Chicken fried steak holds a special place in Texas cuisine, embodying the state’s love for hearty, flavorful meals. This iconic dish, featuring breaded and fried beef cutlets smothered in creamy gravy, has become a staple in diners, cafes, and restaurants across the Lone Star State.
Texas boasts numerous establishments renowned for their exceptional chicken fried steak offerings. From small-town cafes to renowned eateries in major cities, the best chicken fried steak in Texas can be found in various locations, each offering its own unique take on this beloved comfort food. Food enthusiasts and locals alike often embark on culinary journeys to discover the most tender, crispy, and satisfying versions of this classic dish.
1) Babe’s Chicken Dinner House, Dallas
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House stands as a Dallas institution for comfort food enthusiasts. Their chicken fried steak has earned a reputation as one of the best in Texas, drawing crowds from across the state.
The restaurant’s signature dish features a large cut of steak, expertly battered and fried to golden perfection. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, juicy interior that keeps diners coming back for more.
Babe’s offers an all-you-can-eat experience, allowing patrons to fully indulge in their chicken fried steak cravings. The generous portions are complemented by classic Southern sides, rounding out a hearty meal.
The chicken fried steak at Babe’s is often considered the benchmark against which other Dallas establishments are measured. Its consistent quality and flavor have earned it accolades from local food critics and loyal customers alike.
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House has multiple locations throughout the Dallas area. For specific location details and hours, visit their website at www.babeschicken.com.
2) Mary’s Cafe, Strawn
Mary’s Cafe in Strawn, Texas has earned a reputation for serving exceptional chicken fried steak. Located in a converted gas station, this small-town eatery attracts visitors from far and wide.
The restaurant’s signature dish is grilled rather than deep-fried, resulting in a unique texture and flavor. Many patrons claim it’s the best chicken fried steak they’ve ever tasted.
Complementing the main attraction are homemade sides like skin-on French fries and Texas toast. The peppery cream gravy receives particular praise from diners.
Mary’s Cafe offers a welcoming Southern atmosphere, adding to its charm. The restaurant’s history dates back to 1984 when the current owner, Mary, started working there.
Visitors often remark that the chicken fried steak is well worth the drive, even for those coming from Dallas or Fort Worth. The cafe has become a destination for lovers of Texas cuisine.
Mary’s Cafe: 119 Grant Ave, Strawn, TX 76475. Phone: (254) 672-5741.
3) Black’s BBQ, Austin
Black’s BBQ, a longstanding Texas institution, brings its legendary barbecue to Austin. This family-owned establishment has been serving up mouthwatering meats since 1932.
While renowned for their smoked offerings, Black’s BBQ also serves a notable chicken fried steak. The dish showcases the same attention to detail and quality ingredients that have made their barbecue famous.
The chicken fried steak at Black’s features a tender cut of beef, expertly battered and fried to golden perfection. It’s typically served with creamy gravy, adding richness to each bite.
Diners can enjoy their meal in a casual, welcoming atmosphere that reflects the restaurant’s deep Texas roots. The Austin location brings the flavors of the original Lockhart pits to the city.
Black’s BBQ Austin
3110 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705
Phone: (512) 524-0801
Website: www.blacksbbq.com/location/austin
4) Ellen’s Southern Kitchen, Dallas
Ellen’s Southern Kitchen has earned a reputation for serving some of the best chicken fried steak in Dallas. Their flagship location in the West End District is currently closed for renovations, but diners can still enjoy their renowned dish at the Casa Linda location.
Ellen’s takes pride in elevating the art of chicken fried steak. They use fresh cube steak, breaded to order and fried to perfection. The crispy exterior gives way to tender meat inside, creating a delightful textural contrast.
The dish is topped with homemade sausage cream gravy, adding rich flavor to every bite. It’s served with two fresh vegetables, balancing out the hearty main course.
Beyond chicken fried steak, Ellen’s menu features other Southern favorites like fried prawns, Southern fried chicken, and meat pies. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods shines through in each dish.
