Located in Southeast Texas, College Station is a quaint city rich in history and culture, proudly boasting it through its must-visit attractions and bustling food scene.
Although College Station isn’t as large as Texas’ main cities, its culinary offerings will surely excite any food enthusiast who visits.
This city features an impressive range of global cuisine, from the elegant flavors of Europe to the distinct and delicious food of Asia to the familiar and mouth watering Southern dishes of Texas.
College Station is continuously thriving and innovating, hence, making it a fantastic destination for people who want to experience an unforgettable food adventure.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip and check out this list of the best restaurants in College Station to know which places you shouldn’t miss!
1. The Republic Steakhouse
701 University Dr E
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 260-4120
Known as one of the best rated restaurants in College Station, The Republic Steakhouse is the only restaurant in the city that carries the recognition as an AAA Four Diamond establishment.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to experience fine dining in College Station, you can’t go wrong in choosing The Republic Steakhouse.
This restaurant offers an array of Texas-style steaks and seafood, along with various handcrafted cocktails and premium wines. Aside from that, you can enjoy your meal while listening to live music and watching local talents perform.
What to Eat
Order a plate of Oysters Rockefeller and a serving of the Republic Cheese Plate, and pair these delicious appetizers with a glass of wine to start your luxurious meal.
For your mains, we highly recommend the 14 oz Texas Akaushi NY Strip if you love steak, and add some Bacon and Onion Yukon Gold Potatoes and Lemon Zest Grilled Asparagus for your sides.
But if you prefer seafood, the Pan Seared Atlantic Salmon, served with rosemary and thyme bouchon potatoes, asparagus tips, balsamic syrup, blood orange beurre blanc, and chive oil is the way to go.
2. Fish Daddy’s Grill House
1611 University Dr E #2643
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 260-1611
Founded in 2011, Fish Daddy’s Grill House uses locally sourced seafood to create exquisite dishes that locals and tourists enjoy.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Fish Daddy’s Grill House is a fantastic option if you want to eat seafood at one of the best places to eat in College Station.
Aside from their delicious offerings, this restaurant features a sophisticated interior decorated with unique figures, paintings, and an aquarium.
What to Eat
Start with a Seafood Fondue, which comes with crawfish tails, scallops, shrimp, a rich wine sauce, French bread, and chips.
We recommend that you try one of the restaurant’s house specialties for your main meal, including the Cedar Plank Salmon, served with roasted corn salsa, an Asian BBQ sauce glaze, and 2 sides of your choice.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with a nice glass of wine from Fish Daddy’s Grill’s impressive wine selection.
3. Napa Flats Wood-Fired Kitchen
1727 Texas Ave S
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 383-2500
Situated downtown, the Napa Flats Wood-Fired Kitchen is one of the top College Station eats, offering a fusion of Californian-Mediterranean-Italian cuisine.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking for the best restaurants downtown, the Napa Flats Wood-Fired Kitchen is a fantastic choice.
This restaurant serves exquisite dishes and features a bright and chic interior that makes the dining experience even better.
What to Eat
Enjoy the flavors of the Middle East by ordering the Mediterranean Plate, consisting of Tzatziki, tapenade, tabbouleh, and hummus served with some fresh veggies and flatbread.
You should also get the restaurant’s infamous wood-fired pizza. We recommend the Prosciutto Arugula, made with Fontina and mozzarella cheese, prosciutto, and baby arugula, topped with shaved parmigiano.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn & Suites College Station-Aggieland, an IHG Hotel
4. Rudy’s
504 Harvey Rd
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 696-7383
Initially opened in Leon Springs back in the 1800s, Rudy’s branched out to College Station and quickly became a go-to for locals and tourists craving flavorful Southern BBQ.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking for the best restaurants College Station has to offer, Rudy’s is a definite must-try.
This restaurant offers some of the best food in College Station, including an array of fall-off-the-bone meat selections, such as ribs, brisket, and chicken. Plus, you’ll surely enjoy the Southern-themed interior of Rudy’s.
What to Eat
Some of the meat options we recommend that you try include the ½ lb Brisket, the Jalapeño Sausage, and the ½ lb Pulled Pork. Add some Green Chile Stew and Jumbo Smoked Potato to your order to complete your feast.
After enjoying all that flavorful meat, you should try the Peach Cobbler or Buttermilk Pie for a sweet ending to your meal.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center
5. Christopher’s World Grille
5001 Boonville Rd
Bryan, TX 77802
(979) 776-2181
Less than 15 minutes away from College Station, Christopher’s World Grille is an upscale restaurant that has been a go-to for locals and tourists since 1999.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking to celebrate your special day at one of the best birthday restaurants in College Station, Christopher’s World Grill is an excellent alternative.
