We're all about our small-town restaurants here in the Lone Star State, and evidently y'all are as well! The following are 10 of the best rural restaurants in Texas, and each one is absolutely delicious. The list was compiled from suggestions made by our lovely readers. Keep reading to see if one of yours made the list!
1. Bevo's Drive In (Vernon)
Old fashioned greasy spoons never disappoint, and Bevo's is no exception. Locals go crazy for the fried pickles, juicy burgers, and decadent milkshakes, and it’s about time the rest of us get to experience such a mainstay as well.
You'll find the restaurant at 4000 Wilbarger St, Vernon, TX 76384. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
2. Jody's Old Restaurant (Temple)
Family owned and operated for over 65 years, Jody’s has made quite the name for itself. Serving up Southern staples like chicken and dumplings, meatloaf, and the crispiest onion rings in Central Texas, the Frank family invites everyone to dine at this legendary institution. The address is 1219 S 1st St # A, Temple, TX 76504. Click here to learn more about one of the best hidden gem restaurants in Texas.
3. Brazos River Cafe (Millsap)
Not many restaurants also serve as campgrounds, so this hidden gem is already set apart in that aspect alone. With farm-raised catfish, beautiful scenery, and even a place to stay for the night after you eat, Brazos River Catfish Cafe is the most unique seafood joint around. The restaurant is located at 10771 I-20, Millsap, TX 76066. To learn more, visit their website here.
4. Judy's Cafe (Duncanville)
A small town, homey atmosphere, and breakfast food: three independently awesome factors that, when combined, are the perfect recipe for an amazing meal. The most important meal of the day, along with plenty of other delicious eats, is served ‘round the clock on weekends, so come get your grub on! You'll find Judy's at 126 W Camp Wisdom Rd, Duncanville, TX 75116. To learn more, visit their website here.
5. Underwood's Cafeteria (Brownwood)
We don’t usually go for buffets, but Underwood’s is a shining exception. The wood-paneled decor creates a rustic, woodsy vibe complemented by the BBQ, Southern sides, and scrumptious fruit cobblers that diners can enjoy in unlimited amounts. The address is 402 W Commerce St, Brownwood, TX 76801. To learn more, visit their website here.
6. Dahlia Cafe (Libery Hill)
Restaurants with outdoor seating hold a special place in our hearts, especially when evenings are comfortably crisp and cool. Grab some friends and enjoy a night to remember complete with live music, an upbeat atmosphere, and delicious home-cooked food. The cafe is located at 2450 Ranch Rd 1869, Liberty Hill, TX 78642. Click here to learn more.
7. K N Root Beer Drive In (Graham)
K N Root Beer began in 1948, quickly expanding from the original Wisconsin location to over 30 drive-ins nationwide. Only a handful still remain, and we’re lucky enough to have three right here in Texas! You'll find the Graham location at 1108 Cypress St, Graham, TX 76450. To learn more, visit their website here.
8. Bob's Better Burger (Midland)
The retro signage outside this quirky diner attracts weary West Texas travelers all day long, and nobody has ever regretted stopping. Everyone knows the best burgers come without any fancy sauces or toppings, and Bob’s delivers perfectly in that aspect. The restaurant is located at 3417 Thomason Dr, Midland, TX 79703. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
9. Lum's BBQ (Junction)
Better BBQ for the price Lum’s charges is impossible to come by, and they certainly don’t skimp on flavor, either. Slow-smoked brisket, sausage, turkey, and other premium cuts of meat are seasoned to perfection and guaranteed to melt in your mouth. You'll find Lum's at 2031 Main St, Junction, TX 76849. Click here to learn more.
10. Dairy Mart (Mineral Wells)
At first glance, Dairy Mart looks more like a defunct gas station than a thriving restaurant. If you take one piece of advice away from us about Texas, let it be this: never judge a book by its cover. These burgers and fries are some of the best you’ve ever eaten, and the people are absolute jewels to boot. The address is 700 SE 1st St, Mineral Wells, TX 76067. Click here to learn more.
Have you been to any of these hidden gem restaurants in Texas? Did we leave off your favorite small-town restaurant in Texas? Drop some of your suggestions in the comments so we can keep them in mind for future articles!
If you're looking for more comfort food in Texas, check out these 10 iconic restaurants in the Lone Star State.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!