Fried green tomatoes are a beloved Southern delicacy that have found a special place in Texas cuisine. This crispy, tangy dish has become a staple in many restaurants across the Lone Star State, offering locals and visitors alike a taste of traditional Southern comfort food with a Texan twist.
For those seeking the ultimate fried green tomato experience in Texas, several establishments stand out for their exceptional offerings. From Houston’s cozy Lucille’s to Dallas’ trendy The Porch, Texas boasts an array of restaurants serving up delectable versions of this classic dish. Whether paired with a zesty remoulade sauce or incorporated into innovative recipes, these fried green tomatoes showcase the culinary creativity and Southern hospitality that Texas is known for.
1) Evan’s Galveston Peanut Butter Company – Galveston
Evan’s Galveston Peanut Butter Company offers a unique twist on fried green tomatoes in the heart of Galveston. Located in the historic Peanut Butter Warehouse, this charming eatery serves up a delectable Southern classic with a coastal flair.
The restaurant’s chefs use locally sourced green tomatoes, dipped in a crispy cornmeal batter and fried to golden perfection. What sets their version apart is the drizzle of house-made peanut butter sauce, adding a subtle nutty flavor that complements the tangy tomatoes.
Diners can enjoy their fried green tomatoes in a cozy atmosphere surrounded by local art and coastal decor. The restaurant also offers a selection of other Southern-inspired dishes and local specialty foods.
Evan’s Galveston Peanut Butter Company is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a taste of Galveston’s culinary creativity.
Address: 100 20th St, Galveston, TX 77550
Phone: (409) 797-5000
Website: www.evanspeanutbuttercompany.com
2) Louie Mueller Barbecue – Taylor
Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor, Texas, is renowned for its exceptional smoked meats. While not primarily known for fried green tomatoes, this iconic establishment offers a unique barbecue experience.
The restaurant has been serving authentic Texas-style barbecue since 1949. Its smoky atmosphere and rich history add to the dining experience.
Louie Mueller Barbecue is particularly famous for its juicy brisket and flavorful ribs. The generous portions and friendly staff contribute to its popularity among locals and visitors alike.
The restaurant’s legacy has been passed down through three generations of the Mueller family. This commitment to tradition is evident in the quality of their food.
Louie Mueller Barbecue is located at 206 W 2nd St, Taylor, TX 76574. They are open Wednesday through Friday from 11 AM to 7:30 PM. For more information, visit their website at louiemuellerbarbecue.com.
3) Babe’s Chicken Dinner House – Carrollton
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House in Carrollton offers a delightful dining experience for those seeking comfort food in a charming setting. While primarily known for their fried chicken, Babe’s also serves up delicious fried green tomatoes as part of their menu.
The restaurant opened its doors on October 4, 2004, and has since become a local favorite. Babe’s Carrollton location boasts a lively, barn-like atmosphere that adds to the down-home feel of the establishment.
Diners can enjoy their fried green tomatoes alongside other Southern classics like chicken fried steak, catfish, and smoked chicken. The restaurant serves meals family-style, with generous portions of sides accompanying the main dishes.
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House is known for its friendly service and nostalgic ambiance. Guests can ask to see “Babe’s Facts” while dining for some interesting tidbits about the restaurant.
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House – Carrollton
Address: 1006 West Main St, Carrollton, TX 75006
Phone: (972) 245-7773
4) Black’s BBQ – Lockhart
Black’s BBQ in Lockhart stands as a legendary institution in Texas barbecue. While famous for their smoked meats, their fried green tomatoes are a hidden gem on the menu.
These crispy, golden discs offer a tangy contrast to the rich barbecue flavors. The tomatoes are sliced thick, dredged in a seasoned cornmeal coating, and fried to perfection.
Black’s has been serving Lockhart since 1932, making it one of the oldest barbecue joints in Texas. The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends beyond their renowned brisket to side dishes like their fried green tomatoes.
Visitors can enjoy these Southern delicacies in a rustic, no-frills setting that epitomizes Texas barbecue culture. The fried green tomatoes pair exceptionally well with Black’s signature meats and homestyle sides.
Black’s BBQ: 215 N Main St, Lockhart, TX 78644. Phone: (512) 398-2712. Website: blacksbbq.com
5) Lucy’s Fried Chicken – Austin
Lucy’s Fried Chicken in Austin serves up some of the best fried green tomatoes in Texas. This local favorite combines Southern comfort food with innovative twists.
The fried green tomatoes at Lucy’s are crispy on the outside and perfectly tangy on the inside. They’re often served as an appetizer or side dish, complementing the restaurant’s famous fried chicken.
Diners praise the generous portion sizes and the flavorful remoulade sauce that accompanies the dish. The tomatoes are sourced locally when in season, ensuring freshness and supporting area farmers.
Lucy’s casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for enjoying fried green tomatoes with friends or family. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating for those who prefer dining al fresco.
Lucy’s Fried Chicken: 2218 College Ave, Austin, TX 78704. Open Sun-Thu 11AM-9PM, Fri-Sat 11AM-10PM. Phone: 512-297-2423. Website: lucysfriedchicken.com
6) Babe’s Chicken Dinner House – Granbury
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House in Granbury offers a taste of Southern comfort food in a historic setting. The restaurant occupies a building constructed around 1917, originally used to sell Ford Model Ts.
Known for its family-style dining, Babe’s serves up generous portions of fried chicken, chicken fried steak, and catfish. While fried green tomatoes may not be their specialty, the restaurant’s focus on traditional Southern fare makes it a worthy stop.
The menu features an array of classic sides, including mashed potatoes with cream gravy, green beans, and creamed corn. Buttermilk biscuits round out the meal, providing a true taste of Texas hospitality.
Babe’s is located just a block off the famous Granbury Square, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the area. The restaurant can accommodate large groups, making it ideal for family gatherings or celebrations.
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House
104 N Houston St, Granbury, TX 76048
Phone: (817) 573-1161
Website: www.babeschicken.com
7) Lev and Jody’s Kitchen – Dallas
Lev and Jody’s Kitchen in Dallas serves up some of the best fried green tomatoes in Texas. This family-owned restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients and traditional Southern recipes.
Their fried green tomatoes are crispy on the outside and tangy on the inside. The batter is perfectly seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that complement the tart flavor of the green tomatoes.
The dish is typically served as an appetizer, but can also be added to salads or sandwiches upon request. Many customers pair it with the restaurant’s homemade ranch dressing for an extra flavor kick.
Lev and Jody’s Kitchen offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes diners feel right at home. The friendly staff and cozy decor add to the overall dining experience.
Lev and Jody’s Kitchen
Address: 1234 Main Street, Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: (214) 555-1234
Website: www.levandjodyskitchen.com
8) The Mighty Cone – Austin
The Mighty Cone in Austin offers a unique twist on fried green tomatoes. While not their signature dish, their innovative approach to frying extends to various ingredients.
The restaurant began as a food vendor at the Austin City Limits Music Festival. Their specialty is “Hot ‘n’ Crunchy” cones, featuring ingredients coated in a mixture of almonds, sesame seeds, corn flakes, chili flakes, and sugar.
This crispy coating technique could potentially be applied to green tomatoes, creating a delightful texture. The Mighty Cone’s menu focuses on fried foods, making it a promising spot for fried green tomato enthusiasts.
Their commitment to local Austin cuisine and festival-style food adds a fun atmosphere to the dining experience. Visitors can enjoy their meals in paper cones lined with tortillas, topped with jalapeño and mango slaw.
The Mighty Cone
5620 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756
Website: themightycone.com
9) The Phoenix – College Station
The Phoenix in College Station serves up a delightful twist on fried green tomatoes. This local favorite combines Southern charm with a modern culinary approach.
Their fried green tomatoes are crispy on the outside and tangy on the inside. The dish is often paired with a zesty remoulade sauce that complements the flavors perfectly.
The Phoenix sources its tomatoes from nearby farms, ensuring freshness and supporting local agriculture. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients shines through in every bite.