This restaurant is conveniently near the city and will surely make your day extra special through its impressive dishes and refined atmosphere.
What to Eat
We recommend that you get the 14 oz Delmonico Ribeye on red wine butter sauce, served with grilled asparagus and classic au gratin potatoes.
If you love seafood, the Zihuatanejo Redfish sautéed with lump crab, chardonnay butter sauce pico de gallo, and served house veggies is a fantastic option.
And since it’s your birthday, Christopher’s World Grille will make your day even more special with a complimentary dessert.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, College Station, TX
6. Razzoo’s Cajun Cafe
820 University Dr E
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 260-4080
Situated along University Drive, Razzoo’s Cajun Cafe serves some of the best Louisiana-inspired dishes in the city.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you want to dine at one of the best dinner places in College Station, Razzoo’s Cajun Cafe is an excellent option.
Aside from the flavorful dishes served at this restaurant, the place features a well-decorated interior and lively atmosphere that will surely level up your dining experience.
What to Eat
Enjoy an array of Cajun favorites by ordering the Cajun Combo Skillet, which comes with grilled andouille, crawfish etouffee, shrimp creole, and red beans. Another great choice would be the Cajun Tricky Fish — blackened tilapia over dirty rice topped with crawfish etouffee.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Texas Avenue
7. Casa do Brasil
1665 Greens Prairie Rd
College Station, TX 77845
(979) 399-7482
Opened in 2018, Casa do Brasil is a Brazilian steakhouse that offers an array of dishes bursting with flavors, from seafood to steak to decadent desserts.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking for a nice place to dine with some friends or family, Casa do Brasil is a great choice. This restaurant features an impressive menu and a sophisticated dining setup, which is especially perfect if you’re celebrating a birthday or anniversary.
What to Eat
Start with the Hot Shrimp Cocktail, 5 grilled jumbo shrimp, avocado puree, charred lemon, and some sweet and tangy glaze.
We recommend that you try the Picanha, a top sirloin cut, seasoned with sea salt and cooked over an open flame for your main meal. It comes with side dishes, such as crispy polenta, mashed potatoes, caramelized bananas, and some Brazilian pao de queijo.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus College Station Inn & Suites
Related: Best Things to Do in College Station
8. Willie’s Grill & Icehouse
940 University Dr E
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 268-1450
Located along University Drive, Willie’s Grill & Icehouse is a restaurant that locals frequent, which features an impressive menu of all-time American favorites and draft beers.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re craving comfort food, grab a bite at the infamous Willie’s Grill & Icehouse. This restaurant boasts a friendly atmosphere and tasty food, making for a great dining experience for its customers.
What to Eat
If you love fried food, you’ll enjoy fried pickles, fried jalapeños, and mozzarella sticks as your appetizers.
We also recommend that you try the Icehouse Burger, made with a ½ lb certified Angus beef patty, topped with bacon, cheese, mushrooms, mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and served with some fries.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cavalry Court, by Valencia Hotel Group
9. Saltgrass Steak House
4330 State Highway 6 S
College Station, TX 77845
(979) 690-0562
Popular for its Certified Angus Beef steaks, the Saltgrass Steak House serves an array of premium meat, seafood, and classic Southern favorites.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you want to enjoy a delicious dinner after exploring this wonderful city, you should go to the Saltgrass Steak House.
Aside from top-notch dishes, this restaurant features a well-decorated interior, perfectly capturing the essence of the Southwest.
What to Eat
Start your meal with a serving of Range Rattlers, made with shrimp, jumbo jalapeños, Jack cheese, ranch dressing, and cilantro.
And if you dine here at the Saltgrass Steak House, you must try the Gulf Coast Steak & Shrimp, which comes with either an 8 or 10 oz center-cut top sirloin with fried or grilled shrimp.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Wyndham Garden College Station
10. Dixie Chicken
307 University Dr
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 846-2322
Established in 1974, Dixie Chicken is widely popular for its delicious sides, craft beers, and burgers.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the start of the weekend, Dixie Chicken is a fantastic choice. This restaurant offers delicious food and a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy and hang out with your companions.
What to Eat
Order some Jalapeño Sausage, Cheese and Crackers, and Chicken Fingers for your appetizers, along with your first round of ice-cold beer.
For your main meal, the Buffalo Ranch Chicken or the Double Meat and Cheeseburger will surely satisfy your appetite.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center
11. First Watch
4501 S Texas Ave
College Station, TX 77802
(979) 704 6652
Opened in 1983, First Watch is a popular spot for locals and tourists who want to get a head start on their day through a delicious morning meal.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you plan to explore the city early, you should fill up and grab a bite at First Watch. Not only will you stay full for a long time, but the dishes offered at this restaurant will surely satisfy your taste buds.
