Amarillo, Texas may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of culinary hotspots, but it’s a hidden gem that is rapidly gaining popularity and many of the restaurants in Amarillo are evolving to meet the need. New restaurants, farm-to-table fare, and creative chefs have all emerged in Amarillo during the past few years, completely changing the city’s culinary landscape. Whether you are in the mood for fine dining, casual bites, or something in between, Amarillo has a restaurant to suit your taste buds. It’s hard to choose just one best restaurant in Amarillo, so we gave you a short list of the ones that we really like.

From traditional Tex-Mex to Spanish tapas, Cajun food to classic American fare, and everything in between, Amarillo’s diverse culinary landscape is a food lover’s dream come true. And it’s not just the food that makes these restaurants special – many boast unique atmospheres, creative cocktail menus, and live music performances that add to the overall dining experience. So, whether you’re a local looking to explore your hometown’s dining scene or a traveler passing through town, this list of the best restaurants in Amarillo is sure to whet your appetite and leave you wanting more.

A Guide to the Best Restaurants in Amarillo for 2023

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we’ve got you covered. Without further ado, here are the top 10 restaurants in Amarillo you don’t want to miss:

 
OHMS Café: OHMS Café is located in the heart of Amarillo and has long been a fixture on the Amarillo dining scene. It’s well-known for its romantic atmosphere and great dinner vibe, as well as a menu that’s ideal for date night or special occasions. The cocktails are also fantastic, and the bartenders are skilled at creating one-of-a-kind and delectable concoctions. The ambiance is upscale yet casual, making it suitable for any occasion. With a focus on fresh ingredients and creative flavors, the food is consistently delicious and beautifully presented. Whether you want a hearty steak or a light salad, OHMS Cafe is a great option.

OHMS Café & Bar
619 S. Tyler Street
Amarillo, TX 79101
Website: www.ohmscafe.com

 
The Drunken Oyster: The Drunken Oyster is one of the best restaurants in Amarillo, serving up a variety of Cajun and seafood dishes that are cooked to perfection. They are well-known for their oyster bar, which serves some of the freshest oysters in town, and you will be hard pressed to find an Amarillo steak house that serves better hand-cut steaks and burgers. Their seafood is flown in daily, ensuring that it’s always fresh and of the highest quality. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with a speakeasy-style absinthe and cocktail bar that’s perfect for a nightcap. They also are one of the few Amarillo restaurants open late and they offer the kind of live music Amarillo loves, making it one of the best bars in Amarillo for a night out with friends.

The Drunken Oyster
7606 SW 45th Avenue
Suite 100
Amarillo, TX 79119
Website: www.drunkenoysteramarillo.com

 
Cask & Cork: Cask & Cork is a great spot for drinks and a meal with friends or family. The patio is beautiful and spacious, perfect for enjoying the outdoors on a nice day. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to help you find the perfect drink or dish to suit your tastes. The food is consistently delicious, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They also offer a great selection of wine and craft beer, which can all be enjoyed at their rooftop patio, making it a great spot for a night out. 

Cask & Cork
5461 McKenna Square
Suite 101
Amarillo, TX 79119
Website: www.caskncorkamarillo.com

 
Savór: Savór is a high-end Spanish tapas bar in Amarillo that serves small plates of food meant to be shared over drinks and conversation. The menu is inspired by traditional Spanish cuisine, with a modern twist. The atmosphere is intimate and romantic, making it perfect for a date night or special occasion. The wine and cocktail selection is excellent, with a focus on great wines and sangrias, craft beer and classic cocktails. The food is beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Besides their fantastic tapas they are known for some of the best steaks and best burgers in Amarillo.

Savór
7669 Hillside Road
Suite 600
Amarillo, TX 79119
Website: www.savortapasbar.com

 
Braceros:  & Cantina is a fun place to grab some great casual Mexican food and people watch on Route 66. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with a menu that’s full of traditional Mexican favorites, as well as some unique twists. The service is always friendly and efficient, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner. The food is consistently delicious, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. There are a couple locations of Braceros; our favorite is the one on 6th Avenue!

