Barbecue
A visit to Dallas would only be complete with trying some Texas barbecue. And if you're searching for the best of the best, head straight to Pecan Lodge. This iconic barbecue joint is located in Deep Ellum, known for its perfectly smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage. Don't forget to try the sides, too – the mac and cheese and fried okra are both out of this world.
Mexican
Dallas is home to a few of the best Mexican food in the country, and you can't go wrong with a visit to Mesa. This trendy spot in Oak Cliff serves up classic dishes like tacos al pastor and ceviche and more inventive fare like huitlacoche quesadillas and beef cheek barbacoa. The cocktails are also top-notch – try the Paloma for a refreshing sip.
Burgers
For a classic American burger experience, look no further than Twisted Root. With locations all over Dallas, you're never far from a juicy, perfectly cooked burger topped with all the fixings. But the show's real star is the milkshakes – the Nutella, and bacon shake is a must-try.
Asian Fusion
If you're in the mood for more adventure, check out Khao Noodle Shop. This cozy spot in East Dallas serves traditional Laotian dishes alongside inventive fusion creations like brisket larb and green curry mac and cheese. The flavors are bold and unexpected but always delicious.
Brunch
No foodie tour is complete without brunch, and Dallas has many options. As is the chicken fried steak, the biscuits and gravy are a must-try. Try the avocado toast or the yogurt parfait if you need something lighter. For a classic Southern brunch experience, head to Ellen's in the West End.
Dessert
And finally, every meal is complete with dessert. For something truly unique, check out Chills 360. Richardson's ice cream shop serves Thai-style rolled ice cream in flavors like matcha green tea and Nutella. And for the ultimate indulgence, try the Unicorn – a colorful concoction topped with cotton candy and sprinkles.
With Texas Shuttle, you can easily hop from one culinary destination to the next, indulging in all the delicious dishes Dallas offers. So what are you waiting for? Book your foodie tour today and get ready to eat through the Big D.
Beyond Dallas: A Statewide Texas Food Tour
While Dallas offers an impressive culinary landscape, Texas is a massive state with distinct regional food cultures that reward travelers willing to explore. From the smoky brisket temples of Central Texas to the Gulf Coast seafood shacks and everything in between, the Lone Star State serves up some of America's most beloved dishes. Here's how to expand your Texas foodie adventure beyond the Big D.
Central Texas Barbecue Trail
No discussion of Texas cuisine would be complete without diving into the state's legendary barbecue culture. The Central Texas towns between Austin and Waco form the state's Barbecue Belt, where simple establishments with hand-painted signs have been perfecting the art of low-and-slow smoking for generations. These institutions typically smoke beef brisket over post oak wood, and the result is a perfectly crusted exterior with a buttery-soft interior that defines Central Texas BBQ.
Houston's Culinary Scene
Texas's largest city punches well above its weight in the culinary department. The city's food scene reflects its incredibly diverse population, offering everything from world-class steakhouses to authentic international cuisine. Downtown Houston is home to several acclaimed establishments, including those that have earned recognition for their exceptional dining experiences. The city's proximity to the Gulf Coast means seafood lovers will find exceptionally fresh options throughout the area.
San Antonio's Food Heritage
San Antonio's culinary identity is inseparable from its Mexican and Tex-Mex traditions, but the city has evolved to include innovative chefs reimagining these classics. The River Walk area offers numerous dining options, though savvy food travelers know to venture into neighborhoods like the Pearl District and the West Side for more authentic and creative interpretations. Some of the city's most celebrated restaurants have earned regional and national recognition for their approach to Lone Star cuisine.
Road Trip Dining: Iconic Texas Stops
Texas's interstate highways connect a network of legendary food destinations that have become pilgrimage sites for devoted fans. Interstate 35 runs south from Dallas through theDFW metroplex, past Waco, and into San Antonio, passing through small towns with outsized reputations for particular dishes.
Just south of Fort Worth, the tiny town of West has become famous for its Czech heritage, particularly its traditional pastries called kolaches. These soft, yeast-based pastries filled with fruit, cheese, or sausage are available at several bakeries clustered along the highway. The tradition here reflects the German and Czech immigration patterns that shaped much of Central Texas cuisine.
Route 66 runs through the Texas Panhandle, and Amarillo serves as the quintessential road trip dining destination. The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery is impossible to miss, marked by a giant rodeo bull in the parking lot. This kitschy establishment has challenged adventurous eaters since the 1960s with its legendary 72-ounce steak challenge. Patrons have one hour to finish an enormous cut that would feed several people, and only a small percentage of entrants have completed it.
