Texas is renowned for its hearty country cooking that warms both the heart and soul. From small-town cafes to city establishments, the Lone Star State offers a wealth of dining options for those craving authentic Southern flavors and generous portions. These restaurants serve up classic dishes like chicken-fried steak, barbecue, and homestyle vegetables with a side of Texas hospitality.
The best Texas restaurants for country cooking lovers showcase the state’s culinary heritage while providing a welcoming atmosphere for diners. Whether located in bustling urban centers or tucked away in rural areas, these establishments pride themselves on using quality ingredients and time-honored recipes. Visitors can expect to find menus featuring comfort food favorites alongside regional specialties that highlight the diverse influences on Texas cuisine.
1) The Salt Lick BBQ
The Salt Lick BBQ stands as a legendary institution in Texas Hill Country cuisine. Located in Driftwood, this family-owned restaurant has been serving mouthwatering barbecue since 1967.
The Salt Lick’s roots trace back to wagon train recipes from the mid-1800s, offering diners a taste of authentic Texas heritage. Their open pit barbecue method creates a unique and flavorful dining experience.
Visitors can enjoy generous portions of brisket, ribs, and sausage, complemented by their famous barbecue sauce. The restaurant’s rustic atmosphere adds to the charm, immersing guests in true Texas hospitality.
The Salt Lick has gained widespread recognition, even attracting celebrity fans like Sandra Bullock. Its popularity has led to expansion, with additional locations and a thriving mail-order business for their barbecue sauce.
For those seeking a quintessential Texas barbecue experience, The Salt Lick BBQ delivers on both flavor and ambiance.
Address: 18300 FM 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
Phone: (512) 858-4959
Website: saltlickbbq.com
2) Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue has earned a reputation as one of the best barbecue joints in Texas. Located in East Austin, this restaurant draws long lines of eager patrons waiting to taste their legendary brisket.
The restaurant started as a food truck in 2009 before moving to its current brick-and-mortar location. Owner Aaron Franklin has perfected the art of slow-smoked meats, particularly his melt-in-your-mouth brisket.
Franklin Barbecue opens at 11 am and often sells out by early afternoon. Arrive early to secure a spot in line. The menu features classic barbecue staples like ribs, pulled pork, and sausage alongside the famous brisket.
The simple, no-frills dining room allows the food to take center stage. Sides include potato salad, coleslaw, and pinto beans. Franklin Barbecue has received numerous accolades, including being named the best barbecue restaurant in Texas by Southern Living magazine.
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 653-1187
Website: franklinbbq.com
3) Pecan Lodge
Pecan Lodge stands out as a barbecue institution in Dallas, Texas. Located in the vibrant Deep Ellum neighborhood, this restaurant has gained national recognition for its exceptional smoked meats.
The restaurant’s mesquite-smoked brisket is a standout dish, known for its tender texture and rich flavor. Pecan Lodge also offers mouthwatering beef ribs, pulled pork, and house-made sausages that keep customers coming back.
For those who can’t decide, “The Trough” provides a generous sampler of the restaurant’s best offerings. This platter showcases the diverse range of meats available, allowing diners to experience the full spectrum of Pecan Lodge’s culinary expertise.
Pecan Lodge has been featured on popular food shows, including Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” It has also received accolades from Texas Monthly and Southern Living magazine, cementing its status as a top barbecue destination in Texas.
Address: 2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
Phone: (214) 748-8900
Website: www.pecanlodge.com
4) Snow’s BBQ
Snow’s BBQ in Lexington, Texas has gained legendary status among barbecue enthusiasts. This small-town joint opens only on Saturdays, creating an air of exclusivity and anticipation.
At the helm is 86-year-old pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz, whose expertise has earned Snow’s national recognition. In 2008, the restaurant was voted the Best BBQ in Texas out of over 2,000 competitors.
Snow’s offers a traditional lineup of smoked meats, sides, and banana pudding for dessert. Their menu showcases Texas barbecue at its finest, with tender brisket, juicy sausages, and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
The restaurant’s popularity soared further after being featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table: BBQ series in 2020. This exposure brought Snow’s and Tomanetz to a new level of fame.
Visitors to Snow’s BBQ can expect long lines and an early sell-out, but the wait is well worth it for barbecue that’s considered some of the best in the country.
