I asked a question in LBK Foodies that received a ton of responses:

If you could only eat at one Lubbock (or nearby) restaurant for the rest of your life, which one would you choose?

A Ponderous Question

It seems like a simple question, but it really isn’t. There’s so much to consider. Do you need a lot of variety? Do you want something affordable so you can go often, or something fancy? Do they offer all three meals, or are you cool with never having breakfast/ dinner out to eat again? Comfort food or something new and exciting? See, it’s complicated!

The Results

Local won over chains, with the most mentions going to the following restaurants:

Orlando’sCaprock CafeCast Iron GrillPonto Gaucho Brazilian SteakhouseJazz (A Louisiana Kitchen)Triple J ChophouseItalian GardenTaco VillaLa SirenaBryan’s SteakhouseNeighborhood F&BAspen Creek GrillJimenez y Friends

Notice that Aspen Creek is the only national chain, and Taco Villa is the only regional one. We LOVE local here in Lubbock. Let’s look a little deeper at a few of these, because they reveal a lot about how we think in Lubbock.

Read More: Lubbock Culinary Coop: A Hub For Home Cooks And Chefs

Orlando’s & Caprock Cafe

Owned by the same family, these are a knockout duo. Orlando’s is literally the oldest still operating restaurant in Lubbock, so it says a lot about how we value tradition. Orlando’s also has unique dishes you simply cannot get anywhere else. Caprock is consistently great, elevated “bar” food with a great vibe.

Cast Iron Grill & Jimenez Y Friends

Folks were willing to sacrifice dinner hours for these two. That says a lot for the quality of these two places, which are consistently lauded as fantastic places to grab breakfast and/ or lunch. These two are family-owned and operated, and you can taste the love in every bite.

Italian Garden & La Sirena

The folks who picked these were probably also factoring in ambiance and location. IG is located in the historic Green Building downtown, and La Sirena is nestled inside Cactus Alley. Italian Garden has the best free bread in town so that probably gave them bonus points too. I would like to personally add Escondito Grill as a great “only” option for their exquisite patio, paired with excellent food.

Read More: Top AYCE Sushi Spots In Lubbock For Every Taste

Ponto Gaucho, Triple J, Bryan’s

Mmm…. meat! Ponto Gaucho is certainly a must-try elevated experience. Triple J is one of my very favorites for the delicious steaks and cocktails, and Bryan’s is a hometown tradition.

Jazz

Consistently great Cajun food for decades here in Lubbock, paired with a fun bar vibe. Jazz is special. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Taco Villa, A Category Unto Itself

Precious, perfect Taco Villa, the only fast food place to enter in the top rankings for obvious reasons- it’s fresh, its consistant, its delcious, and if you ever leave Lubbock, you miss it immediately.

Lubbock’s Best Appetizers: Must-Try Starters at Local Restaurants

Discover some of the best appetizers in Lubbock, from shareable starters and classic favorites to unique dishes locals love to order. This photo gallery highlights must-try appetizers from popular Lubbock restaurants, perfect for your next night out or casual meal.

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven

 

 

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