The best restaurants in McLennan County

Family-owned since 2011, Shorty's Pizza Shack nails the crisp crust, gooey whole-milk mozzarella, and house-made sauce, plus from-scratch toppings, wings, fresh salads, and beers by the half-pitcher. Grab a table on the giant covered patio this week, catch the game, and call it a good Waco day.

From the Waco newsletter, October 4, 2026

Magnolia Table turns breakfast and lunch into fresh, garden-and-farm driven comfort, with prepared-to-go bites that save the day when life gets busy. Dependable, delicious, and local for Waco folks who’d rather not dirty a pan. Put it on your weekly rotation this week.

From the Waco newsletter, October 3, 2026

Craving that no-nonsense Central Texas smoke? Terry Black's Barbecue Waco nails the melt-in-your-mouth brisket, beef ribs that demand two hands, and all the classics like cream corn, mac and cheese, and banana pudding, plus a behind-the-pits Experience if you want to nerd out on how the magic happens.

From the Waco newsletter, October 8, 2026

This week, chase that thin, griddled patty with crispy edges, buttered buns and grilled onions at Dubl-R Old Fashioned Hamburgers, the tiny spot with license plates lining the walls that nails the classic burger and fries in a red basket vibe.

From the Waco newsletter, October 11, 2026

Waco Waffle Co keeps breakfast interesting with waffles stacked how you like them, from strawberries and Nutella to fried chicken and jalapeños. Pair it with iced coffee or kombucha, then circle back for a brisket grilled cheese or a scoop in a waffle cone... because balance.

From the Waco newsletter, September 26, 2026

Union Hall packs Waco favorites and new finds into one downtown hub, so everyone gets what they want and you still eat together. Think food-hall grazing, shared tables, and the occasional event... perfect for a low-stress weeknight or a lazy weekend catch-up.

From the Waco newsletter, October 9, 2026

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

Classic sweet treats, breads & 35 types of kolaches are offered at this busy bakery in a gift shop.

Brisket, ribs & sides served up cafeteria-style in a no-frills setting with indoor picnic tables.

Segovia Wine Bar is Waco's original Spanish tapas spot, pairing a deep, explore-worthy wine program with made-from-scratch tapas, pintxos, and cocas that blend Texas ingredients with Iberian know-how. Expect live music, tastings, and chef dinners... aka a perfect midweek upgrade with friends.

From the Waco newsletter, October 12, 2026

Vitek's BBQ keeps Waco fed with the Original Gut Pak, the legendary pile-up locals lean on when hunger gets loud. Swing by this week for smoky barbecue comfort and a Pak that somehow hits messy, satisfying, and downright addictive all at once.

From the Waco newsletter, August 28, 2026

Relaxed, colorful eatery serving chicken tenders and sandwiches with varying spice levels, plus fries and sides.

S. Barnett's Whiskey House keeps downtown Waco humming with Southern gastropub plates, weekend brunch, happy hour hangs, live music, and what they bill as Texas' largest whiskey selection. Settle in, ask for a guided pour, and find a new favorite without leaving the neighborhood.

From the Waco newsletter, September 28, 2026

Casa Do Brasil spotlights premium cuts and authentic Brazilian flavors, plus midweek live music on the bar and patio. Not in a going-out mood? Their Butcher Shop sends you home with custom beef, lamb, or pork cuts prepared to order by their Gauchos.

From the Waco newsletter, September 19, 2026

Whether your week needs a little European escape, Pivovar has you covered with house-brewed lagers, a breezy beer garden, and Czech comfort like the Classic Pocket Schnitzel, Pan Seared Salmon, a killer Reuben, and Brulee Cheesecake. Gather the crew, linger a while, maybe even peek at the beer spa.

From the Waco newsletter, October 17, 2026

Shorty's Pizza Shack nails that crisp crust and gooey, whole-milk mozz with house-made dough and sauce, plus the beloved pizza pillows and legit wings. Family-owned since 2011, it’s the kind of laid-back spot where half-pitchers, a giant covered patio, and two Waco locations make lazy Sundays dangerously easy.

From the Waco newsletter, August 31, 2026

Dave's Burger Barn keeps it simple and legit with made-to-order chuck burgers, chili dogs, and homemade potato chips that somehow disappear from the basket too fast. Grab a shake and, if you’re feeling bold, try their infamous Zipper Ripper. Solid neighborhood standby when the burger itch hits.

