Grab a bite at Jonathon’s Diner in Dallas, Texas.

Summer doesn’t have to mean trying all the latest seafood after beach days by the Gulf Coast.

Sometimes, it’s more about treating yourself or your friends to a meal at an American diner with all the comfort foods of home.

Let’s explore what they have to offer!

What to Expect

Generally, grabbing a bite to eat at this diner costs about $10-20, on average. It’s easy on the wallet — enough for a relaxed meal out without any financial planning required.

Not only do they have creative spins on the American comfort food dishes you love and crave, but Jonathon’s Diner also makes desserts homemade.

It’s a casual eatery, so no need to get dressed up. Of course, you’re totally welcome to break out that great outfit you’ve been saving for summer.

It’s also a low-key spot for friends or out-of-town family.

Reservations are required, so plan ahead — coordinate with your group and lock in a date early.

They do have outdoor seating. As you know, Texas summers get sweltering in a hurry. Make sure you have plenty of water.

They’re known for great cocktails — a nice bonus for a late morning out.

Their hours are from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every day.

It’s mostly a breakfast and lunch place, so don’t count on it for a dinner or late-night diner craving. Rise and shine early!

Saturdays are their busiest days, followed by Sundays in the late morning. Mondays are also surprisingly busy.

Hungry folks spend anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half here. Budget your schedule and commute travel time accordingly.

The building sits low on the side of the road and can be easy to miss, but parking wraps around it with decent availability.

But parking wraps around the building. Some spots are closer to the entrance; if you’d prefer one of those, opt for an off-peak day or time.

It’s a small building and parking lot, so parking will be limited.

The sign is also easy to miss. It’s got a big “J” and “S” for Jonathon’s. The letters in the middle are harder to read. But if you find that “J,” odds are that you’ve found what you were looking for.

In case you type in Jonathon’s and two locations and addresses pop up, you’re not imagining it. There are two locations for Jonathon’s: one is at 1619 North Beckley Avenue, and the other is at 5337 Forest Lane.

We’re diving into the Beckley Avenue location, in Oak Cliff. Head on over!

Interestingly, Jonathon’s Forestwood — now in North Dallas — is actually the original location, which started out in Oak Cliff before relocating.

Jonathon’s Forestwood got its start in May 2011 in a tiny Oak Cliff space at 1111 North Beckley Avenue.

Because of a rent increase, Jonathon’s had to move in 2021. They moved North!

After navigating the challenges of renovating a new space, they reopened a couple of years later — serving up the same classics fans had always loved.

The Jonathon’s that’s currently in Oak Cliff, at 1619 North Beckley Avenue, is open for both dine-in and takeout. If you want to place a takeout order, call 214-782-9273.

They don’t accept weekend brunch reservations, so keep that in mind as you block out time for brunch this summer.

At weekend brunch, they can seat groups of up to 10 guests. They don’t typically seat more than 10 guests in a party.

They also recommend keeping parties to 6 or less to keep wait times low for everyone.

They ask all guests to be parked, present, and accounted for inside the restaurant to be seated.

Weekend brunch is serious here!

Most of their seating are 2- and 4-top booths, so they only have a couple of tables that will accommodate larger parties.

That’s part of the reason for keeping group party numbers to the single digits.

Note that, if you do come with a very large party, there’s a high likelihood that the group won’t be able to all sit together.

Weekday reservations for groups are limited as well. They have a few spots open, but you’ll need to call 214-782-9273 and ask for a manager.

Tell them you’re calling to get a weekday-only reservation for a party of 8 or more people.

Where to wait it out? They have outdoor seating for guests. There aren’t any indoor waiting spaces, so pack a little fan if you’re going at a time when the wait time could be lengthy.

You can wait for tables to open up outside, or you can sit in your car until your table is ready. They have a system where they’ll send you a text when your table is ready.

Just be sure all members of your group are present and ready to be seated, when they text you.

They don’t use any third-party delivery services. Instead, they have takeout. You can place to-go orders up to 30 minutes before closing time.

How about catering? Corporate? Private events?

Jonathon’s offers catering for both corporate parties and events, and birthday parties and anniversaries.

If you call Christine at 945-269-0004, she’ll work with you on making a menu that’s unique to your event. They say no event is too large or too small.

Jonathon’s Menu

Let’s start out with weekend brunch items.

I’d go with the Breakfast Tacos ($12). These include bacon, scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, flour tortillas, a side of pico de gallo, salsa, and brunch potatoes. You can’t go wrong with a taco.

Another option is simply labeled Breakfast (same price). This would be two eggs, made your way, with two sides and a slice of toast.

I like the name of this next one: Dad’s Benedict.

It’s funny because it’s true!

This dish comes with ham, two eggs over easy, an English muffin, hollandaise, and a side of brunch potatoes. It’s $15, priced a little higher.

The Danger Dogs ($9) are shareable — pancake-battered turkey sausage links served with spicy mustard. Fair warning: have a glass of water nearby.

If you always look for the fruit option at a brunch place, there’s a fruit plate at $10. The fruit is seasonal, so be sure to ask what they have in the kitchen.

I couldn’t believe I found a Sopapilla Waffle — at $14, it’s on the pricier side, but it’s a glorious mashup of two beloved things.

This Belgian waffle is deep fried and tossed in cinnamon and sugar. It’s drizzled with honey and topped off with toasted almonds and a side of vanilla crema.

I don’t think I could go for this, but there’s an All in One Waffle for $16. It’s got everything you could imagine!

The waffle is stuffed with bacon baked inside, and it’s topped with scrambled eggs, pork sausage, caramelized onions, green chiles, cheddar cheese, Chef Jon’s peppered gravy, and a hot sauce drizzle.

The staff members at Jonathon’s say no modifications to this dish, please.

I can understand that: it’s about going all in on an All in One Waffle. You’ve got to take it all.

There’s a Bloody Mary bar, with house-made mixes you can customize with your own garnish and heat level.

Ranging from $8–10, your vodka options include house vodka, Stoli, Stoli Hot Jalapeño, Absolut, and Tito’s.

A perfect name for a dish at a brunch, the Nooner is a burger with bacon, ham, swiss cheese, American cheese, sliced tomatoes, a fried egg, and mayo on a toasted bun.

What I like about it is that it feels like a blend of a breakfast haphazardly thrown together and a lunch where you rolled in at the last minute. Perfect for late risers.

Soups are based on the day of the week and vary. Some recent options were Chef Jon’s Chili in a cup or bowl ($5 or $8) or Chicken Enchilada.

One of their salads, the Working Man’s Salad, is for those of you who don’t get summers off like the kids do.

Sit down to one of these salads, including bacon, ham, chicken, cheddar cheese, provolone cheese, and romaine lettuce with a honey mustard dressing.

Jonathon’s has a long list of cocktails, wines, bubbles, and more. Be sure to study this page of the menu to find what you may like. Their wines come from Italy, France, Argentina, and more.

Their Mimosa at $5 has house bubbles and freshly squeezed orange juice. If you’d rather have pineapple, there’s a Malimosa with coconut rum, pineapple, house bubbles, and grenadine.

Their Grapefruit Reba, another great name, has Deep Eddy Ruby Red vodka mixed with lemon and grapefruit. Something sweet and tangy.

One name I couldn’t skip past is The Smurfette. For anyone who loves Smurfs, there’s a stoli blueberry vodka with blue curacao and lemonade. It’s yours for $10.

To find it, search ‘Jonathon’s Diner Dallas’ in your Maps app

Where: Jonathon’s Diner, 1619 North Beckley Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75208

Jonathon’s Diner is anything but a relic — it’s a living, evolving take on the American comfort food experience.

It’s basically busting at the seams with creativity and new twists on old classics.

So make Jonathon’s one of your summer pit stops — you’ll leave with a full plate, a great story, and at least one new favorite.

Smell the comfort food you love. But taste something new.

Find them online at jonathonsoakcliff.com and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because a Sopapilla Waffle and a Smurfette cocktail are worth every minute of the drive.

If you accidentally muttered ‘pizza’ out loud and your kids heard you — now cheering wildly — there’s no going back. Pizza is very much part of this summer. Pool days, beach trips, sunscreen-dotted noses, ice cream impossibly stacked atop cones.

Pizza’s just part of that equation, isn’t it? Summer’s full of activities, camps, vacations, and easy meals for hungry travelers, pool warriors, and sandcastle builders.

Wishing for a little creativity, though? A twist on tried-and-true pizzas? Check out Old School Pizza Tavern in Arlington, Texas.

Your New Hangout Spot

Old School Pizza Tavern is a pizza restaurant that’ll cost you around $10-20.

It’s known for creative pies.

They have indoor and outdoor seating, a life-saver on a good-weather day or night during a Texas summer.

It’s a tiny building, so don’t expect ample elbow room. They have a private dining room, if you’d like to host a birthday party or a special anniversary celebration.

If you’re going out with coworkers, they have happy hour food and cocktails.

Their hours are from 11 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. every day, and happy hour is from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Hours vary, so check ahead.

Friday and Saturday nights are hopping, and even Thursday night has a sizable crowd.

The parking lot is small, and some of the spaces are in the grass. Go at an off-peak time to secure a parking spot.

The outdoor seating area includes multiple benches, picnic-table style, that are great for kids, families, or groups of friends. They’re under a flat roof that has lantern lights at night.

Cut it, or merge into the previous sentence: “…lantern string lights that cast a soft glow after dark.

The picnic tables outside are all painted in bright, cheerful colors.

Kids will love making a tradition out of snagging a specific table, such as a yellow table or a blue table. If there are open tables, let them pick their favorite color.

Who knows? That table could end up being the table your group or family always goes to for nights out this summer, or every summer in the decade to come.

The floor’s not meant to be pristine outside. It’s for eating as you would on a picnic.

So, don’t worry too much about neatly eating your pizza. Stuff some napkins nearby, and keep an eye on any messy munchers.

The outdoor seating section is right next to the parking lot, so it’s easy access to get to and from your car. At sunset, it’s lovely to watch the light change over the houses in the neighborhood across from the pizza restaurant.

Old School Pizza Tavern has a huge fan they put outside for when the evening or day gets hot. It’ll do at least part of the work of keeping you cool. Be sure you have some water!