Snow’s BBQ
516 Main St, Lexington, TX 78947
Phone: (979) 773-4640
Website: snowsbbq.com
5) Lulu’s Bakery & Café
Lulu’s Bakery & Café in San Antonio is a Texas-sized treasure for country cooking enthusiasts. This 24-hour diner has been serving up enormous portions of homestyle favorites for over two decades.
The restaurant gained national fame after being featured on the TV show “Man vs. Food” for its colossal cinnamon rolls. These sweet treats weigh in at an impressive 3 pounds each.
Lulu’s is also renowned for its massive chicken fried steaks, which hang off the edges of plates. The menu features other classic comfort foods like meatloaf, pot roast, and hearty breakfast platters.
Diners can expect generous servings of Southern staples, all made from scratch using time-honored recipes. The casual, welcoming atmosphere adds to the down-home charm.
Lulu’s Bakery & Café caters to both locals and tourists looking for an authentic taste of Texas. Its reasonable prices and satisfying meals have made it a San Antonio institution.
Address: 918 N Main Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
Phone: (210) 951-2802
Website: www.lulusbakeryandcafe.com
6) The Big Texan Steak Ranch
The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo is a Texas icon and Route 66 landmark known for its 72-ounce steak challenge. Founded in 1960 by R.J. “Bob” Lee, this restaurant has become synonymous with Texas-sized portions and hearty country cooking.
The distinctive lemon-yellow building houses more than just a restaurant. Visitors can enjoy a brewery, gift shop, and even a motel with a Texas-shaped swimming pool.
The menu features classic steakhouse fare, with the 72-ounce steak challenge as the main attraction. Diners who finish the massive steak and sides in one hour get the meal for free.
Beyond steaks, The Big Texan offers barbecue, chicken fried steak, and prime rib. Their house seasoning blend enhances the natural flavors of the beef with a Texan flair.
Live nightly music and a shooting gallery add to the entertainment value, making The Big Texan a true destination restaurant.
Contact Details:
The Big Texan Steak Ranch
7701 I-40 East, Amarillo, TX 79118
Website: www.bigtexan.com
7) Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant has been a Galveston institution since 1911. This coastal classic offers diners fresh Gulf seafood in an elegant setting with panoramic views of the ocean.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality has earned it recognition as one of the top seafood establishments in Texas. Gaido’s serves up to 2,500 patrons daily, showcasing its enduring popularity.
Signature dishes include their renowned shrimp bisque and seasonal seafood selections prepared using time-honored recipes. The crustless pecan pie is another standout, often hailed as the best in Texas.
Gaido’s has become a cherished destination for special occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries. Its longevity and dedication to excellence have cemented its place as a Gulf Coast culinary landmark.
Address: 3828 Seawall Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77550
Phone: 409-761-5500
Website: www.gaidos.com
8) Perini Ranch Steakhouse
Perini Ranch Steakhouse stands as a beloved Texas institution, serving “Real Texas Food” since 1983. Located just outside the small town of Buffalo Gap, this acclaimed eatery has preserved the legacy of Cowboy Cooking for over 40 years.
The steakhouse is renowned for its famous Beef Steak and Peppered Beef Tenderloin. Diners can also enjoy their celebrated burger, ranked 7th best in Texas by Texas Monthly.
Perini Ranch offers a unique dining experience, combining high-quality beef with an unmatched setting. The restaurant’s country atmosphere perfectly complements its hearty, flame-cooked dishes.
On Sundays, visitors can indulge in a traditional country lunch featuring classics like Fried Chicken, Chicken Fried Steak, and homestyle sides. This menu showcases the steakhouse’s commitment to authentic Texas cuisine.
Perini Ranch Steakhouse has earned numerous accolades over the years, solidifying its reputation as one of the best steakhouses in the Lone Star State.
Perini Ranch Steakhouse
3002 FM 89, Buffalo Gap, TX 79508
Phone: (325) 572-3339
Website: periniranch.com
9) The Driskill Grill
The Driskill Grill stands as one of Austin’s most iconic dining establishments. Located inside the historic Driskill Hotel, this renowned restaurant offers a blend of refined American cuisine and authentic Austin charm.
The Grill has been the site of many legendary events throughout its history. Perhaps most famously, it was the location of President Lyndon B. Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson’s first date.
Guests can expect excellent service and a menu that showcases the best of Texas flavors. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The Driskill Grill is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 PM to 9 PM. It provides an elegant setting for special occasions or a memorable night out in Austin.
