Amarillo, Texas, a city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and mouth-watering cuisine. Located in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo is a popular stop for travelers and locals alike, and its food scene is a major draw. From classic Tex-Mex to good ol’ fashioned comfort food, Amarillo has something for every palate and craving. In this article, we’ll take a culinary tour of Amarillo, highlighting the best places to eat and drink in this vibrant city.
Breakfast and Brunch
Starting your day off right is essential, and Amarillo has plenty of options for breakfast and brunch lovers. Here are a few must-visit spots:
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The Big Texan Steak Ranch
This iconic restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie. The Big Texan Steak Ranch is famous for its 72-oz steak challenge, but it’s also a great spot for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Try their signature “Big Texan Breakfast” featuring a giant plate of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, and pancakes.
El Tejano’s Cafe
For a taste of authentic Tex-Mex, head to El Tejano’s Cafe. This family-owned restaurant has been a local favorite for over 30 years, serving up delicious breakfast burritos, tacos, and enchiladas. Don’t miss their famous “Taco Tuesday” special, featuring $1 tacos all day long.
The Golden Light Cafe
This cozy cafe is a hidden gem in downtown Amarillo. The Golden Light Cafe serves up creative breakfast dishes like the “Eggs-travagant Omelette” and the “Cinnamon Roll French Toast.” They also offer a variety of coffee drinks and pastries.
Lunch and Dinner
When it comes to lunch and dinner, Amarillo has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Here are a few recommendations:
Cattleman’s Steakhouse
This upscale steakhouse is a great spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends. Cattleman’s Steakhouse serves up premium cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and pasta dishes. Be sure to try their signature “Cattleman’s Cut” steak, a 14-oz ribeye served with a side of garlic butter.
Golden Light Cafe (again!)
We mentioned the Golden Light Cafe earlier, but it’s worth mentioning again for lunch and dinner. This cafe serves up a variety of sandwiches, salads, and entrees, including their famous “Famous Fried Chicken” and “Meatloaf Madness.” (See Also: Where to Eat in Sarande? Best Local Favorites)
La Bella Vita
For a taste of Italy in Amarillo, head to La Bella Vita. This family-owned restaurant serves up authentic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto. Be sure to try their signature “Lasagna Bolognese,” a layered masterpiece featuring ground beef, lasagna noodles, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Dessert and Snacks>
After a big meal, you’ll need something sweet to satisfy your sweet tooth. Amarillo has plenty of options for dessert and snacks. Here are a few recommendations:
Amorino Gelato
This Italian gelato shop is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Amorino Gelato offers a variety of unique flavors like pistachio, hazelnut, and stracciatella. Try their signature “Gelato Sandwich” featuring two scoops of gelato sandwiched between two cookies.
The Big Texan Steak Ranch (again!)
We mentioned the Big Texan Steak Ranch earlier, but it’s worth mentioning again for dessert. This restaurant offers a variety of sweet treats like cheesecake, brownies, and ice cream. Be sure to try their signature “Big Texan Sundae,” featuring two scoops of ice cream, hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
Snack Time
For a quick snack or pick-me-up, head to Snack Time. This convenience store is a local favorite, offering a variety of snacks, drinks, and treats. Be sure to try their famous “Frito Pie,” a classic Texas snack featuring Fritos, chili, and cheese.
Beverages
Whether you’re looking for a cup of coffee, a cold beer, or a glass of wine, Amarillo has plenty of options. Here are a few recommendations: (See Also: Where to Eat in Istanbul Turkey? A Foodie’s Paradise)
The 806
This coffee shop is a great spot to grab a cup of coffee or a snack. The 806 offers a variety of specialty drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and cold brew. They also serve up delicious pastries and sandwiches.
Big Shot Burrito
This popular burrito joint is also a great spot for a cold beer or a glass of wine. Big Shot Burrito offers a variety of craft beers and cocktails, as well as a selection of wine and margaritas. Be sure to try their signature “Big Shot Burrito,” featuring a giant burrito filled with chicken, steak, or veggies.
Food Trucks
Amarillo has a thriving food truck scene, with plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Here are a few recommendations:
El Taco Loco
This popular food truck serves up delicious Mexican cuisine like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Be sure to try their signature “Taco Loco,” featuring a crispy taco shell filled with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, and cheese.
Waffle Love
This food truck is a must-visit for breakfast lovers. Waffle Love serves up delicious waffles with a variety of toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, and syrup. Try their signature “Waffle Sandwich,” featuring a waffle filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.
Recap
Amarillo, Texas, is a city that’s full of flavor and excitement. From classic Tex-Mex to good ol’ fashioned comfort food, Amarillo has something for every palate and craving. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, Amarillo has plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Be sure to check out some of the top restaurants and food trucks mentioned in this article, and don’t forget to try some of the local specialties like Frito Pie and Big Texan Steak Ranch’s 72-oz steak challenge.
FAQs
What is the best place to eat in Amarillo?
The best place to eat in Amarillo depends on your personal preferences and what you’re in the mood for. Some popular options include The Big Texan Steak Ranch, El Tejano’s Cafe, and La Bella Vita. (See Also: Where to Eat in Natchez Ms? Southern Delights)
What is the most popular dish in Amarillo?
The most popular dish in Amarillo is likely the Frito Pie, a classic Texas snack featuring Fritos, chili, and cheese. You can find Frito Pie at many local restaurants and convenience stores throughout the city.
Can I find vegan or gluten-free options in Amarillo?
Yes, Amarillo has plenty of options for vegan and gluten-free diners. Many local restaurants offer vegan and gluten-free options, including The Golden Light Cafe, La Bella Vita, and Waffle Love. Be sure to check the menu or ask your server for options.
What is the best time to visit Amarillo?
The best time to visit Amarillo depends on your personal preferences. Summer is a popular time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting during the spring or fall. Winter is also a great time to visit, with plenty of indoor activities and festivals to enjoy.
Can I find live music in Amarillo?
Yes, Amarillo has a thriving music scene, with plenty of live music venues throughout the city. The Golden Light Cafe, The 806, and Big Shot Burrito are just a few popular spots to catch live music. Be sure to check out local event calendars and music listings to find out what’s happening during your visit.
