Introduction
Arlington, Texas, a vibrant city nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, isn’t just known for its attractions like Six Flags and the AT&T Stadium. It’s also rapidly gaining recognition as a fantastic food destination. Beyond the thrills of roller coasters and the roar of football games, lies a diverse culinary scene waiting to be explored. From authentic Texas barbecue that melts in your mouth to globally inspired dishes that tantalize your taste buds, Arlington offers a smorgasbord of flavors to satisfy every palate. This article is your passport to discovering the best food in Arlington TX, guiding you to exceptional dining experiences that will leave you craving more. We’ll navigate the landscape of tastes, uncovering local favorites and hidden gems, showcasing the sheer variety this exciting city has to offer. Forget the generic tourist traps; prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the authentic flavors of Arlington. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, this guide is your key to unlocking the delicious secrets of Arlington’s food scene. Get ready to discover why Arlington is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for food lovers!
Texas BBQ: A Smoky Sensation
No exploration of the best food in Arlington TX would be complete without diving headfirst into the world of Texas barbecue. Barbecue is more than just a meal here; it’s a tradition, an art form, and a source of immense local pride. The smoky aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, promising a feast of tender, flavorful meats cooked low and slow to perfection.
Hurtado Barbecue
Hurtado Barbecue offers a unique and modern take on traditional Texan BBQ. Their focus on locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations makes them a standout in the Arlington barbecue scene. Expect expertly smoked brisket, succulent ribs, and a range of creative sides that perfectly complement the smoky meats. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a great spot for families and friends to gather. Their signature barbacoa and creative sides are a must try! It’s often regarded as having some of the best food in Arlington TX for BBQ.
David’s Barbecue
If you’re looking for a classic, no-frills barbecue experience, David’s Barbecue is your place. This long-standing Arlington institution has been serving up mouthwatering barbecue for years, consistently delivering tender, smoky meats and traditional sides. Their brisket is particularly noteworthy, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, smoky flavor. David’s has established itself as a place with some of the best food in Arlington TX for old school BBQ lovers.
Tex-Mex & Mexican Cuisine: A Fiesta of Flavors
Arlington’s Tex-Mex and Mexican food scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. From family-run taquerias serving up authentic street tacos to upscale restaurants offering refined takes on classic dishes, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The combination of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and traditional cooking techniques creates a fiesta of flavors that will transport you south of the border.
El Arroyo Mexican Kitchen
El Arroyo serves classic Tex-Mex with modern twists. The atmosphere is lively and festive. Enjoy fajitas, enchiladas, and other familiar favorites, all made with high-quality ingredients and a focus on authentic flavors. The margaritas are also a must-try, perfectly complementing the spicy dishes. El Arroyo continually proves they offer some of the best food in Arlington TX when it comes to flavorful Tex-Mex.
Taqueria Maria
For a truly authentic Mexican experience, head to Taqueria Maria. This unassuming taqueria serves up some of the best food in Arlington TX when it comes to authentic street tacos. Made with fresh tortillas, flavorful meats, and a variety of toppings, these tacos are a true taste of Mexico. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, making it a great spot to grab a quick and delicious bite. Their el pastor and carne asada are legendary.
Burgers & American Comfort Food: Classic & Craveable
Sometimes, all you need is a juicy burger or a plate of comforting American classics. Arlington’s burger scene is booming, with restaurants serving up everything from simple, classic patties to gourmet creations loaded with toppings. And if burgers aren’t your thing, you’ll find plenty of other comforting options, such as crispy fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and hearty sandwiches.
Grease Monkey Burger Shop & Social Club
If you’re looking for a fun and funky burger joint, Grease Monkey is the place to be. This popular spot serves up creative and delicious burgers with unique toppings, alongside a selection of craft beers and cocktails. The atmosphere is lively and social, making it a great spot to hang out with friends. Grease Monkey is a strong contender for offering the best food in Arlington TX for burger aficionados.
Twisted Root Burger Co.
Twisted Root takes burgers to a whole new level. With a quirky, laid-back atmosphere, they offer a diverse menu of specialty burgers, each bursting with unique flavor combinations. They also feature homemade pickles and creative sides that complement the burgers perfectly. It’s a destination worth checking out when searching for the best food in Arlington TX.
International Cuisine: A World of Flavors Awaits
Arlington’s diverse population is reflected in its vibrant international food scene. You can find everything from authentic Vietnamese pho to flavorful Korean barbecue to spicy Indian curries, all within a short drive. Exploring Arlington’s international restaurants is like taking a culinary trip around the world, without ever leaving the city.
Pho 95 (Vietnamese)
If you’re craving a warm and comforting bowl of pho, Pho 95 is the place to go. This popular Vietnamese restaurant serves up authentic and flavorful pho, made with fresh ingredients and a rich, aromatic broth. The menu also features a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls, vermicelli bowls, and banh mi sandwiches. For those craving Vietnamese fare, Pho 95 offers some of the best food in Arlington TX.
