Tourists seeking a lively music and arts scene wouldn’t want to miss Denton.
Dubbed “Little Austin”, Denton sets the stage for promising live events that entice thousands annually. It also provides travelers with a glimpse of the cowboy culture that Texas is known for.
But that’s not where all the fun ends in the city.
Denton, which is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area, also has its way of pleasing your palate.
All kinds of eateries—from the simplest to the fanciest—stand in almost every part of the city to stimulate your appetite. With an eclectic fare, Denton can satisfy any of your cravings for the day. All you need to do is decide where to go.
I’ve narrowed down the best restaurants in Denton to help you go about your dream food adventure. Save this list to make the most of your trip to this iconic city in Texas.
1. Oldwest Café
2420 S Interstate 35E
Denton, TX 76205
(940) 808-0081
Since 1999, the Oldwest Café has been operating as an old-school breakfast restaurant with a cowboy-inspired look. Aside from Denton, this café has three other locations in Texas.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
It’s recognized as one of the best-rated restaurants in Denton due to its delicious food and casual atmosphere. Anyone who wants to feel a cowboy vibe won’t be disappointed here.
You’ll appreciate this place more if you have a large appetite since they have large servings. Plus, the cost of food falls within a reasonable range so you’ll get the most of your money right here.
What to Eat
Bullrider—which features chicken fried steak, eggs, and sides—is one of their specialty dishes you may want to check out for a heavy meal. It’s one of the café’s specialty dishes.
If you want a healthy alternative, then the Golddigger can be a great menu item to check out. It consists of an egg white omelet with onion, tomato, bell pepper, mushroom, and cheese. You can also pick two side dishes.
2. LSA Burger Co
113 W Hickory
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 383-1022
LSA Burger Co., which stands for Lone Star Attitude, was established in 2014 to pay tribute to the musical legends of Texas. It became famous for its gourmet burgers.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Have you finished your tour of the Denton County Courthouse? Why don’t you take a break to eat at the LSA Burger Co. since it’s one of the restaurants near you in the city center?
Here, you can savor sumptuous burgers that will make your mouth water while enjoying the view from the rooftop patio. It also hosts musical events frequently to keep you entertained.
What to Eat
Stick to the classics with the Waylon Burger that consists of mayonnaise, mustard, and other condiments. It’s best to add chicken tenders with barbecue dip on the side.
Pair your burger with the smooth Barry Nice specialty cocktail that features a mix of vodka, lemon, and fresh strawberries. Feel free to request your mix if you have a particular one in mind.
3. Barley & Board
100 W Oak St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 566-3900
Barley & Board, located in the Texas Building, sets itself apart as the first gastropub restaurant in Denton. It’s situated on the exact site where the first-ever hotel in Denton was originally built.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re a fan of New American cuisine, then this high-class restaurant can be your ultimate haven. Both your tummy and your eyes will be treated to a feast here given their nice plating.
With its sophistication, there’s no wonder why it’s named one of the best places to eat in Denton. It’s likewise among the best restaurants downtown waiting for you.
What to Eat
Start your fancy lunch with buttermilk fried quail to excite your taste buds. Next up, savor their fan-favorite pork tenderloin topped with crispy onions for a satisfying main course. Seafood lovers ought to check out the shrimp and grits, too. Try the Affogato Bread Pudding for dessert.
Sip Lemon Meringue, one of their specialty drinks, to taste a mix of vodka, lemon, and crème brulee meringue.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Denton
Also See:
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4. Rooster’s Roadhouse
113 Industrial St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 382-4227
Born in 2008, Rooster’s Roadhouse stands as one of the barbecue eateries in the downtown area. It’s located within a few minutes from Texas Women’s University.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Are you looking for a chill place to hang out with friends? No need to look elsewhere since Rooster’s Roadhouse is one of the coolest restaurants available for you in Denton.
It boasts some of the tastiest barbecue flavors that even become better when paired with a cold beer. Couple that with live entertainment on-site for an unforgettable experience.
What to Eat
Try Will’s Smoked Turkey Sandwich stuffed with bell pepper, lettuce, onion, and Dijon stuff. Make sure to add a double meat barbecue plate which may contain brisket, pulled pork, turkey, sausage, or ham.
Never skip their Jelly Jar Desserts to balance out the taste of the other lovely offerings they have.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Denton
5. Cartwright’s Ranch House
111 N Elm St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 387-7706
Opened in 2011, Cartwright’s Ranch House made itself known for offering homestyle-cooked food. It’s set near the top attractions at the heart of Denton.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Come over to the restaurant to taste some of the best food in Denton—particularly the chicken fried steak—you’d like. It’s also perfect for early birds since this place opens early to serve you.
