Dine around Taylor, Texas
# A Foodie's Pilgrimage to Taylor, Texas: Smoke, Tacos, and Small-Town Soul
**By Your Culinary Guide to the Heart of Williamson County**
Let’s get one thing straight, partner. Taylor, Texas, isn’t just a dot on the map between Austin and Temple. It’s a destination. For the food-obsessed, it’s a hallowed ground where the air itself tastes of post-oak smoke and simmering chili gravy. It’s where legends were forged in brick pits and family recipes have seasoned generations. Forget the fancy, fussy, and fleeting trends. In Taylor, we eat with history, heart, and a healthy dose of “yes, ma’am.”
So, pull up a chair—or a tailgate—and let me, your local guide, walk you through the essential culinary landmarks of this glorious town. We’re going on a ten-stop tour that’s less about white tablecloths and more about paper plates, shared tables, and flavors that stick to your ribs and your memory.
### **1. El Corral Lozano: The Breakfast of Champions**
**300 W 2nd St.**
Before the sun properly crests the horizon, the true Taylorties are already lining up. El Corral Lozano isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a morning ritual housed in a modest, no-nonsense building. The vibe is pure, unadulterated diner: the hum of conversation, the clatter of plates, the rich, earthy scent of coffee and *carne guisada* mingling in the air.
**The Experience:** Walk in and grab the first open vinyl booth. The menu is a testament to Tex-Mex breakfast classics, but you’re not here to be adventurous. You’re here for perfection.
**What to Order:** The **Carne Guisada Plate**. This isn't just stewed beef; it’s a masterclass in slow-cooked, pepper-laden bliss, tender enough to cut with a tortilla. Served with fluffy, freshly-made flour tortillas (the real star of any Texas breakfast), creamy refried beans, and perfectly greasy-spoon hash browns. Wrap a tortilla around that guisada, take a bite, and understand why this place has been a cornerstone since 1976. Wash it down with a bottomless cup of their strong, diner coffee. You’ll be fueled for a day of exploring, or at least a very satisfied nap.
### **2. Louie Mueller Barbecue: The Cathedral of Smoke**
**206 W 2nd St.**
You can smell it from a block away: the sacred, sweet perfume of burning post oak. Stepping into Louie Mueller Barbecue is a pilgrimage. The walls, stained a deep, glossy mahogany from decades of smoke, tell more stories than a library. This isn't a restaurant; it’s a temple, and the pitmasters are its high priests. Founded in 1949, it’s a James Beard Award-winning institution where the etiquette is simple: know what you want before you reach the counter, and speak clearly.
**The Experience:** Prepare for a sensory overload. The roar of the pits, the sight of whole briskets being expertly cleaved, the feel of the humid, meat-scented air. Order by the pound at the counter, find a seat at the long communal tables (covered in butchers paper, natch), and get ready.
**What to Order:** This is non-negotiable. Get the **Beef Rib**. It’s the size of a caveman’s club, with a bark as black and craggy as volcanic rock, giving way to meat so impossibly juicy, tender, and flavorful it will redefine beef for you. Complement it with **Pork Ribs** (peppery and perfect) and some **Sausage** (with a glorious snap). Sides are almost an afterthought, but the **Potato Salad** is a mustardy, classic foil to the rich meat. No sauce needed—this is Central Texas barbecue in its purest, most majestic form.
### **3. Circleville Store: The Hidden Gem on the Highway**
**600 S State Hwy 95**
Don’t let the unassuming Store in the name fool you. This is a family-run haven just south of town, a place where locals gather for gossip and some of the best home-style cooking in the county. It’s part convenience store, part community hub, and 100% delicious.
**The Experience:** It’s casual, friendly, and feels like walking into your favorite aunt’s kitchen—if your aunt could fry catfish like a champion. The daily specials board is the main event.
**What to Order:** If it’s Friday, you *must* get the **Fried Catfish**. It’s lightly breaded, crisp without being greasy, and the fish inside is sweet and flaky. Served with hushpuppies, coleslaw, and fries, it’s a Friday night tradition for a reason. On other days, you can’t go wrong with a classic **Chicken Fried Steak**, smothered in creamy white pepper gravy. It’s hearty, honest food that satisfies the soul.