From the Waco newsletter, September 24, 2026

Revival Eastside Eatery turns a former church into a women-owned hangout with Texas-sourced, house-made salads, sandwiches, and burgers plus a solid beer and wine lineup. Go for the fresh flavors, stay for the open rafters, tin ceiling tiles, and brick walls that make Elm Avenue feel new again.

From the Waco newsletter, October 5, 2026

Hecho En Waco Mexican Cuisine is your move when you want legit Mexican plates, an extensive drink lineup, and a place to catch the Premier League with friends. Hosting this week, let them handle parties and catering, or keep it cozy and order online like the kitchen hero you are.

From the Waco newsletter, August 29, 2026

Broken G BBQ is the kind of spot locals keep in their back pocket, turning out tender brisket, proper ribs, and those melt-in-your-mouth burnt ends, with banana pudding for the exclamation point. When dinner needs to be easy and satisfyingly smoky, this is a no-brainer.

From the Waco newsletter, September 6, 2026

Opal's Oysters brings Gulf Coast energy to Waco with oysters, bright ceviche, lobster rolls and crab cakes, plus a cocktail list built for lingering. It’s the spot when you want seafood that feels like summer and the occasional tasting or wine dinner to keep things interesting.

From the Waco newsletter, September 27, 2026

Between the authentic New York style pies, scratch-made pastas, and oven-kissed calzones, Italia Express Waco is that family-owned standby you forget you love until the first bite. Fast, fresh, and comforting, it’s an easy weeknight win when you want real deal Italian without the fuss.

From the Waco newsletter, August 10, 2026

Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

Counter-serve, industrial-chic chain restaurant known for build-your-own pizzas.

Di Campli’s Italian Ristorante serves an Authentic Italian Experience with fresh, homemade recipes from Massimo Di Campli’s Abruzzo roots, exceptional service, and a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence wine list. Make this the week you trade sad desk pasta for the real thing with friends.

From the Waco newsletter, October 19, 2026

Slow Rise Slice House is the relaxed spot for large New York-style pies and slices plus a craft beer lineup that makes lingering a no-brainer, perfect for a low-key night with friends, whether you hit Woodway or the Brazos River location.

From the Waco newsletter, September 18, 2026

Cheddar Box is Waco's original grilled cheese food truck, turning melty, gourmet builds into a proper lunch break without the fuss. Run by Head Hospitality, they lean into local sourcing and purpose-driven vibes, and the result is simply craveable...

From the Waco newsletter, September 14, 2026

If you need a reliable go-to for coffee, pastries, and hearty American breakfast and lunch, The Olive Branch nails it in a relaxed, warehouse-style space. Sunday Brunch brings the fun, and their seasonal menu tweaks keep regulars curious. Also peep their Chef's Dinner and catering.

From the Waco newsletter, September 2, 2026

Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.

Waco-area staple since 2007, now settled in Woodway since 2021, Luigi's Italian Restaurant is all about comforting Italian plates and seafood specials that taste like someone’s nonna said "one more spoon of sauce" and meant it. Keep it simple this week, let the carbs do the talking.

From the Waco newsletter, October 15, 2026

Locally owned since 2012, Our Breakfast Place keeps Waco mornings upbeat with award-winning breakfasts, laid-back brunch, and lunch plates that feel like a hug. Expect hearty comfort, friendly faces, and seasonal menu twists that turn an ordinary Tuesday into a small celebration.

From the Waco newsletter, September 11, 2026

Set in a restored 1950s auto shop downtown, Cajun Craft turns out jambalaya, boudin balls, and a dangerously good crawfish poutine, plus beignets you’ll talk about all week, with coastal Texas meets New Orleans vibes that make weeknights feel like a mini getaway.

From the Waco newsletter, September 4, 2026

Chain serving Hawaiian quick bites, including soft-serve Dole Whip, in a casual atmosphere.

Blaine's Restaurant & Wine Shoppe is your scratch-kitchen wine hangout, serving seasonal plates that spotlight local farmers and artisans. Hit Fish & Chips Tuesdays, Wine Jam Wednesdays’ 5-course wine dinners, or grab the Chef’s Counter for an intimate tasting.

