Abilene’s Favorite Places to Dine: My Top 7 Restaurant Picks

For the past decade, my kitchen has been under construction, meaning my wife Donna, the kids, and I have eaten out a lot. Abilene has a surprisingly strong dining scene, and while TripAdvisor lists more than 20 local favorites, I wanted to share my personal top seven. If you live in Abilene or anywhere in West Texas, these are spots worth checking out.

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1. Big Country Beer Garden, BBQ, Burgers & Live Music

TripAdvisor loves Jay’s BBQ Shack, but when Mr. Bowers is slicing his smoked brisket at the Big Country Beer Garden, I think it wins hands down. On top of great barbecue, their smash burgers and chicken sandwiches are crowd-pleasers, and the live music makes it a night out.

2. Jay’s BBQ Shack, Brisket Done Right

If you’re craving just brisket or BBQ Sharon's BBQ has everything from brisket to smoked ham and fall off the bone ribs. However, if you're craving brisket with a cult following, Jay’s BBQ Shack deserves its near-perfect reviews. Expect lines and sold-out signs on busy weekends.

3. Lucy’s Better Burger & Chelsea’s Burgers & Brew

I couldn’t choose just one burger stop. Lucy’s Better Burger has that classic drive-in charm, while Chelsea’s Burgers & Brew serves up juicy patties and a local vibe that keeps me coming back.

4. Oscar’s Mexican Restaurant, A Sunday Favorite

For real Mexican food, made from real Mexican recipes, Oscar’s North Side tops my list, especially for Sunday breakfast. It's the real Mexican food my mother used to prepare. Furthermore, their Tex-Mex hold their own, too.

5. Miguel’s & Abuelo’s, Tex-Mex

When the family wants Tex-Mex, Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant and Miguel’s Mex-Tex Café always deliver. Fajitas, enchiladas, and queso that satisfies every time.

6. Little Italy, Cozy Italian Nights

I’m picky about Italian food, but Little Italy hits the spot. For a faster option, Abilene also has Fazoli’s and Olive Garden, but Little Italy feels local and warm.

7. Iconic Texas Steak Houses

A short drive from Abilene, Perini Ranch Steakhouse is a Texas legend. For in-town steaks, I also like Taylor County Taphouse, Joe Allen’s, and Lytle Land & Cattle Co.

Your Turn: These are my go-to spots, but I know Abilene foodies have opinions. Tell me which restaurants top your list, I might discover my next dinner spot.

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