Unique Texas Dining Experiences
Beyond traditional cuisine, Texas hosts several restaurants that combine excellent food with one-of-a-kind concepts. In Dallas, Game Theory offers a creative American menu alongside an extensive board game library available to rent for a small fee. This makes it ideal for groups looking to combine dining with entertainment.
The Gulf Coast presents entirely different dining traditions focused on fresh catches and Louisiana-influenced preparations. Shrimp boils, gumbo, and boudin balls represent the region's signature dishes, often served in no-frills settings where the food speaks for itself.
Texas Food Region Comparison
| Region | Signature Dishes | Must-Try Items | Key Highways |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Texas | Smoked brisket, ribs, sausage | Beef ribs, pulled pork, pecan pie | I-35, US-290 |
| North Texas (Dallas/Fort Worth) | BBQ, Tex-Mex, fusion | Smoked brisket, breakfast tacos, fried pickles | I-35, I-30, US-75 |
| South Texas | Mexican, barbacoa, fajitas | Carne guisada, migas, tamales | I-35, US-181 |
| Gulf Coast | Seafood, Cajun, Vietnamese | Fried shrimp, gumbo, boudin, crab | I-45, SH-87, US-77 |
| West Texas | Mexican, steakhouse, diner | Enchiladas, chicken fried steak, fajitas | I-10, US-67, US-90 |
| Panhandle | Steakhouse, home-style | 72-oz steak, burger, pie | I-40, Route 66, US-287 |
Texas Food FAQ
What is the most famous food in Texas?
Texas barbecue is arguably the state's most celebrated culinary export, with smoked beef brisket serving as the crown jewel of Central Texas-style BBQ. However, Tex-Mex cuisine—including dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, and breakfast tacos—runs a close second and is considered quintessentially Texan. The state's food identity also includes Gulf Coast seafood, Czech pastries, and hearty Southern-style comfort food.
What should I eat in Texas for the first time?
First-time visitors should prioritize smoked brisket from an established Central Texas barbecue joint, authentic breakfast tacos from a local taquiera, and a chicken fried steak from a classic Texas diner. If visiting the Gulf Coast, fresh fried seafood or a bowl of gumbo showcases that region's contributions to Texas cuisine.
How far is Czech Stop from Dallas and Fort Worth?
Czech Stop is located in West, Texas, approximately 15 miles south of Waco and roughly 90 miles south of Dallas along Interstate 35. From Fort Worth, it's about a 75-minute drive down I-35 South. The bakery is easily visible from the highway, making it a convenient stop for travelers heading between Dallas and San Antonio.
What is the 72-ounce steak challenge at the Big Texan?
The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo challenges diners to consume a 72-ounce steak, counting all accompaniments, within one hour. Successful challengers have their meal comped, while those who fail pay full price for the entire plate. The challenge is open to anyone willing to attempt it, and the restaurant streams many attempts online. Only a small percentage of entrants have historically completed the challenge.
What makes Texas barbecue different from other regions?
Texas barbecue, particularly Central Texas style, emphasizes beef—specifically brisket—smoked over hardwoods like post oak. The seasoning is typically simple, allowing the quality of the meat and the skill of the pitmaster to shine. This differs from Southern styles that often focus on pork (ribs, pulled pork) and from Texas's own East Texas style, which tends toward sweeter sauce-based preparations.
Where can I find good vegetarian options in Texas?
Major Texas cities like Austin, Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio have thriving vegetarian and vegan scenes with dedicated plant-based restaurants. Many Tex-Mex establishments offer vegetarian选项 like cheese enchiladas, bean burritos, and grilled vegetable fajitas. For traditional Texas flavors, look for restaurants featuring items like grilled portobello mushrooms, vegetable tamales, or Southwest salads at establishments that cater to diverse dietary preferences.
What highway should I take for a Texas food road trip?
Interstate 35 offers the most concentrated food destinations, running from the Oklahoma border through Dallas, Fort Worth, Waco, and San Antonio before continuing to Laredo. For barbecue-focused routes, U.S. Highway 290 through the Hill Country passes through Lockhart, Taylor, and Elgin. Route 66 through the Panhandle connects Amarillo with several classic diners and steakhouses. The Gulf Coast is best explored via Texas Highway 87 along the coast or Interstate 45 heading south from Houston toward Galveston.
