Plano is often overlooked in the North Texas dining scene. But it has a lot to offer, with a mix of local charm and diverse food. You can find everything from classic American dishes to international flavors. With over 1,000 restaurants, this guide will help you find the best casual restaurants in Plano.
Whether you live here or are just visiting, you’re in for a treat. Plano’s restaurants are spread across the city, from lively downtown areas to quiet suburbs. Each place has its own unique atmosphere and menu, making sure there’s something for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Bavette Grill, opened in 2020, is a notable addition to Plano’s Granite Park.
- Brasao Brazilian Steakhouse has been serving delights at The Shops at Legacy since 2021.
- Bulla Gastrobar at Legacy West offers a popular happy hour daily from 4 pm to 7 pm.
- CraftWay Kitchen has been a favorite at LakeSide Market since 2019.
- Densetsu is known for its ahi towers and premium sushi offerings in Plano.
- EBESU, a downtown Plano sushi hotspot, has been welcoming diners since 2019.
- Lockhart Smokehouse offers enticing happy hour specials from Monday through Friday.
Must-Try Eateries in Plano
Plano’s dining scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. This section highlights some top spots that make Plano a food lover’s paradise.
Cotton Patch Cafe
Cotton Patch Cafe is a top choice for casual comfort food in the Plano, TX area, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu packed with Southern-inspired classics. Whether you’re craving crispy chicken-fried steak, savory pot roast, or freshly baked rolls, Cotton Patch serves up hearty, made-from-scratch dishes that feel like home. Known for its friendly service and generous portions, this neighborhood favorite is perfect for family dinners, catching up with friends, or enjoying a laid-back meal after a busy day. With its dedication to quality ingredients and authentic flavors, Cotton Patch Cafe delivers a dining experience that celebrates the best of Southern hospitality and comfort cuisine. With the best value meals offered every day of the week.
Cotton Patch Cafe is a favorite in Plano, TX surrounding area. It’s known for its warm atmosphere and delicious American comfort food dishes. From crispy fried chicken to savory meatloaf, it’s a go-to for many.
EBESU in downtown Plano brings a modern Japanese twist to dining. Since 2019, it’s been celebrated for its fresh sushi and sashimi. The expertly grilled dishes are a hit with food lovers.
CraftWay Kitchen has made a splash since 2019. Located in LakeSide Market, it offers a unique American craft kitchen experience. Dishes like candied bacon and French onion soup are favorites. Plus, there’s a great selection of cocktails and local drafts.
- Brasao Brazilian Steakhouse: An all-you-can-eat steakhouse with a wide variety of meats and sides.
- Densetsu: Famous for its ahi towers and sushi rolls, attracting both lunch and dinner crowds.
- Latin Pig Cuban Restaurant: Known for authentic Cuban cuisine with bold flavors and traditional dishes.
- Lockhart Smokehouse: A top spot for Central Texas-style BBQ, with brisket, pork, and sausages.
- Whiskey Cake: Famous for its scratch kitchen and wide whiskey selection, especially the toffee cake.
- Uchiko: Combines Texas and Japanese traditions, offering dishes like bone-in short ribs and nigiri.
- Urban Crust: Offers wood-fired Italian pizza and stunning rooftop views.
- Sixty Vines: Known for its extensive wine selection on tap and sustainable dining options.
- Suburban Yacht Club: Offers casual seafood dining with popular items like Baja beer-battered fish tacos.
- Rise Souffle: Specializes in savory and sweet souffles, including their famous marshmallow soup.
- Bulla Gastrobar: Serves delicious Spanish tapas and craft cocktails, especially during happy hour.
- Haywire: Offers Texas cuisine in a unique three-floor setting, with rooftop dining in an Airstream.
- Jörg’s Cafe Vienna: Known for authentic Austrian dishes like schnitzel and bratwursts.
- Mexican Sugar: Offers a wide variety of margaritas, tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, and brunch options.
