Ask any Lubbock person for a restaurant they miss, and you’ll likely get a passionate remembrance of a place that was incredibly special to them- full of not only flavor but memories of family, friends, maybe even first dates.

Interestingly, it tends to be the same few bygone restaurants that Lubbockites wax poetic for, and mostly of a “down home” variety. Here’s a look at some of those favorites, and some alternatives that may satisfy that craving- or scratch the nostalgic itch.

Feeling The Loss Of Furr’s

Boy, do Lubbock folks miss Furr’s. Unfortunately, there are no more Furr’s anywhere, so there isn’t one on a road trip away. However, gorgeous Escondito Grill (701 Regis St) has popular Furr’s nights with dupe menu items available. Follow Escondito Grill on social media for dates, and be sure to RSVP quickly as these tend to fill up quickly.

Need Furr’s style comfort immediately? Try Doc’s Cafeteria (4919 34th St) for delicious down-home food in absolutely enormous portions.

Here’s a vintage commercial to take you back (and hurt your feelings when  you see how CHEAP it was):

Home Plate Diner Whiners

Home Plate Diner! Home Plates Diner! It is now a hair academy in Lubbock. Many Lubbockites miss their chicken fry and post-baseball practice family-friendly vibe. You can still visit Homeplate Diner if you’re willing to make a day trip out of it, as there’s a location still alive in Amarillo.

For a similar vibrant vibe without the drive, try Buns Over Texas (3402 73rd St).

Raise The Flag For Panchos

Panchos in Lubbock was a little before my time, but I have had the joy of experiencing the Arlington location. Honestly, I’d love to see Pancho’s return. I can’t see how a Mexican buffet with a fun atmosphere could fail here. For delicious Tex-Mex in a very family-friendly environment, try 50th Street Caboose (or make the drive to Arlington).

Stay tuned for Part 2- and maybe even a few others, as we explore the bygone restaurants we still love to this day in the LBK.

Where to Find Lubbock’s Coziest & Most Comforting Cold-Weather Eats

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven

Â