Braceros Mexican Grill & Cantina
2822 SW 6th Avenue
Amarillo, TX 79106
Website: https://www.visitamarillo.com/listing/braceros-mexican-bar-%26-grill/1830/

 
Lazy Gator: The  is a laid-back bar and restaurant that serves old-school Cajun cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with an emphasis on good food and good times. The management is fantastic, and they are always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that you have a positive experience. With a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, the food is consistently delicious and inventive. It’s ideal for a fun night out with friends. And it’s one of the few places in Amarillo where you can eat spicy gumbo, fried gator, and pillowy Beignets with Brandy Cream Sauce! yum!

Lazy Gator
6103 Hillside Road
Amarillo, TX 79119
Website: www.facebook.com/LazyGatorAmarillo

 
Pescaraz: Pescaraz Italian Restaurant is an excellent choice for delicious Italian cuisine in Amarillo. Classic Italian dishes such as pasta, pizza, and stromboli, as well as salads and sandwiches, are available on the menu. Pescaraz may not be as authentic as some of the old-school Italian joints on Arthur Avenue in The Bronx, but it’s about as good as it gets in Amarillo, and the food is excellent. The flavors are bold and satisfying, and the portions are generous. Pescaraz’s atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with warm lighting and comfortable seating. The wine list at the restaurant is also well-curated, with options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends, Pescaraz is a great choice.

Pescaraz Italian Restaurant
3415 S. Bell Street
Amarillo, TX 79109
Website: www.pescaraz.com

 
Yellow City Street Food: Yellow City Street Food is a funky, cool, and eclectic dining experience. Tacos, burgers, wok dishes, vegan fare, and brunch are among the New American-style dishes served at this chef-owned and operated restaurant. The menu is updated on a regular basis to include the most recent and innovative ingredients, but the quality remains consistent. Yellow City Street Food’s atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with a welcoming vibe that makes you feel like part of the family. Yellow City Street Food is the ideal spot for a quick bite or a full meal.

Yellow City Street Food
2916 Wolflin Avenue
Amarillo, Texas 79109
Website: www.yellowcitystreetfood.com

 
Metropolitan: Metropolitan is a swanky and fun restaurant ideal for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner with your special someone. The menu offers a variety of classic and contemporary dishes, with something to suit every taste and appetite. The food is always fresh and expertly prepared, and the service is excellent. Metropolitan has a sleek and stylish atmosphere, with chic lighting and comfortable seating. The bar is also a great place to get a drink and listen to live music. Metropolitan is the place to go in Amarillo for a sophisticated dining experience.

Metropolitan

9181 Townsquare Boulevard
Suite 1201
Amarillo, TX 79119
Website: www.metroofamarillo.com

 
Crush: Crush Wine Bar is the place to go if you want to dine in a cool atmosphere. The space is trendy and chic, with a stylish bar and a dining area ideal for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. Crush’s menu is a fun mix of contemporary dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and approachable dishes. The food is delicious, and the service is attentive and welcoming. The drink menu includes excellent wines and craft beers, and the upstairs patio offers a spectacular view of the city. Crush is an excellent choice for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner with your significant other.

Crush Wine Bar
627 South Polk Street
Amarillo, TX, 79101
Website: www.crushamarillo.com

Any one of these restaurants in Amarillo are sure to put a smile on your face. Give them a call, stop on by, or make your reservations today!

Support Our Local Restaurants in Amarillo 

Supporting local restaurants in Amarillo is crucial for many reasons. First off, these establishments are the lifeblood of our community, providing jobs and income for countless people. By supporting them, we are investing in our city and helping to keep it thriving.

Second, unlike chain restaurants, local restaurants frequently provide unique and diverse dining experiences. They highlight the creativity and talent of local chefs, as well as the flavors of our community. By supporting these businesses, we are helping to grow and preserve Amarillo’s food culture.

And last, supporting local restaurants means supporting our neighbors, friends, and family members who own and work in these establishments. These individuals pour their heart and soul into their businesses, and by choosing to dine at their restaurant, we are helping to ensure their success and stability. We have the power to make a positive impact on our community and support our local economy by simply choosing to dine at a local restaurant instead of a chain.

Visit the Top Restaurants in Amarillo Today!

So there you have it, folks – our top 10 picks for the best restaurants in Amarillo for 2023! From the romantic ambiance of OHMS Cafe to the creative street food at Yellow City Street Food, these restaurants offer a wide range of dining experiences that are sure to satisfy any craving. Amarillo has it all, whether you’re looking for high-end tapas or a casual burger joint. So gather your friends, family, or that special someone and head out to explore the culinary scene in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. Cheers to great food, great drinks, and great times!

Thank for reading!