Midland Foodie Road Trip – Top Steakhouses & Local Eats

Hungry for a Texas road trip with a serious flavor kick? A foodie road trip to Midland, Texas is the perfect way to savor the heart of West Texas—one bite at a time. Known for its oil boom roots and frontier pride, Midland serves up hearty steaks, smoky BBQ, and down-home meals that satisfy your hunger and your curiosity.

This road trip isn’t just about filling your belly—it’s about tasting a culture rooted in big portions, bold flavors, and local hospitality. Let’s dig into the best places to eat in Midland, from sizzling ribeyes to hidden Tex-Mex treasures.

Why Midland Belongs on Your Foodie Map

Midland’s food scene is a delicious mix of cowboy classics, Latin fusion, and innovative comfort food. Here, you can enjoy fine dining one night and a brisket sandwich from a trailer the next. The city’s locally owned restaurants bring big personality to every plate, and many have become staples in West Texas dining.

With short driving distances and diverse options, Midland is the ideal destination for a relaxed yet flavor-packed food adventure.

7 Must-Visit Foodie Stops in Midland

1. Wall Street Bar & Grill

A local institution in downtown Midland, Wall Street Bar & Grill has been serving hand-cut steaks and traditional American fare since the oil boom of the 1980s. The interior blends vintage charm with upscale comfort, making it a go-to for both date nights and casual lunches.

Address: 115 E Wall St, Midland, TX
Hours: Mon–Sat: 11am–10pm
Approx Cost: $15–$35
Famous For: Steaks, seafood, and baked potatoes served Texas-style
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order the blackened prime rib or steak salad—they’re customer favorites with generous portions.

2. KD’s Bar-B-Q

Located on the outskirts of town, this rustic smokehouse is the kind of place where you eat off a paper-lined tray and savor every juicy bite. KD’s offers slow-smoked brisket, ribs, sausage, and classic sides in a true West Texas setting.

Address: 3109 Garden City Hwy, Midland, TX
Hours: Mon–Sat: 11am–8pm
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Pit-smoked brisket and old-school Texas BBQ
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early—once they sell out, that’s it for the day. Pair your meat plate with their buttery cornbread.

3. Venezia Restaurant

An upscale Italian gem, Venezia is a romantic dining spot perfect for foodies seeking a break from barbecue. Their pastas, house-baked bread, and elegant entrees pair beautifully with an extensive wine list.

Address: 2101 W Wadley Ave #20, Midland, TX
Hours: Mon–Sat: 5–10pm
Approx Cost: $20–$40
Famous For: Creamy lobster ravioli and candlelit ambiance
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a reservation on weekends and ask for the wine-pairing recommendations—they’re spot on.

4. Curb Side Bistro

Bold, creative, and full of flavor—Curb Side Bistro started as a food truck and grew into one of Midland’s most talked-about restaurants. Expect gourmet burgers, loaded fries, and flavor bombs like duck fat aioli and spicy sauces.

Address: 3816 W Illinois Ave, Midland, TX
Hours: Mon–Sat: 11am–9pm
Approx Cost: $10–$18
Famous For: Inventive burgers and stacked fries
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try “The Notorious P.I.G.” burger and a side of Duck Fat Street Fries—you’ll be hooked.

5. JumBurrito

A true Midland original, JumBurrito has been feeding locals since 1979. With multiple locations, it’s known for breakfast burritos, green chile plates, and Tex-Mex comfort food done right.

Address: 1119 Andrews Hwy, Midland, TX (multiple locations)
Hours: Mon–Sat: 6am–9pm
Approx Cost: $6–$12
Famous For: Burritos stuffed with chorizo, potatoes, and signature sauces
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order your burrito “wet” with green chile sauce—it’s a messy, magical must-have.

6. Basin Burger House

This modern burger joint offers a sleek yet casual setting with handcrafted burgers, truffle fries, and a rotating selection of Texas craft beers. It’s a great stop for foodies who want comfort food with a twist.

Address: 607 N Colorado St, Midland, TX
Hours: Daily: 11am–10pm
Approx Cost: $12–$18
Famous For: Creative burgers and beer pairings
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask about their secret menu—staff sometimes offer off-menu specials.

7. Fountainville Creamery & Soda Fountain

Finish your foodie road trip with something sweet. Fountainville serves up ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, and nostalgic soda floats in a retro-inspired space that feels like stepping back in time.

Address: 400 N Marienfeld St, Midland, TX
Hours: Tue–Sat: 11am–8pm
Approx Cost: $5–$10
Famous For: Root beer floats and creamy sundaes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Split a float or sundae if you’re full—it’s worth saving room for!

Packing Tips for a Foodie Road Trip to Midland

  • Reusable utensils and straws for food truck visits

  • Cooler with ice packs for leftovers or takeout treats

  • Notebook or phone app to track your favorite bites

  • Water bottle to stay hydrated between rich meals

  • Napkins or wet wipes (especially after BBQ!)

  • Mints or gum for post-garlic indulgences

  • Stretchy clothes—comfort is key on a foodie trip

  • Reusable bags for local snacks or market items

  • Printed list of must-visit eateries

  • Appetite and curiosity—Midland food is full of surprises

Local Tips and Seasonal Advice

  • Lunch specials at steakhouses can offer big flavor at a better price

  • Spring and fall are ideal for patio dining

  • Some popular BBQ and burger spots close early when they sell out

  • Weekday lunch hours are busy—plan around oilfield worker rushes

  • Call ahead for dine-in seating at high-demand restaurants on weekends

  • Use local food guides or apps for last-minute hidden gems

  • Ask locals for off-menu or staff favorites—you’ll often find a unique flavor twist

  • Pair your trip with a festival weekend—many include local food vendors

Conclusion: Taste the Heart of West Texas

From slow-smoked brisket to indulgent sundaes, a foodie road trip to Midland serves up more than meals—it delivers stories, community, and a taste of authentic West Texas hospitality. Each stop adds a layer to your culinary adventure, whether you’re tearing into ribs, twirling pasta under twinkling lights, or grabbing a greasy breakfast burrito on the go.

If you love your road trips served with seasoning and a side of local charm, Midland’s got a table ready for you.

FAQs About Foodie Road Trips to Midland

What food is Midland known for?

Midland is known for its hearty steakhouses, authentic Texas BBQ, and fusion-style Tex-Mex. Local favorites like JumBurrito and KD’s Bar-B-Q are must-stops for visitors craving bold, comforting flavors.

Yes! Many places like Basin Burger House and Curb Side Bistro offer plant-based burgers, salads, and meatless sides. While BBQ joints may be limited, more modern eateries accommodate various diets.

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and seasonal menus. Summer is great for ice cream stops and patios, while winter features hearty comfort food options and fewer restaurant crowds.

You can certainly sample a lot in one day, but a weekend lets you enjoy multiple meals and explore the city’s full food scene—from breakfast burritos to elegant dinners and late-night sweets.

No. Most restaurants are mid-range and offer good value for the quality and portion sizes. Steakhouses may be pricier for dinner, but lunch specials and casual eateries keep costs reasonable.

It depends. Popular spots like Venezia or Wall Street Bar & Grill get busy on weekends, so reservations are a good idea. BBQ joints and diners usually run first-come, first-served.

Yes! Midland hosts food trucks, chili cook-offs, and local markets throughout the year. Events like the Tall City Blues Fest and West Texas BBQ Bash often feature great eats alongside entertainment.

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