Distinctive local-owned restaurants in historic downtown Temple foodies need to know!
I made it down to Temple a couple of weeks ago for a bit of relaxation and to check out the food scene downtown, and lucky me, I also found a quaint winery in the country to visit! Central Texas cuisine just went up a notch with these eclectic restaurants in historic downtown Temple. I’m almost positive you’ll find a favorite from fine dining to international cuisine and food trucks by the tracks.
Related: Explore Cleburne Texas(Opens in a new browser tab)
Historic Downtown Temple, Texas
Walkable downtown with local character, fun shopping, antiques, museums, and unique restaurants is what you’ll find here. Just 30 minutes from Waco and 1 hour from Austin, a pleasant drive from DFW, await you and your family. The area is growing with authentic restaurants and shopping, and there’s a Buc-ee’s in town. Two reasons to make Temple your next stop! And don’t forget to check out the murals for fun selfies and wineries outside of town if that’s your thing.
And, If you’re lucky to be in the area on the first Friday of every month, Temple’s historic downtown turns into a humongous party featuring street music and performances, drinks, food, and late openings for shopping! Check out Downtown Temple.
Restaurants In Historic Downtown Temple, Texas
When I visit a new destination, I always head to the downtown area to check out the food scene. The food scene in Temple is growing with authentic locally-owned eateries with character.
La Dalat
I make a point when traveling to ask locals what restaurants they would recommend I check out. Though I couldn’t go here because it’s closed on Sunday, La Dalat was recommended to me for excellent Vietnamese cuisine. It offers a wonderful mix of sandwiches, noodle bowls, and delightful appetizers for starters.
Pignetti’s
Whether you like to dine indoors or out on the front patio, you’ll enjoy a fine Italian dinner, an impeccable wine selection, and your choice of delicious desserts! If you’re celebrating something special, Pignetti’s can create the perfect environment for you. Afterward, pop on over across the street to The Hub for great shopping.
Thai Cafe
One of the newest restaurants in downtown Temple is Thai Cafe. A splendid offering of Thai and seafood dishes for dine-in, take-out, or delivery. I’ve been known in the past to order a double helping of Thai egg roll appetizers. I love the veggies, and the chili sauce is killer!
Bird Creek Burger Co.
For gourmet-style burgers of either lamb, bison, chicken, black bean, or beef, head to Bird Creek Burger Co. The Classic beef burger is what I ordered, and it was so big and juicy that I needed an extra napkin. Other menu items have unique names and combinations, such as the Burger Con Queso, Frito Pie Burger, Juicy Lucille, and more. Not sure what the owner was thinking here, but it works. Locals tell me their burgers are the best in town, so I had to try.
Treno Pizzeria & Taproom
The same owner of Bird Creek Burgers owns this place. Treno Pizzeria & Taproom serves brick oven artisan pies, beer, and wine, and the best ranch dressing says a local. If you like thin crust pizza, this place is a must-try. It was a toss-up between a burger or pizza, but I chose the burger.
MexiKo Cafe
A local hotspot worth checking out. If you like Mexican and Korean food, then you’ll love the mix here. Choose indoor seating or outdoor with a view; either way, MexiKo Cafe is a delight for foodies to try. Next door to Treno’s.
Cheeves Brothers Steak House
Make reservations at Cheeves Brothers Steak House for fine dining and opt for their mouthwatering prime steak and lobster. Plus, enjoy the cozy lounge area and fine wine from the cellar. Next time I’m in Temple, I will go here for that lobster!
Ras Kitchen
Visit Ras Kitchen Tuesday through Saturday for fresh, authentic Jamaican food featuring prawns and wings, brown stew, and spicy curry. Another recommendation from a local.
The Yard Food Truck Plaza
Food trucks are everywhere these days, including downtown Temple. The Yard Temple, located at 1st and Santa Fe Market Trail, has spots for eight food trucks at any given time. Tables with benches are there, as is a playground for kids. Or you can opt to get yours to go and keep walking.
Check it all out at downtowntemple.com.
A shout out to Moose & Goose Winery and their fabulous fruit wines and their new baby goats!
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