What to Eat
Enjoy a delicious plate of the Parma Skillet Hash, made with Italian sausage, house-roasted Crimini mushrooms, tomatoes, and onions, topped with melted mozzarella, parmesan, and fresh herbs.
And of course, it’s a must that you order an iced or hot coffee to pair with your delicious meal. After all, no breakfast is complete without a cup of joe, right?
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The George
12. C&J Barbeque
4304 Harvey Rd
College Station, TX 77845
(979) 776-8969
Established in 1981, C&J Barbeque is a multi-award-winning BBQ joint that serves an array of delicious comfort food and Southern favorites, from sandwiches to flavorful meat to tasty desserts.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you want to have a nice meal after a long and stressful week, C&J Barbeque will surely lift your spirits through its scrumptious dishes and cozy ambiance.
What to Eat
Try the restaurant’s best meat offerings by getting the I Want It All, which comes with a ½ lb beef, ½ slab ribs, ½ chicken, ½ lb sausage, and 2 large sides of your choice.
And for dessert, we recommend that you order either the S’mores Pudding or the Blackberry Cobbler.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ramada by Wyndham College Station
13. Veritas Wine & Bistro (Permanently Closed)
830 University Dr E #400
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 268-3251
Established in 2007, the Veritas Wine & Bistro is an upscale restaurant serving exquisite French-American-Asian dishes.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking for a place where you can have a nice romantic dinner with your loved one, you should head to the Veritas Wine & Bistro. Aside from delicious food, this restaurant boasts an intimate setting perfect for a date.
What to Eat
Enjoy an elegant dinner and order the New Zealand Lamb, served with sweet pea risotto, garlic, sun-dried tomato, spinach, and corn puree.
And if you prefer seafood, the Swordfish served with couscous, cumin-tomato vinaigrette, and citrus gremolata is a fantastic alternative.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham College Station
14. MAD Taco
1664 Greens Prairie Rd
College Station, TX 77845
(979) 704-6137
Established in 2014, MAD Taco offers a wide selection of freshly made tacos that locals and visitors in the area enjoy.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking for a place that serves some of the best lunch in College Station, definitely check out MAD Taco.
This restaurant not only serves delicious and flavorful food, but it also provides a laid-back ambiance, allowing customers to have a nice meal.
What to Eat
Start with some Taco Fries, made with fries topped with taco meat, queso, and cilantro while waiting for your tacos.
For the tacos, we recommend that you try one of the restaurant’s best-sellers, the Chile Pork, which comes with cheese, chile oil, cabbage, pico de gallo, cilantro, and cilantro aioli.
And to wash it all down, you should also try a refreshing glass of some Pineapple Basil Margarita.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Vineyard Court Designer Suites Hotel
15. Garpez Authentic Mexican Food
2601 Harvey Rd
College Station, TX 77845
(979) 696-1407
Nestled in a gas station in the city, Garpez Authentic Mexican Food is a popular casual restaurant that serves an array of delicious Mexican dishes.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re stopping by for some gas and want a quick meal before exploring College Station, grabbing a bite at Garpez Authentic Mexican Food is a great idea.
This restaurant may be in a gas station, but the food offered here will not disappoint and will surely fill you up.
What to Eat
If you want to stay stuffed for a few hours, we recommend that you get the Huevos La Mexicana, which comes with 2 scrambled eggs with jalapeños, tomatoes, cilantro, and onions, served with beans and potatoes.
Another tasty option is the Migas Plate, consisting of 2 eggs scrambled with corn tortillas topped with melted cheese and served with beans and potatoes.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites College Station
16. Layne’s Chicken Fingers
1301 Wellborn Rd
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 696-6933
Opened in 1994, Layne’s Chicken Fingers has been serving one of the country’s favorite fried foods, chicken fingers.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you want a quick but satisfying meal, you should head to Layne’s Chicken Fingers. This restaurant offers perfectly cooked chicken fingers, along with other favorites, such as fries and milkshakes.
What to Eat
If you’re dining at Layne’s Chicken Fingers, it’s a must that you order the Chicken Fingers. This classic hand-battered dish is a simple dish bursting with flavors, and you can choose from various sauces, including Layne’s Secret Sauce, Honey Mustard, BBQ, and Ranch.
You should also try one of the Hand Spun Shakes, which comes in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, and salted caramel.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Stella Hotel
17. Hullabaloo Diner
15045 Farm to Market Rd 2154
College Station, TX 77845
(979) 690-3002
Opened in the 1940s, the Hullabaloo Diner is one of the top College Station restaurants with a wide selection of classic American favorites.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking for good restaurants in College Station that serve brunch, you should go to the Hullabaloo Diner. It has been a staple in the city and has become one of the most frequented restaurants in the area.
