Downtown Waco is brimming with easy-to-dine-at spots that serve more than just a good lunch—they serve personality, culture, and community. Whether you’re craving bold Mediterranean flavors, handmade sandwiches, or looking for that historic feel, Waco’s local food scene has something fresh and exciting for everyone! This guide has rounded up spots that are local favorites to tourist hotspots.
Teriyaki Park is a locally owned gem in Waco, dedicated to delivering high-quality dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Known for its classic hibachi offerings, Teriyaki Park also keeps things exciting with creative and playful twists on traditional flavors, with items like the beef yakisoba and a kimchi fried rice bowl. Check out their lunch specials, available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday for only $10.99!
Revival Eastside Eatery is more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s a celebration of good food and community. Located in the former Waco Community Baptist Church, the space blends historic charm with new life, featuring soaring open rafters, original tin ceilings, and exposed brick walls. On historic Elm Avenue, Revival is serving up “revivalized” comfort food with a twist, including playful, biblically inspired favorites like the Old Pestoment sandwich and the Golden Calf burger.
A downtown staple since 1975, Schmaltz’s Sandwich Shoppe is known for its handmade, oven-toasted bread—crisp on the outside, soft on the inside. The Blue Plate Special is a Schmaltz’s staple, a daily combo that includes a sandwich, chips, and a drink. With their no-frills charm and loyal fans, Schmaltz’s is the sandwich spot in downtown.
Step into the 1950s at Jake’s Texas Tea House, a locally owned diner serving up Southern comfort food with a side of retro charm. Located downtown, Jake’s dishes out made-from-scratch favorites like the Cadillac Melt and fried chicken. Jake’s hosts live entertainment on Saturdays, including Elvis and Marilyn Monroe tribute performances, enhancing its retro appeal.
From Cajun to Thai cuisine, Union Hall brings together over 20 local eateries under one roof, offering a diverse dining experience in the heart of downtown. The communal seating and vibrant environment make it an ideal spot for gatherings for anyone visiting Waco or for locals. Union Hall stands as a testament to Waco’s evolving food scene, with its blend of culinary variety and community spirit.
If you’re craving authentic Mediterranean flavors in Downtown Waco, look no further than Alpha Omega Grill & Bakery. Owned by Filippos and Dorothy Lentis, this beloved restaurant brings homemade gyros, fresh-baked pita, and traditional family recipes to life. Located on Franklin Avenue, Alpha Omega blends casual charm with cultural richness, offering a warm, open-kitchen atmosphere where every dish is crafted with care. If you’re just stopping by for lunch or enjoying dinner on the patio, it’s a true taste of Mediterranean culture in Waco.
Cha Community is known for its authentic tea, but they offer way more! As an immigrant and woman-owned business, it’s the only Taiwanese-owned boba cafe in the area, serving up premium bubble tea, Vietnamese coffee and cultural foods like Taiwanese cold noodles and Gua Bao. Cha Community is rooted in a mission to bridge cultures and build community. Through cultural workshops and events like the BIPOC markets, it’s become a hub for connection as much as cuisine.
For a quick bite, explore the food trucks at the Silos! Grab a wood-fired pie from 900 Degrees Pizzeria, a juicy burger from Whizzbang’s, or a gourmet grilled cheese from Cheddar Box. Other favorites include Club Sandwich, Frenchie’s Hot Dogs, and Di Campli’s. Don’t forget to add a bev to your meal with a $9 tea from Alabama Sweet Tea Company; once you return for more, the refill is only $2!
From retro diners to historic churches to bustling food halls, Waco’s lunch scene is as diverse as the community it feeds. These local spots are more than just places to eat—they’re woven into the fabric of downtown culture. So next time you’re wondering where to grab lunch in Waco, skip the chains and try one of these hometown favorites.
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