They identify as being veteran-owned, and they’re LGBTQ+ friendly.

As for ordering options, you can choose dine-in, curbside pickup, or no-contact delivery. Pick whichever option suits your schedule best.

Your Order’s Up

Get 10% off your order if you place it online. Watch for deals like this one both online and in the store. They’re good about offering discounts for pizza customers.

Cut it and go straight into the menu description.

Build your own pizza, or get a plain cheese pizza, for about $12. It’s a best seller in their online ordering portal.

There’s a myriad of specialty pizza offerings (most are about $13 each). The best sellers online are the Alfredo Chicken Pizza, the Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza, the Buffalo Chicken Pizza, and the Chicken, Bacon, and Ranch Pizza.

The Alfredo Chicken Pizza keeps it classic — just rich alfredo sauce and tender chicken. If you’re feeling brave, try the Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza that has a red sauce mixed with mustard, along with American cheese, bacon, beef, onions, and tomatoes.

With the Buffalo Chicken Pizza, choose either hot or mild buffalo sauce and chicken. Have a drink nearby!

The Chicken, Bacon, and Ranch Pizza is shortened to the CBR Pizza on the menu. It has a ranch dressing base and includes chicken and bacon. If you love to add ranch to almost anything, this one’s for you.

Don’t overlook the Barbecue Chicken Pizza — smoky barbecue sauce over chicken makes for a sweet, satisfying bite.

Where are my pineapple fans at? There’s a Hawaiian Pizza, with red sauce, bacon, and pineapple.

One fun option is the Maverick Supreme Pizza. This one has red sauce, pepperoni, Italian sausage, and bacon. Or if you love meatballs, there’s a Meatball Pizza (beef meatballs).

I love that they have a Taco Pizza. Tacos should be pizzas, too, right?

If this one’s calling your name, answer. It’s got red sauce mixed with taco sauce, beef, onions, jalapenos, taco spices, lettuce, and tomatoes.

I’ll admit that’s a lot to put on a pizza, but it’s worth a shot.

Another specialty pizza is the Pesto Chicken Pizza. If you’re a fan of pesto sauce, you’ll enjoy this mix of pesto sauce, chicken, spinach, diced tomatoes, and of course, garlic.

If you have a nut allergy, don’t get the Pesto Chicken. The pesto sauce contains pine nuts, so be careful. Ask about cross-contamination if your allergy (or that of someone in your party) is severe.

I also look for a Mediterranean Pizza. This one comes with garlic butter (yum!), an olive oil base, spinach, artichokes, and onions.

Any kids who are carnivores? They’ll likely partake with you in this feast: the Carnivore Pizza.

It’s a little more expensive, at almost $20. But it’s packed with pepperoni, bacon, Italian sausage, and beef, with a red sauce.

If you or someone in your group is vegetarian, there’s a Vegetarian Pizza. This one comes with a red sauce, black olives, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and red and green bell peppers.

If all of these pizzas are making you hungry, the tavern offers a few appetizers to tide you over. These are their Bone-In Wings ($13), served with a side of ranch or blue cheese, or cheese bread ($8) or a basket of chips ($2).

I’m partial to cheese bread, but wings are a favorite for sharing at your table.

Need something lighter? Balance out the pizza with one of their salads.

Salads range from $6-10 at Old School Pizza Tavern. Add chicken to any of their salad choices, if you’d like to bump up your protein for the day.

You’ve got your classic Caesar Salad, with romaine lettuce, shaved parmesan cheese, black pepper, croutons, and a Caesar dressing. 

There’s also a Garden Salad, with romaine lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and mixed cheese. Or try something new with their Harvest Salad. This one involves spinach, apples, cranberries, pecans, and cheese crumbles.

Note that the ingredients of the Harvest Salad are seasonal, so ask what they’ve got that day.

All subs come with Lays potato chips (the best kind!).

There aren’t a lot of options for subs (all $11), but if you know what you want, it’s a quick choice.

The tavern has a Meatball Sub, with meatballs, provolone cheese, and marinara sauce. They also have a Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub that’s full of diced chicken, bacon, provolone cheese, ranch dressing, lettuce, and tomatoes.

The third sub option is an Italian Sub. You can order this one hot or cold. It comes with salami, ham, pepperoni, and provolone cheese.

The kids menu is limited, but it covers the essentials. Kids can get either a cheese or pepperoni pizza. They’re both $6.

Drinks are $3, which isn’t cheap but a must-have as you eat your meal. They offer sodas and sweet and unsweet tea.

If you’re worried about your budget for this summer, let’s take a load off your mind.

There’s a daily lunch special that can save you a few dollars!

It’s only available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays. Set your alarm to hit this time window! The special is for a two-topping personal pizza with a soda or tea. At just $12, it’s one of the better deals in Arlington.

If you’re looking for a hangout spot this summer, Old School Pizza Tavern has a full bar and craft beers.

They’re constantly experimenting with new combinations, so the menu is always worth a second look.

For example, they recently had a Cajun Bayou Pizza. It was inspired by Mardi Gras with Cajun sausage, shrimp, crawfish, and a spicy cream sauce.

They like to center these seasonal pizzas around holidays, such as St. Patrick’s Day or Mardi Gras.

Ordering takeout is a little tricky if it’s during a busy period. Even if you have a time that it’s supposed to be ready, give the workers some grace as you wait for your food order.

Where’s this pizza place located? Type Old School Pizza Tavern Arlington into your Maps app.

Where: Old School Pizza Tavern, 603 West Abram Street, Arlington, Texas 76010

The vibe is laid-back. It’s more like a community backyard barbecue, with picnic tables, laughter, and string lights.

Some people describe Old School Pizza Tavern as the “little secret pizza spot.”

Let it be yours, too.

Find them online at oldschoolpizzataverntx.com and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because the little secret pizza spot deserves a spot on your summer list.

If it does, you’re no fool. Then you’ll feel right at home at Blackbeard’s On the Beach, a pirate-themed seafood restaurant on the shores of Corpus Christi.

There’s no better place to open up a pirate-themed restaurant than in a beach town like Corpus Christi.

You have the amenities of a large city, with the pace of life of a coastal town.

But there’s more to this place than themed décor and cold drinks — let’s get into it.

What to Know Before You Go

Customers say this seafood place isn’t too costly. Most dishes fall in the $10–$20 range, making it an easy choice for a casual beach meal.

The menu leans heavily on seafood, live music fills the air most nights, and the margaritas come served in souvenir mugs you can take home.

It’s got all the makings of a memorable stop on a longer beach trip.

They don’t take reservations. But they do have a happy hour, if you’d like to go out with your coworkers.

This restaurant is open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day. There’s hardly a time you’d miss getting to go to this place. It’s open for lunch, dinner, and even a late brunch.

It’s a popular stop for Friday and Saturday nights and Sundays mid-day.

On their website, they say they have “great food, fun, and grog.” Definitely pirate-themed!

You can order online from Blackbeard’s on their website, too. They have DoorDash. And food is available for pick-up at their Corpus Christi location.

Sometimes their hours change, so stay tuned to their website and Facebook page. For example, their fall hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. through 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

They’re located close to the beach between the U.S.S. Lexington and North Beach in Corpus Christi.

Blackbeard’s has daily drink specials, so be sure to ask about those!

If you want to know what their daily drink special is going to be, mosey on over to their Facebook page for the big reveals.

You don’t have to be in person at their restaurant to enjoy the Blackbeard’s brand either.

They have an online store called the Treasure Chest. This store has souvenir t-shirts, gift certificates, and more.

Live music is offered every night during spring and summer. Summertime music lovers, you’re in luck!

During the fall and winter, they host live music from Wednesdays through Saturdays.

Their gift certificates are, of course, themed like treasure maps in the shape of a ticket. These make great gifts for the kids (or young at heart) in your life.

You can get gift certificates of $20, $30, $50, or $100 value. If you like, you can also get one for yourself, if you think you’d be back and bringing some friends.

They’re super big on birthdays here at Blackbeard’s On the Beach.

It’s absolutely a thing.

Why? You eat free on your birthday!

It’s equal in value to $12, so don’t expect a huge meal for free. But still fun!

They’re also happy to host birthday parties, if you have one coming up. They’ll help you plan the event, too.

Lore, by Steve

What I love most about Blackbeard’s is the lore. What’s a fantastic pirate-themed restaurant without a good lore story?

This year, they’re celebrating 34 years of “pirates, ghosts, and rock ’n roll.”

So, it’s not your traditional pirates’ cave. Ghosts, which are akin to pirates in a way, are part of the story. Along with an epic rock ’n roll current that’s steady through it all.

If you love one, two, or all three, Blackbeard’s is your next hangout place.

It opened in 1991, just as the decade was getting started.

They have a menu that’s got seafood, steaks, and of course, comfort foods.

One of their most popular dishes is the Baja Tacos, and their Seared Tuna took top prize at the 2016 North Beach Seafood Wars at the Texas State Aquarium — prize-winning tuna, no less.

Wait … Seafood Wars? Sign us up. Crab costumes, optional.

They’ve also got juicy steaks and burgers, or plates loaded with nachos.

Blackbeard’s is serious about their drinks, especially margaritas. Recently, they added bourbons for anyone who loves to try new ones.

Sit at their bar, and take a minute to peruse their unique collection of stuff. It ranges from pirate-themed to rock ’n roll, just like the restaurant’s themes overall.

Okay, here’s my favorite bit of lore at Blackbeard’s On the Beach.

If you happen to be at the bar when they’re getting ready to close for the day, you’ll notice something unusual. Even mysterious.

The bartender pours a drink at the bar and leaves it … for their resident ghost. Caught on camera.

They do film their ghost — without its consent, naturally. But if a ghost is drinking at your bar, it’s fair game for the camera, right?

Ghost stories aside for now. Blackbeard’s is located in a bright purple building, just across the bridge.

It’s a point of pride that Blackbeard’s On the Beach is one of the oldest buildings still intact on North Beach in Corpus Christi. Part of that pride is due to surviving a fair number of hurricanes since the 1950s, which dates back even before the restaurant’s opening day.

Blackbeard’s original owner was Steve Bonillas. He was a collector of many things, as is reflected on the walls, ceilings, shelves, and surfaces of his present-day seafood restaurant. His collection has become as much a part of the restaurant as the food itself.

