Best Restaurants in Goliad, Texas: A Foodie’s Guide to Small-Town Dining
Nestled in the heart of South Texas, Goliad is a charming town with a deep historical significance. Known for its role in the Texas Revolution and the quaint, welcoming vibe of small-town life, Goliad has a lot to offer for visitors and residents alike. While it might not be as bustling as major cities like San Antonio or Austin, it has its own unique culinary treasures waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the diverse restaurant scene in Goliad.
This Best Restaurants in Goliad, Texas guide will walk you through some of the must-visit spots for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even a few hidden gems for that perfect cup of coffee or a sweet treat. From traditional Tex-Mex to mouth-watering barbecue and homestyle Southern cooking, Goliad’s food scene is more than enough to satisfy any craving.
1. A Brief Overview of Goliad’s Culinary Scene
Despite being a small town, Goliad is home to a diverse range of dining options that reflect both Southern comfort food and the rich Tex-Mex culture of South Texas. The dining scene here emphasizes quality over quantity, with most eateries being locally owned and operated. This brings a level of authenticity to the food that you just can’t find in larger, more commercialized areas.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from family-friendly spots to restaurants perfect for a casual night out, along with recommendations on what dishes to try at each one. Let’s dive into the best places to eat in Goliad, Texas!
2. Empresario Restaurant & Event Center
Empresario Restaurant is one of the top dining destinations in Goliad, offering a blend of Texas comfort food with a modern twist. Located in a beautifully restored building in downtown Goliad, this restaurant is the perfect spot for both visitors and locals who want to enjoy a relaxed, upscale dining experience.
What to Try:
- Steak and Seafood: Empresario is known for its perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood, which can rival any big-city restaurant.
- Empresario Burger: Juicy, flavorful, and piled high with toppings—this is a must-try for any burger lover.
- Sunday Brunch: The brunch menu is a local favorite, featuring everything from eggs benedict to Texas-sized pancakes.
The restaurant also offers a spacious event center, making it a popular spot for weddings, celebrations, and community gatherings. If you’re in town for an event, you’ll likely find yourself enjoying the food at Empresario.
3. Mattie’s Bakery and Café
For a more laid-back experience, head over to Mattie’s Bakery and Café, a charming spot that serves homestyle breakfasts and lunches. This quaint café offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for a quiet morning meal or a quick bite to eat in the afternoon.
What to Try:
- Breakfast Tacos: No Texas café would be complete without breakfast tacos, and Mattie’s are some of the best in town. Choose from a variety of fillings, including eggs, bacon, sausage, and potatoes.
- Chicken Fried Steak: A staple in Texas cuisine, Mattie’s take on chicken fried steak is crispy, tender, and served with all the classic fixings.
- Homemade Pastries: Don’t leave without trying one of their fresh pastries, like the cinnamon rolls or apple fritters.
Mattie’s is a great spot to start your day, with friendly service and a homey vibe that makes everyone feel welcome.
4. La Bahia Restaurant
Craving Tex-Mex? La Bahia Restaurant is the go-to spot for anyone who loves bold flavors, hearty portions, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas, La Bahia delivers classic Tex-Mex dishes that will leave you satisfied.
What to Try:
- Carne Asada Tacos: Tender, flavorful strips of beef served with freshly made tortillas and all the traditional toppings.
- Enchiladas Verdes: These tangy green enchiladas are made with a zesty tomatillo sauce and stuffed with your choice of chicken or beef.
- Chips and Salsa: Start your meal with their house-made chips and salsa, a simple yet delicious appetizer that sets the tone for the rest of the meal.
With its casual atmosphere and consistently delicious food, La Bahia is perfect for a relaxed family dinner or a quick lunch with friends.
5. Blue Quail Deli
Blue Quail Deli is a hidden gem in Goliad that specializes in soups, salads, and sandwiches. It’s the ideal spot for a light yet satisfying meal, with a focus on fresh ingredients and homemade dishes.
What to Try:
- Chicken Salad Sandwich: This is one of their best-sellers, featuring a creamy, well-seasoned chicken salad served on fresh bread.
