Eats

Named by Texas Monthly as one of the 50 best barbecue restaurants in Texas, Guess will satisfy your craving for old-school barbecue favorites like brisket, spare ribs and sausage. Make sure you save room for the homemade coconut cream pie!

Address: 2803 Franklin Avenue, Waco TX 76710
Phone: 254-313-3436

Guess Family Barbecue

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 6^th Street B, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-732-0147

Hecho En Waco

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

Helberg Barbecue

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

Jorge's Cantina

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

Maria Mezcaleria

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 3^rd Street, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-757-2050

Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant

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

Vitek’s BBQ

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

Terry Black's BBQ

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

Alpha Omega Grill & Bakery

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 11^th Street, Waco TX 76706
Phone: 254-754-3869

Cajun Craft

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

Clay Pot Restaurant

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

George’s Restaurant

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

Health Camp Burgers & Shakes

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 

Jake's Texas Tea House

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

MOROSO Wood Fired Pizzeria

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

Revival Eastside Eatery

Schmaltz’s is “Waco Born & Bread” — in other words, this little sandwich shoppe on 5^th 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 5^th Street #2102, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-753-2332

Schmaltz’s Sandwich Shoppe

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 Blasian Asian

The Mix Cafe serves up delicious soups, savory sandwiches and stuffed avocados, making this spot an excellent stop for lunch. Pro tip: Try the Dr Pepper pulled pork sandwich and homemade sweet potato fries.

Address: 1700 South 5^th Street, Waco TX 76706
Phone: 254-652-4300

The Mix Cafe

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

Union Hall Waco

Cultura Mia’s main goal is to share an authentic experience with a cultural connection. Owners Jesus and Selina aim to share a genuine connection to Mexican cuisine that the city of Waco deserves. This is not your average Mexican restaurant; you’ll find dishes like chile en nogada and enchiladas de mole amarillo across Cultura Mia’s menu. Stop by for a genuinely authentic experience that you will not get anywhere else.

Address: 123 North 12th Street, Waco, TX 76701 
Phone: (254) 296-4512

Cultura Mia

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 6^th Street #101, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-756-0396

Cafe Cappuccino

Harvest on 25^th 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 25^th Street, Waco TX 76710
Phone: 254-313-7285

Harvest on 25th

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

Milo

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 2^nd Street, Waco TX 76701
Phone: 254-757-0885

The Olive Branch

Waco Waffle Co aims to redefine breakfast by celebrating the versatility of waffles. You’ll find a wide array of sweet and savory creations sure to satisfy every palate’s preference. For those with a morning sweet tooth, try the “University,” topped with peanut butter, bananas, chocolate chips and caramel, or the “Webster,” covered in a sweet cream/Nutella drizzle, strawberries and whipped cream. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more substantial, try the “Franklin,” a jalapeño cheddar waffle with turkey bacon and a fried egg.

Address: 224 Halbert Lane, Waco, TX 76705 
Phone: 254-301-6183

Waco Waffle Co.

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

DiamondBack's

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

The Butcher's Cellar

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

OneThirtyFive Prime

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

Red Herring