And the coolest thing about this restaurant is the infamous Aggie Challenge. You need to consume a 12-egg omelet, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, jalapeños (optional), American, Swiss, cheddar cheese, bacon, sausage, and ham.
This challenge also comes with toast and fries. And if you win, you’ll get a free t-shirt, and the meal will be free too!
What to Eat
If you’re coming in for breakfast, we suggest that you try one of the restaurant’s signature plates, including the Huevos Rancheros, consisting of 2 eggs on top of a tortilla with green chili, and topped with cheddar cheese, served with some homemade fries.
But if you prefer something sweeter, you should get the Churro Pancake, drizzled with chocolate and coated with some cinnamon sugar.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham College Station
18. Grub Burger Bar
980 University Dr
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 268-1041
Opened in 2012, the Grub Burger Bar is one of the most popular restaurants to try in College Station, serving classic and unique burger variations that regulars and newcomers enjoy.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you plan to meet up with your friends for dinner and drinks but don’t know where to eat in College Station, you should definitely check out the Grub Burger Bar.
This modern restaurant features a refined yet laid-back vibe, making for a great hang-out spot. Plus, the wide food and drink options will surely satisfy any craving you may have.
What to Eat
The Cadillac Wagyu Burger is a must-try if you dine here at the Grub Burger Bar. This burger comes with a premium wagyu beef blend, roasted garlic a1 aioli, spinach, tomato, and Swiss & French-fried onions.
If you’re a kid at heart, you’ll enjoy the Mac ‘N’ Cheeseburger, made with the restaurant’s signature patty, topped with some rich macaroni and cheese with bacon bits.
Try the Wild Monkey, made with Monkey Shoulder Whisky, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and pineapple for a refreshing drink.
But if you want a dessert cocktail, definitely get the Boozy Mint Chocolate Shake Spiked Shake, made with Vodka, créme de menthe, créme de cacao, chocolate syrup, and Andes mints.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aloft College Station
19. Aji Sushi
1901 Texas Ave S #B
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 696-1250
One of the city’s beloved local restaurants, Aji Sushi, offers a combination of Japanese and Vietnamese cuisine, from Vietnamese spring rolls to sushi.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you happen to live in the area and get a sudden craving for Asian food, head to one of the most recommended restaurants near you, Aji Sushi.
This restaurant offers authentic Asian dishes made with fresh seafood and ingredients inside a cozy yet refined setting.
What to Eat
If you’re a foodie who enjoys the unique flavors of sushi, you’ll enjoy the Fire Eel Roll, made with freshwater eel, avocado, cucumber, spicy tuna, with eel sauce, tempura flakes, and spicy mayo.
Another must-try at this restaurant is the Ahi Tower, which consists of crab meat, spicy tuna, tobiko, avocado, and sushi rice, formed into a tower, served with spicy mayo, eel sauce, and wasabi mayo.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn College Station
20. Fuego
108 Poplar Street
College Station, TX 77840
(979) 703-1804
Established in 2010, Fuego is one of the most casual spots to eat in the city, highlighting a Mexican favorite, tacos.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re looking for the best restaurants in College Station, Fuego is a must-try. This restaurant has become a crowd-favorite for a reason.
The tacos served here are always made from scratch, using fresh ingredients and filled with your preferred meat.
What to Eat
With various taco selections offered here, it can take you a while to choose — but that’s what we’re here for!
We recommend that you try the Dr. Pepper Cowboy, made with smoked brisket, Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce, grilled onions, Jack cheese, and chipotle cream corn sandwiched between a freshly-made tortilla.
After that savory meal, enjoy a sweet treat and get the Magic Cookie, made with a graham crust, chocolate chips, condensed milk, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier Bryan College Station
Map of Restaurants in College Station
List of image sources
20 Best College Station Restaurants for 2022
- The Republic Steakhouse
- Fish Daddy’s Grill House
- Napa Flats Wood-Fired Kitchen
- Rudy’s
- Christopher’s World Grille
- Razzoo’s Cajun Cafe
- Casa do Brasil
- Willie’s Grill & Icehouse
- Saltgrass Steak House
- Dixie Chicken
- First Watch
- C&J Barbeque
- Veritas Wine & Bistro (Permanently Closed)
- MAD Taco
- Garpez Authentic Mexican Food
- Layne’s Chicken Fingers
- Hullabaloo Diner
- Grub Burger Bar
- Aji Sushi
- Fuego
