Savor the Flavor: Best Restaurants in Kilgore, Texas You’ve Got to Try
Discover the best restaurants in Kilgore Texas, featuring top local dining options, hidden gems, and must-try dishes for every food lover.
Country Comfort at Its Finest: The Back Porch
Step into The Back Porch and you’ll immediately feel like you’ve come home. This restaurant isn’t just known for its hearty portions and Southern comfort food—it’s beloved for the laid-back atmosphere and welcoming staff.
Menu favorites include chicken-fried steak, hand-cut fries, and juicy burgers stacked high with all the fixings. The outdoor seating area is often filled with locals enjoying live music on the weekends while sipping sweet tea or cold beer.
Why it’s a must-visit: Great for families, casual meetups, or just enjoying a slow-paced afternoon with flavorful Southern dishes done right.
Barbecue Royalty: Bodacious Bar-B-Q
If there’s one thing Kilgore knows how to do, it’s barbecue—and Bodacious Bar-B-Q does it better than most. This legendary Texas chain has locations across the state, but the Kilgore spot has a local following that’s unmatched.
The smoked brisket is the star, but don’t overlook the ribs, sausage, or pulled pork. Sides like baked beans, potato salad, and their tangy BBQ sauce tie the whole experience together.
Pro tip: Arrive early because the good stuff often sells out by mid-afternoon—that’s how you know it’s legit.
Casual Eats with Big Flavor: Jack Ryan’s Steak and Chophouse
For those special occasions or date nights when you’re in the mood to dress up a little, Jack Ryan’s Steak and Chophouse delivers a more upscale dining experience—without losing Kilgore’s down-to-earth charm.
Their menu boasts succulent ribeyes, seafood specials, and refined sides like truffle mac and cheese or grilled asparagus. And if you enjoy craft cocktails or a glass of wine with your meal, their bar selection will impress.
What makes it special: It brings fine dining to East Texas in a setting that still feels intimate and friendly.
Comfort Food Done Right: Brigitta’s Hungarian Restaurant
You might not expect to find authentic European cuisine in a small East Texas town, but Brigitta’s Hungarian Restaurant is a delightful surprise.
This cozy eatery offers goulash, schnitzels, cabbage rolls, and sweet strudels just like grandma would make (if your grandma were from Budapest). The flavors are rich, the portions are hearty, and the hospitality is unforgettable.
Why it stands out: It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience, especially for those craving something different from the usual Southern fare.
Pizza Night Favorite: Mazzios
When pizza night rolls around, Mazzios is the prescription you need. Locally owned and proudly non-chain, this spot serves hand-tossed pies piled high with fresh toppings and gooey cheese.
From classic pepperoni to BBQ chicken or supreme with everything on it, the options are tasty and satisfying. They also offer wings, cheesy breadsticks, and even dessert pizzas for those with a sweet tooth.
Best for: Quick takeout nights or casual group dinners where nobody can decide what to eat (because everyone loves pizza).
Classic Ice Cream Treats: Mr. Freeze Shoppe
No great meal is complete without dessert, and Mr. Freeze Shoppe is Kilgore’s answer to your sugar cravings. Whether you’re after a concrete loaded with toppings, a classic hot fudge sundae, or a banana split, this place delivers cool, creamy goodness in every bite.
It’s a popular stop for families after ball games, date nights, or anyone who just needs a sweet treat to wrap up the day.
Kid-approved: Yes. Crowd-pleasing? Absolutely. Totally worth the calories? Without a doubt.
Coffee and Vibes: 7 Brew Coffee
Need your caffeine fix or a cozy place to unwind with a pastry? 7 Brew Coffee is a locally owned coffee shop that offers specialty lattes, cold brew, teas, and light bites in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
With its friendly baristas and chill, artsy atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends, read a book, or get some work done. They also host open mic nights and local art exhibits on occasion.
Perfect for: Coffee lovers who appreciate ambiance as much as flavor.
Where Local Flavor and Big Taste Collide
One of the best things about Kilgore’s dining scene is its unexpected variety and quality. In a town known for its history and hospitality, food plays a starring role in everyday life. These restaurants don’t just serve meals—they serve memories, community, and comfort.
Whether you’re seeking smoky barbecue, international flavors, or a simple cup of joe, Kilgore offers a rich mix of down-home favorites and culinary surprises.
Conclusion: Let Your Tastebuds Explore Kilgore, Texas
Kilgore may be a small Texas town, but its food scene is bursting with flavor, culture, and Southern hospitality. From legendary barbecue joints to surprising international gems, the restaurants here tell a story—one of community, family, and an unapologetic love for good food.
So, whether you’re planning a visit, moving to town, or simply passing through, make it a point to savor the best restaurants Kilgore has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you—and so will your soul.
Return to Kilgore Homepage