### **4. Correa Chinese Cuisine: An Unexpected Fusion**
**221 W 4th St.**
In the heart of Texas, sometimes you crave the savory, umami-rich flavors of the East. Correa’s is a fascinating spot—a family-run Chinese restaurant with a distinct Texan twist. It’s a reminder that Taylor’s culinary landscape has more layers than a perfectly laminated biscuit.
**The Experience:** It’s a quiet, clean, and welcoming space. The menu is extensive, covering all the American-Chinese classics, but with a noticeable care in preparation.
**What to Order:** For a true taste of their skill, order the **Szechuan Beef**. It’s got that beautiful, tongue-tingling heat balanced with a touch of sweetness, and the beef is always tender. The **House Special Fried Rice** is also a standout, packed with flavor and not just a bland filler. It’s a wonderful change of pace and a testament to the town’s diverse palate.
### **5. Squirts Burgers & Wings: The Backyard Cookout, Perfected**
**405 S Main St.**
Sometimes, you just need a burger. Not a gourmet, $20 brioche-bun situation, but a messy, juicy, glorious *burger*. That’s Squirts. Housed in a converted old service station, it’s all about no-frills, high-quality comfort food.
**The Experience:** Order at the counter, grab a seat (indoors or on the patio), and soak in the laid-back, cheerful vibe. The smell of griddled beef and frying wings is intoxicating.
**What to Order:** The **Classic Cheeseburger** is a masterpiece of simplicity: a great patty, perfectly melted cheese, fresh toppings, and a soft bun that holds it all together without getting in the way. But the secret weapon? The **Fried Pickles**. Spears, not chips, with a fantastically crisp batter and a tangy, hot interior. For the wing aficionado, their **Traditional Wings** (get them half BBQ, half Hot) are meaty, crispy, and sauced with gusto.
### **6. Zapata's Mexican Restaurant: A Fiesta on a Plate**
**1808 W 2nd St.**
For a more expansive, sit-down Tex-Mex experience with a vibrant atmosphere, Zapata’s is your spot. It’s family-friendly, bustling, and the kind of place where the margaritas flow and the plates are piled high.
**The Experience:** It’s festive and warm. The chips and salsa arrive instantly—the salsa has a nice, fresh kick—and the menu is a book of classics.
**What to Order:** Go for the **Chicken Fajitas**. They arrive sizzling violently on a cast-iron *comal*, the aroma of grilled peppers and onions preceding them like a trumpet fanfare. The chicken is marinated and charred to smoky perfection. Also, don’t sleep on their **Chile Relleno**—a poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried, then smothered in a rich ranchero sauce. It’s decadent and delicious.
### **7. Plowman’s Kitchen: Farm-Fresh Brilliance**
**305 W 9th St.**
Taylor’s food scene isn’t all historic pits and vintage diners. Plowman’s Kitchen represents the new guard: a bright, modern cafe focused on high-quality, often locally-sourced ingredients. It’s where you go for a stellar lunch, a great cup of coffee, or a pastry that feels like a hug.
**The Experience:** Airy, clean, and thoughtfully decorated. It feels like a little slice of Austin cool, but with Taylor’s genuine, friendly charm. The staff knows their stuff.
**What to Order:** The **Turkey Avocado Club** is a cut above. Thick-cut bacon, fresh roasted turkey, ripe avocado, and herby mayo on toasted bread—it’s a symphony of textures and flavors. For breakfast, their **Breakfast Tacos** on house-made tortillas are legendary among the in-the-know crowd. And always check the pastry case; their **Cinnamon Roll** is a gooey, glorious beast.
### **8. China One: The Quick & Reliable Classic**
**206 N Main St.**
Another pillar of Taylor’s Chinese food scene, China One is the go-to for consistent, fast, and flavorful takeout. It’s a staple for families on busy nights and anyone craving those familiar, comforting flavors.
**The Experience:** This is primarily a takeout hub, though there is simple seating. It’s about efficiency and taste.
**What to Order:** The **General Tso’s Chicken** here is a benchmark—crispy, coated in a tangy-sweet-spicy sauce that clings perfectly, and never soggy. Pair it with an order of their **Crab Rangoon**; creamy, cheesy filling in a crispy wonton wrapper. It’s the perfect, reliable feast to spread out on your own kitchen table.