As you can imagine, Steve loved music, especially rock ’n roll. That’s why the lore includes an undercurrent of music, a nod to the restaurant’s owner and founder.

Though his passing in 2012 was a loss for everyone who knew him and loved the place, he’d started a huge collection of memorabilia from rock ’n roll music that was later housed at Blackbeard’s.

This restaurant is more than a pirate-themed dinner out.

Some customers talk about Blackbeard’s as a mini rock ’n roll museum, which is not something you see or get to experience every day.

That moniker is thanks in large part to Steve, their founder. Because of his eye for details and the archives of history, hungry travelers and beachgoers can enjoy a bit of history as they munch on seafood dishes and sip their drinks.

Staff members at Blackbeard’s On the Beach encourage customers to go look around at the walls, shelves, and more as they cook up dishes and prepare drinks. It’s time well spent.

Now that you’ve heard about ghosts, a scary pirate leader, and a massive collection of odds and ends … are you in, or are you out?

This place isn’t for anybody who wants a traditional affair. This is for people who actively seek out unique, one-of-a-kind restaurants.

If you love to go to theme parks for the experience, you’re likely the audience for this restaurant.

Something cool about this seafood restaurant is that it’s more than a one-time stop for travelers on their way to the next activity.

Generations of families come back to Blackbeard’s, with kids all grown up and the next generation of children in tow. They wanted their kids to know and experience this restaurant, because it meant so much to their own childhood.

Discover Seafood Delights

Their menu is pirate-themed, of course.

It’s designed like parchment paper on which pirates write their treasure maps. Coins litter the paper, signs of a treasure, split among pirate clans.

First up: soups. These are Blackbeard’s soups, to be exact.

There’s a Pirate Stew that includes sausage, crab, chicken, and shrimp, with pico de gallo in a tortilla soup. It’s about $5 for a cup or $9 for a bowl.

The Signature Sampler at $15 covers all the bases: Buffalo wings, peel-and-eat shrimp, fried mushrooms, and popcorn shrimp.

Their Surfside Salads have fresh greens topped with cheese, sliced avocado, pineapple, purple onions, black olives, and tomatoes.

Buffalo Chicken Wings come in regular or flaming hot. Have water at the ready! These wings are about $13.

What’s calling me is Blackbeard’s Seafood Queso. It’s $14. And it’s got shrimp, crab, and pico de gallo.

Or go after a Triple Dipper, with queso, salsa, and guacamole with chips.

Blackbeard’s Baja Taco, on corn or flour tortillas, includes grilled, blackened, or fried shrimp or fish with a Baja mix and homemade Coco Loco sauce. This taco is $6.

You’ll notice Blackbeard’s Signature Dishes are represented by Blackbeard’s Flag on the menu. Order these items to really get in the spirit of your pirate-themed surroundings.

Note that a 20% gratuity is recommended for groups of 6 or more. Special orders include an extra charge, depending on what you order.

Baskets come with a plethora of options. You’ve got popcorn shrimp, fried shrimp, coconut shrimp, fried fish, fried catfish, fried oyster, or fried chicken strips.

As for the bread: burgers come on toasted Hawaiian buns, while sandwiches are served on rye bread, French rolls, or Hawaiian buns.

The Aloha Burger, at $14, includes coconut mayo, grilled onions, and a grilled pineapple slice. It’s a sweet, tropical twist that fits the beachy mood perfectly.

Where’s this pirate-themed restaurant located? Type Blackbeard’s Corpus Christi into your Maps app.

Where: Blackbeard’s On the Beach, 3117 Surfside Boulevard, Corpus Christi, Texas 78402

Blackbeard’s On the Beach is a stone’s throw away from a day of fun on the beach. Pack up your things, stow them in the car, and settle in for a pirate-themed, rock ’n roll experience, complete with the seafood you were craving.

Find them online at blackbeards.restaurant, check out reviews on Yelp and TripAdvisor, watch a preview on YouTube, and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because pirates, ghosts, and rock ‘n roll wait for no one.

Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que in Fort Worth, Texas, agrees with you. Wholeheartedly.

They serve up meats on long sheets of paper, with no fancy baskets or anything. It’s closer to the food itself and less about presentation.

You do have your typical sides, sauces, and drink cups.

But the star of the show is there: The meats.

Getting settled at Cooper’s

This location of Cooper’s is near the famous Fort Worth Stockyards.

Expect to spend about $20–30 per person here. It’s not the kind of place you’d pop into every Sunday — it’ll add up fast.

But it’s a great place to take a coworker, a friend, or a family member who’s in town and visiting the Stockyards.

Pairing a trip to the Stockyards with Fort Worth barbecue is one of those quintessentially Texan experiences. It’s an iconic thing to do in Texas.

Seating inside is set up like picnic tables. Very long tables. Benches. You’ll rub elbows with the folks next to you, when times are busy.

That also makes it a place of community. You’re not sectioned off into square or rectangular tables in a restaurant.

You’re sharing the same table as strangers who’re about to become friends. Barbecue’s too good not to spark a conversation.

Cooper’s has outdoor seating that’s perfect for good-weather days. In Texas, summers get pretty hot for sitting outside and eating hot food.

But for many Texans, the heat is another part of what we love about our state, and what makes us Texans by nature.

Sitting outside is a good way to let the young ones blow off some steam and take in some fresh air.

Friends can sit outside and chat as the afternoon stretches on and the sun sets. Couples on a date lean in closer as they eat and talk under a wide, open sky.

There’s also a private dining room, if you’d like to host a birthday party, wedding rehearsal dinner, engagement party, or retirement party at Cooper’s.

Just like everything else at Cooper’s, the menu keeps things simple and unpretentious.

Cooper’s is also happy to customize a menu for you, too, so that it’s served buffet style, family style, or off the pit.

At the Fort Worth location, they have a Llano Room that seats 250 people. It’s a flexible space, so you can adapt it to your needs.

There’s also a patio area that’s an indoor/outdoor space. There’s room for up to 150 people. It’s got a shaded beer garden, too.

If neither option is to your liking, or you have a venue or a house already selected, you can bring Cooper’s to you!

Their managers will get in touch with you after you fill out the event form about catering on their website. You’ll need to enter your email address, phone number, the location of the event, the number of people, and the event date. Be ready!

On Friday and Saturday, they’re open from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The rest of the week is the same opening time and a slightly earlier closing time, at 8:30 p.m.

Make sure you don’t get your wires crossed and think they’ll be closing later than you’d planned. Leave time for late-night chats!

Saturday night is their busiest time, by far. During the weekdays, it’s very quiet. You’ll get a table all to yourself most weekdays, if you like the peace. If you want the hustle and bustle of a full crowd, pencil it in for Saturday night.

Parking is not an issue here. There’s plenty of parking spaces.

Well, how does it work? Inside? They’re true to their tagline: “No frills, no fuss. It’s all about the meat.”

Since the 1960s, they’ve been cooking barbecue pretty much the same way. They call it “cowboy style.”

It basically means they cook all their barbecue over live mesquite coals and serve it right off the pit.

That’s the “Pit” in their name! And it’s part of the theming inside as well.

When you’re in line, as soon as you get up to the person who’ll take your order, there’s the pit right there. It’s part of the experience.

You choose your meats at the pit. They’ll grab whichever meat you choose, cut and slice it for you, and send it on down the line. You’ll follow your meat as you get further along.

You’ll select sides, then grab a seat at one of the long tables. It’s a huge dining room, and a very open-air concept. It doesn’t feel crowded or packed, even when it’s busy. The dining room is designed like a giant community room.

Don’t forget to go get your beans, bread, sliced pickles, jalapenos, and onions. Those are free! You get them after you go through the line, pick your meats and sides, and pay at the cash register.

Drinks are also in the community room, so you can get refills, straws, and so on.

Cooper’s menu

Just like everything else at Cooper’s, their menu is much of the same. It’s down to earth, simple, and to the point.

They have about 14 different cuts of beef, pork, and poultry on the pit every day. One of their popular items is the Big Chop, which includes signature beef ribs. Another crowd favorite is the Texas Trinity, with brisket, sausage, and pork ribs. They also have steaks, if you’re craving one.

Now that you’ve heard this restaurant is all about the meats … bring on the meats!

At Cooper’s, you’ll have your pick of beef ribs, brisket, regular sausages, jalapeno cheddar sausages, chicken, ribeyes, and sirloin.

They also have pork chops, pork loin, pork ribs, prime ribs, turkey, chopped beef, and pulled pork. 

If you’d rather have a sandwich, Cooper’s has chopped beef sandwiches or pulled pork sandwiches.

Sides at Cooper’s include potato salad, coleslaw, grilled corn, steamed corn, and green beans.

They also have mac and cheese, jalapeno/bacon mac and cheese, and a tossed salad. You’ll also find sour pickles, regular cheese, and chips, too.

How will you wash it all down? They’ve got iced tea, sodas, draft and bottled beers, Topo Chico, Big Red, wine, and bottled water.

Desserts are where they shine. Cobblers might just be the best part of a barbecue meal done right.

At Cooper’s, they have blackberry, pecan, peach, apple, and cherry cobblers. And ice cream, of course!

Tips about Cooper’s

Cooper’s is a great spot for happy hour after work with coworkers.

Inside, the noise is a little loud when it’s full of people. Because it’s all in one room, the sound is louder than a restaurant that would have sections of rooms.

They don’t take reservations or offer delivery, but they have take-out options.

Vegetarian choices are limited at Cooper’s. It’s mostly about the meats, which doesn’t leave a lot of options to make up a meal. Definitely ask about some of their sides, if they have meat in them.

The main entrance is ADA-compliant, and there’s bike parking nearby.

They have TVs inside and free WiFi. Cooper’s accepts credit cards but doesn’t take Android or Apple Pay.

The location is a bonus — you’re right in the heart of it all, steps from the Stockyards and a short trip from Billy Bob’s Texas if you’re in the mood for dancing.

Portions are large at Cooper’s. It’s structured to mainly feature the meats.

But you can customize the meats that you get.

So, you can order less if you’re not that hungry or if it’s a little expensive. Or you can ask for more meat if you’re going to take some home or share with members of your group.

Being able to customize what you get (and the refills you do) is a nice way to complement a group of friends or family going out to eat. Everyone can eat a little or a lot, and they can go back for more beans or refills on drinks.

