Texas, United States Food Guide: 10 American food Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in San Marcos

June 25, 2020 Jasper Kershner

Find out what American restaurants to try in San Marcos. Located between Austin and San Antonio in Texas Hill Country, San Marcos has numerous attractions, especially for the adventure-seeking visitor. At the center of the city is the San Marcos River, which offers tubing. The nearby Rio Vista Falls has three drops for a great kayaking adventure. Explorers can visit the Wonder World activity center to discover a cave formed by an earthquake.
Things to do in San Marcos

10. Texas Roadhouse

1502 S Interstate 35, San Marcos, TX 78666-6008 American, Steakhouse Dinner, Lunch Takeout, Seating, Parking Available, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Reservations, Table Service +1 512-353-7427 http://www.texasroadhouse.com
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 118 reviews

Texas Roadhouse

Texas Roadhouse is a steak restaurant providing legendary food with legendary service. Texas Roadhouse specializes in hand-cut steaks, fresh-baked bread, fall-off-the-bone-ribs, and made-from-scratch sides. We also serve ice cold beer and legendary margar

Reviewed By Moved2Texas

We visited the Texas Road House for dinner. The food was very good- I had an 8 oz sirloin and it was very tender and flavorful. I loved the fresh rolls and the cinnamon-honey butter. I had sweet potato for a side and it was delicious as well. The mixed veggies were ok but the carrots were a little undercooked.My only issue was that the music was playing loudly and there was quite a bit of noise from the tables as well. This made it hard to have much conversation.Still, I would return for the food!

9. Grins Restaurant

802 N Lbj Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666-4666 American, Bar Lunch, Dinner, Drinks Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Discover, Table Service, Reservations, Free Wifi [email protected] +1 512-392-4746 http://www.grinsrestaurant.com
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 160 reviews

Grins Restaurant

For nearly 40 years, San Marcos residents have been gathering at Grins Restaurant, where a friendly waitstaff will make you feel right at home. Whether you're in the mood for one of their famous hamburgers or just gathering with some friends for happy hou

Reviewed By jrdtsta

We “discovered” Grins a few years ago and continue to return when in SM area, even enjoying the food with groups when meeting in the area. The preparation and presentation is first class for not “first class” prices! Appreciate the food always being excellent!! Our CFS, chkn strips & chips y salsa were delicious!!Thanks!!

8. Cracker Barrel

4321 S Interstate 35 I-35 & Center Point Road, San Marcos, TX 78666-9376 American Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Takeout, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Table Service +1 512-353-4122 http://www.crackerbarrel.com
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 162 reviews

Cracker Barrel

Reviewed By Louis R

General type store and restaurant located in huge outlet mall. Food is home style cooking with lots of choices and daily specials. Food is excellent and so is their service. Great value for your money and has general store selling everything including rocking chairs,souvenirs, and clothing.

7. 54th Street Restaurant & Drafthouse

1303 S Interstate 35, San Marcos, TX 78666 American, Bar Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Takeout, Reservations, Seating, Parking Available, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Table Service +1 512-396-5400 https://www.54thstreetgrill.com/san-marcos-tx.html
Food
Service
Value
Overall Ratings

4 based on 116 reviews

54th Street Restaurant & Drafthouse

54th Street was founded in Kansas City, MO by Thomas E. Norsworthy in 1989. He envisioned a place that would accommodate a consistently crowded dining room as well as a lively bar crowd, while offering the quality food and drinks that exceed national chai

Reviewed By Shelly R

We came to this place specifically for my gluten-free need because of my Celiac. This did not disappoint! We drove for 4 hours from Ft. Worth area and got checked into hotel and then the location was not far. A bit of a triangle to get there but not a big deal. There was a long line and they took my phone number to text when a table was ready. I was told 20 min but I think it was closer to 10 min. They seemed to be really efficient. We just at there Friday, July 12 and had a juicy beef cheeseburger with a fluffy gf bun. Also had seasoned fries that were addicting and cooked in a dedicated fryer. Even if I didn't have to eat gluten free, this was an awesome burger, great service, and was able to watch our Texas Rangers. It is similar to a Roadhouse or Bar and Grill atmosphere. The atmosphere, very cool and unique things hanging from the celing and on the walls. Really fun atmosphere for all ages.

