Laredo might not boast the Michelin-starred temples or celebrity chef empires of coastal metropolises, but its culinary scene possesses a rugged, borderland soul all its own. For one thing, you don’t need a reservation weeks in advance to taste its heart. The next time you cross into this gateway city—with your family, your crew, or a fellow aficionado of mesquite-grilled meats—these are the essential tables to seek out.
Savora Seafood &Grill
$ | (956) 516-7550 | WEBSITE
Savora Seafood & Grill has all the makings of a cozy seafood spot in a Texas border town—it just also happens to serve some of the most advanced seafood you’ll find in Laredo. The atmosphere is run with an elegant touch, which you’ll notice in the warm lighting and comfortable seating that makes it feel like a new home away from home.
(The ambiance is perfect for date nights, you can’t miss it.) The Camarones Cucaracha makes for a very good dinner with friends, but we also like the Tacos Mar y tierra, and the tuna served Mexican style and cold, which tastes like the best seafood we’ve ever had in Texas.
Antojitos Enchilados
$ | (956) 267-8598 | WEBSITE
We can’t believe we’re saying this, because it’s not really a very Laredo thing to say, but it’s time to find someone with a car and make them drive you to Antojitos Enchilados. The humble snack place sits right in the heart of the city, and there’s plenty of parking out front.
However you choose to arrive, expect things like rolled pickles, mangonadas with sweet and tangy flavors and a lot of color, and servers wearing smiles that say, ‘Best Snacks In Laredo.’ It’s like they read your mind, and know exactly what you need. Bring your family and spread out in the pink dining area for a quick, satisfying stop.
Ringo’s BBQ and Burgers
$ | (956) 701-3304 | WEBSITE
Anyone who craves authentic Texas barbecue in Laredo should know that Ringo’s BBQ and Burgers is the spot to hit, located with a spacious parking lot and ample seating. It’s a great place for a quick chopped barbecue sandwich, they have A+ brisket with its mouthwatering flavor and tender texture, and you’ll probably feel right at home in the welcoming atmosphere.
Two or three of their tasty sides like the beans with sausage can round out a meal, especially if you get the combo #1 that’s super stuffed with a sandwich, fries, coleslaw, and a drink. We like the Buffalo chicken fried chicken sandwich, chock full of flavor and a real crowd-pleaser.
House of Whiskey
$$$ | (956) 471-6566 | WEBSITE
House of Whiskey shares its lively spirit with the best of Laredo’s nightlife, but you should never have to choose between great drinks and great atmosphere. Grab the best Pina colada from the bar, and then settle in for EMO NIGHT with DJ Eric Barragan spinning tracks. It’s a perfect downtown choice for the cocktail enthusiast in your group, or for someone who would like to imagine they’re at an exclusive music venue rather than just another Texas bar.
Chalu Burger
$ | (956) 712-4637 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving a comforting meal that feels like home, head to Chalu Burger. The modest spot sits in a quiet Laredo neighborhood, with a simple storefront that belies the warmth inside. Step in for some huevos rancheros, breakfast taquitos, or their signature ternera burger. Don’t miss the menudo—it’s rich, deeply flavored, and just what you need on a slow morning.
If you’re reading this after a long day and now you’re really in the mood for that cozy vibe, not to worry—Chalu Burger’s friendly staff, including a sweet older lady, will make you feel right at home, surrounded by family photos and the smell of home-cooked food.
Gorilla Smoke and Grill (North)
$ | (956) 568-0744 | WEBSITE
Gorilla Smoke and Grill (North) is on the north side of Laredo, within easy driving distance of the main thoroughfares and shopping districts. So it’s both convenient and logical to fuel up with some serious barbecue here before your afternoon errands or evening plans. The brisket sandwich is stellar, as are the loaded fries. They’re the right balance of smoky and savory, and we’d be happy to eat them in any part of town.
A “regular” fountain drink here is in fact the size of your forearm, and therefore a wise investment at $2.75.
Tacos Don Milo
$ | (956) 977-0080 | WEBSITE
If you’re exploring the best spots in Laredo, the answer is always Tacos Don Milo. Their steak tacos are an essential order, but the brisket tacos are also amazing, and you can get some horchata or a margarita as well. This place will keep you satisfied after a long day, and because it’s so welcoming, you can enjoy a meal and then get back to your plans as quickly as possible (or take your tacos to go).
This place really shines when they have their torta ahogada available, so keep an eye on their menu. Also—the charra beans are a must. There’s bound to be one person in your group who didn’t realize how good they’d be.
Tacolare San Bernardo
$ | (956) 753-0116 | WEBSITE
The most appealing aspect of casual, counter-service Tacolare San Bernardo is the authentic Mexican atmosphere, where you’ll see locals and travelers enjoying $7 quesabirria and generously portioned tortas at simple tables. That, plus they have consistently attentive and professional service that you can count on during busy lunch hours.
And though you’re not really here for fancy décor, the food is flavorful enough, so if you come after a long day and just finished your second quesadilla, a steaming bowl of stew will hit the spot.
Paulita’s Restaurant
$ | (956) 727-0570 | WEBSITE
Located in Laredo, Paulita’s Restaurant is a family-friendly spot with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel right at home. It’s an ideal setting for a hearty meal with loved ones, or a casual lunch on your own. That homey vibe—which extends throughout the dining room—is the best place for a group. But the clean, inviting space is where you come for a satisfying, leisurely meal by yourself or with a friend.