The queue line, right from when you walk in the doors, is overwhelming for first-timers. You’re directed straight into a line where you’ll be expected to make decisions about what and how much meat you want, which sides, which desserts, and so on.

Do your research ahead of time, if you can. Know what you’ll order, and have some options for the kids in your party, too.

When you’re in line, you’re in the middle of the big room already, which contributes to feeling how huge the place is. But it’s also great to get a sense of what a table, space, and flow looks like as you’re waiting in line.

Be prepared to accidentally spend more than you’d planned. That’s the sneaky part about customizing what you’d like to eat.

You’re likely coming in hungry, and ordering reflects that mindset.

To get there, plug ‘Cooper’s Old Time BBQ Fort Worth’ into your Maps app.

Where: Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, 301 Stockyards Blvd, Fort Worth, Texas 76164

Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is like having a picnic with 100 of your closest friends. It’s on wax paper. It’s not very polished. Everyone has wads of napkins in their hands.

They’re going back for more beans. And refills on drinks.

While rubbing elbows with strangers isn’t for everyone, it’s one of the ways we Texans get to know each other.

We’re different because we can’t help but grin and hand an extra napkin to the teen next to us.

Find them online at coopersbbqfortworth.com, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because the pit’s always going, and the meats won’t wait.

You’re in Triple Six Social, mortals, in San Marcos, Texas.

This art cafe is like stepping into one of those shops in the Harry Potter world. Not the ones that are abuzz with chocolate frogs leaping off tables and children laughing.

We’re now in the darker parts of the realm. When an eyeball turns around to look at you, unabashed. Whispers permeate slick walls, half in shadow.

Enter a shop, and you’re met with odds and ends of peculiar origins and even stranger purposes. If a thrill prickled up your spine, you’re in the right back alley.

Tell Me Where to Go … I’m There

It’s not expensive. Don’t fret. Generally, the cafe is in the $10-20 range (or less).

It’s open from 7 a.m. until midnight every day of the week. The cafe has 4 parking spots out front in addition to 1 handicap spot. Since parking is limited, time your arrival for quieter times of day.

Saturday and Sunday mid-day, around lunch time, is when the cafe is most popular. Something interesting is that they’re also busy in the mid- to late-evening hours of Fridays. It’s a spot where you can hang out with friends on a Friday night, slipping into a back alley for a couple hours.

It’s a woman-owned business that popped up in 2024. The owner, Andrea, started the art cafe to create a place where those who don’t fit in can finally shine. It’s pet-friendly, disability-friendly, and open to the Queer community.

Bottoms Up, Ghoul!

If you’re super into gothic vibes, you’ll love the nods they do on their menu. The letters are, of course, in a gothic style. In between menu items are drawings or sketches of haunted representations of what you’ll be getting, whether a drink vial or a milk carton.

Their drink menu is packed with options — this is no two-or-three-coffee kind of place.

Drinks are divided into 12 ounces, 16 ounces, and 25 ounces. Iced drinks range from $5 to $8. Hot drinks cost about the same, but typically 50 cents cheaper.

Staff picks include a Rose on the Grave, which is a cherry mocha latte. Watch for the spooky names they pick because it’s part of the cafe’s dark story come to light.

Here’s Johnny is a tiramisu latte with cold foam. The Handsome Devil, one of my favorite names, is a vanilla and caramel latte with cold foam.

Barely Buried? It’s a white chocolate and dark chocolate mix. Who could resist white chocolate?

Staff members also like the Poltergeist, which is a caramel horchata latte. The Helpless Horseman, for those who love drinks of the season, is a white-chocolate pumpkin latte. Pumpkin, I’m there.

The Vampire’s Kiss is a strawberry latte. Can we just take a moment to appreciate this name? Strawberries, a romantic, chocolate-dipped treat on many a date, are a vampire’s kiss of choice at this art cafe.

Last but not least, the Mummies’ Curse is a pumpkin spice chai latte. Avoid the curse, or embrace it!

More staff picks, a little pricier but only by a dollar or two, include the Hexed Lavender, a taro lavender latte, and the Elvira, a taro and matcha with whipped cream.

Popular picks by staff members also include the Brown Recluse, a brown sugar cinnamon mocha with whipped cream. There’s also the Frankenberry, a strawberry matcha, for our matcha lovers.

Let’s talk about menu items!

All coffee drinks at the cafe come either hot or iced. Choose what you like best. And if you want a larger size, add $1 to the drink you select.

Coffees range from $3-6 on average. You can order an espresso (poppio), a cappuccino, a latte, a mocha, a traditional macchiato, and a latte macchiato.

Or go for an americano, a cortado, a breve, drip, a cafe au lait, or a cold brew.

Feeling adventurous? That’ll be the Corpse Reviver, a cold brew with 2 shots of espresso. Look alive, corpses!

Would you like syrup with that? For 75 cents, you can mix and match flavors. The maximum number of pumps is 6.

Choose from the following syrups for your coffee: vanilla, caramel, chai, hazelnut, simple syrup, cherry, strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, coconut, blood orange, and banana.

Many of the syrups are almost like desserts, such as toasted marshmallow, peach, lavender, pumpkin, and tiramisu.

Need a sugar-free syrup? No problem! Triple Six Social has sugar-free syrups in vanilla, caramel, and brown sugar cinnamon flavors.

It’s a nice touch that the cafe made a syrup, brown sugar cinnamon, that’s only for the sugar-free ones. You’re not left out of trying fun flavors.

For 65 cents, you can get additional flavors or sauces, including honey, mocha, taro, caramel, chocolate, white chocolate, pumpkin, horchata, watermelon, hibiscus, and lime.

Watermelon’s just in time for summer, too!

Milks they offer at the cafe (no upcharge on these) include whole, half and half, oat, almond, and coconut.

Teas cost about $4-5 each. These come in iced or hot, depending on your preference.

There’s a Victorian London, which is earl grey with lavender and vanilla. You can get a splash of the milk of your choice.

The cafe also has a Chai, a Chai Latte, or a Dirty Chai Latte, which includes an espresso shot.

The Pomegranate tea works well with blackberry and/or coconut. There’s a Cherry Blossom that’s a green tea with springtime cherries.

Their Matcha Latte is organic, if that’s your thing. And we can’t forget the Tower of London, a black tea with Bergamot oil and honey.

Other teas they have are earl grey, green tea, black tea, chamomile, and hibiscus. Peppermint is calling to me, in particular. No matter the season, mint’s one of my go-tos.

If you like sparkling drinks, there’s a menu section for that, too!

Triple Six Social has sparkling drinks that are 24 ounces and come iced. They’re about $7-8 each.

There’s your Italian Cream Soda, a sparkling soda with heavy cream and your pick of flavors. There’s also a Nightshade, which is a mixed berry sparkling soda with glitter.

The cafe also has a Red Bull Refresher that’s a mix of Red Bull, soda, and flavors of your choice. Or you could go for the Topo Chico Americano, which has 2 shots of espresso. There’s also a Red Rum drink that’s Coca-Cola with 2 shots of espresso and your choice of flavors.

One of my favorite names on the menu, the Phantom Elixir, is an Italian cream soda with honey, amaretto, or strawberry flavors.

Bites … for You Mortals

That’s not all, folks. Triple Six Social has a dinner menu. Hold your skeleton horses!

It’s aptly named the Graveyard Grub. That’s enough to send chills along the bones in your fingers.

It’s an all-day menu, so you’re never out of luck to grab a bite.

Something I like about this art cafe is that they’re in touch with the customers who’ll slink in those doors. It’s not expensive. It’s reasonable.

At the top of the food menu, there’s a $5 menu. Just like I told you! Practical.

On this $5 menu, there are actually quite a few choices. You can get a grilled cheese sandwich, a bagel with cream cheese, or a deli ham and/or peppered turkey cheese melt.

There’s also a hummus and tomato sandwich with lettuce, pickles, and chipotle sauce (not spicy). Or you can crank up the spicy levels, with a jalapeno popper with cheddar cheese and ranch.

The $5 menu has regular fare, too. Order a pancake sandwich with bacon, eggs, cheese, and a side of syrup. Or opt for the mozzarella sticks with a marinara dipping sauce. Add chips and fruit for an extra $2.

I couldn’t help but laugh at the Mourning Roll, on the regular menu. Their theming is nailed, to the “T.” This roll is a kolache with jalapenos and cheese. There’s a Spinach Feta Puff Pastry, too. Keep the pastries coming!

For about $8, you can get a Belgian Waffle. It’ll be one waffle, a side of fruit, and your choice of either blueberry maple sausage links or bacon.

Sandwiches come with a side of fruit and house chips. They cost about $10-13 each.

Breads include a multi-grain artisan toast, a croissant, or an everything bagel. Add-ons (for extra fees) include hash browns, guacamole, boiled eggs, fried eggs, bacon strips, or blueberry maple sausage links.

There’s an Avocado Chipotle BLT that comes with guacamole, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and chipotle sauce. Or you could order up an Avocado Egg Sandwich, with a hard-boiled egg, lettuce, cilantro, and tomatoes.

For a traditional sandwich, go for the Deli Club Sandwich. It’s got ham, turkey, bacon, jalapeno jack and cheddar cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, and garlic aioli.

One of my favorite things about this cafe is that they don’t just have sandwiches. They have tacos. And quesadillas.

Get corn or flour tortillas to make your plate of tacos. It’s about $9 for a full plate with 2 tacos, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and pico de gallo. Single tacos (beans, chicken, or barbecue chicken) cost $4-5 each.

Quesadillas are made from blue corn tortillas (yes, please!). They cost about $9 each, but they come with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and pico de gallo. There’s a vegan option with beans, or the Afterlife Bite, a chicken quesadilla with a name worthy of the menu.

And what about the little ones? Don’t worry — the cafe has them covered, too.

There’s a menu for the little ones, too. You can pick from a chicken and cheese taco, a cheese quesadilla, or mini pancakes. Each option is $4 and comes with a side of grapes, a nice, healthy choice in today’s food landscape.

Where: Triple Six Social, 329 Cheatham St, San Marcos, Texas 78666

Triple Six Social isn’t afraid of the back alleys. In fact, that’s exactly where you’ll find the most riveting stories, spooky tales, and fantastic characters.