- Soup of the Day: Whether it’s a comforting bowl of tomato basil or a hearty chicken noodle soup, Blue Quail Deli’s soups are the perfect complement to any sandwich.
- Quiche: For something a little different, try one of their daily quiche offerings, made with seasonal ingredients.
This is a great spot for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
6. Hanging Tree Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for Southern comfort food with a twist, Hanging Tree Restaurant is the place to go. This Goliad staple offers a range of dishes inspired by traditional Southern cooking, but with modern influences that make each meal special.
What to Try:
- Chicken Fried Steak: This dish is a Texas classic, and Hanging Tree’s version is known for its crispy, golden breading and rich, creamy gravy.
- Fried Catfish: Another Southern favorite, the fried catfish here is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfectly seasoned.
- Pecan Pie: Finish your meal with a slice of homemade pecan pie, a Southern dessert that never disappoints.
The restaurant’s name is inspired by the historic Hanging Tree in downtown Goliad, adding an extra layer of local flavor to your dining experience.
7. Aztec Coffee & Ice Cream
For your caffeine fix or a sweet treat, Aztec Coffee & Ice Cream is the perfect spot. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely afternoon coffee, this café offers a variety of specialty coffee drinks and delicious homemade ice cream.
What to Try:
- Aztec Mocha: A rich blend of chocolate and espresso with a hint of cinnamon—perfect for coffee lovers who like a little something extra.
- Homemade Ice Cream: With a rotating selection of flavors, Aztec’s ice cream is a hit with both kids and adults.
- Affogato: If you can’t decide between coffee and dessert, go for the affogato—a scoop of ice cream topped with a shot of hot espresso.
Aztec Coffee & Ice Cream is a great place to relax, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a good cup of coffee.
8. Tasty Tacos
For a more casual, grab-and-go meal, Tasty Tacos is the perfect spot. This local taco stand offers some of the best tacos in Goliad, made fresh to order with simple yet flavorful ingredients.
What to Try:
- Street Tacos: Served with your choice of meat (beef, chicken, or pork), topped with fresh onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Breakfast Tacos: Start your day with a hearty breakfast taco filled with eggs, cheese, and your choice of bacon or sausage.
- Taco Plate: If you can’t decide on just one, the taco plate lets you sample several different options.
With its convenient location and fast service, Tasty Tacos is perfect for a quick bite when you’re on the go.
9. Bluhm’s Pizza
Pizza lovers, rejoice! Bluhm’s Pizza offers delicious, freshly-made pizzas that have become a local favorite in Goliad. With a variety of toppings and specialty pizzas, there’s something here for everyone.
What to Try:
- Meat Lover’s Pizza: Loaded with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham, this pizza is perfect for anyone with a serious appetite.
- Supreme Pizza: Topped with everything from bell peppers and onions to olives and pepperoni, the Supreme pizza offers a little bit of everything.
- Calzones: For something different, try one of their stuffed calzones filled with gooey cheese and your favorite toppings.
Bluhm’s is a great place to bring the family or grab a pizza to go after a long day of exploring Goliad.
10. Sweet Shoppe Bakery
No food guide is complete without a mention of dessert! Sweet Shoppe Bakery is a local treasure offering a mouth-watering array of cakes, cookies, and pastries.
What to Try:
- Cupcakes: Sweet Shoppe is known for its beautifully decorated cupcakes in a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to decadent chocolate.
- Pies: If you’re in the mood for a slice of pie, the pecan and apple pies are particularly popular.
- Cookies: Freshly baked cookies are available daily, and they make for the perfect mid-day snack.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, Sweet Shoppe Bakery won’t disappoint.
Conclusion: Exploring the Culinary Delights of Goliad, Texas
Though small in size, Goliad’s restaurant scene offers a surprising diversity of flavors and experiences. From Tex-Mex at La Bahia to homestyle Southern cooking at Hanging Tree, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a long-time local or just visiting, the best restaurants in Goliad, Texas will provide you with a memorable dining experience full of Texas charm, rich history, and unforgettable flavors.
Next time you’re in town, make sure to stop by some of these must-visit spots to fully experience all that Goliad has to offer, one bite at a time!