmosphere.

Juliet continues to be a convenient option for casual Italian dining in Austin.

Final Bite: Wrapping Up Your Texas Food Journey

So, what makes Texas restaurants so special? It’s the way tradition and innovation collide on every plate. From smoky brisket at Franklin Barbecue to sizzling fajitas at Ninfa’s, from sweet kolaches in the morning to late-night Whataburger runs, Texas has a flavor for everyone.

Whether you’re road-tripping across the state or exploring one city at a time, the best advice I can give is simple: come hungry. Because in Texas, food isn’t just a meal—it’s a way of life.

And who knows? After one too many BBQ plates and slices of pecan pie, you might just find yourself saying, “Yep, everything is bigger in Texas.” 😉