Ellen’s Southern Kitchen (Casa Linda location)
Address: 1211 N. Buckner Blvd., Dallas, TX
Phone: (877) 585-1085
Website: www.ellenssouthernkitchen.com
5) Hill Country Cupboard, Johnson City
Hill Country Cupboard in Johnson City, Texas, boasts a reputation for serving exceptional chicken fried steak. This rustic roadside eatery claims to offer the “world’s best” version of this classic Texas dish.
As the oldest running restaurant in Johnson City, Hill Country Cupboard has perfected its comfort food offerings over the years. Their menu features all-day breakfast and a variety of hearty meals.
The restaurant’s chicken fried steak has garnered significant attention from locals and visitors alike. Many patrons go out of their way to sample this signature dish.
In addition to their famous chicken fried steak, Hill Country Cupboard is known for its sausage gravy and biscuits. The establishment also houses a bakery for special call-ahead orders.
The restaurant’s atmosphere reflects its small-town roots, providing a genuine Texas dining experience. Its longevity and popularity speak to the quality of its food and service.
Hill Country Cupboard
Address: 101 US Hwy 281, Johnson City, TX 78636
Phone: (830) 868-4625
Email: info@hillcountrycupboard.com
6) Jake and Dorothy’s Cafe, Stephenville
Jake and Dorothy’s Cafe has been a Texas tradition since 1948. Located in Stephenville, this family-owned restaurant is known for its exceptional chicken fried steak.
The cafe takes pride in its fresh ingredients. They grind hamburger meat daily and cut their chicken fried steak fresh each day. Their famous waffle fried potatoes are still hand-cut using custom-made potato cutters.
Visitors praise the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of the diner. The friendly staff and generous portions add to the appeal of this local gem.
Many consider Jake and Dorothy’s chicken fried steak to be among the best in Texas. The dish is often described as a must-try for anyone visiting Stephenville.
In addition to their signature dish, the cafe offers other comfort food favorites. Patrons also enjoy their fried chicken, coconut pie, and homemade waffles.
Address: 406 E Washington St, Stephenville, TX 76401-4356
Phone: +1 254-965-5211
Website: Jake and Dorothy’s Cafe
7) Goodson’s Cafe, Tomball
Goodson’s Cafe in Tomball has earned a reputation for serving exceptional chicken fried steak. This iconic establishment has been satisfying hungry Texans since 1950.
The cafe’s signature dish is a massive, crispy chicken fried steak that covers the entire plate. It comes in two sizes, with even the smaller portion being generous.
Goodson’s takes pride in their Southern comfort food, which has turned many first-time visitors into loyal customers over the years. Their menu also features other classic dishes like fried okra and real mashed potatoes.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is typical of a country cafe, providing a cozy and welcoming environment for diners. Prices are reasonable, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal.
Goodson’s Cafe has received numerous accolades and is often mentioned in discussions about the best chicken fried steak in Texas. Its long-standing presence in the community and consistent quality have solidified its place among top contenders.
Contact Details:
Goodson’s Cafe
27931 Tomball Pkwy, Tomball, TX 77375
Phone: (281) 351-1749
Website: goodsonscafe.com
8) Hoover’s Cooking, Austin
Hoover’s Cooking in Austin serves up a legendary chicken fried steak that draws praise from locals and food critics alike. This Southern-style restaurant takes pride in its hearty, comforting dishes.
The chicken fried steak at Hoover’s is known for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, flavorful meat inside. It’s typically served with classic sides like mashed potatoes and gravy.
Hoover’s has been a staple of Austin’s dining scene for years, offering a taste of authentic Texas cuisine. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and generous portions contribute to its popularity.
Visitors can find Hoover’s Cooking at 2002 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722. They’re open Tuesday through Wednesday from 11 AM to 2 PM and 4 PM to 8:30 PM. For more information or to make a reservation, call +1 512-479-5006 or visit their website.
9) Lulu’s Bakery and Cafe, San Antonio
Lulu’s Bakery and Cafe has long been a San Antonio institution, known for its massive portions and comfort food classics. The restaurant’s chicken fried steak stands out as a local favorite, drawing both tourists and residents alike.
The chicken fried steak at Lulu’s is renowned for its generous size and crispy breading. Served with a hearty helping of creamy gravy, it exemplifies the quintessential Texas dish.