### **9. Mariachis de Jalisco: Authentic Flavors from the Heart of Mexico**
**3100 N Main St.**
Venture a bit north on Main Street for a taste of Mexico that goes beyond the Tex-Mex canon. Mariachis de Jalisco offers traditional dishes from its namesake region in a colorful, welcoming setting. The name isn’t just for show—on weekends, you might just get a live serenade.
**The Experience:** Warm, family-oriented, and authentic. This is where you’ll find dishes you won’t see everywhere else in town.
**What to Order:** Be adventurous. Try the **Birria de Chivo** (goat stew) if it’s available—it’s deeply spiced, complex, and soul-warming. For a more approachable classic, the **Carne Asada a la Tampiqueña** is a show-stopping platter of grilled steak, a cheese enchilada, rice, beans, and guacamole. It’s a celebration on a plate.
### **10. MIXTAPE: The Creative Culinary Playlist**
**108 E 2nd St.**
We end our tour at Taylor’s most exciting new(er) kid on the block. MIXTAPE is a vibe. It’s a cocktail bar and eatery with a retro-eclectic aesthetic, a killer playlist (as the name implies), and a menu that’s creative, playful, and deeply satisfying.
**The Experience:** Cool without being pretentious. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or drinks with friends. The cocktail menu is inventive, and the energy is upbeat.
**What to Order:** This menu changes, but look for their **Gourmet Burger**—it often features unique toppings and sauces that elevate it to something special. The **Loaded Fries** are a must-share appetizer, a decadent mess of crisp fries, cheese, and other delicious toppings. It’s the perfect example of Taylor’s culinary evolution: respecting the past while confidently writing its own new tune.
***
**The Final Bite:**
Taylor, Texas, teaches us that great food isn’t about scarcity or exclusivity. It’s about abundance, tradition, and generosity of spirit. It’s in the smoke-stained walls of a legendary pit, the warm tortillas of a sunrise diner, and the creative spark of a modern cafe. It’s a town where every meal tells a story, and everyone is invited to the table. So come hungry, leave happy, and always save room for one more beef rib. Your taste buds will thank you.
**By Your Culinary Guide to the Heart of Williamson County**
Let’s get one thing straight, partner. Taylor, Texas, isn’t just a dot on the map between Austin and Temple. It’s a destination. For the food-obsessed, it’s a hallowed ground where the air itself tastes of post-oak smoke and simmering chili gravy. It’s where legends were forged in brick pits and family recipes have seasoned generations. Forget the fancy, fussy, and fleeting trends. In Taylor, we eat with history, heart, and a healthy dose of “yes, ma’am.”
So, pull up a chair—or a tailgate—and let me, your local guide, walk you through the essential culinary landmarks of this glorious town. We’re going on a ten-stop tour that’s less about white tablecloths and more about paper plates, shared tables, and flavors that stick to your ribs and your memory.
### **1. El Corral Lozano: The Breakfast of Champions**
**300 W 2nd St.**
Before the sun properly crests the horizon, the true Taylorties are already lining up. El Corral Lozano isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a morning ritual housed in a modest, no-nonsense building. The vibe is pure, unadulterated diner: the hum of conversation, the clatter of plates, the rich, earthy scent of coffee and *carne guisada* mingling in the air.
**The Experience:** Walk in and grab the first open vinyl booth. The menu is a testament to Tex-Mex breakfast classics, but you’re not here to be adventurous. You’re here for perfection.
**What to Order:** The **Carne Guisada Plate**. This isn't just stewed beef; it’s a masterclass in slow-cooked, pepper-laden bliss, tender enough to cut with a tortilla. Served with fluffy, freshly-made flour tortillas (the real star of any Texas breakfast), creamy refried beans, and perfectly greasy-spoon hash browns. Wrap a tortilla around that guisada, take a bite, and understand why this place has been a cornerstone since 1976. Wash it down with a bottomless cup of their strong, diner coffee. You’ll be fueled for a day of exploring, or at least a very satisfied nap.
