Top Waco Food & Drink: Your Guide to the Best Restaurants & Bars

Waco, Texas is maybe more than just the home of Baylor University and a certain home renovation show; that is, it’s apparently cooking up quite the name for itself in the food and drink scene too. So, with options for everything from great BBQ to cool coffee spots, I’ve explored the local hotspots and, well, it is that I’m sharing my top five picks for the Waco food and drink experiences you totally shouldn’t miss.

1. George’s Restaurant & Bar: A Waco Staple

George’s Restaurant & Bar is like, almost an institution in Waco, serving up those big portions and, yeah, that super casual atmosphere that just kind of screams Texas. I remember that first time I walked in; it was totally packed, yet there was, in a way, that energy, just a friendly, welcoming place where pretty much everyone seemed to know each other, so maybe it’s like your classic neighborhood hangout but on a, well, grander scale. They’re known for their “Big O” (a big orange sweet alcoholic drink, similar to an orange crush) and, in that case, dishes too, that well, are equally generous.

What to try, you ask? The chicken fried steak. As a matter of fact, it’s legitimately massive and exactly that comfort food that maybe you are just craving. It’s just, okay, you have been warned; this dish is really big enough to share, but, arguably, you just might want it all to yourself, that’s okay too! The onion rings? Actually, they are a must-try as well; they are those huge, crispy, beer-battered things that, just a little, can kind of ruin you for any other onion rings forever, so maybe it’s best to be wary. Seriously, like your experience here really will depend on the time you visit. Weekends? I mean, there’s gonna be a wait. But if you can, you know, sneak in during a weekday, maybe it is that you will get a totally different vibe—more relaxed, same great food.

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2. Magnolia Table: Breakfast Heaven with a Touch of Waco Charm

Okay, so you can’t talk about food in Waco without bringing up Magnolia Table. It is actually Chip and Joanna Gaines’ restaurant, and still, it’s a pilgrimage for tourists and those loyal fans, still, that actually doesn’t take away from the quality of the food or the overall experience, I mean, in a way. From that moment you arrive, you’re greeted with, like, seriously amazing service and a really cute atmosphere, it’s almost like every corner is just ‘begging’ to be photographed.

The breakfast menu, now that is just where Magnolia Table just seemingly shines. The pancakes? It seems, are legitimately fluffy and delicious, and I am saying they’re kind of perfect for sharing. I think I’d order The Farm Breakfast. As I was saying, it really just showcases local ingredients, and is just, in some respects, hearty enough to kind of fuel you for that whole day, particularly if you’re planning on seeing a lot in Waco. And yes, be prepared. Typically, there’s usually a wait, arguably especially on weekends, but still, there’s a gift shop that can give you a distraction while, arguably, you are working up that appetite, just a little. It’s a, sort of, perfect spot for breakfast or brunch if maybe you are visiting Waco, but definitely try to go during the week so that, in that case, you are minimizing that waiting.

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3. Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q: Texas BBQ Done Right

Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q, now that, is definitely your down-to-earth, no-frills BBQ joint that serves up that, that really is, great smoked meats. Don’t go in expecting any of those fancy decor; still, it is all about the BBQ here. You get your food served on butcher paper, so there is almost no pretense, and the focus is seemingly all on the quality, I mean, that is for sure. When I first visited, I’d ordered their brisket, arguably, it was, I think, almost melting in my mouth and, well, it’s smoked for hours.

That smoky flavor and that kind of tenderness really do shine through. Honestly, like their creamed corn is, surprisingly, super good too, and that’s coming from someone who pretty much always skips the veggies. Also, you totally can’t leave without, like, trying their moist brisket; it’s pretty much what they are best known for. Typically, you will find that atmosphere at Rudy’s. As a matter of fact, it’s lively and always busy, and, I mean, in a way, it reflects their popularity amongst both locals and, apparently, tourists alike. Honestly, if you want authentic Texas BBQ and nothing more, definitely Rudy’s is worth the stop.

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4. Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits: Where Coffee Meets Cocktails

Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits is quite the unique spot, combining, similarly to, coffee and cocktails. As I was saying, it really does offer something for, in some respects, pretty much everyone, so maybe you’re after your morning caffeine fix or you need somewhere for some evening drinks, that’s where it lies. It is very downtown, right in the center of Waco, so it kind of makes it, too, a really convenient spot to stop, still, when, as a matter of fact, you are seeing those sights.

For that coffee enthusiast, I’d personally grab a latte. Typically, it is, like, consistently well-made, yet it really does showcase their quality beans. Want to try their cocktail menu instead? Honestly, you’ll find a mix of, more or less, classics and their creations; as a matter of fact, it’s cool. Plus, arguably, it is worth a stop. Seriously, Dichotomy does offer a unique, relaxing atmosphere, and, frankly, whether you go during the day or even the evening, there will arguably be that enjoyable time spent.

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5. Cricket’s Grill & Draft House: The Local Sports Bar

Cricket’s Grill & Draft House is a kind of reliable sports bar and it is often frequented by locals, for sure. So, if, that is, you’re looking to just, arguably, catch a game, get that cold beer, and eat well with some, yet still good, simple food, and arguably in a vibrant atmosphere, Cricket’s is definitely ideal, anyway. In fact, I think I love this spot so much is due to there just, basically, being nothing fancy about it. It’s simply always good.

Anyway, their burgers are a popular choice. It seems, though, that are actually, like, cooked to perfection. Also, frankly, what’s better than that? Definitely you need to check their wings out too; I am just saying they come with all the varieties of sauces that are actually very solid bar fare. Just in case that wasn’t enough, anyway, it makes the environment that fun and energetic—almost as much when a really important game’s playing. Now, you, if so, might just, as a matter of fact, be dealing with crowds. Nevertheless, seriously, if that sounds ideal, this bar should be tried because it arguably would fit what, as a matter of fact, you’d be looking for if so.

Read our full review: Cricket’s Grill & Draft House Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check availability)