Top-Rated Dining Spots in Plano
Plano has about 1,000 restaurants, making it a lively and varied place to eat. Several top spots offer unique dining experiences that are a must-try.
- Bavette Grill: Known for its cozy bistro feel, Bavette Grill serves dishes made from fresh ingredients. Their menu includes a 50-day wet-aged short rib steak, perfect for steak fans.
- Brasao Brazilian Steakhouse: This steakhouse brings Brazil to Plano with its rodizio-style dining. Guests can enjoy a wide range of premium meats for a fixed price, offering a true meat lover’s experience.
- Uchiko: A branch of the famous Uchi, Uchiko offers creative Japanese dishes. It features omakase, nigiri, and grilled entrees, ideal for sushi and Japanese food lovers.
Samui Thai at 5700 Legacy Dr A1, Plano, is another highlight. It’s famous for its monsoon rolls, Tom Yum soup, Green Curry, and Pad ke Mow, offering a delightful Thai meal.
The Yellow Chilli, located at 5700 Legacy Dr Suite A9, Plano, is Chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s Indian restaurant. It specializes in North Indian dishes, from chaats to creamy chicken butter masala, perfect for those seeking authentic Indian flavors.
Del Frisco’s Grille at 7200 Bishop Road Suite D9, Plano, offers modern American cuisine. It serves dishes like flatbreads, Ahi Tacos, salads, cheeseburgers, and steaks in a stylish setting.
Cafe Istanbul at 7300 Lone Star Dr Suite C160, Plano, serves authentic Turkish food. It has a cozy heated patio where diners can enjoy appetizer platters, Shish kebabs, and lamb chops.
For dessert, Oppa Treats and Sugar Pine Creamery are top choices. Oppa Treats has muffies with a crispy and buttery crust in flavors like ube and crème brûlée. Sugar Pine Creamery offers soft-serve ice cream with new flavors every two weeks, including dairy-free options.
Plano’s dining scene offers a wide range of options. It caters to all tastes, making it a great guide for food lovers in Plano.
Best Casual Restaurants in Plano
Plano is home to a wide range of casual restaurants. Bulla Gastrobar, Lockhart Smokehouse, and Whiskey Cake stand out. Each offers a unique dining experience.
- Bulla Gastrobar: This place focuses on Spanish tapas and social dining. It has a lively atmosphere perfect for sharing meals and drinks. The large wine menu and outdoor patio make it a top choice for casual dining in Plano.
- Lockhart Smokehouse: It’s a favorite for barbecue lovers. Here, you can enjoy authentic Texas BBQ. Happy hour specials include $3 domestic bottles and $4 imports, making it a great spot for BBQ in a relaxed setting.
- Whiskey Cake: This restaurant is known for its farm-to-table menu. It offers innovative American dishes and a wide whiskey selection. Don’t miss the signature whiskey cake dessert, a highlight among Plano’s casual restaurants.
Other notable spots include Sea Breeze Fish Market & Grill for seafood fans and Uchiko for Japanese cuisine with a Texas twist. Plano’s casual dining scene has something for everyone, from BBQ to tapas to innovative American dishes.
Conclusion
Plano’s food scene is detailed in this Plano dining review. It shows the city’s rich cultural mix. The guide to the best casual dining in Plano lists many places. Each offers special tastes and settings.
Union Bear Brewing Co serves chef-driven American pub fare. Chip’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers is known for its Tex-Mex dishes. These spots promise unforgettable meals.
The Boardwalk in Plano is a top spot for dining. It has restaurants for all kinds of meals. Places like Blue Mesa Grill and The Biscuit Bar are great for any occasion.
People love the outdoor seating and scenic views. There are also play areas for kids. This makes Plano a favorite for both locals and visitors.
This Plano dining review points to a memorable food journey. Mesero – Prestonwood is open late on weekends. This means diners have many chances to enjoy great food. And a must try is one of our convenient locations and Cotton Patch Cafe restaurants throughout Texas
By visiting these top spots, diners can enjoy Plano’s diverse food scene. This makes Plano a key food destination in Texas.
