Good food is part of what makes the Hill Country unforgettable. Between its rolling ranchlands and river towns lies a culinary scene that’s as diverse as the landscape — smoky pit barbecue, classic Tex-Mex, hand-crafted burgers, and elegant wineries that rival any in the state.
Whether you’re road-tripping through Fredericksburg, floating the Frio, or catching live music in Bandera, these ten restaurants capture the heart and soul of Texas Hill Country dining
Old Spanish Trail (Bandera)
A true Bandera institution since 1921, the Old Spanish Trail, or “OST,” serves up hearty Texas comfort food in a setting that feels like a step back in time. Breakfast plates, chicken-fried steak, and pie that tastes like it came from your grandmother’s kitchen make this place a must-visit. Don’t miss the saddle barstools — locals have been claiming their favorites for generations.
The Hunt Store (Hunt)
More than a store, this Hill Country icon is a community gathering spot. The Hunt Store serves up burgers, barbecue sandwiches, and cold beer with a side of local music. Sit out on the patio under string lights and talk with the locals — you’ll leave feeling like part of the family.
Vaudeville (Fredericksburg)
If you’re looking for something upscale, Vaudeville brings big-city sophistication to small-town Fredericksburg. Their bistro menu changes seasonally, blending Hill Country ingredients with French-inspired flair. Downstairs, you’ll find a stylish gallery and boutique — perfect for pairing lunch with a little shopping.
Billy Gene’s Restaurant (Kerrville)
Overlooking the Guadalupe River, Billy Gene’s is famous for its chicken-fried steak, onion rings, and country-style cooking served with a view. Grab a table by the window or sit outside to watch the river flow by as you enjoy one of the Hill Country’s most relaxing dining experiences.
Mac & Ernie’s Roadside Eatery (Tarpley)
This humble roadside café has earned a loyal following for its creative takes on Texas classics — think cabrito burgers, grilled catfish, and pepper-crusted steaks. Featured on national food shows, Mac & Ernie’s proves that big flavor can come from the smallest towns.
The Laurel Tree (Utopia)
Dining at The Laurel Tree is an experience, not just a meal. Open only on Saturdays with reservations, this restaurant offers a prix-fixe menu crafted from local ingredients, often grown right on-site. The atmosphere — intimate, candlelit, and surrounded by gardens — makes it one of the most romantic dining spots in the Hill Country.
Pecan Street Brewing (Johnson City)
In the heart of Johnson City, Pecan Street Brewing combines handcrafted beer with hearty pub food. Try the wood-fired pizzas, loaded nachos, or their signature beer-battered fish. The outdoor stage often features live local musicians — a perfect stop after visiting nearby wineries.
Social on Main (Boerne)
Boerne’s Social on Main offers a modern Texas twist — fresh cocktails, elevated Southern comfort food, and weekend brunches that draw both locals and travelers. The atmosphere balances rustic charm with modern style, reflecting the Hill Country’s evolving food scene.
Blue Bonnet Café (Marble Falls)
Since 1929, the Blue Bonnet Café has been serving legendary pies and down-home comfort food. Travelers flock here for breakfast plates, chicken-fried steak, and their world-famous meringue pies stacked high with peaks of sugar and cream. Bring your appetite and maybe a cooler — you’ll want to take dessert to go.
The 11th Street Cowboy Bar Grill (Bandera)
Known as the “Biggest Little Bar in Texas,” 11th Street isn’t just a nightlife destination — it’s a place where you can grill your own steak on one of their public pits, grab a drink, and listen to live country music under the stars. It’s the ultimate Bandera experience, blending cowboy culture, food, and music in one unforgettable night.
Taste the Hill Country
Every town here has its own flavor, from the smoky mesquite of the BBQ pits to the delicate spices in Fredericksburg’s German-Texan dishes. The best meals often come with a view — and a handshake from the owner who cooked them.
Whether you’re planning a road trip, a weekend escape, or a food lover’s getaway, the Hill Country’s restaurants tell the story of the region through every bite.
Plan your culinary road trip with Backroads Reservations.
Find nearby cabins, cottages, and river homes close to these must-try restaurants — all listed inside the Hill Country Travel App.