These 8 Texas Restaurants Serve the State’s Best Chicken Fried Steak

If you’ve lived in Texas for any significant amount of time, you know how we feel about chicken fried steak. One of our state’s most iconic dishes, we’re so picky about its flavor that Texas restaurants have gotten it down to an exact science for patrons to continue showing up. This trail takes you to the very best chicken-fried steak in Texas, leaving the final verdict as to which one gets the top spot in your hands. As always, here is the Google Map with exact directions and addresses for places to eat in Texas. Gas up the car and get ready for all the deliciousness at these 8 restaurants on this Texas Chicken Fried Steak trail.

1. Mary's Cafe (Strawn)

Beginning anywhere other than Mary's Cafe would be a cardinal sin. Voted the best chicken-fried steak in Texas by nearly all who visit, this is the one to beat. It's so big that the gravy comes in a bowl on the side so it doesn't spill off the sides! Order other Southern classics while you're here, too, like cheesy grits, steak, and burgers. It's open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

2. Jake and Dorothy's Cafe (Stephenville)

This gem snagged the #2 spot in Texas Country Reporter's ranking, so trying it immediately after Mary's allows for a direct comparison. Plating the gravy first might seem a bit odd, but it's actually a genius move because the steak stays crispy on top. And if nothing else, this pile of carby goodness will speak to your soul. For more information on the menu, location, and hours, check out Jake and Dorothy's Facebook page.

3. Babe's Chicken Dinner House (Multiple Locations)

Babe's Chicken Dinner House has multiple locations across North Texas, but nothing compares to the original in Roanoke. Known primarily for fried chicken, this long-standing eatery would surprise many to learn it serves a mean chicken-fried steak as well. It also has a great kids' menu and catering options for your next family gathering.

4. Norma's Cafe (Dallas)

This old-fashioned diner encompasses everything we love about Texas. Waitstaff oozing with Southern hospitality, an atmosphere that takes you back to the bygone era of sock-hops & jukeboxes, and down-home cookin' just like Granny used to make. There's no doubt the food is independently amazing, but it's the entire experience that makes Norma's such a treasure. It's open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

5. Sodolak's Beefmasters Restaurant (Bryan)

Sodolack's isn't a legend because of its chicken-fried steak—that honor goes to the chicken-fried bacon (Yes, that's a thing. Gotta love Texas!) But that isn't to say their chicken-fried steak is anything short of amazing! Put a little piece on some toast, dip it in mashed 'taters, and pop it into your mouth for the perfect bite. It's open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

6. Mel's Country Cafe (Tomball)

Mel's Country Cafe serves up good old-fashioned home-cooked meals designed for Texas-sized appetites, so rest assured you won't be leaving the table hungry. Case in point: two pieces of chicken-fried steak for the price of one. It's pretty hard to top a deal like that in our eyes. It's open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday until 8 p.m.

7. The Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar (New Braunfels)

Historic Gruene isn't exactly the heart of cowboy country, so we were definitely taken aback at how many of y'all suggested Gristmill Restaurant and Bar in New Braunfels. But taste buds don't lie, and ours were in heaven after chowing down on the chicken fried steak at this upscale establishment. We also highly recommend the spinach artichoke dip and the deep-fried catfish filet.

8. Blue Bonnet Cafe (Marble Falls)

Last but not least is everyone's favorite cafe in the sleepy town of Marble Falls. From 25-year veteran waiters to a huge case of pies made fresh daily, there isn't a thing not to love about Blue Bonnet Cafe. The chicken fried steak almost melts in your mouth, and it comes with several classic Southern sides.

Who do you think makes the best chicken-fried steak in Texas? If you are itching to go on this chicken-fried road trip, make sure to check out our amazing road trip packing list that will help you make sure you don't forget anything you need.