Taste of Europe (Polish)
Taste of Europe is a fantastic option to have some of the best food in Arlington TX. Taste of Europe has a variety of options, as well as great dessert options.
Pizza: A Slice of Heaven
Pizza is a universally loved food, and Arlington has no shortage of pizzerias serving up delicious slices. Whether you prefer a classic Neapolitan-style pizza, a thick and cheesy deep-dish pie, or a gourmet creation with unique toppings, you’re sure to find a pizza place in Arlington that satisfies your craving.
Old School Pizza Tavern
For a taste of classic New York-style pizza, head to Old School Pizza Tavern. This popular spot serves up thin-crust pizzas with a crispy crust and a variety of toppings. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a pizza night. If you’re longing for a taste of authentic NY pizza, Old School offers some of the best food in Arlington TX.
Cane Rosso
Cane Rosso is a great option when looking for some of the best food in Arlington TX. They have a wide variety of Pizza styles and combinations to pick from.
Seafood: Fresh Catches and Coastal Flavors
While Texas might be known for its barbecue, Arlington also boasts a surprising number of excellent seafood restaurants. From fresh oysters to grilled fish to crispy fried shrimp, you can find a variety of delicious seafood options in Arlington.
Flying Fish
Flying Fish is a casual and fun seafood restaurant that’s popular with locals. They serve up a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including fried catfish, grilled shrimp, and oyster po’boys. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a casual seafood dinner. For a relaxed seafood experience, Flying Fish offers some of the best food in Arlington TX.
Bayou Cat Seafood
This restaurant brings the flavors of Louisiana to Arlington. Serving up flavorful Cajun and Creole dishes like jambalaya, etouffee, and, of course, plenty of fresh seafood, Bayou Cat provides a unique and delicious dining experience. For a spicy kick and a taste of the bayou, Bayou Cat is a great choice when searching for the best food in Arlington TX.
Sweet Treats & Desserts: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
No culinary adventure is complete without a little something sweet. Arlington offers a variety of dessert options, from classic ice cream shops to decadent bakeries to unique dessert bars. Whether you’re craving a scoop of ice cream, a slice of cake, or a plate of cookies, you’re sure to find a sweet treat in Arlington that satisfies your sweet tooth.
Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery
Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery is known for its beautiful and delicious cakes, cookies, and other pastries. This bakery creates custom creations for special occasions, as well as offering a daily selection of treats. If you have a sweet tooth, Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery is a great option for the best food in Arlington TX.
Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream
Beth Marie’s is a local favorite for ice cream, offering a nostalgic experience with its old-fashioned parlor setting and homemade ice cream flavors. They serve up classic flavors, as well as unique creations, all made with fresh ingredients. Beth Marie’s is the perfect place to cool down and enjoy a delicious treat. It’s a strong contender for the best food in Arlington TX for ice cream lovers.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Arlington is also home to a number of hidden gems and local favorites that are worth seeking out. These are the places that locals love, often serving up unique and delicious dishes that you won’t find anywhere else.
Prince Lebanese Grill
This unassuming restaurant serves up some of the most authentic and flavorful Lebanese food in Arlington. The menu features a variety of classic Lebanese dishes, such as shawarma, falafel, and hummus, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Prince Lebanese Grill is a hidden gem that’s definitely worth seeking out and offers some of the best food in Arlington TX for Lebanese cravings.
Donut Time
Forget your chain donut shops. Donut Time is a locally owned and operated donut shop that serves up fresh and delicious donuts every morning. The donuts are made from scratch and are always served warm and fluffy. Donut Time is a local favorite for good reason. Donut Time is a place to get the best food in Arlington TX if you are craving donuts.
Considerations for Choosing a Restaurant
When choosing a restaurant in Arlington, there are a few things to consider:
- Price Range: Arlington offers a wide range of dining options, from budget-friendly taquerias to upscale restaurants. Consider your budget when making your choice.
- Dietary Restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, be sure to check the menu before you go. Many restaurants in Arlington offer options for those with dietary restrictions.
- Ambiance: Do you want a casual and family-friendly atmosphere or a more romantic and upscale setting? Choose a restaurant that matches the mood you’re looking for.
- Location and Accessibility: Arlington is a large city, so consider the location of the restaurant and how easy it is to get there.
Conclusion
Arlington, TX, is a city that truly offers something for everyone, especially when it comes to food. From classic Texas barbecue to international cuisine to sweet treats, the culinary scene in Arlington is diverse, exciting, and constantly evolving. We hope this guide has given you a taste of the best food in Arlington TX and inspired you to explore all that this amazing city has to offer. So, the next time you’re in Arlington, be sure to check out these incredible restaurants and discover your own favorite hidden gems! The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you for it. Arlington is more than just a place to visit; it’s a place to savor. So go ahead, take a bite, and discover the delicious heart of Arlington, Texas.
