If you’ve lived in Texas for any significant amount of time, you know how we feel about chicken fried steak. One of our state’s most iconic dishes, we’re so picky about its flavor that restaurants have been forced to get their preparation down to a science for patrons to continue showing up. This trail takes you to the very best chicken-fried steak in Texas, leaving the final verdict as to which one gets the top spot in your hands. As always, here is the Google Map with exact directions and addresses to these places to eat in Texas.

1. Mary's Cafe (Strawn)
GoogleMaps
119 Grant Ave, Strawn, TX 76475, USA
TripAdvisor/Klmeeks
Beginning anywhere other than Mary's Cafe would be a cardinal sin. Voted the best CFS in Texas by nearly all who visit, this is the one to beat. It's so big, the gravy comes in a bowl on the side so it doesn't spill off the sides!
2. Jake and Dorothy's Cafe (Stephenville)
TripAdvisor/Travis D
406 E Washington St, Stephenville, TX 76401, USA
Google/Jen
This gem snagged the #2 spot in Texas Country Reporter's ranking, so trying it immediately after Mary's allows for a direct comparison. Plating the gravy first might seem a bit odd, but it's actually a genius move because the steak stays crispy on top. And if nothing else, this pile of carby goodness will speak to your soul.
3. Ranchman's Cafe (Ponder)
Google/Kevin Brown
110 W Bailey St, Ponder, TX 76259, USA
Google/Mitzie Smith
Ranchman's is one of the most highly revered country cafes in the state among those who know what good eatin' is. Everything on the menu is scrumptious, but you've never tasted chicken this tender or flavorful before. Plus, a side of fries automatically makes any meal better.
4. Babe's Chicken Dinner House (Roanoke)
Google/ZAGAT
104 N Oak St, Roanoke, TX 76262, USA
Google/Matt Franklin
Babe's Chicken Dinner House has multiple locations across North Texas, but nothing compares to the original. Known primarily for fried chicken, many would be surprised to hear that this long-standing eatery serves up a mean CFS as well.
5. Norma's Cafe (Dallas)
Google/Norma's Cafe

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1123 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208.
Google/Norma's Cafe
This old-fashioned diner encompasses everything we love about Texas. Waitstaff oozing with Southern hospitality, an atmosphere that takes you back to the bygone era of sock-hops & jukeboxes, and down-home cookin' just like granny used to make. There's no doubt the food is independently amazing, but it's the entire experience that makes Norma's such a treasure.
6. Sodolak's Original Country Inn (Snook)
Google/Zomato
Farm to Market 60, FM 60, Snook, TX, USA
TripAdvisor/albebuc
Sodolack's isn't a legend because of its CFS - that honor goes to the chicken-fried bacon (Yes, that's a thing. Gotta love Texas!) But that isn't to say their chicken-fried steak is anything short of amazing! Put a little piece on some toast, dip it in mashed 'taters, and pop it into your mouth for the perfect bite.
7. Mel's Country Cafe (Tomball)
Google/Nuri Plans
24814 Stanolind Rd, Tomball, TX 77375, USA
Google/Quentin Venter
Mel's serves up good old-fashioned home-cooked meals designed for Texas-sized appetites, so rest assured you won't be leaving the table hungry. Case in point: TWO pieces of CFS for the price of one. It's pretty hard to top a deal like that in our eyes.
8. The Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar (Gruene)
TripAdvisor/DrMarc9491
1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA
Google/Isaiah Delarosa
Gruene isn't exactly the heart of cowboy country, so we were definitely taken aback at how many of y'all suggested this place. But taste buds don't lie, and ours were in heaven after chowing down on this plate at The Gristmill.
9. Blue Bonnet Cafe (Marble Falls)
Google/peetre
Blue Bonnet Cafe, 211 US-281, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
Google/Peter D'Errico
Last but not least is everyone's favorite cafe in the sleepy town of Marble Falls. From 25-year veteran waiters to a huge case of pies made fresh daily, there isn't a thing not to love about Blue Bonnet Cafe The CFS almost melts in your mouth, and it comes with several classic Southern sides.

Who do you think makes the best chicken-fried steak in Texas? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you know another amazing restaurant in the Lone Star State, nominate it for a chance to be featured.

If you are itching to go on this chicken-fried road trip, make sure to check out our amazing road trip packing list that will help you make sure you don’t forget anything you need!

Hungry for more comfort food in Texas? Visit this tasty country restaurant!

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best chicken-fried steaks in Texas

Elisa Regulski | June 11, 2020

Who makes the best comfort food in Texas?

You can find the best comfort food in Texas at:

  • Main Street Diner, located in Midland. This charming and welcoming eatery boasts a wide selection of Southern dishes. Try everything from crispy fried catfish to hearty burgers. Each and every dish will fill you with happiness.
  • Muddbones, located in Bonham, is another incredible place to get a meal that’s stick-to-your-ribs delicious. Their creative burgers are not to be missed.

What kind of food is Texas known for?

  • BBQ
  • Kolaches
  • Tex Mex

When most people think about classic meals in Texas, their mind immediately goes to barbecue. While there’s no denying our tender brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs, Texas has so much more than that. We also have a significant Czech influence. Stop by the town of West and try some of the best kolaches in the state. Whether you like these treats sweet or savory, you’ll be impressed by their rich flavor. Texas is also known for its incredible Tex-Mex restaurants. While not totally authentic, this style of Mexican cuisine is absolutely delicious. Go ahead and smother your burrito with creamy queso. With a refreshing margarita in hand, you’ll be in heaven.

What are the best country restaurants in Texas?

  • The Shed Cafe, located in Edom, is one of the best country restaurants in Texas. You’ll love their homemade pies and southern hospitality. If you’re looking to indulge in some magnificent comfort food, this is the place to go.

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