### **2. Louie Mueller Barbecue: The Cathedral of Smoke**
**206 W 2nd St.**
You can smell it from a block away: the sacred, sweet perfume of burning post oak. Stepping into Louie Mueller Barbecue is a pilgrimage. The walls, stained a deep, glossy mahogany from decades of smoke, tell more stories than a library. This isn't a restaurant; it’s a temple, and the pitmasters are its high priests. Founded in 1949, it’s a James Beard Award-winning institution where the etiquette is simple: know what you want before you reach the counter, and speak clearly.
**The Experience:** Prepare for a sensory overload. The roar of the pits, the sight of whole briskets being expertly cleaved, the feel of the humid, meat-scented air. Order by the pound at the counter, find a seat at the long communal tables (covered in butchers paper, natch), and get ready.
**What to Order:** This is non-negotiable. Get the **Beef Rib**. It’s the size of a caveman’s club, with a bark as black and craggy as volcanic rock, giving way to meat so impossibly juicy, tender, and flavorful it will redefine beef for you. Complement it with **Pork Ribs** (peppery and perfect) and some **Sausage** (with a glorious snap). Sides are almost an afterthought, but the **Potato Salad** is a mustardy, classic foil to the rich meat. No sauce needed—this is Central Texas barbecue in its purest, most majestic form.
### **3. Circleville Store: The Hidden Gem on the Highway**
**600 S State Hwy 95**
Don’t let the unassuming Store in the name fool you. This is a family-run haven just south of town, a place where locals gather for gossip and some of the best home-style cooking in the county. It’s part convenience store, part community hub, and 100% delicious.
**The Experience:** It’s casual, friendly, and feels like walking into your favorite aunt’s kitchen—if your aunt could fry catfish like a champion. The daily specials board is the main event.
**What to Order:** If it’s Friday, you *must* get the **Fried Catfish**. It’s lightly breaded, crisp without being greasy, and the fish inside is sweet and flaky. Served with hushpuppies, coleslaw, and fries, it’s a Friday night tradition for a reason. On other days, you can’t go wrong with a classic **Chicken Fried Steak**, smothered in creamy white pepper gravy. It’s hearty, honest food that satisfies the soul.
### **4. Correa Chinese Cuisine: An Unexpected Fusion**
**221 W 4th St.**
In the heart of Texas, sometimes you crave the savory, umami-rich flavors of the East. Correa’s is a fascinating spot—a family-run Chinese restaurant with a distinct Texan twist. It’s a reminder that Taylor’s culinary landscape has more layers than a perfectly laminated biscuit.
**The Experience:** It’s a quiet, clean, and welcoming space. The menu is extensive, covering all the American-Chinese classics, but with a noticeable care in preparation.
**What to Order:** For a true taste of their skill, order the **Szechuan Beef**. It’s got that beautiful, tongue-tingling heat balanced with a touch of sweetness, and the beef is always tender. The **House Special Fried Rice** is also a standout, packed with flavor and not just a bland filler. It’s a wonderful change of pace and a testament to the town’s diverse palate.
### **5. Squirts Burgers & Wings: The Backyard Cookout, Perfected**
**405 S Main St.**
Sometimes, you just need a burger. Not a gourmet, $20 brioche-bun situation, but a messy, juicy, glorious *burger*. That’s Squirts. Housed in a converted old service station, it’s all about no-frills, high-quality comfort food.
**The Experience:** Order at the counter, grab a seat (indoors or on the patio), and soak in the laid-back, cheerful vibe. The smell of griddled beef and frying wings is intoxicating.
**What to Order:** The **Classic Cheeseburger** is a masterpiece of simplicity: a great patty, perfectly melted cheese, fresh toppings, and a soft bun that holds it all together without getting in the way. But the secret weapon? The **Fried Pickles**. Spears, not chips, with a fantastically crisp batter and a tangy, hot interior. For the wing aficionado, their **Traditional Wings** (get them half BBQ, half Hot) are meaty, crispy, and sauced with gusto.
### **6. Zapata's Mexican Restaurant: A Fiesta on a Plate**
**1808 W 2nd St.**
For a more expansive, sit-down Tex-Mex experience with a vibrant atmosphere, Zapata’s is your spot. It’s family-friendly, bustling, and the kind of place where the margaritas flow and the plates are piled high.