6. Cody's Restaurant Bar & Patio

690 Center Point Rd Suite 209, San Marcos, TX 78666-6161 American Lunch, Dinner, Drinks Takeout, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Free Off-Street Parking, Television, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Discover, Reservations, Table Service [email protected] +1 512-393-2867 http://www.codyssmtx.com
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 162 reviews

Cody's Restaurant Bar & Patio

Since 2012, Cody’s has been providing an exceptional dining experience in the Hill Country, with seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. We take pride in providing first-class service to our guests. Cody’s is where friends, new and old, can ga

Reviewed By flksfhtx

Good food in an unexpected place. This was a nice change of pace from the typical eateries located at the Outlet center. Atmosphere was nice with a live band that played soothing music. All the food we ordered was fresh, tasty and filling. Recommend the duck poutine for an appetizer.

5. Saltgrass Steak House

1141 I35, San Marcos, TX 78666 American, Steakhouse Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Table Service, Television +1 512-396-5255 http://www.saltgrass.com
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 244 reviews

Saltgrass Steak House

Saltgrass Steak House is an award-winning steakhouse in San Marcos, TX famous for serving Certified Angus Beef® steaks. Each steak is cooked to perfection with Saltgrass-7 Steak Spice, and topped with garlic butter. All breads, dressings, soups and desser

Reviewed By albebuc

Saltgrass Steak House at,the Dam for Aquarena Springs is a very nice place to watch the San Marcos River. The views from the patio are serene and beautiful. Eclectic Menu. We had the Shrimp Cocktail, Grilled Salmon Platter, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, and Filet Mignon. Everything was flavorful and well-prepared. Tasty fresh baked bread. Friendly and efficient servers. Moderate prices. Plenty of Parking.

4. Kent Black's BBQ

510 Hull St, San Marcos, TX 78666 American, Barbecue Lunch, Dinner Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Live Music [email protected] +1 512-878-0795 https://www.blacksbbq.com/sanmarcos.html
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 196 reviews

Kent Black's BBQ

Slow-smoked meats & Southern desserts in a rustic setting with a full bar, patio & live music.

Reviewed By Marc C

Met friends there on a friggin Hot A—Saturday as they wanted a ‘pet friendly’ place to bring their dogs. Inside seating fills up fast and even the big fans they put outside do not help – It’s HOT-HOT-HOT on their outdoor seating area – BBQ – WAS fantastic – It’s great seeing your ‘cutters’ making your meal and the beef ribs are HUGE. Had brisket and baby-back ribs and all was great. Would highly recommend this place as clean and friendly and great service both inside and out. The sides they offer are OK as everyone has their opinion on beans, potato salad , green beans and such.I’d go back and if you want to eat in a cool area during the summer; get there EARLY.

3. Palmer's Restaurant Bar

218 Moore St, San Marcos, TX 78666-4416 American, Bar, Soups Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Breakfast, Late Night, Drinks Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Table Service, Live Music +1 512-353-3500 http://www.palmerstexas.com/
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 470 reviews

Palmer's Restaurant Bar

Reviewed By Tom078

One of the biggest bargains around is the Wine Dinner at Palmer's. For $40, they serve a four-course meal with a glass of wine with each course. There's usually a choice of entrees and dessert. Often, there's a theme. Two months ago, the cuisine was Cajun. Last month, the food revolved around hatch chiles. The dinners are the first Tuesday of each month. The service is always good. Our most recent server, Juvelyn, was friendly, efficient and professional. The chef visits each table. Overall, it's a great experience.We also take advantage of the weekday Happy Hour. You can't beat $3 margaritas and the appetizer menu is reasonably priced and imaginative. The charcuterie board is enough for two people. The bar area can get a little loud, but it's a tasty, fun experience.

2. The Root Cellar Cafe & Brewery

215 N Lbj Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666-5621 American, International Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Takeout [email protected] +1 512-392-5158 http://rootcellarcafe.com/
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 432 reviews

The Root Cellar Cafe & Brewery

American meals available morning to night, plus home-brewed beers, in a homey space with local art.

Reviewed By djz032070

When we walked in we were greeted with a smile, and a girl who had whip cream all over her...hair and all (musta been her last day working there). Our server, Keven, was friendly and very laid-back. We tried beer, spin/art dip, bourbon pecan chicken and chicken and waffles. All were good and a good amount. Inside is cozy, like a cellar. Outside area has lots to walk around and see. Inside is a little tight and it can get noisy quickly.

10 Things to Do in San Marcos That You Shouldn't Miss

1. Hays County BBQ

1612 S Interstate 35, San Marcos, TX 78666-6009 American, Barbecue Lunch, Dinner Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Accepts Credit Cards, Live Music, Playgrounds [email protected] +1 512-392-6000 http://www.hayscobbq.com
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 420 reviews

Hays County BBQ

Reviewed By sandyi806

We use Hays County for dinner, parties, etc. It is the best and always receives great comments from all who eat it. You can't go wrong here. It was remodeled recently with loads of seating.

Where to Eat in San Marcos: The Best Restaurants and Bars

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