What’s more, Cartwright’s Ranch House also offers a homey atmosphere that won’t make you feel like an outsider.
What to Eat
No one leaves this restaurant without trying the chicken fried steak since this is their signature offering. Another fan-favorite is the fried catfish served with hush puppies, fries, and coleslaw.
Those who came for the handhelds must check out the chili burger that contains cheddar jack cheese. It can be quite spicy so order a glass of mimosa as well.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denton
6. Hannah’s off the Square
111 W Mulberry St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 566-1110
Hannah’s off the Square, whose history dates back to 2001, offers an extensive range of dishes featuring New American cuisine. It’s set in one of the historic buildings in Denton.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Try fine dining in Denton by checking out one of the most respected eateries—Hannah’s off the Square. If you try asking people where to eat in Denton, they’d likely cite this as an answer.
It’s because this restaurant offers great food and drinks in a swanky area close to the historical sites in the city. Truly, a rare gem.
What to Eat
Appetize with fried green tomatoes to begin your dinner with a Creole dish. Among the entrées, “off the square” au poivre tenderloin boasts one of the most flavorful tastes that people prefer. Cedar-planked salmon also gained rave reviews.
Pair it with a glass of Acre Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley of California for a more sophisticated experience.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites By Hilton Denton Convention Center
7. Seven Mile Café
2123 Sadau Ct
Denton, TX 76210
(940) 808-0200
Seven Mile Café functions as a morning restaurant with a full-service espresso bar established in 2011. Its name was inspired by the Seven Mile Beach located in Grand Cayman Islands.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Start your day right by having a heartwarming brunch with your loved ones in this charming café. Apart from nicely served food, this place also exudes a light vibe you can find comfort in. Its indoors are very artsy so you might like that, too.
Seven Mile also has a friendly staff ready to assist you with all your needs.
What to Eat
Savor a plate of spicy fried chicken and Belgian waffle served with country sausage gravy. It’s a top favorite that will surely leave you energized. Add sweet stuff French toast for a fuller meal.
Of course, it won’t be complete without a cup of hot mocha coffee to awaken your senses as well.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Denton South, an IHG Hotel
Also See:
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8. Texas Roadhouse
2817 S Interstate 35E
Denton, TX 76205
(940) 243-7427
Texas Roadhouse opened to serve steaks cooked in the southwestern style in Denton. It forms part of a famous restaurant chain that was founded in Clarksville, IN way back in 1993.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Indulge in the handcrafted creations of the restaurant for a satisfying food fare while you’re here. Many food items are also served in large portions to ensure that you’re full when you leave.
It’s one of the most popular restaurants to try because this place has a very casual atmosphere, with a jukebox and line dancers to entertain you.
What to Eat
Order Texas T-Bone, one of their legendary hand-cut steaks, to savor their one-of-a-kind flavors. Patrons also prefer the fall-off-the-bone ribs to discover how it won numerous awards.
For handhelds, make sure to try the All-American Cheeseburger which is stuffed with their classic Angus beef. End with Granny’s Apple Classic for dessert.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites Denton
9. Hoochies Oyster House
214 E Hickory St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 808-0315
Hoochies Oyster House serves as home to the classic seafood of South Texas, South Louisiana, and South of the Border. It’s located close to Quakertown Park.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Exploring Denton eats won’t be complete without paying a visit to this awesome seafood place at the city center. Hoochies became the go-to place for seafood lovers at all times of the year.
Here, you can indulge in the taste of the southern coast without going too far away from Denton. It also provides a friendly atmosphere with available patio seating.
What to Eat
Have the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail and the Seafood Gumbo to taste two of their fan-favorite offerings. You may also want to get a fried combination of shrimps and chicken strips.
Youngsters can also enjoy these food items on a smaller plate consisting either of shrimp, chicken, or catfish. Po’boys are also a must-try.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites Denton
10. Mellow Mushroom Denton
217 E Hickory St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 323-1100
Mellow Mushroom, which takes inspiration from the eastern flair, produces awesome pizza flavors in Denton. It currently has more than 200 hundred locations in the United States.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
If you’re craving pizza, Mellow Mushroom is one of the good restaurants in Denton you must check out. You can even create your customized pizza flavors while in Mellow Mushroom.
Beyond that, this restaurant also hosts a bar area that offers an old-school vibe for everyone. Check out the available beers to pair with your scrumptious stone-baked pizzas.
What to Eat
Avail yourself of the House Special pizza topped with all your favorite meat types from pepperoni, Italian sausage, ground beef, ham, to bacon. Veggies are also sprinkled on top.
Can’t get enough of meat? Enjoy a meatball hoagie flavored in melted mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning. Sip a strawberry lemon-limeade for a refreshing drink on the side.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Denton Inn & Suites
11. GreenHouse Restaurant and Bar
600 N Locust St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 484-1349
Founded in 1998, the GreenHouse Restaurant and Bar is one of the local restaurants offering New American cuisine. It boasts an award-winning bar that contains your favorite drinks.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
GreenHouse, as one of the top Denton restaurants, offers an exceptional dining experience for all. It provides vegetarian options on the menu to accommodate as many guests as possible.
With four dining areas, this place is likewise regarded as one of the best birthday restaurants in Denton. Make sure to reserve your schedule ahead of time.
What to Eat
Indulge in the smoked shiner pork loin which comes with green beans and mashed potatoes on the side. If you love seafood more, then the honey chipotle grilled salmon would be best for you.
Those who need lighter fare may like the salmon burger stuffed with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and red onion. It’s also flavored with smoked jalapeno tartar sauce for a bolder taste.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Denton UNT TWU, an IHG Hotel
12. BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse
3250 S I-35E
Denton, TX 76210
(940) 222-4020
BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse has been in the industry for over four decades serving pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and more. It has established more than 200 locations in the United States.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Beer lovers wouldn’t regret coming to this restaurant for it hosts widely acclaimed handcrafted beers, winning around 160 awards. Seasonal brews are also available from time to time.
It also falls under the casual spots to eat in Denton where you can be exposed to friendly service.
What to Eat
BJ’s Favorite Pizza has pleased the palate of numerous guests all around the Denton area. Among the entrées, the enlightened fire-roasted barbacoa chicken would be a perfect addition to your meal. Try the ever-famous chocolate chunk pizookie for dessert.
Make sure to also check out BJ’s Brewhouse Blonde to try their highly awesome beers.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier Crown Chase Inn & Suites
13. RG Burgers & Grill
2430 N I-35E
Denton, TX 76205
(940) 383-2431
RG Burgers and Grill, which calls itself a hamburger haven, subscribes to a traditional style to craft their offers. It has a strategic location close to the major interstate highway.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Every foodie who loves gourmet burgers should include RG Burgers and Grill in their food itinerary. Here, you can taste flavorful offerings made of fresh ingredients for you to enjoy.
Inside this patty parlor are old-style decorations to maintain its traditional diner vibe it has been known for years.
What to Eat
Taste the Spicy RG’s All-Star Burger infused with various spices such as sliced jalapeno peppers. Those who want to dwell on the originals must check out RG’s Classic.
You’d like it best when paired with the Atkins Chicken topped with avocado, cheese, and red peppers. Try the buffalo chicken salad to have a healthier addition.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Denton
14. Chuy’s
3300 Wind River Ln
Denton, TX 76210
(940) 228-0555
Chuy’s was originally established in Austin, TX in 1982 to showcase Tex-Mex cuisine to the United States. It has almost 90 locations across 17 states.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Expose yourself to authentic Tex-Mex flavors at Chuy’s with their specialty dishes and classic drinks. Patrons also praise this restaurant for large servings that can fulfill your cravings.
In addition, this casual restaurant also boasts a vibrant vibe to ensure that you’ll get a full Mexican experience. It also hosts a spacious patio area where you can dine in.
What to Eat
Have yourself a steak burrito—one of their house specialties—featuring grilled steak, jack cheese, and green chili sauce. Check out the seasoned ground beef burrito that’s great for your big appetite.
It won’t be complete without Chuy’s Famous Ritas as well as the ever-famous dessert they serve. Another must-try is the Original Texas Tini which features salt on the glass rim.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Residence Inn by Marriott Denton
15. Steve’s Wine Bar
111 Industrial St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 514-1852
Steve’s Wine Bar, whose story started in 2016, serves as one of the go-to bars of the people in Denton. Its owners have long been wine lovers before embarking on the wine business.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Do you want to become a wine connoisseur? Head over to Steve’s Wine Bar to further hone your wine-tasting skills. It also hosts wine clubs to grant you access to monthly wine tastings.
Aside from wines, Steve’s also offers beers, cigars, and many other special offerings you can avail yourself of. You can enjoy live jazz music in this wine bar as well.
What to Eat
Sip a glass of Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon or the Cherry House Red Blend if you want red wines. But if you want white wines more, the Aviary Chardonnay from California would be great.
Beer lovers can also choose from Coors Light, Corona, Mosaic IPA, Budweiser, Dos Equis, and so many others.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Near Lake Lewisville
16. Komodo Loco
109 Oakland St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 808-0400
Founded in 2017, Komodo Loco features a non-traditional Asian restaurant that gives a special focus on Japanese fare. It also features fusion dishes for a unique restaurant flair.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Anyone seeking the best dinner places in Denton would have the best time in Komodo Loco. With its fusion dishes, this restaurant serves unique food that you might not find anywhere else in the city.
Large groups would also love coming to this place since the restaurant offers shareable meals with each other. What you’ll like the most is the fact that its setting is not fussy at all.
What to Eat
Order the Komodo Tower to savor spicy tuna, crab salad, avocado, tobiko, furikake, wasabi aioli, and eel sauce. Beef Tataki, another specialty, also has an outstanding taste.
Add the chicken fried rice as well as Komodo-style ramen to fully satisfy your cravings with fantastic flavors. You’ll surely love the Asian food fare more after the experience.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Lake Dallas Inn & Suites
Related: Best Things to Do in Denton
17. 940’s Kitchen & Cocktails
219 W Oak St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 218-6222
Since 2015, the 940’s Kitchen and Restaurant has surprised guests with their special dishes from the American fare. It’s a neighborhood restaurant also established in the downtown area.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
940’s Kitchen is one of the best restaurants Denton has to offer primarily due to its sumptuous food. It uses fresh ingredients to ensure that its food maintains its established quality.
Couple that with their laid-back yet elegant space where you can schedule a date night with a special someone.
What to Eat
Taste the seared salmon as well as Denton fried chicken to fill your tummy with satisfying entrées. Filet is another mouthwatering food option worthy for you to try when you come.
Order the triple-layer chocolate ganache cake to balance out your meal with a delectable dessert. Check out the featured cheesecake to try something new.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Denton
18. Red’s Yard
410 N Bell Ave
Denton, TX 76209
(940) 218-2981
Red’s Yard is a family-owned southern-inspired restaurant that was originally founded in 1989. Here, you would also find almost two dozen beers originating from Texas breweries.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Plan out your best lunch in Denton by scheduling a visit to Red Yard’s which is situated at the city center. It’s an ideal stop after making rounds in the top cultural attractions in Denton.
Catch live performances on the patio area to immerse yourself in delicious food, light ambiance, and amazing performances.
What to Eat
Check out the buffalo chicken sandwich topped with jack cheese as well as jalapeno if you want to make it spicy. It would also be great to try half-rack ribs which are smoked to perfection.
Pair any of your food with Yellow Rose IPA with 6.8% alcohol by volume from Magnolia, TX. Guinness, which originated from Dublin in Ireland, won’t disappoint you either.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Denton
19. Submarine Crab – Denton
717 I-35E S
Denton, TX 76205
(940) 514-1195
Opened in 2022, Submarine Crab counts as one of the newest eateries set in this iconic Texas city. It forms part of a small seafood restaurant chain that has five other locations in the US.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Dive into mouthwatering seafood options through the outstanding offerings in Submarine Crab. Its menu covers dishes that mostly originate from Louisiana fare.
Submarine Crab, being a newly opened restaurant, also offers something innovative to lure people in. No wonder why it’s already a fan favorite.
What to Eat
Start with the famous gumbo followed by a fried basket full of catfish and shrimp. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the combination of crawfish, shrimp, sausage, corn, potato, and egg you can share with the gang.
Make the most of your dining adventure by ordering a chicken po’boy sandwich if you still have some space left in your tummy.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denton
20. Osteria il Muro
311 W Congress St
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 514-1025
Osteria il Muro, which opened in 2020, popularized the regional Italian fare in the heart of Denton. It offers a sophisticated dining experience that sets it apart from many others.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
As a new eatery, Osteria il Muro knows how to excite their guests with one-of-a-kind food options. It may be young in the industry but this place already earned rave reviews.
Everything you might be looking for in a restaurant—from the world-class food, calm ambiance, and friendly staff. No wonder why it’s known as one of the best restaurants in Denton.
What to Eat
Fall in love with Italian cuisine by having a palatable pasta that features a mix of spinach tagliolini, leeks, pancetta, Grana Padano, breadcrumbs, and egg yolk. You may also want to try the ricotta gnocchi and cuttlefish ink tagliolini if you fancy seafood even more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites By Hilton Denton Convention Center
Map of Restaurants in Denton
List of image sources
20 Best Denton Restaurants for 2022
- Oldwest Café
- LSA Burger Co
- Barley & Board
- Rooster’s Roadhouse
- Cartwright’s Ranch House
- Hannah’s off the Square
- Seven Mile Café
- Texas Roadhouse
- Hoochies Oyster House
- Mellow Mushroom Denton
- GreenHouse Restaurant and Bar
- BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse
- RG Burgers & Grill
- Chuy’s
- Steve’s Wine Bar
- Komodo Loco
- 940’s Kitchen & Cocktails
- Red’s Yard
- Submarine Crab – Denton
- Osteria il Muro
