The title of this article implies fancy restaurants, but I assure you that’s not what I’ll be talking about. In Texas, even some of our smallest restaurants have such a huge following that there’s always a long line outside. Here are 8 popular restaurants in Texas that are notorious for always being busy.

1. Franklin Barbecue (Austin)
Yelp/Nick M.
Yelp/Eric B.
This restaurant easily has the most notoriously long line in Texas, but the food is worth every second of the wait. People come from all over the state to indulge in some of the most tender, flavorful barbecue around. You'll find this iconic restaurant at 900 E. 11th St, Austin, TX 78702. To learn more, visit the official website for Franklin Barbecue in Austin.
2. Blue Bonnet Cafe (Marble Falls)
Yelp/M.W.
Yelp/Lorin H.
Yelp/Cande Rosemary D.
Even though it's a small-town diner, Blue Bonnet Cafe is always packed for brunch on the weekends. That's completely understandable given the quality of the food, though. Fresh yard eggs, chicken fried steak that's the perfect balance between crispy and juicy, and all the classic Southern sides cooked to perfection. And it would be a crime to leave without a slice of homemade pie. You'll find this amazing diner at 211 US-281, Marble Falls, TX 78654. Visit Blue Bonnet Cafe's website to learn more.
3. Snow's BBQ (Lexington)
Yelp/Kip G.
Yelp/Greg D.
It surprises me to no end that so many people know about this little barbecue joint in the middle of nowhere. Although it doesn't draw crowds nearly as big as Franklin, it's a much smaller business and it's only open until about noon, so it's extremely hard to get into unless you plan carefully. If you are lucky enough to score some of this mouthwatering meat, savor every bite because there's no telling when you'll be back. Check them out at 516 Main St, Lexington, TX 78947. To learn more, visit the official website for Snow's BBQ in Texas.
4. City Market (Luling)
Yelp/Chinh

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Yelp/Chinh
Every Texan needs to experience Luling City Market at least once in their lifetime. There's an entire room dedicated to the slow-smoking of the barbecue, and it's here that the line is formed to place your order. It may be a long line in a relatively small space, but once you sink your teeth into the legendary brisket and sausage, you'll eagerly agree to wait twice as long if you had to. Visit them at 633 E Davis St, Luling, TX 78648. To learn more, check out the official website for Luling City Market.
5. Sprinkles Cupcakes (Houston)
Yelp/Andrea P.
Yelp/Oscar G.
Sprinkles isn't exactly a restaurant, but it had to make the list considering its infamous, constantly out-the-door line. I would gladly stand in it for days, though, because their cupcakes are simply phenomenal. The cake is moist, the frosting has just the right amount of sweetness without being overbearing, and the presentation is stunning. Oh, and if you want to skip the line, you can always head around back to the Cupcake ATM! You'll find this tasty cupcake bakery at 4014 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77027. Visit Sprinkles Cupcake's website for more information.
6. Killen's Barbecue (Pearland)
Yelp/Allen T.
Yelp/Bo Y.
Killen's is another place known for its outrageous lines, but I think the picture above is a good enough explanation as to why. I mean, just look at the shine on those charred edges. You get huge portions with a lot of sides like creamed corn, mac & cheese, and collard greens, as well. Dig into some epic eats at 3613 E Broadway St, Pearland, TX 77581. To learn more, visit the official website for Killen's Barbecue.
7. Home Slice (Austin)
Yelp/Michael H.
Yelp/Aaron P.
This pizza joint is always packed, but you'll understand why as soon as you take a bite. And they're all thin crust, so that means they're automatically good for you...right? You'll find this fan-favorite restaurant at 1415 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704. To learn more, visit the official website for Home Slice Pizza.
8. Pecan Lodge (Dallas)
Yelp/Belly G.
Yelp/Angel N.
Pecan Lodge started out as a mere stall at the Dallas Farmers Market, so looking at how far they've come almost makes up for the ridiculous line. Their food is critically acclaimed by Zagat and Texas Monthly, so I'd say it's definitely worth the wait. Check them out at 2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226. To learn more, visit the official website for Pecan Lodge.

Have you ever been to any of these popular restaurants in Texas? Was there a ridiculously long wait? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

If you’re hungry for more, check out our previous article: 10 Irresistible Restaurants That Define Texas.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

popular restaurants in Texas

Elisa Regulski | September 16, 2020

What are the most famous restaurants in Texas?

There are so many famous restaurants in Texas that are totally worth all of the attention they receive. In addition to the eateries listed above, The Big Texan in Amarillo is a must-visit. This quirky comfort food restaurant is so much more than just their well-known 72-ounce steak competition. Their entire menu is full of tasty meals.

What are the best Italian restaurants in Texas?

Trattoria Lisina, located in Driftwood, is one of the best Italian restaurants in Texas. The atmosphere will make you feel like you were whisked away to a Tuscan villa, and the dishes are absolutely mouthwatering. Plus, it’s right next door to an amazing hill country winery! What could be better?

What are the best places to get hamburgers in Texas?

For a classic burger, head to Keller's Drive-In in Dallas. This retro eatery serves some of the most delicious American food around. Sure, it’s nothing fancy, but it’s loaded with that wonderful nostalgic charm we all crave.

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Featured Addresses
Franklin Barbecue, 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702, USA
Blue Bonnet Cafe, 211 US-281, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
516 Main St, Lexington, TX 78947, USA
City Market, 633 E Davis St, Luling, TX 78648, USA
Sprinkles Houston Westheimer, 4014 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77027, USA
3613 E Broadway St, Pearland, TX 77581, USA
Home Slice Pizza, 1415 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, USA
2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226, USA