Eats
Over the last decade, Waco has truly become a foodie wonderland. There is a perfect combination of unique and tried-and-true food options within our beloved city. Waco offers a place for every palate, and you’ll surely fulfill any and all cravings.
BBQ & Tex-Mex
There are two things you’re guaranteed to find in the heart of Texas — BBQ and Tex-Mex! When you come to Waco, you’re also guaranteed to find some incredible establishments serving up staple dishes alongside new and exciting culinary delights. The hardest choice? Which one to try first!
You’ll find Hecho En Waco in the heart of the Silo District in downtown Waco. They offer Tex-Mex staples like enchiladas and fajitas as well as some more unique dishes like sopes and queso panela asado.
Address: 300 South 6th Street B, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-732-0147
The Helberg's are masters of Central Texas-style barbecue. Located in Woodway, just west of Waco, Helberg is worth the drive. Try to get there early on Saturdays to try their Beef Rib Special before they sell out. update: Due to a fire at Helberg Barbecue in November, they have been working non-stop to be able to serve the Waco community again. They have since opened a drive-thru option for their guests! If you’re in the mood for incredible barbecue (and supporting a local business as they navigate a difficult time), then make sure to hit up the drive-thru at Helberg!
Address: 8532 North Highway 6, Woodway TX 76712
Phone: 254-848-8200
Text: 254-294-9995 with any questions
From the folks at George’s, a longtime Waco staple, comes Jorge’s, a spot that brings authentic inland and coastal Mexican classics with a Texas twist. Come for ceviche and birria tacos, and make sure to save room for their churro quatro leches cake! At Jorge’s, you’ll find an atmosphere that suits every occasion and mood. Bring in the family for a casual dinner, watch a game with coworkers in the lively cantina area, or relax on the patio with friends and appetizers.
Address: 4225 Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 76710
Phone: 254-545-4452
Just blocks away from campus and in the heart of downtown Waco, Ninfa’s is a Waco staple. A large dining room and soaring ceilings make this impressive space lively and inviting, especially for bigger parties. With an extensive menu, and a sizable number of gluten-free options, there’s something at Ninfa’s for everyone.
Address: 220 South 3rd Street, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-757-2050
When Vitek’s Grocery and Meat Market changed to Vitek’s BBQ in 1983, a classic dish was born: the Gut Pak. Combining barbecued meat, beans and Fritos, this is one of the ultimate college student meals. Once you’ve had a Gut Pak, you’ll be on your way to earning “Waco local” status in no time!
Address: 1600 Speight Avenue, Waco TX 76706
Phone: 254-752-7591
Started in Lockhart, Texas, Terry Black’s in Waco is the fourth location of this Texan-owned business! When you arrive, hop in line to order your sides—mac’n’cheese, baked potato salad or pinto beans—by volume. Then step up to the counter and order delicious, slow-roasted brisket, sausage or beef ribs by the pound. Pro-tip: For the ultimate Central Texas barbecue experience, order one of Terry Black’s signature beef ribs, lovingly described by Terry Black himself as a “ribeye on a stick!”
Address: 228 S 8th St, Waco TX 76701
Phone: (254) 300-5690
At Sagrado Cocina, you’ll find an intersection between traditional Mexican flavors and modern, stylish vibes. The food is light and fresh, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Pro-Tip: Start your meal with the Grilled Mexican Street Corn, and finish with the Tres Leches Cake.
Address: 215 South University Parks Drive, Suite 107, Waco, TX 76701
Phone: (254) 300-4100
Waco Staples
If you already call Texas home, you might have had your fill of barbecue and Tex-Mex (though can that really be a thing?). Want to try something new? Check out the many establishments in Waco that offer cuisines from all over the world, whether that be your home state or another country!
Offering quality gyro and baklava, Alpha Omega is a great option for a meal with family and friends. They offer many traditional and updated Mediterranean-style dishes, and their pastries are made fresh daily. Pro tip: Order the feta fries.
Address: 929 Franklin Avenue, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-732-7506
Born from a love of cooking Cajun-inspired dishes with family, Cajun Craft was created to share that good ol’ downhome Louisiana cookin’ with the city of Waco. This restaurant offers many traditional Cajun specialties, including po’boys, etouffee and beignets. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the fried gator bites!