So, when your owl won’t return your calls, you stomped on your wand and cracked it, and your stomach’s in knots from one too many chocolate frogs …

Slip into the shadows of the back alleys … where the quiet is never quite as empty as it seems.

Find them online at triplesixsocial.com, follow along on Facebook and Instagram, and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because the back alleys are always more interesting when you know exactly where you’re going.

That’s Seahorse Bar and Grill in Surfside Beach, Texas.

This bar has more than 200 feet of beachfront dining outdoors.

In the shade on a sunny Texas day, these tables let you have the best of both worlds: fresh air from the water, and the grill’s inside decor style.

What’s in Store For You at Seahorse?

Seahorse is an oceanfront venue with a seasonal bar downstairs.

Happy hour food is available — perfect for unwinding with coworkers after work.

There’s WiFi, too, if you want to work with a view.

Seahorse is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. On Saturday, they’re open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sunday, they close an hour earlier, at 8 p.m. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, they’re open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Expect to spend around $20–$30 per person — a little above average, but nothing that’ll break the bank.

Saturdays get crowded fast, so if you prefer a quieter visit, weekdays are your best bet.

There is Ocean Avenue Public Access right next to the bar and grill.

Parking is limited, since Seahorse is near the beach. But there are a few parking spaces near the restaurant.

Appetizers

You can’t go wrong with fries. Seahorse has a Loaded Fries appetizer for $12. This is no small pile of fries, either.

You’ll get a large stack of fries, with queso, ground beef, pico de gallo, sour cream, and jalapenos.

If you like to go for something a little more classic, there’s a Chips and Queso option for $10. These are homemade tortilla chips (homemade — always a good sign!) and warm queso.

Who loves cheese? Seahorse also has Mozzarella Triangles. These are perfect if you love a crispy crunch of the outside and gooey cheese on the inside. As usual, they’re seasoned with Italian herbs and spices and served with a cup of marinara.

The grill also has a Fried Calamari appetizer that’ll satisfy your need for something crispy. It comes with marinara sauce, too. This one’s a little more expensive, at $15.

They have a Shrimp Boil that’s a half a pound of boiled peel-and-eat shrimp. It comes with sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes. Cocktail sauce comes on the side for dipping.

Want a vegetarian option? Seahorse offers a Veggie Nachos appetizer. These tortilla chips are topped with queso, of course, as well as shredded lettuce, black beans, sliced jalapenos, pico de gallo, and sour cream.

They aren’t lacking in appetizers here at Seahorse! You can get House Nachos that include ground beef and cilantro. Or order the Boudin Balls (in sets of six), hand-battered and fried, with remoulade sauce.

Last but not least, choose the simple but classic Chips and Salsa. They have homemade tortilla chips and salsa. A refreshing snack as you sit by the waves!

Seafood Dishes at Seahorse

First up on Seahorse’s grilled seafood items is the Blackened Catfish. Their grilled seafood dishes range from $24-$35, so plan accordingly.

This catfish filet is topped with crawfish and a New Orleans sauce. You get two sides, too.

In the mood for shrimp? Get the Grilled Shrimp, with cajun rice and your choice of a side. You’ll get eight jumbo shrimp — plenty to satisfy.

Seahorse also has Grilled Mahi, with mango salsa or pico de gallo, or Grilled Salmon, with any two sides.

Looking for something a little different? There’s a Texas Redfish, or a Gulf Snapper. Seahorse has quite a few house sauces, so it’s worth asking your server which pairs best with your choice.

On to the fried seafood! These are in the $20-$30 range, overall.

Opt for a Fried Catfish Basket, with fries, coleslaw, and either cocktail or tartar sauce. A go-to!

One popular option is the Coconut Shrimp. These’ll be served with fries and a sweet pineapple chili dipping sauce.

Here’s one thing I really like about this grill and bar: They know how to do theming well. For example, in their Fried Seafood section, they skipped right past typical names and went for ocean-themed names for a couple items.

The Treasure Chest is exactly what it sounds like. Your waiter or waitress will bring out hand-breaded jumbo Gulf shrimp, oysters, and fried catfish filets, with fries, coleslaw, and cocktail or tartar sauce.

The Captain’s Chest adds a stuffed crab to this mix!

One of my favorites, though, is this name: Yankee Fish. An inside joke for us Texans. This item includes Guinness beer-battered cod with fries and cocktail or tartar sauce.

Prefer to keep things simple? No problem!

Order the Fried Fish and Shrimp, or the Stuffed Crab. Or get a basket of fried Gulf shrimp or oysters.

If you’re like me, you’re hunting for the word, “taco,” on the menu. You’re in luck!

Seahorse has three options for taco-lovers: Fish Tacos (Mahi), Shrimp Tacos, and Veggie Tacos. The veggie ones include grilled bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, corn, black beans, lettuce, and tomato.

Beef and Chicken

Not everyone is craving seafood when they’re next to ocean views. If you’re a beef or chicken fan, you’ll want to fill up on your favorites.

Seahorse has plenty of variety in this department!

Let’s start with the sandwiches.

Get a Fried Chicken Sandwich for $15. Seahorse notes this sandwich has “Texas-sized” chicken breast. Enjoy!

The sandwich is served on a toasted sourdough bun and comes with fries.

For our Smokey Mountain counterparts (we see you!), there’s a Nashville Chicken Sandwich for $16. It’s topped with spicy Nashville sauce, so have a cup of water nearby. It also has coleslaw and pickles.

The ribeye is more expensive ($31), as is to be expected. Flame-grilled!

You’ll want to pay attention to the Kickin’ Chicken. This is a grilled chicken breast with bacon, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles, with a chipotle aioli or jalapeno ranch sauce.

If you can’t choose between shrimp and chicken, you don’t have to. There’s a Fried Shrimp and Chicken option for $22.

You also have the usual home cooking dishes, including Chicken Fried Chicken, Chicken Fried Steak, Chicken Tenders, and Chicken Wings.

They’re about $15-$20 each. One unique thing about these familiar dishes is that, at Seahorse, you have your pick of sauces.

With the Chicken Tenders, you can select from ranch, honey mustard, or gravy sauces. The Chicken Fried Chicken and Chicken Fried Steak have your typical white gravy.

Chicken Wings has lots of choices for a sauce: Mango Habanero, Barbecue, Buffalo, Nashville Hot, Sweet ’n Spicy Barbecue, Spicy Korean, or Honey Hot. Experiment to find what you like!

It’s great that a grill and bar at a beachfront property is serving up Texas home cooking favorites, too. It’s something that speaks to the heart of hungry Texans.

No matter where they are, they’re at home.

Worth noting: Seahorse describes the Chicken Fried Steak as a ‘Texas-sized’ beef cutlet — so don’t be surprised if you’re taking some home.

Burgers, Salads, and More

Seahorse isn’t a grill with one or two burgers. You’ll have options, if you’re craving a big burger.

Let’s start with ones that have fun, themed names!

Get a Cowboy Burger, with American cheese, grilled onions, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, for $16.

Or order the Big Kahuna Burger for $20. It’s got two burger patties, with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and American cheese.

The SBG Burger has lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and American cheese.

Or go for the Heatwave Burger (we know it when summer hits in Texas!), with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, jalapenos, pepper jack cheese, and chipotle aioli or jalapeno ranch sauce.

Do you like spicy foods? Keep it going, with the Cheesy Jalapeno Burger ($16). Or if you have a weakness like me for mushrooms and onions, the Mushroom Swiss Burger ($16) will be your pick.

Want a vegetarian option? There’s a Veggie Burger, a little cheaper, at $14, that’s a chipotle black bean patty, with lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles.

The salad selection is limited — just three options — and prices run a bit high at $12–$17 each. But you have three basic choices: Cobb Salad, Caesar Salad, or House Salad.

Sides? We can’t forget them! At Seahorse, your pick of sides (or add-ons) are: a Basket of Fries, Coleslaw, Fried Okra, Sauteed Mushrooms, a Bowl of Guacamole, Green Onion Sausage, and Grilled Onions.

We’re not done yet! Other sides include Mashed Potatoes, Loaded Mashed Potatoes, Corn on the Cob, Cajun Corn, Green Beans, a Side Salad, Mac ’n Cheese, Cajun Rice, or Onion Rings.

Beyond these sides, Seahorse has a variety of sauces, such as the Pontchartrain Sauce, the Etouffee Sauce, or the New Orleans Sauce, of which you can order extras.

Seahorse’s desserts are many of the popular items you’d find at a diner or family-run restaurant on a road trip. They have Blueberry Cheesecake (I can’t pass up a cheesecake), for $8. They also have a Classic Cheesecake, a Key Lime Tart, and a Chocolate Eruption.

Do you always look for ice cream on a dessert menu? They have vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry, in a cup, for about $3 each.

Desserts stay pretty reasonable on pricing, so don’t forget to order it before you head out.

But what’ll the kids eat?? If you have picky eaters, never fear. Seahorse has several kids’ menu options, including chicken nuggets, a catfish filet basket, a fried Gulf shrimp basket, a hamburger, a cheeseburger, and a grilled cheese sandwich.

How do we get there? Type Seahorse Bar and Grill Surfside into your Maps app.

Where: 310 Ocean Dr, Surfside Beach, Texas 77541

Seahorse Bar and Grill is good about posting on their Facebook page whenever there’s a new dish to try or if hours change.

The next time you’re in Surfside Beach, stomachs rumbling, check out this oceanside bar and grill. Look for those bright-blue tables outside, by the beach and the water.

Can’t miss it!

Follow along on Facebook and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because ocean views and fresh seafood are always worth the drive.

Ouch! Those tortillas are hot.

That’s right. Matt’s El Rancho is a long-time favorite of locals and travelers alike.

Tex-Mex is one of those traditions Texans love to invite others to. It’s a great night out for clients from out of town or even for your in-laws from another state.

It’s one way that friendly Texans like to introduce others to the good food and good times we enjoy in the Lone Star State. And that journey often starts at Tex-Mex.

Enchiladas, fresh tortillas, salsa, beans, and so much more. Are you ready to eat up?

Plan your next visit

Matt’s El Rancho ranges from $20 to $30. It’s not cheap but not too expensive either.