Address: 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 391-7162
Website: driskillhotel.com/dining/the-driskill-grill
10) Goode Company BBQ
Goode Company BBQ has been serving Houston’s barbecue lovers since 1977. This family-owned restaurant takes pride in slow-smoking meats to perfection.
Their menu features tender brisket, sausage, and ribs, all hand-rubbed with a secret blend of spices. The cafeteria-style line offers a variety of mouthwatering options for diners to choose from.
Signature dishes include smoked duck and chicken, drawing lunch crowds from across the West University area. The rustic ambiance adds to the authentic Texas barbecue experience.
Goode Company BBQ is known for its commitment to preserving Texas cooking traditions. They offer both dine-in and take-out options, catering to various customer preferences.
Don’t forget to save room for their famous pecan pie, a must-try dessert that rounds out the meal perfectly.
Address: 5109 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77098
Website: goodecompany.com
Phone: (713) 522-2530
Essence of Texas Country Cooking
Texas country cooking blends diverse influences and local ingredients to create hearty, flavorful dishes. This cuisine reflects the state’s rich cultural heritage and agricultural bounty.
Historical Influences on Texan Cuisine
Native American, Mexican, and European settlers shaped Texas country cooking. Indigenous peoples introduced corn, squash, and beans. Spanish and Mexican influences brought chili peppers and cumin. German and Czech immigrants contributed sausages and kolaches.
Cattle ranching played a major role in developing Texan cuisine. Cowboys needed hearty, portable meals, leading to dishes like chili and chicken-fried steak. Barbecue became a staple as settlers smoked tough cuts of meat to make them tender.
Southern cooking techniques also influenced Texas cuisine. African American cooks brought soul food traditions, incorporating ingredients like okra and black-eyed peas.
Key Ingredients and Dishes
Texas country cooking relies on local ingredients:
- Beef: Steaks, brisket, chili
- Pork: Sausages, ribs
- Corn: Cornbread, tortillas
- Chili peppers: Used in many dishes
- Pecans: Pies, pralines
Iconic Texas dishes include:
- Chicken-fried steak
- Texas-style barbecue
- Chili con carne
- Tex-Mex favorites like fajitas and enchiladas
- Pecan pie
Texas country cooking often features large portions and bold flavors. Slow-cooking methods like smoking and braising are common. Many dishes incorporate spicy elements, reflecting the state’s love for heat.
Culinary Techniques in Country Cooking
Country cooking in Texas relies on time-honored methods that bring out rich flavors and create hearty, satisfying meals. These techniques have been passed down through generations, preserving the essence of traditional Texan cuisine.
Traditional Cooking Methods
Slow cooking is a cornerstone of Texas country cuisine. Pit barbecues and smokehouses are used to tenderize tough cuts of meat over low heat for hours. Cast iron skillets play a crucial role, perfect for frying chicken, cornbread, and other staples.
Braising is another favored technique, combining moist and dry heat to create tender, flavorful dishes. Stews and pot roasts often simmer for hours, allowing flavors to meld and meats to become fork-tender.
Open-fire cooking remains popular, especially for outdoor gatherings. Grills and campfires impart a distinct smoky flavor to meats and vegetables.
Pickling and canning preserve seasonal produce, ensuring a taste of summer throughout the year. These methods are essential for creating tangy side dishes and condiments.
Regional Variations Across Texas
Texas cuisine reflects diverse influences from its vast geography and cultural heritage. Different regions showcase unique flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques that have evolved over generations.
Distinctive Flavors of East Texas
East Texas cooking blends Southern and Cajun influences. Fried catfish, hush puppies, and cornbread are staples. Barbecue in this region often features beef brisket with a sweet, tomato-based sauce.
Soul food dishes like collard greens and black-eyed peas are common. Pecan pies and cobblers highlight local nuts and fruits.
East Texas is known for its hearty breakfasts, including chicken and waffles, biscuits with gravy, and country ham.
Central Texas Culinary Traditions
Central Texas is renowned for its barbecue, especially beef brisket smoked over oak wood. The focus is on the meat’s quality, with minimal sauce used.
German and Czech influences are evident in dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and kolaches. Fredericksburg restaurants serve authentic German cuisine.
Tex-Mex is popular, featuring chili con carne, enchiladas, and fajitas. Local ingredients like pecans and peaches are incorporated into desserts and savory dishes.
Farm-to-table restaurants in Austin and surrounding areas showcase fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in innovative ways.