From the Waco newsletter, September 3, 2026

Trendy chain offering breakfast, brunch, and lunch classics, plus coffee, and cocktails.

Cheery, socially conscious cafe offering familiar comfort grub & fair trade goods for sale on site.

The Village Pizzaria Slice House & Gelato Bar at Union Hall turns aged sourdough into crisp, craveable pies, slices, and calzones, then cools it down with a legit gelato bar. Old-school Central Texas restaurant roots, full bar service, and easy catering make it a reliable weeknight fix.

From the Waco newsletter, September 13, 2026

Family-run since 1946 and now in its fourth generation, Tony DeMaria's BBQ is the kind of counter-serve spot locals trust for straight-up Texas-style barbecue cooked fresh each morning. It usually sells out, so plan ahead... and yes, they cater when you need to feed the whole crew.

From the Waco newsletter, September 17, 2026

Baris keeps things easygoing and delicious with traditional pastas, pizza, and those giant, addictive rolls locals rave about. It’s BYOB, portions are generous, and the menu stays affordable, all while carrying on Mama Baris’ cozy, crowd-pleasing legacy since 1996.

From the Waco newsletter, September 25, 2026

Since 1930, George’s Restaurant Bar & Catering has been the go-to for chicken fried steak, crazy wings, and that icy Big O beer that always seems exactly right after a long day. Come hungry, leave happy, and remember they also cater when you need crowd-pleasing comfort.

From the Waco newsletter, September 20, 2026

Chain with gourmet beef, turkey & vegan burgers, plus spiked shakes. Some locations have game meats.

From half-pound, made-to-order burgers stacked on freshly baked buns to creative builds that push what a burger can be, Jakes Burgers delivers the kind of craveable, crowd-pleasing spread that fixes weeknight dinner indecision. Pair it with crispy fries and a schooner or Jake-a-rita and call it a win.

From the Waco newsletter, October 18, 2026

Red Herring Restaurant & Bar brings a piano lounge vibe to Waco with Grand Piano tunes, craft cocktails, and a menu that puts a playful spin on Coastal Mediterranean classics. Expect small plates built for swapping bites, lively conversation, and live music that turns an ordinary Wednesday into a tiny celebration.

From the Waco newsletter, September 12, 2026

Let Milo All Day handle your brunch-to-dinner cravings with modern Southern dishes built on seasonal ingredients. Expect traditional recipes turned up with bold, inspiring flavors from Chef Corey’s Southern roots and world travels, plus cocktails that don’t try too hard...

From the Waco newsletter, October 10, 2026

Burgers, pizza & beer served alongside many large-screen TVs showing sports & music videos.

When you want dinner with a view and dishes that actually feel special, Bertie’s on the Rooftop delivers Texas Gulf shrimp cocktail, Spicy Lobster Tagliatelle, and the Upside-Down Pineapple Butter Cake. Seasonal menu, nostalgic charm, and just the right amount of fancy, so put it on your list this week.

From the Waco newsletter, October 16, 2026

Fast-food chain offering fried chicken, chicken tenders, sandwiches & wings, plus Southern-influenced sides.

Circa Bar & Kitchen pairs globally inspired plates with artfully crafted cocktails in a relaxed spot tucked inside Element Waco, complete with a fireplace when you need that extra cozy Waco vibe. Great for date night or catching up with friends, it’s the kind of place you end up lingering.

From the Waco newsletter, September 21, 2026

Waco legend since 1977, Whizzbang's Hamburgers keeps things simple and perfect with hand-pressed patties, never frozen, and meat delivered fresh each morning from a local market.

From the Waco newsletter, August 30, 2026

Tucked right on the fairways, Lake Waco Golf Club Bar & Grill does hometown dining with lake views, refreshing drinks, and the kind of burgers people won’t stop talking about. Swing by pre or post round, or meet friends for a relaxed lunch that doesn’t overcomplicate the good stuff.

From the Waco newsletter, September 7, 2026

m. on a Tuesday, Burgertology has the lab-tested cure: creative burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, proper fries, and thick shakes that make dinner feel like a tiny celebration. Trendy without trying too hard, and definitely weeknight-repeatable.

From the Waco newsletter, October 2, 2026