Address: 601 South 11th Street, Waco TX 76706
Phone: 254-754-3869
The Le family has owned Clay Pot since the 1980s, and they are proud to bring popular Vietnamese dishes to the heart of Waco. With a large back patio, this is a perfect place to visit on a fair-weather day. Come for the friendly — and newly remodeled! — atmosphere; stay for the Pho and clay pots.
Address: 416 Franklin Ave, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-756-2721
George’s has been a Waco tradition since 1930, and it’s an excellent spot to visit before a game. Here you’ll find hearty American fare like chicken fried steak, burgers and chicken wings. If you know you’ll be at George’s during peak dining hours, make a reservation or join their online waitlist.
Address: 1925 Speight Avenue, Waco, TX 76706
Phone: 254-753-1421
Health Camp is anything but — and that’s the whole point. This burger joint has served the same menu since 1948 and is a classic Waco joint. It might not be good for your body, but it’s oh-so-good for your soul!
Address: 2601 Circle Road, Waco TX 76706
Phone: 254-752-2186
Jake’s Texas Tea House offers Southern, diner-style food in ‘50s atmosphere. Burgers are served on hubcaps, and you can expect “Blue Plate Specials” on weekdays. Family-owned-and-operated, Jake’s serves up Texas home-cooked meals in Downtown Waco, just several blocks from the Magnolia Silos. Come hungry for burgers, chicken fried steak and a slice of homemade pie.
Address: 613 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
Phone: (254) 756-2522
MOROSO offers a wide variety of authentic wood-fired pizzas and other Italian dishes, such as lasagna and fettucini chicken alfredo. Reservations are highly encouraged, as this is a popular spot in an intimate setting! Pro tip: Try the Honey Bear pizza.
Address: 4700 Bosque Boulevard, Waco TX 76710
Phone: 254-235-6000
Revival Eastside Eatery’s concept is simple: Greet people with a smile, serve delicious food and have a place for people to gather. Many of Revival’s ingredients and products for their sandwiches and burgers are sourced from the great state of Texas. If you’re in town during the week, head to Revival on a Thursday, which they call “special burger day.”
Address: 704 Elm Ave, Waco, TX 76704
Phone: 254-339-1401
Schmaltz’s is “Waco Born & Bread” — in other words, this little sandwich shoppe on 5th Street is known for their bread. Each sandwich is toasted in the oven, giving the bread a crunchy outside and a soft, airy inside. With a wide array of sandwiches to choose from, this is a perfect spot to try after your Campus Visit.
Address: 105 South 5th Street #2102, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-753-2332
Chevy DuBose created Blasian Asian to fill the need for authentic Cambodian food in Waco. With a newly updated and larger menu to match a newly updated and larger dining space, the Blasian Asian is sure to satisfy your craving for authentic south-Asian cuisine like potstickers, Pad Thai and lemongrass stir fry.
Address: 506 Austin Avenue, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-732-2768
The food hall is one of the latest dining trends, and Waco is proud to hop on the train. Union Hall in downtown Waco is home to vendors of all cuisines, including Italian, Asian, American and Hispanic. Pho, pizza, curry and chicken wings — there is truly something for everyone under Union Hall’s roof.
Address: 720 Franklin Avenue, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-870-2200
A Baylor student staple, Baris is the perfect place to grab a quick and delicious bowl of pasta, a steaming calzone or a slice of pizza. Pro-Tip: Try the Tortellini Pink for an authentic college student experience.
Address: 904 North Valley Mills Drive, Waco, TX 76710
Phone: (254)-772-2900
Brunch
If your visit to our city spans a couple of days, we’ve got a hunch you’ll be eating brunch. These Waco staples offer classic breakfast plates as well as dishes you won’t find anywhere else. The hardest choice? Deciding which one to visit first.
Voted Waco’s Best Brunch from 2006 to 2019, Café Cappuccino is a Waco breakfast staple that serves up delicious, classic breakfast plates and lunchtime meals. Their pancakes, which are nearly as big as the plates they’re served on, are a must-try.
