Do you like to add culinary adventures to your travel itinerary? Then get ready to embark on a flavorful journey on your next stop in Bryan/College Station! These charming cities are known not only for their Texas-sized hospitality but also for their diverse (and delicious!) dining options. Forget the chains, from award-winning restaurants to our beloved local gems, celebrated wineries to down-home delights Bryan alone boasts over 200 eateries throughout the city! This culinary utopia is a treat for all your senses!
Award Winners
Both Bryan and College Station boast a thriving culinary scene, with several award-winning restaurants that promise a memorable dining experience. Here’s two you won’t want to miss:
- Christopher’s World Grille: This fine dining steakhouse was created by award-winning Chef Christopher Lampo in a 100-year-old Texas Ranch House! The promise they make to customers is three-fold: exceptional food, great service, and memorable experiences. Also voted Top 100 Most Romantic in America by OpenTable. This fine-dining steak and seafood house is worth the visit!
- The Republic Steakhouse: The Republic has earned its reputation for excellence. From mouthwatering steaks to an extensive wine and whiskey list, this dining experience is one you won’t want to miss. If you are planning an event, this is the place to do so! From unique private dining experiences in spaces like Suite 406 to the Lounge for casual drinks, this is one hotspot in Aggieland you don’t want to miss!
Local Favorites
While award-winning restaurants are a treat, some of the best culinary experiences can be found at local favorites that are cherished by the community. Here are a few worth mentioning.
- Fargo’s BBQ: Recognized by Texas Monthly magazine as one of The Best BBQ Joints in the World, Fargo’s Pit BBQ is loved by BBQ enthusiasts all over the state! Serving up authentic Texas BBQ, be sure to get there early cause once they run out, they close down for the night!
- Zeitman’s Grocery & Deli: You’ll feel the family tradition when you walk through the door at Zeitman’s Grocery and Deli. The air permeates with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, bagels, and other Jewish delicacies. Grab a sandwich or pick up your picnic supplies, but definitely check out this family tradition, 4 generations in the making!
- The Village: You’ll find all things local at this quaint cafe in Downtown Bryan. From the produce on your plate, to the art on the walls, right down to the guitarist strumming his tunes, “Everything you experience at The Village is from your neighbors.”
Did Someone Say Tacos?
For taco enthusiasts, there is no better state to visit than Texas! You can find a number of different tacos in Texas Monthly’s Tacopedia, but we like to keep things local around these parts, so why not try out our local Taco Trail?
- Taqueria Poblana: Authentic Poblana-based Taqueria, family owned and operated, an authentic taste of Puebla, Mexico.
- Bryan Taco Trail: With over 40 eateries serving anything from your traditional taquerias to American-style pubs, fusion options, trucks and even a Cuban taco, there is something for everyone on the Bryan Taco Trail. Sign up today for your passport (it’s free!) and enjoy Bryan’s finest tacos, and maybe even win some prizes along the way!
- Proudest Monkey: While the Proudest Monkey is more of a burger joint than a taqueria, it is still worth noting the taco section on their menu. Where else can you find a Cuban Taco?
Farm to Table
Traditions run deep in Texas, and Brazos Valley residents are committed to that neighborly community that the state is known for. Their food is no different. Shop local and support small businesses in this tight-knit community. We love to bring guests to the table!
- Ronin Farm & Restaurant: Owners Bryan and Amanda Light began Ronin Farm on a whim after catering a friend’s wedding in 2011, since then it has gone from a commercial catering kitchen to a full-fledged farm complete with chickens, pigs, gardens, turkeys and more. In 2015, they reopened the 111-year-old Icehouse into Ronin on Main St., featuring a menu full of Texas delights straight from the farm.
- Brazos Valley Farmers Market: Every Saturday on Main Street in Downtown Bryan, you’ll find The Farmers Market in Brazos County. This venue hosts local produce and flower farmers, crafters, bakeries, and so much more! Come check out the vendors next Saturday!
Bars and Wineries
From wine enthusiasts to frat boys, Bryan and College Station has something for everyone. Wineries, breweries, bars and lounges, whether you’re looking for Sunday Brunch Bloody Mary’s or post-game brews, check out some of our favorites around town:
- Messina Hof: Starting right here in Bryan, TX, Messina Hof is considered the First Family of Texas Wine. If you’re into vino, then this winery should be at the top of your list of places to visit. With vineyards and tasting rooms located all over the state, Messina Hof vines have spread from their small roots back in 1977 to become the most award-winning producers of 100% Texas wine.
- Vino Boheme: A wine bar by The Village, both in style and geography. Indulge in a pinot and step back to a time when creative genius was inspired inside the walls of a French salon. From Van Gogh to Fitzgerald, Parisian Salons have been the birthplace of artistic inspiration. Now, perhaps you can get your own creative spark right in the heart of Downtown Bryan!
- Dixie Chicken: A student hotspot, especially before and after a game! It’s not gonna win any awards, but you can get a decent burger and a cold beer while you celebrate with your fellow Aggies on game day! Oh and the sangria? It’s Texas-sized! Check out this Aggieland tradition and local college hotspot that has the distinction of being the oldest bar in Northgate. They’ve been serving Aggies since 1974!
- KinderHill Brew Lab: Not just your average microbrewery, KinderHill features a Biergarten with an outdoor seating area that boasts a rotating showcase of local food trucks. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, don’t worry they have indoor seating in their tasting room as well as brewery tours.
Coffee Houses
If you are anything like us, you love your morning brew. While coffee may not be the first thing that comes to mind with Texas, we sure have our share of cute and cozy coffee shops here in town! Enjoy free wifi, delicous coffee and tasty treats while you catch up with friends or read a book.
- Polite Coffee Co @the Kyle House: Located in an 1800’s Victorian home once owned by Edwin Kyle (namesake of the legendary football stadium). You can get barista-inspired blends like the “Garden Party” or “Blind Date” or grab a bag to go at this cute and cozy shop.
- POV: If you are staying at The Stella, then you can’t miss the opportunity to try the days’ fresh offerings at POV, located just outside the front door of the hotel. Fresh muffins, croissants, and Kolaches fill the air with their sweet aroma. Choose from their grab-n-go section, sit on their patio, or just grab a cup of joe before you stroll around the Lake Walk.
- Babe’s Doughnut & Coffee Shop: Serving delicious gourmet donuts, Babe’s is a can’t miss destination, and if you happen to be there on the weekend? You have to try the honey butter chicken biscuit, yum!
Bryan and its sister city of College Station are a haven for foodies of all types. With a wide range of culinary delights to satisfy every palate, you’ll want to delve into this culinary paradise that is just waiting to be explored. From authentic Texas BBQ, award-winning restaurants and wineries to delicious tacos, gather up your taste buds and get ready to savor this delectable journey!