And if you’re hungry, they’ve got classics—Texas-size tacos, fajitas—as well as some standout dishes, like the Mariachi de Fajita and Paulita’s Special Plate with fajita, always worth ordering. The generous portions, excellent coffee, and attentive service round out the experience, making it feel like walking into a home where everyone loves being here.
Burgerim Laredo
$ | (956) 704-5656 | WEBSITE
We have a soft spot for Burgerim Laredo based on the experience alone: the straightforward counter service where you build your own burger exactly how you want it, the friendly staff who remember regulars by name, the quick turnaround that makes it perfect for a lunch break. But the main reason to stop here on your way through Laredo is their incredible build-your-own burgers with fresh, quality ingredients, and unexpectedly delicious vegan options like the falafel patty.
It’s one of our favorite burger spots anywhere in South Texas.
Charlie’s Corona Bar and Grill
$ | (956) 725-8227 | WEBSITE
Charlie’s Corona Bar and Grill isn’t in the heart of downtown, but it’s worth the drive to experience some of the best steaks in Laredo. We love the T-Bone steak cooked to perfection with great fries, and they also do an excellent Acapulco combo that would be right at home at a classic Texas grill.
If you want to enjoy a full sit-down meal with regional music, there’s a diverse menu of impressive dishes you can eat in a space that celebrates border culture with vibrant decor and a welcoming bar area.
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
$ | (956) 462-5325 | WEBSITE
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is situated along the highway in Laredo, a bustling border city between Texas and Mexico. But it’s well worth a stop if you’re driving through, because there’s something surprisingly pleasant about this location, especially the dining area, with its consistently clean and welcoming atmosphere. It’s like you’ve found yourself in a typical fast food joint, only to discover they serve genuinely satisfying chicken out there.
We love the chicken strips and the red beans and rice, but you’re also going to want to appreciate the friendly customer service that makes eating in feel like more than just grabbing a quick bite.
MoonLane Coffee
$ | (956) 555-7777 | WEBSITE
MoonLane Coffee is where Laredo’s coffee lovers get their morning fix. It’s tucked away in a cozy spot, and owned by passionate coffee enthusiasts. As such, expect creative drinks and at least one regular who’s already tried more unique coffee options than you’ll ever sample, sipping a strawberry mango refresher.
The menu is full of things like the Gansito frap and Cinnamon Toast Crunch shaken espresso, and, in case you’d like a bite with your brew, there’s also a simple offering like the everything bagel with cream cheese. With soft jazz playing and friendly staff always ready with a smile, it’s the perfect place to chat over coffee at the outdoor seating, though it closes early at 2pm.
Tito’s Burgers and Snacks
$ | (956) 442-8895 | WEBSITE
We see your food court burger, and we raise you a pulled pork combo from Tito’s Burgers and Snacks, a casual spot in Laredo that also makes one of our favorite takes on the cheeseburger. (Theirs is called the cheesegurguer.) Make your meal memorable with potato cones and churros, consider grabbing a seat at one of the shared tables in the food court, and then make a beeline for the shopping.
The atmosphere at Tito’s is straightforward but friendly, so if you’re with kids, consider ordering from their kid-friendly menu and chasing your burger with a shared plate of those generously portioned cones.
Fuddruckers
$ | (956) 718-4046 | WEBSITE
At this counter-service burger joint you can get a tray or to-go bag, and dictate exactly how much lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and special sauce you’d like piled onto your burger. Locals love this place enough to keep the dining room—with its ample parking and game machines—full of families and individuals seeking a casual dining experience.
Blue Moon Country Bar & Patio
$$ | (956) 319-3787 | WEBSITE
If you need warming up by way of a lively patio and $8 frozen margaritas, head to Blue Moon. The country bar on the Laredo scene offers an affordable concoction that’s ice cold and very, very drinkable. Get it with a salt rim for optimal salty-sweetness. Blue Moon is good for groups, with a spacious patio area for outdoor seating, and big booths that could easily fit seven of your closest, dancing friends.
Stick to the music and the friendly atmosphere—and maybe a norteño tune, Banda-style with energy, rhythm, and heart.
Loncheria El Popo
$ | (956) 568-0126 | WEBSITE
Loncheria El Popo is a welcoming little spot that also serves some great burgers and sandwiches. It’s right there with free parking, so wipe as much dust off your boots as needed, grab a Mexican burger and a soda, and settle in at their clean tables for a family-friendly lunch. If you finished that whole meal and need something a bit more affordable, head to their simple menu for some wallet-friendly options.
Bush’s Chicken
$ | (956) 568-3205 | WEBSITE
Head over to Bush’s Chicken in Laredo and you’ll find a clean, welcoming space filled with friendly staff and consistently delicious food. It’s a great place for a group, because everybody can find something tasty, and nobody has to compromise on quality. Some of our favorites include the crispy chicken strips, which are perfectly cooked every time, the macaroni and cheese with its creamy, flavorful texture, and the hot fries—that’s where you’ll get the perfect balance of heat and crunch.
While the sweet tea could use a little work, the baked chicken is absolutely ‘bussin’ and well worth the reasonable price.
Tortas Yukon
$ | (956) 725-8600 | WEBSITE
Head to Tortas Yukon hungry. The tortas are substantial, with perfectly toasted bread holding generous meat fillings, and excellent fresh lemonade on the side. But you also need to get the Toluca 3 meat torta. This torta has been a standout since Tortas Yukon opened, featuring their signature brisket along with two other meats. Their approach involves essentially all the elements of a classic torta, just with that standout brisket taking center stage.