A great place to go out with friends, clients, coworkers, or family visiting from out of town.

Matt’s is great for happy hour, a retirement party, or any celebration worth gathering for. Or there’s a private dining room, if you’d like to host an engagement or anniversary party.

Make reservations on Open Table online, if you have a large group or are worried about snagging a table during rush-hour time.

They’re open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. They close an hour later, at 11 p.m., on Friday and Saturday. And they shut their doors at 9 p.m. on Sunday and Monday. They’re closed on Tuesday.

That’s one thing to keep in mind as you’re planning any late-night dinners or events. It varies a lot! Some nights, it’s 10 p.m., others 11 p.m. or 9 p.m. Know before you go!

Saturday is their busiest day, by far. They’re busy pretty much all day, as soon as doors open until they close. They stay busy on Friday nights, too.

Parking’s a breeze. They have their own parking lot, and there’s plenty of space.

Finding the restaurant isn’t too difficult either. It’s a large building with a big sign out front. Can’t miss it!

Tex-Mex fare

Let’s begin a tour of the menu with one of my favorites, the enchiladas!

I judge a place by how well they handle their enchiladas. Are the tortillas fresh? Is there flavor to the chicken?

As is typical, Matt’s enchiladas are served with Mexican rice and refried beans. Enchiladas range in price from $14 to $19.

There are Bean or Cheese Enchiladas with chili con carne. A classic! Or you could order Chicken Enchiladas with ranchero sauce.

Other variations include beef, chicken, cheese, or shrimp enchiladas with tomatillo sauce, chile con queso, sour cream, a guacamole salad, chipotle sauce, or chile con carne.

Shrimp enchiladas are something unique, if you want to experiment with a new dish.

Or if you’re vegetarian, order the Spinach Poblanitas, which include spinach, onions, poblanos, and mushrooms with suiza or tomatillo sauce, as well as vegetarian rice and black beans.

Besides enchiladas, Matt’s has a plethora of other foods to try. Order up appetizers, soups and salads, drinks, and bottled beer.

Main dishes include tacos, chile rellenos, seafood, grilled steaks, Tex-Mex dinners, fajitas, lunch specials, and naturally, desserts.

Get Shrimp A La Matt Martinez for $30. It’ll be worth your splurge. This meal comes with grilled colossal Gulf Coast shrimp, two bean flautas, two cheese flautas, ranchero sauce, and a guacamole salad.

Or go for the Fish A La Mexicana ($28). They’ll bring you grilled Gulf Coast redfish with bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, ranchero sauce, cheese, sour cream, and jalapenos, with a cheese flauta, Mexican rice, frijoles a la charra, and a guacamole salad.

Others at your table are going to want bites of your food!

Can’t decide? Block off a little extra time to read through the menu, which is quite a long list.

Matt Martinez’s tamales

One thing that Matt’s emphasizes is that it’s not just a restaurant. It’s a Texas story.

That’s a bold claim to make about a Tex-Mex restaurant right in the middle of one of Texas’ most iconic cities, Austin! How can you not be a restaurant?

But that’s precisely where Matt’s story starts.

It’s a Texas story because it had a hand in shaping one of the major cities of Texas. Not just a city, but the Texas Capitol.

Let’s travel back in time a bit to meet six-year-old Matt Martinez. Go on, “Howdy, Matt!” He grins, gap-toothed, up at you. It’s a time in his life when his dreams are taller than he is and Texas is a mere mountain to climb, as nimbly as six-year-olds inevitably do.

The year is 1923. Matt’s there, on the corner. He’s selling tamales from a little wooden pushcart, proudly a place of business for him, in the foreground of the Texas Capitol. Undaunted, he looks up, one eye squinting, “Would you like one?”

Three decades pass from the days of that tiny pushcart outside the Texas Capitol.

Now, we’re in 1952. Matt and his wife Janie open their first El Rancho on East 1st Street in downtown Austin.

Well, it’s not the downtown Austin we know today.

It’s not yet full of bright-eyed, bushy-tailed musicians, artists, bands, and tech gurus. Its roads aren’t navigated by shoppers glued to phones, skillfully dodging cars, people, dogs, and kids.

This is Austin of the 1950s.

Matt and Janie had only 10 tables at that first El Rancho. Not much, by today’s standards.

Just a few tables isn’t going to get foot traffic in and out the door faster than you can say “Lone Star.”

But that wasn’t Matt and Janie’s aim. They instead focused on meaningful experiences with each customer they got and were happy to welcome anyone into their tiny restaurant.

Matt, out front, greeted each new guest like a close family member, with a smile, a firm handshake, and a gentle laugh.

Janie, in the back, cooked everything from scratch using her own recipes. It was truly a labor of love, for both Janie and her husband Matt.

Of course, word spread!

Everyone wanted to try this new El Rancho place. They stuck their hands out to shake Matt’s hand and ordered up meals right and left from the kitchen where an aproned Janie wiped her brow.

El Rancho became a beloved part of the community. It wasn’t an unknown little restaurant people were afraid to try. Out the doors spilled warmth, good smells, and even better company.

Over time, the restaurant grew in size, space, and reputation.

In the 1980s, Matt’s El Rancho moved to South Lamar Boulevard, where it continues to welcome in hundreds of customers every day.

Matt’s El Rancho is, of course, named after the original Matt who started the business with a few tamales out in front of the Texas Capitol.

I think he’d be delighted to find his small business kept its Austin roots, all these years later.

Today, Matt’s El Rancho is still family-owned and family-run. The Martinez family carries on Matt and Janie’s legacy from a century ago.

Gloria, Cecilia, Cathy, and Estella, all Martinez family members, keep a watchful eye trained on every tortilla, chip, and plate of enchiladas, like Janie always did.

The kitchen at Matt’s knows the drill: by hand, from scratch, and with pride.

And its reputation? Through the roof!

Matt’s El Rancho is a favorite of Longhorn sports fans at The University of Texas at Austin. Matt’s was even a preferred choice by Lyndon B. Johnson, who had their chile rellenos delivered by plane to Washington, D.C.

That’s commitment, right there.

That history as a ’50s Tex-Mex restaurant carries forward, too.

Their innovative recipes, including fresh-squeezed lime juice margaritas, Mexican seafood dishes, and Bob Armstrong Dip, have turned into Tex-Mex traditions beloved all over the state.

Though, at its core, Matt’s philosophy has stayed the same: real food, real hospitality, and family, at the heart of it all.

Craving enchiladas? But how do we get there? Type Matt’s El Rancho Austin into your Maps app.

Where: Matt’s El Rancho, 2613 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, Texas 78704

Matt’s El Rancho makes food from scratch. Anyone who’s tried a tortilla that’s made from scratch … you can’t go back.

It’s a transformative experience.

Wrap that hand-made tortilla around some chicken, sauce, rice, or beans, and you’re set.

We all know enchiladas aren’t meant to be eaten over the sink, hot from the microwave, with only half the lights turned on in the kitchen’s eerie darkness.

No. It’s a meal that’s shared with brilliant lights, art-covered walls, smiling waiters and waitresses.

Crunching of chips. The anticipation you feel when salsa is set down on the table. The “this is going to be hot” from your server, so you know it’s about to be good.

That’s the vision Matt carried with him, standing behind his pushcart and handing out tamales.

It’s tough to peer into a murky future. Uncertainties. Doubts. Dreams, half-clouded by past failures.

Can you really make this dream a reality?

II’m sorry? Did you say this pushcart will become a Tex-Mex restaurant? That’ll define Tex-Mex for a century to come? No way. Won’t happen.

I’m glad that six-year-old Matt didn’t hear those voices. Or if he did, Matt didn’t pay them any mind.

Okay, place one hand on that flour tortilla, steaming, hot to the touch. Before you jerk back your hand, wait a second.

There’s a little hand mirroring yours on the other side of the tortilla. The hand of a little boy in front of the Texas Capitol calling out, “Tamales!”

Find them online at mattselrancho.com, follow along on Facebook and Instagram, and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because a century of Tex-Mex tradition is worth every mile of the drive.

That’s what you get at Titas Taco House in Humble, Texas.

Fold a taco in your hand, tilt your head, and hope for the best as you take a bite, some taco ingredients spilling out the side.

Eating tacos is messy, but rewarding.

And it’s not just for Taco Tuesday, though that’s as good an excuse as any to go get a taco or two.

Loading up a taco with your choice of meat, fillings, and sauce makes for a great way to kick off the morning — whether you’re with a client, your coworkers, or your kids.

It’s taking care of yourself, first thing in the morning.

On the walls murals brighten the little building with color. Tacos, art, and the whole day ahead of you. What’s in store for you today?

Know before you go

This taco restaurant costs $10-20, which isn’t too bad for a meal out and about. Bring a group of friends, and enjoy!

It’s more of a counter than a full-size restaurant. The building’s small but cozy.

It doesn’t take reservations, but that’s understandable. This is a grab-and-go type of place, for a quick, tasty bite.

On the one hand, it’s perfect for those of you who’re always on the go. Tacos are a staple if you need a filling meal right before your next meeting or kid’s soccer game.

On the other hand, it’s not as easy to really take in the full experience. So, wait a minute before going into that meeting, or staking out a spot on the sidelines. Slow down, take slower bites, and appreciate the taco.

They also have vegan options — worth knowing if anyone in your group doesn’t eat meat.

The taco house is open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. They’re closed on Sundays. As you can tell, this is definitely a breakfast place! Come hungry.

Friday and Saturday are the busy days for the counter, so make it a Monday Taco day for your team or clients, for a quieter time window.

You choose the meat, sauce, and fillings from a variety of toppings and options. Made to order!

They’re cooked in the style of Mexican street tacos. If that’s your favorite food, this is the spot for you!

Follow the stars on the sidewalk out front to arrive at the counter. There’s definitely a Hollywood vibe to both the outside and inside of this taco place.

Murals inside depict famous stars, actors, and actresses from movies and TV shows you may know.

It’s a family-run business, too!

Titas Taco House has typical breakfast taco toppings as well as guisadas and barbacoa. Flour tortillas are made fresh on the spot, which is something I always look for in a taco place.

Both the breakfast and lunch tacos come in large portions, so don’t get too hungry and pile on the toppings. If you fill up, though, you can take a taco or two to go, if you aren’t able to finish off your meal.