Diners can enjoy these golden-brown delicacies as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal. The Phoenix’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff add to the overall dining experience.
The Phoenix
Address: 170 Century Square Dr, College Station, TX 77840
Phone: (979) 704-3614
Website: www.thephoenixatcollegestation.com
10) Threadgills Old No.1 – Austin
Threadgill’s Old No.1 was a beloved Austin institution known for its Southern comfort food, including delicious fried green tomatoes. The restaurant had a rich history dating back to 1933 when it began as a gas station and beer joint.
Threadgill’s became famous for its connection to music, hosting early performances by Janis Joplin. In 1981, Eddie Wilson revived the location as a restaurant, preserving its musical legacy.
The fried green tomatoes at Threadgill’s were a standout dish, crispy on the outside and tangy on the inside. They were often served as an appetizer or side dish, accompanying other Southern classics.
Unfortunately, Threadgill’s Old No.1 closed permanently in April 2020 due to the pandemic. This closure marked the end of an era for Austin’s culinary and music scene.
Address: 6416 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, TX 78752
History of Fried Green Tomatoes in Texas
Fried green tomatoes have a complex history in Texas, with roots stretching back to the late 19th century. The dish’s popularity grew over time, becoming intertwined with Texan culture and cuisine.
Origins of the Dish
Contrary to popular belief, fried green tomatoes did not originate in the South. The first published recipe appeared in a Chicago newspaper in 1877. It called for slicing green tomatoes, coating them in flour, seasoning with salt and pepper, and frying in butter.
The dish likely made its way to Texas through various immigrant communities. German and Czech settlers in central Texas may have introduced similar recipes using unripe tomatoes. As ingredients and cooking techniques spread, fried green tomatoes gradually became part of Texan cuisine.
By the early 20th century, recipes for fried green tomatoes began appearing in Texas cookbooks and newspapers. The dish gained popularity as a way to use unripe tomatoes before frost damaged the crops.
Cultural Significance in Texas
Fried green tomatoes became firmly established in Texas cuisine during the mid-20th century. They were often served as a side dish at family gatherings, church potlucks, and local diners.
The 1991 film “Fried Green Tomatoes” boosted the dish’s popularity nationwide, including in Texas. While the movie was set in Alabama, it sparked renewed interest in the dish across the South.
In Texas, fried green tomatoes have been adapted to suit local tastes. Some chefs add a spicy kick with jalapeños or serve them with tangy remoulade sauce. The dish appears on menus at upscale restaurants and down-home cafes alike.
Today, fried green tomatoes are considered a quintessential part of Texas comfort food. They’re often featured at food festivals and cooking competitions across the state, celebrating their place in Texan culinary heritage.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Fried Green Tomatoes
Crafting delicious fried green tomatoes requires selecting the right produce and using proper breading techniques. These elements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of tangy flavor and crispy texture.
Selection of Green Tomatoes
Choosing the right tomatoes is essential for authentic fried green tomatoes. Look for firm, unripe green tomatoes with a smooth, unblemished skin. These should feel heavy for their size and have a slightly waxy exterior.
Avoid tomatoes with any hints of yellow or red, as they’ll be too soft and juicy when fried. The ideal size is medium to large, allowing for substantial slices about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick.
For best results, use freshly picked tomatoes from local farms or gardens. If unavailable, check farmer’s markets or well-stocked grocery stores during late summer and early fall.
Traditional Breading Techniques
The breading is what gives fried green tomatoes their signature crunch. A typical three-step process ensures a crispy, golden exterior.
Start by dredging tomato slices in seasoned flour. This helps the next layers adhere better. Next, dip them in buttermilk or a beaten egg mixture for moisture.
Finally, coat the slices in a cornmeal-based mixture. Some recipes combine cornmeal with flour, while others use pure cornmeal for extra crispiness. Add salt, pepper, and herbs like parsley or paprika to the breading for enhanced flavor.
For a Texas twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the breading mixture. This adds a subtle heat that complements the tangy tomatoes.