Lulu’s commitment to traditional diner fare extends beyond just chicken fried steak. The eatery gained fame for its enormous 3-pound cinnamon rolls, which became a signature item alongside the oversized steaks.
For over two decades, Lulu’s served the San Antonio community as a 24-hour diner. It provided a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking satisfying meals at any hour.
Unfortunately, Lulu’s Bakery and Cafe has permanently closed its doors. While it’s no longer possible to enjoy their famous chicken fried steak, the restaurant’s legacy lives on in San Antonio’s culinary memory.
Lulu’s Bakery and Cafe
918 N. Main Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212
(Permanently Closed)
10) Cotton Patch Cafe, Arlington
Cotton Patch Cafe in Arlington serves up a hearty chicken fried steak that keeps locals coming back. The restaurant takes pride in its scratch-made dishes, with the chicken fried steak being a standout menu item.
The steak is hand-breaded and fried to a crispy golden brown. It’s then topped with a generous helping of creamy gravy, made from scratch in-house.
Diners can choose between the classic cream gravy or opt for a spicier kick with jalapeño gravy. The chicken fried steak comes paired with garlic mashed potatoes and bacon green beans.
Cotton Patch Cafe offers this Southern comfort food staple as part of their Texas Value Meals for an affordable price. The generous portion size ensures customers leave satisfied.
The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh ingredients and scratch cooking methods contributes to the quality of their chicken fried steak.
Cotton Patch Cafe: 461 East I-20, Arlington, TX 76018. Phone: 817-468-1999. Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10:45am-9:30pm, Friday-Saturday 10:45am-10pm. Website: cottonpatch.com
History of Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak has deep roots in Texas cuisine, evolving from early German and Austrian influences to become a beloved state icon. Its journey reflects the cultural melting pot of the Lone Star State and its enduring popularity.
Origins and Evolution
Chicken fried steak traces its origins to German and Austrian immigrants who settled in Texas during the 19th century. These settlers brought with them traditional dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, which inspired the creation of chicken fried steak.
The dish adapted to local ingredients and tastes over time. Beef, plentiful in Texas, replaced veal as the primary meat. Cooks developed a distinctive breading technique, dipping the meat in egg wash and flour before frying.
By the mid-20th century, chicken fried steak had become a staple in Texas restaurants. Its popularity spread across the state, with regional variations in preparation and accompaniments emerging.
Cultural Significance in Texas
Chicken fried steak holds a special place in Texas culture. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of Texan identity and hospitality.
In 2011, Texas officially recognized the dish’s importance by declaring October 26th as Chicken Fried Steak Day. This legislative action highlights the deep connection Texans feel to this comfort food.
Many Texans associate chicken fried steak with family gatherings and home-cooked meals. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia and a sense of belonging.
Restaurants across Texas pride themselves on their chicken fried steak recipes. The number of pickup trucks in a restaurant’s parking lot is often jokingly used as a measure of the quality of its chicken fried steak.
Key Ingredients and Preparation Tips
Creating the perfect chicken fried steak requires quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques. Attention to detail in both selection and execution is crucial for achieving that iconic crispy exterior and tender interior.
Essential Ingredients
The foundation of a great chicken fried steak starts with high-quality beef cube steaks. These should be about 1/2 pound each and tenderized. All-purpose flour is key for the coating, along with salt and black pepper for seasoning.
Eggs and milk or buttermilk form the wet mixture for dredging. Some recipes incorporate baking powder or baking soda into the flour for extra crispiness. Vegetable oil or lard is essential for frying.
For the gravy, use pan drippings, flour, milk, and seasonings. Fresh ingredients like garlic or herbs can add depth to the flavor profile.
Cooking Techniques for Perfection
Proper dredging is crucial. Coat the steaks in seasoned flour, dip in the egg wash, then back into the flour. Let the coated steaks rest briefly to help the breading adhere.
Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. Cook the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
For the gravy, create a roux with pan drippings and flour. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer until thickened.
Rest the steaks briefly before serving to allow juices to redistribute. Serve immediately with hot gravy for the best texture and flavor.