Something special they do for customers is that, if you come often enough to Titas Taco House, they’ll put your star on the wall. Like Hollywood!

If you come at a good time, too, you’ll be able to get a cup of freshly squeezed orange juice. Seasonal, but refreshing!

Though it’s a counter, they have wooden tables and chairs inside where you can sit and devour your tacos. It’s a nice spot to take in all the columns and walls tiled or painted with art.

When you first walk in, look up! This’ll keep you following the right signs for the line, where to order, and so on. The signs tell you where the line starts and where you need to stop or move forward.

It’s easy to miss this restaurant from the outside, because it’s a tiny building and there isn’t a huge sign.

Out front, they have a Titas Taco House sign, but it’s not very big. Titas is in a large, artsy font, with Taco House in a smaller, plain font. Their logo, behind Titas, is a house with mountains in the background.

The building is short and squat with a flat roof. One way to spot it is to look for a small, deep-blue building.

Parking is up close to the building, but it’s limited. Go when there’s less of a crowd.

They have high chairs for indoor seating, if you have young kids.

Order your tacos through the line, talking with a worker who’ll scoop up what you want as you go along.

The workers are one of the best parts of this taco house. They’ve got that Texas friendliness. They’re happy to stop for a photo, a wave, or a laugh.

One fun thing, especially for kids, is getting to see workers behind the counter rolling up dough and making tortillas. It’s a memory in and of itself.

There’s bench-style seating inside, too. You can split a group across the bench and the chairs on the other side — great for larger gatherings.

There’s often a line to order, so plan ahead!

Leading up to the entrance, they have a ramp with handrails. Outside are posted signs about safety and reminders to hold the railing.

Since it’s a small building, once you’re inside, you’ll need to navigate skillfully through a crowd of hungry people, often past the railings of the line, too.

One thing I like is that they have live music occasionally. Mariachi music is a must!

Blue is part of the brand here, too. The staff members wear blue shirts with blue-and-white caps.

They host events sometimes, such as for the taco house’s anniversaries. At these events, they do t-shirt giveaways, have discounted prices, and bring out live music.

Craving flan cake? They have those, too! A new offering, actually.

Inside, you’re led through a queue line, cafeteria style, to a hot-plate counter where you give your order.

Choose from staples like egg and chorizo, bacon and egg, or potato and egg. They also have barbacoa (shredded lamb or beef) and lengua (beef tongue).

You can get some guisados (stews) made from pork ribs or beef. The taco house has sautes, too, made from nopales (cactus paddle) or calabaza (pumpkin), too.

Taco tips

The taco house has a fun way for customers to order tortillas.

You ring a bell and hold up your hand with how many tortillas you want. They make them for you while you’re waiting in line. Then, those tortillas are ready for you by the time you order your tacos. Magic!

Be aware that they do close for holidays to spend time with their family. A family-run business!

Get there early! When one topping or meat is gone, they’re out. Going earlier in the morning can help guarantee you the meats, toppings, and so on that you’d really like.

They’re great about hosting families, and the owner goes around to different tables to ask if you need anything. If something isn’t right or needs fixing, the owner is quick to take care of it and make sure you have everything you need and are happy with your food.

Vegetarians, check out the cauliflower tacos!

Some customers are loyal fans of more than 13 years, so there’s definitely more than one thing that this taco house is doing right. If you stop by, it’ll be your go-to taco spot, too.

And the customer service here is the real deal.

One customer ran up to the door 10 minutes before closing, desperate for tacos. Not only did staff members let them inside, but they turned the grill back on and cooked tortillas and taco fillings for them. They set up a table with a chair, even though they were cleaning up and getting ready to close for the day.

Location! If you’re flying in or out of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, this taco restaurant is on your way. Even if it’s a slight detour, it’s absolutely worth the stop.

Flight delays and travel days get long, and there’s no better way to set your day up for success than with tacos from Titas Taco House.

The taco house runs on an honor system: you order, eat, and pay before you leave.

There’s a free parking lot, but if it fills up, there’s also paid street parking.

The flour tortillas are highly popular, but they do have corn tortillas as well. Go with your favorite type!

What’s the best way to get there? Type Titas Taco House Humble into your Maps app.

Where: Titas Taco House, 320 Wilson Rd, Humble, TX 77338

Follow Titas Taco House’s Instagram page for news about hours, events, and more.

Tacos at home just don’t taste the same as getting handmade tortillas, meat, and fillings from a place like Titas Taco House.

The powder on the tortillas. The rich flavor of the meat. Rustle of foil as you pick up your first taco. Vibrant colors all around you, as you sit and enjoy your breakfast.

Life’s not fast. It’s slow.

Follow along on Instagram and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because fresh handmade tortillas are worth every minute of the drive.

Present-day Pinkerton’s Barbecue in Houston, Texas, started with a single pit and one man’s childhood love for smoking meats.

Pinkerton wanted to serve up meats with his family’s recipes as well as some of his own. The logo says it all — a ranch-style P with two stars, framed by a belt buckle shape that nods straight to its Texas roots.

Originally from small towns across Texas, the Pinkerton family called Houston home as Grant was growing up. That’s where his business stands today, and with multiple locations, Pinkerton’s has been on Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Joints list from 2017 to 2024.

Hours and parking at Pinkerton’s

Meats are served daily until they run out, so don’t delay getting out the door.

Their hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday. They’re closed on Mondays, and they stay open an hour later (10 p.m.) on Friday and Saturday.

There’s outdoor seating when the weather’s nice. They don’t take reservations, so plan ahead.

Saturday is Pinkerton’s busiest day, followed by Friday. Weekdays are your best bet for a quieter meal with friends or family.

Parking is close to the building, but spots are limited. Go early, if you can.

Parking spots are a little uneven and mainly gravel in some places. Try to visit Pinkerton’s when there’s enough daylight to see where you’re going.

If you can’t find parking up close to the restaurant, there’s street parking nearby.

In true Texas barbecue style, your food comes out to you on a small gray tray. There’s a piece of butcher paper, topped by your meats. Sides like mac and cheese and beans come in a paper container, too. Don’t forget white bread to complement your meal!

Inside the restaurant, the menu is scrawled in handwriting on pieces of brown paper on the walls behind staff members. Nothing fancy!

Once you’re in line, tell staff members what you’d like for your meats, sides, and dessert, then pay and pick up at the end of the line.

Pinkerton’s also offers takeout, so you can enjoy your favorite meats and desserts from the comfort of home.

Meats on the menu!

One thing to note about their menu is that the meats are gluten-free. So, if you’re looking for options you or your party can eat, Pinkerton’s has you covered.

Meats by the pound range from $21 to $38. Other meats cost between $6 and $13.

It’s not a casual drop-in place. Be ready to splurge on a meal out!

Pinkerton’s by-the-pound meats include sliced or chopped brisket, beef or pork ribs, pork shoulder, turkey, thighs, and sausage. Sandwiches come in brisket, pork, sausage, and turkey.

The sides at Pinkerton’s are jalapeno cheese rice, coleslaw, beans, and mac and cheese. There’s a Grant’s Potato Salad, if you want something named after the founder. Be careful about the Duck and Sausage Jambalaya because it includes gluten (if you’re gluten-free).

For a sweet treat, Pinkerton’s offers bread pudding, blueberry cobbler, and banana pudding. All of the desserts include gluten, so steer clear if you need to! 

A few of the meats, sides, and desserts are named after Pinkerton family members, such as Aunt Ruby, Rosemary, and Grant. Grant’s hands-on standards haven’t changed since day one.

Pinkerton’s does run out of some sides and meats, especially as it nears closing time. So, if you have to have that mac and cheese, head in early to make sure you get what you really want.

Your party at Pinkerton’s

You can absolutely host your own party at Pinkerton’s, whether that’s a wedding, anniversary, birthday, retirement, and so on.

For parties on site, they have a group menu and private spaces you can rent out. Outside, they have benches on a covered patio with a tree above your head.

This outdoor area is one of Pinkerton’s greatest strengths, in my opinion.

There’s a huge tree that hangs over the patio section with all the benches and tables. At night, it’s lit up, giving a glow to going outdoors for your meal. They’re good about stringing up lights, so if that’s your thing, head outside.

The outside isn’t much to look at in the back. It’s an older building, with white walls. There are some cables and pipes exposed. Not necessarily a photo ops moment.

Inside, it’s an ideal setting for a dream wedding or an anniversary party. The stone walls have deer heads like a lodge. The ceiling and tables are all wood. Curved windows and door frames make it softer. Lights up above are shaped like lanterns, the perfect way to set a romantic mood.

The front door has a nice “P” brand, wood beams, and “Come and Eat It” letters. It’d be a good place to take photos with friends or family. Tall wooden posts, and a stone wall behind you, finish off the look.

They also have full service catering, or drop offs, for a party at another venue or at your home. Let the festivities commence!

Pitmaster’s story

Grant Pinkerton, founder and pitmaster of Pinkerton’s, was born and grew up in Houston, with a family that’s from the Hill Country and the Gulf Coast.

Even as a little kid, he loved learning about cooking meat (safely, of course), getting a fire going, and the corresponding traditions that make us proud to be Texans.

He went to Lamar High School, a local school in Houston, where he participated in Future Farmers of America. During those high school years, he also spent a lot of time outdoors and was passionate about conservationism.

He went on to get his bachelor’s in Rhetoric and Writing from The University of Texas at Austin, a degree that would serve him in telling the story of what would be Pinkerton’s.

Moving back to Houston from Austin, he decided it was high time to bring that story to life.

When he did a soft opening of what’s now Pinkerton’s, the late 20s pitmaster looked outside to find a line running straight down the side of his building.

And in 2024, Pinkerton’s received Bib Gourmand status in the Michelin Guide for Texas. This honor is reserved for those restaurants that serve fantastic food at moderate prices.

Where’s the merch?

Pinkerton’s has an online shop for all their merchandise. The shop’s aptly titled Come and Eat It.

On the Come and Eat It website, buy T-shirts and hats with Pinkerton’s logos and signature rubs and sauces by Pinkerton’s.

For $11-13, you can get a sweet sauce, vinegar sauce, or a rib glaze. Or, for $30-85, you can get bundles of rubs and sauces. Pick your favorite!