**The Experience:** It’s festive and warm. The chips and salsa arrive instantly—the salsa has a nice, fresh kick—and the menu is a book of classics.
**What to Order:** Go for the **Chicken Fajitas**. They arrive sizzling violently on a cast-iron *comal*, the aroma of grilled peppers and onions preceding them like a trumpet fanfare. The chicken is marinated and charred to smoky perfection. Also, don’t sleep on their **Chile Relleno**—a poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried, then smothered in a rich ranchero sauce. It’s decadent and delicious.
### **7. Plowman’s Kitchen: Farm-Fresh Brilliance**
**305 W 9th St.**
Taylor’s food scene isn’t all historic pits and vintage diners. Plowman’s Kitchen represents the new guard: a bright, modern cafe focused on high-quality, often locally-sourced ingredients. It’s where you go for a stellar lunch, a great cup of coffee, or a pastry that feels like a hug.
**The Experience:** Airy, clean, and thoughtfully decorated. It feels like a little slice of Austin cool, but with Taylor’s genuine, friendly charm. The staff knows their stuff.
**What to Order:** The **Turkey Avocado Club** is a cut above. Thick-cut bacon, fresh roasted turkey, ripe avocado, and herby mayo on toasted bread—it’s a symphony of textures and flavors. For breakfast, their **Breakfast Tacos** on house-made tortillas are legendary among the in-the-know crowd. And always check the pastry case; their **Cinnamon Roll** is a gooey, glorious beast.
### **8. China One: The Quick & Reliable Classic**
**206 N Main St.**
Another pillar of Taylor’s Chinese food scene, China One is the go-to for consistent, fast, and flavorful takeout. It’s a staple for families on busy nights and anyone craving those familiar, comforting flavors.
**The Experience:** This is primarily a takeout hub, though there is simple seating. It’s about efficiency and taste.
**What to Order:** The **General Tso’s Chicken** here is a benchmark—crispy, coated in a tangy-sweet-spicy sauce that clings perfectly, and never soggy. Pair it with an order of their **Crab Rangoon**; creamy, cheesy filling in a crispy wonton wrapper. It’s the perfect, reliable feast to spread out on your own kitchen table.
### **9. Mariachis de Jalisco: Authentic Flavors from the Heart of Mexico**
**3100 N Main St.**
Venture a bit north on Main Street for a taste of Mexico that goes beyond the Tex-Mex canon. Mariachis de Jalisco offers traditional dishes from its namesake region in a colorful, welcoming setting. The name isn’t just for show—on weekends, you might just get a live serenade.
**The Experience:** Warm, family-oriented, and authentic. This is where you’ll find dishes you won’t see everywhere else in town.
**What to Order:** Be adventurous. Try the **Birria de Chivo** (goat stew) if it’s available—it’s deeply spiced, complex, and soul-warming. For a more approachable classic, the **Carne Asada a la Tampiqueña** is a show-stopping platter of grilled steak, a cheese enchilada, rice, beans, and guacamole. It’s a celebration on a plate.
### **10. MIXTAPE: The Creative Culinary Playlist**
**108 E 2nd St.**
We end our tour at Taylor’s most exciting new(er) kid on the block. MIXTAPE is a vibe. It’s a cocktail bar and eatery with a retro-eclectic aesthetic, a killer playlist (as the name implies), and a menu that’s creative, playful, and deeply satisfying.
**The Experience:** Cool without being pretentious. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or drinks with friends. The cocktail menu is inventive, and the energy is upbeat.
**What to Order:** This menu changes, but look for their **Gourmet Burger**—it often features unique toppings and sauces that elevate it to something special. The **Loaded Fries** are a must-share appetizer, a decadent mess of crisp fries, cheese, and other delicious toppings. It’s the perfect example of Taylor’s culinary evolution: respecting the past while confidently writing its own new tune.
***
**The Final Bite:**
Taylor, Texas, teaches us that great food isn’t about scarcity or exclusivity. It’s about abundance, tradition, and generosity of spirit. It’s in the smoke-stained walls of a legendary pit, the warm tortillas of a sunrise diner, and the creative spark of a modern cafe. It’s a town where every meal tells a story, and everyone is invited to the table. So come hungry, leave happy, and always save room for one more beef rib. Your taste buds will thank you.
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