Texas is the second-largest US state by area and population, a land of dramatic contrasts—from Gulf Coast beaches and piney woods to desert mountains and rolling Hill Country. Home to four of America's largest cities, a legendary BBQ culture, deep cowboy heritage, and the world-famous Austin music scene, Texas offers travelers an astonishing range of experiences under its vast open skies.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Franklin Barbecue
Arguably the most famous BBQ restaurant in America, founded by Aaron Franklin. Lines start before dawn for the butcher paper-wrapped brisket that has consistently been rated the best in the world.
900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Pecan Lodge
Dallas's gold standard for Central Texas-style BBQ, located in the Deep Ellum arts district. Their massive beef ribs (Friday only) and brisket are legendary.
2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
La Fonda on Main
A San Antonio institution since 1932, serving classic San Antonio-style Mexican food in a charming historic building in the King William area. The enchilada plate is a local benchmark.
2415 N Main Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
Hugo's
Chef Hugo Ortega's acclaimed restaurant in Montrose showcasing sophisticated regional Mexican cuisine far beyond Tex-Mex, with complex mole sauces, coastal seafood preparations, and Yucatecan specialties.
1600 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Uchi
Chef Tyson Cole's James Beard Award-winning Japanese restaurant transformed Austin's dining scene. Creative, impeccably sourced Japanese cuisine in a converted 1930s house on South Lamar.
801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Brennan's of Houston
A Houston institution since 1967, Brennan's brings New Orleans Creole cooking to Texas with legendary tableside preparations, extensive wine list, and the iconic Sunday Jazz Brunch.
3300 Smith St, Houston, TX 77006
Joe T. Garcia's Mexican Dishes
A Fort Worth institution since 1935, Joe T.'s serves a simple fixed menu of enchiladas or fajitas in a sprawling garden restaurant with legendary frozen margaritas. The line is always long but always worth it.
2201 N Commerce St, Fort Worth, TX 76164
Perini Ranch Steakhouse
A destination steakhouse on a working ranch in the small town of Buffalo Gap, serving mesquite-grilled steaks and ranch cooking. Named one of the best steakhouses in America by numerous food publications.
3002 FM 89, Buffalo Gap, TX 79508
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Texas Bbq
American
Japanese
Steakhouse
Craft Cocktails
Creative Tacos
Creole
Damn Good Tacos
Fusion
Italian
Nuevo Latino
Texas Burgers
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |