When we think of high-end dining destinations, Lubbock rarely crosses our mind. Still, this college town has many restaurants worth a visit!
Most dining places offer craft beers, American cuisine, and Chiltons in all sizes, shapes, and flavors. However, Lubbock also has a few hidden gems where you can taste authentic Mexican, Indian, Chinese, Italian, Japanese, and Thai cuisine, among others.
Whether you’re a newcomer or local, grab out our extensive Lubbock restaurant guide below, and explore the city’s food scene.
Restaurants In Lubbock By Food Type
Hub City doesn’t lack restaurants and a little bit of digging can help you find some real gems. Here’s a breakdown of the Lubbock food scene, starting with American restaurants.
American Restaurants
Caprock Café
The popular Caprock Café offers a variety of Tex-Mex dishes in a casual atmosphere; it’s perfect for enjoying hearty Texan cuisine.
The Fresh American
At the Fresh American, each dish is packed with flavor, thanks to fresh ingredients and talented chefs. Whether it’s a romantic outing or a gathering with friends, the laid-back yet refined atmosphere hits the spot.
Customers rave about the crispy fries paired with Thai-spiced ketchup. Yet, a few find it a bit expensive and wish for better side dishes.
The West Table
West Table offers modern American cuisine and creative cocktails; it’s a great choice for a special night out.
Steakhouses
Las Brisas
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, consider Las Brisas at 4701 112th Street. They offer a selection of delicious steaks and seafood dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere.
Corralito Steakhouse
At Corralito, you can enjoy perfectly cooked steaks and drinks with loved ones.
The moment you walk into the place, you feel at home. Customers appreciate the reasonable prices and friendly service.
However, they also complain about longer wait times.
Double Nickel Steakhouse
Although expensive, the Double Nickel Steakhouse on Slide near the South Plains Mall is the go-to spot for top-quality dining. Here, you can enjoy excellent steaks, but make sure to specify if you want them rare.
Italian Restaurants
Orlando’s
Orlando’s place offers Tex-Mex cuisine, including favorites like enchiladas, tacos, and fajitas; it’s a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
One Guy From Italy
With a focus on pizza, One Guy From Italy serves up delicious pies with a crispy crust and generous toppings.
P.S. You must try their calzones stuffed with cheese, meats, and veggies.
Italian Garden
Italian Garden offers a cozy ambiance and classic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and calzones. Their dishes scream fresh and authentic; you can’t help but feel like you’re in Italy with every bite.
Mexican/Tex-Mex Restaurants
Picantes
Picantes offers authentic Mexican food in a laid-back, counter-serve setup. Guests love the generous portions, reasonable prices, and live music.
However, some find the dining room too loud.
P.S. You must try the favorite dishes of many: caldo, breakfast enchiladas, and gorditas.
Taqueria Jalisco
Taqueria Jalisco is where you go when you crave Mexican classics.
Customers love the flavorful salsa, large portions, and delicious margaritas. It’s a local favorite in Lubbock with amazing enchiladas and affordable prices.
However, it’s always busy and lacks vegetarian options.
Abuelo’s
Abuelo’s is a Texas-based chain known for Mexican cuisine and margaritas in a hacienda-style ambiance.
Locals and newcomers enjoy the tasty food, particularly the chicharrones appetizer and El Heffe dish, but complain about the poorly lit patio and long wait times.
Thai Restaurants
Bangkok Thai
If you’re a fan of traditional Thai cuisine, visit Bangkok Thai. Here, you can enjoy pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup. They’re all made with authentic ingredients and bold flavors.
Thai Kitchen
Thai Kitchen serves noodle soups, rice dishes, and seafood specialties. Whether you’re a meat lover or vegetarian, Thai Kitchen has something for everyone.
Choo Chai Thai
Choo Chai is a hidden gem for Thai food lovers! Here, you can order classic Thai dishes like curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.
Japanese Restaurants
Ken Chan Ramen
Ken Chan Ramen serves real ramen with a rich Tonkotsu broth. Their gyoza is amazing, properly pan-fried, and delicious. While service is good, this place could use more staff during peak times.
P.S. They offer military service discounts!
Hayashi
Hayashi offers a menu of fresh sushi and hibachi dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients and expert cooking techniques. Here, you can enjoy traditional rolls, sashimi platters, and grilled meats.
Sakura Noodle House & Sushi Bar
Sakura offers top-notch sushi and hibachi dishes with a $9.99 lunch special.
While the lack of music and online payments may deter some, the attentive service and tasty, affordable options like crispy dumplings and fresh sushi make up for it.
Chinese Restaurants
Beijing House
Beijing House offers various traditional Chinese dishes in a welcoming ambiance. They don’t take reservations but have a large parking and serve vegetarian options.
Diners love the quick service, generous portions, and the return of the Mongolian BBQ Buffet, which was removed during the pandemic.
The only downside is that they don’t serve alcohol.
Uncle Chien’s
Uncle Chien’s offers Chinese stir-fries and a touch of Thai cuisine. They always cook their meals with fresh ingredients, and you can customize yours if you want.
The place also has a convenient drive-thru and low prices. However, some find the portions small.
Fortune Cookie
Fortune Cookie serves up real Chinese cuisine at affordable prices. Customers like the friendly staff and the fact that it’s locally and Chinese family-owned.
However, some feel the interior is outdated and could use better cleaning.
BBQ
J&M BBQ
J&M BBQ serves mesquite-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage in a relaxed Western-themed setting. Customers love the cozy fireplace and private dining option, as well as the kids’ menu. The staff is friendly, and the service is quick.
If you visit, order fried okra and sliced brisket.
Note: It’s not the cheapest place in town, and prices change regularly.
The Shack
The Shack BBQ is your go-to for mouth-watering barbecue. Located north of Lubbock, it offers tender meats, savory sauces, and homemade sides.
P.S. It’s a bit out of the way, but it’s worth the trip for authentic Texas BBQ.
Bigham’s Smokehouse
Bigham’s Smokehouse has been a Lubbock favorite since 1978. With three locations, they offer dine-in, carry-out, drive-thru, delivery, and catering.
Locals and newcomers love the smoked meats, especially the brisket, and tasty sides like pinto beans and potato salad.
Service is great, but some find it disorganized and a bit pricey.
Pizza Shops
Capital Pizza
Capital Pizza is more than just a pizza place. It has a great bar and lots of beer and liquor choices, perfect for a chill night with friends.
Giorgio’s Pizza
This place offers delicious pizza and calzones. Located downtown, Giorgio’s Pizza is a favorite for Italian food lovers seeking authentic flavors.
Urban Bricks
Urban Bricks is all about brickin’ good pizza, pasta, and salad.
With a “build your own” option and vegan dishes available, it’s perfect for everyone. While they don’t take reservations, the fast service and friendly staff make dining highly enjoyable.
Some online orders may take longer, and a few find the pizzas too salty, but overall, it’s a clean and family-friendly spot.
Indian Restaurants
Tikka Shack
Tikka Shack offers fast and tasty Indian food, with a menu of favorites like chicken tikka masala, lamb curry, vegetable biryani, and freshly baked naan.
Their convenient location and quick service make it a popular choice for lunch or dinner.
Kaveri Indian Cuisine
Kaveri Indian Cuisine has authentic Indian dishes prepared by a Master Chef. Guests love the flavorful food, generous portions, and many vegetarian options.
While prices aren’t high and the staff is accommodating, some find it a tad expensive and note long wait times.
India Palace
India Palace may not look like much from the outside, but don’t let that fool you—they serve top-notch Indian dishes. Many consider it one of the best Indian spots in town.
While the service is great, be prepared for potential wait times, as the owner often manages everything alone.
Coffee Shops
J&B Coffee
J&B Coffee is a cozy coffee shop with a variety of specialty drinks and a laid-back atmosphere; it’s a hot spot for catching up with friends or getting work done.
Gold Stripe Coffee Roasters
Meticulously roasted coffee beans and artisanal blends, that’s what Gold Stripe is all about. It offers a refined coffee experience with a focus on quality and sustainability.
He-Brews Coffee
Combining a love for coffee with a mission to support the community, He-Brews serves up delicious brews alongside a warm, welcoming environment.
Bakeries
Brulee Bakery
At Brulee Bakery, you can enjoy decadent pastries, cakes, and desserts crafted with precision and care. Here, you can satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
Sugarbakers Cafe & Bakery
Sugarbakers offers a cozy atmosphere and a mouth-watering array of freshly baked goods; it’s a local favorite for breakfast, brunch, and afternoon treats.
Mi Panaderia Bakery
Specializing in traditional Mexican pastries and baked goods, Mi Panaderia provides authentic flavors and a charming ambiance.
Seafood and Cajun Restaurants
Hot & Juicy Cajun Seafood & Bar
Hot & Juicy Cajun Seafood & Bar serves up flavorful dishes bursting with Cajun spices, but the wait times can be long during peak hours.
The Catch
The Catch offers fresh seafood options with a cozy atmosphere, yet the prices can be on the higher side.
Gator’s Bayou
Gator’s Bayou provides a fun Louisiana-style experience with tasty bites, though the noise level can get a bit overwhelming at times.
Honorable Mention
Vizo’s African Bar & Restaurant
Vizo’s is a friendly place with a well-stocked bar and yummy food. It’s great for chatting with friends without yelling over loud music.
Cafe J
Cafe J is a cozy spot with cool decor. It’s great for hanging out with friends over drinks and conversation.
BierHaus
BierHaus has a trendy vibe and a big drink selection. Some people say the food is just okay, but it’s still a popular hangout.
Claraboya Scratch Kitchen
Claraboya, located in the DoubleTree Lubbock University Area, serves farm-to-table meals with locally sourced ingredients. They offer breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, along with a full bar.
However, the atmosphere isn’t always ideal as it’s situated in the middle of the hotel, with guests coming and going, sometimes in swimwear.
Lubbock Lease Homes, Here To Help You Find What You Need
Despite the common view of Lubbock as a boring city in the middle of nowhere, there are tons of options for dining out beyond the typical chain restaurants and fast food (though that can be found also).
New restaurants are opening every year, and as the city grows larger, you can expect that number to keep increasing. So, make sure to check back regularly as we keep this list updated with the latest and greatest.
Also, if you’re thinking of moving to Lubbock, or if you are already in the city and looking for a new home, check out the available properties here at Lubbock Lease Homes.
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