Address: 100 North 6th Street #101, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-756-0396
Harvest on 25th offers an eclectic, clean-eating menu. Their seasonal dishes are inclusive of guests with most dietary restrictions, including those who need gluten-free, dairy-free or vegan options. The Honest Migas are a customer favorite, and J’s Pancakes provide a host of rich and fulfilling flavors.
Address: 112 North 25th Street, Waco TX 76710
Phone: 254-313-7285
Milo specializes in seasonal Southern comfort food with an upscale twist. With an ever-evolving menu, their seasonal, Texas-sourced dishes are full of big flavors that are sure to leave you satisfied. Pro tip: Try the Wrecking Ball, and make sure you order the biscuits with some homemade jam.
Address: 1020 Franklin Avenue, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-275-6670
Located just blocks from Waco’s campus, The Olive Branch Café is a wonderful brunch choice. They offer Chef’s Specials every weekend, so there is always something new to try. If you only have a short window of time, their walk-up bakery counter offers delicious homemade pastries like cinnamon rolls, croissants and muffins, perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast option.
Address: 215 South 2nd Street, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-757-0885
Hailed as a welcome addition to Waco’s Latinx food scene and committed to creating food from Oaxaca, Maria Mezcaleria is a solid choice for a unique, bold meal. They offer brunch until 3:00 p.m., serving up traditional dishes with a unique flair — like tres leches french toast — and Mexican classics like chicharrones.
Address: 724 Austin Avenue, Suite 102, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-339-1208
Fine Dining
When you find yourself in Waco on a day of celebration — whether it be a birthday or anniversary (or an acceptance to Baylor!) — there’s no shortage of fine dining establishments eager to elevate your experience. Waco boasts some breathtaking spaces that offer high-quality dishes and an air of sophistication fit for any special event.
One of Waco’s premiere steakhouses and fine dining establishments, DiamondBack’s is sure to impress with their mouthwatering, Texas-sized portions. Choose from some of the finest steak in Central Texas — the Bearnaise Sauce you can add on top is not to be missed — or take your pick from the sizable sushi menu.
Address: 217 Mary Avenue, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-757-2871
The Butcher’s Cellar brings a unique and upscale culinary experience to the heart of Central Texas. Executive Chef Alejandro Najar, a finalist on Season 21 of Gordon Ramsay’s “Hell’s Kitchen,” and Chef de Cuisine Alyssa Osinga, also a Season 21 contestant on “Hell’s Kitchen,” are passionate about creating true gourmet dining for the Waco area. The Butcher’s Cellar offers the highest-grade steaks and an array eclectic sides to be sampled and shared, like the 1,000-layer potato and spicy tuna crispy rice.
Address: 13701 Woodway Dr. Suite 110, Waco, TX 76712
Phone: 254-224-6176
When you step through the doors at OneThirtyFive Prime, you’ll find an atmosphere that balances elegance with comfort. Each element of your OneThirtyFive meal is given thoughtful consideration. The menu features the finest cuts of prime beef and the freshest seafood alongside farm-to-table produce that highlights the season’s best offerings. Come for delectable steaks, lobster mac-and-cheese and the signature crème brulee.
Address: 1201 Hewitt Drive, Suite 110, Waco, TX 76712
Phone: 254-666-3100
Located inside Hotel Herringbone, Red Herring offers an eclectic, Coastal-Mediterranean-inspired menu in a historic, art deco-inspired space. Red Herring’s dinner and raw bar menus highlight seasonal seafood, locally sourced meats and signature Mediterranean flavors in a grand setting. You’ll find something for everyone — from oysters on the half shell to housemade sourdough focaccia to duck al pastor. A bonus: You can expect weekly live performances on the piano lounge stage!
Address: 319 South 4th Street, Waco, TX 76701
Phone: 254-556-3939
At Casa Do Brasil, the rich flavors of Brazilian cuisine come to life! Inspired by the vibrant traditions of Brazilian churrasco, expertly seasoned cuts of premium meat are slow roasted over an open flame and carved tableside by skilled Gaucho chefs. If you’re not in the mood for meat, Casa Do Brasil’s salad bar features over 50 unique and delicious dishes, like fresh vegetables, imported cheeses, cured meats and soups.
Address: 1001 Webster Avenue, Waco, TX 76706
Phone: (254) 294-8450