Tips before you go

Be aware that Pinkerton’s often has a long line, especially on weekends. Know that you’ll wait in line, so prepare some games to play with the kids.

Portions are quite large. Grab a takeout box, and enjoy leftovers several days later.

Grab a drink from the bar and look around while you wait. Watching what other tables are eating is a great way to narrow down your order before you reach the front of the line.

Indoors, Pinkerton’s gets cramped, especially on weekends. Don’t expect a table with lots of elbow room. This is barbecue the classic way, with long, wooden tables, and paper towels and sauce bottles to pass down the table.

If you’re struggling to decide what to get, don’t try to force everything all at once. Instead, make a plan to come back another time with friends or family, to experiment with a meat or side you didn’t have room for last time.

Some people say there’s not enough seasoning, or that some dishes are overcooked or undercooked, so be sure to specify how you’d like your food cooked, prepared, and seasoned, when it’s your turn to order.

Not as hungry as you thought you’d be? Share a platter with your spouse, kids, or friends.

There aren’t as many vegetarian options, since Pinkerton’s is mostly about meats. Call ahead if you’re going with a group and looking for what ingredients are in their sides.

If meats by the pound get too expensive for you, go for the sandwiches. They’re a little cheaper, if you’d rather not break the bank.

To get there, search Pinkerton’s Barbecue or plug 1504 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77009 directly into your maps app.

Where: Pinkerton’s Barbecue, 1504 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77009

Pinkerton’s Barbecue wasn’t founded by a chef from a famous culinary school.

It was dreamed up and made a reality by a Houston kid who’d rather be out in the backyard smoking meats than anywhere else.

One barbecue pit. Long, wooden tables. Messy napkins. Stone walls. Bar stocked with bottles.

Gather up the kids, and make a Pinkerton’s visit. It won’t disappoint.

Find them online at pinkertonsbarbecue.com, order ahead at orderpinkertonsbbq.com, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and X, and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because the line moves fast, but the brisket goes faster.

There’s hope, yet, for our kids-owned-and-operated lemonade stands.

And it started at Kincaid’s in Fort Worth, the spark of that hope. It’s “Where Friends Meet to Eat.”

Kincaid’s is more than a hangout for friend groups of all interest levels and ages.

Nowadays, it’s a family-friendly burger place to take the kids out for a night on the town. Drink up milkshakes, and watch your kids zip through grocery store aisles, rockets at full blast, hair in a tousle.

In another day, another time, a grocer slicks back his hair. A day’s work awaits him. But in the back of his mind, a scribble, just a napkin, really, inks its fingers into his thoughts: A hamburger restaurant?

Mister? Who’s Kincaid anyhow?

We’re right-glad you asked. That’s Mr. Kincaid, now.

“Where? I don’t see him.”

“Well, look into the past. See that man with his shirt tucked into his belt, one hand on the counter there?”

“Yes!”

That’s him.

Charles Kincaid, his full name, rather. He opened his grocery store back in 1946 in Fort Worth. What was it called? Well, it was simply named after him: Charles Kincaid’s Grocery and Market.

Of course, in the olden days, the name on the sign was shortened to a brief Chas. Kincaid Gro. Market.

But to those who knew about it and shopper there on the regular, it was a fine place to get what they needed, meet a few friends and clasp hands, and go on their merry way.

The outside wasn’t much, by today’s standards. Above the doors, a tall sign announced the name in big, blocky letters, with the lines behind the letters showing where it was attached. Almost like a marquee for an old timey movie at a theater like they used to do.

It wasn’t until 1964 that the Kincaid’s butcher and market manager sold the first few hamburgers. It was only to a handful of customers and, you guessed it, on a small griddle.

Using the grocery store market’s fresh beef and produce, he mainly cooked up made-to-order burgers, on the side.

The 70s saw a boom in the burgers’ popularity and demand. Kincaid’s won an award for “Best Burger in Fort Worth.” Only a few years later, Kincaid’s was voted “Best Burger in America” out of more than 400 hamburger restaurants.

What?! How did it go from a grocery store in Fort Worth? To a nationally rated burger? A little burger from Texas?!

That’s right, folks.

In 1992, Kincaid’s officially converted their grocery store into a full-on hamburger restaurant. The butcher’s family, the Gentrys, built picnic tables, by hand, to provide seating for customers.

Any Six Flags fans? Me, too! Well, Kincaid’s had a pop-up at Six Flags in the early 2000s.

In all these years, generation after generation has run the store, manned the back, chatted in the front, and kept the place alive.

That’s actually one of the most central tenets that stands out to me about Kincaid’s.

They’re all about family. It’s about their family, to yours. Celebrating moments, even lifetimes. No matter the mix of personalities in your family, we’re all one big burger, right? The bottom bread of our ancestors, the top bread of those whippersnappers running around here somewhere.

Big burgers in cowtown

What began as one guy who thought a grocery store market’s food could make for a good burger has transformed into burgers wrapped up and sold to happy customers and families right there in cowtown.

If you’re breezing into Fort Worth for the day, make sure to plan ahead for parking here. There are a few outdoor tables and chairs to sit with your family, but it’s first-come, first-served.

Parking’s right up close to the front doors, so go at an off-peak time to get a good spot.

It’s on a corner, with parking wrapped around. But even still, parking is quite limited. Carpool if you can! Sync up with your kids’ friends and other parents or grandparents.

Kincaid’s is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, they close in the afternoon, at 3 p.m., after opening at 11 a.m.

Their busiest days are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Allow for extra time to park, order, and wrangle up the kids!

Alright, well, tell us about these burgers, then! Yes, yes, hold your horses!

Kincaid’s hamburgers come in two sizes, a half pound known as a “regular” and a quarter pound that’s a “junior.”

Burgers are split into two categories: Original, and Signature.

Under Original, you have your Hamburger, Cheeseburger, Chili Cheeseburger, and Bacon Cheeseburger.

Be aware that Original hamburgers come “All the Way” with mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and onions. Mayo and ketchup are available if you ask ‘em for it.

Signature’s where it’s at. These are your Texas-themed names, through and through.

First up is The Cattleman. This one has onion rings, cheddar cheese, pickles, and barbeque sauce.

You’ve also got a Cowtown Deluxe, stacked with bacon, pimento cheese, grilled onions, jalapenos, and mayo. Be ready for a little bit of spiciness!

Bring on the spicy? You asked for it. Order up the Texas Firecracker. If the name’s not enough to scare you, or excite you beyond your right mind, this burger comes with bacon, jalapeno cream cheese, and habanero honey.

Worth a shot!

Kincaid’s has an option on the menu to let you customize your burger order, too. If you’d like an extra patty, or American cheese, you can certainly add those into your order when you’re up at the counter.

How’re the sides? Well, let’s see. What goes best with nationally acclaimed burgers?

Choose your pick! You’ll have crinkle-cut fries, fried okra, onion rings, chips, deviled eggs, stuffed jalapenos, or plain jalapenos.

That’s all great stuff … but I’m more of a sandwich person or into getting a bowl of all the things I like. You can do that here, too!

Sandwiches at Kincaid’s include Grilled Chicken, with mayo and veggies you get to pick, or a BLT, with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on Texas toast.

Go with a classic Grilled Cheese, if you’re feeling nostalgic. Choose from American, cheddar, or pimento cheese.

Are there bowls I can order? Don’t mind if I do! There’s a Burger Bowl, with any Original or Signature burger, lettuce, chopped tomatoes, pickles, and chopped onions.

A Chicken Bowl lets you mix in grilled chicken or fried chicken strips with lettuce, chopped tomatoes, pickles, and chopped onions.

Feeling more like chili? They’ve got you covered. There’s a Texas Chili, which is a big bowl of chili with cheese, onions, and crackers.

Whoa! Did someone say “frito pie”? You heard correctly! Kincaid’s has a Texas-sized Fritos (that’s worth checking out, simply for a Texas-sized anything), with chili, cheese, and onions.

They also have Chili Cheese Fries, with crinkle-cut fries, chili, cheese, and onions. If it’s calling your name, go for it. You won’t regret it.

What burger place would be complete without hot dogs? While they do have Hot Dogs and Chili Cheese Dogs, I’d put my money on Corn Dogs.”. Who can go wrong?

Kids’ meal options include a Junior Cheeseburger, Chicken Strips, a Hot Dog, a Corn Dog, or a Grilled Cheese.

For adults, there are bottled beers, unsweet and sweet tea, sodas, and bottled water. And for the kiddos? Milkshakes, of course! This is a burger joint in Texas, after all.

Shakes come in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, dreamsicle, or a seasonal flavor. Strawberry’s my go-to!

Add in banana slices, or make it a malt. Soda floats are also available, with hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream (a Texas brand and a favorite) with any soda you’d like.

If you’d like a more traditional dessert, they’ve got banana pudding, or a cup of strawberry, vanilla, orange sherbet, or a seasonal flavor. Slather it in chocolate syrup, or dole out those banana slices. Perfection, Kincaid’s way.

One of the thoughtful touches I like most about Kincaid’s is that they include an Allergen chart on their website and for in-store customers. It makes it so much easier to find what to eat or avoid when you’re trying out a new place, or even coming back to a restaurant after a while.

Well, I’m sold! Where are they at? Plug Kincaid’s Camp Bowie into your Maps to get there in a jiffy.

Where: Kincaid’s Hamburgers, 4901 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107

Those thoughtful touches are what make Kincaid’s Hamburgers a special place year after year after year for families of little cowpokes.

One man flipping a burger as he chats over a grocery store display counter, mouth turned up slightly at the corner, one hand in the air as he’s talking, started the burger craze.

It wasn’t a flash in the pan. It wasn’t a big, bold, boisterous sign before construction’s even done.

Kincaid’s began simply. With good choices in the market section of a little grocery store. With little tips on healthy living as customers walk out the door, one arm raised to say, “I’ll see y’all later now!”

Today’s customers don’t leave with the same arm in the air, grocery bags lined up on the other forearm. They’re heading out that door with milkshake moustaches, cheesy fingers, and the occasional spur glinting in the Fort Worth sunshine.

Find them online at kincaidshamburgers.com, follow along on Facebook and Instagram, and pull up directions on Google Maps before you head out — because a burger this legendary deserves a proper plan to get there.