While Odessa is known for our jaw-dropping sunsets, smaller friendly town – the city is known for a diverse culinary landscape, from award winning comfort cuisine to authentic Mexican cuisine. If you’re the ultimate foodie, you must try these Odessa staples. Time to dig into the flavors of Odessa.
Barrel & Derrick
Located inside the highly rated Odessa Marriott , which is known for its modern Texan décor, beautiful artwork, and unique design. Barrel and Derrick offers flavorful plates, craft cocktails, and tantalizing desserts. From breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you will find plates like migas, cowboy queso, Hawaiian tuna poke, Japanese A5 Wagyu & more. Local tip for those 21+ looking for a unique cocktail: order an Archie Special, it’s a local favorite that is light and refreshing! The restaurant holds special nights like sushi, pasta and more prepared by their chef for a unique dining experience every now and then so be sure you’re staying connected with them online.
Brantley Creek BBQ
Named “The 25 Best New and Improved BBQ Joints in Texas” in Texas Monthly, you are guaranteed to fall in love with this BBQ spot ran by BBQ Master, Brandon McPherson. This hot stop has a welcoming atmosphere where you will not only find mouth-watering brisket, legendary mac & cheese and peach cobbler, but you will also find live music on the weekends. Traveling with your family? They even have a playground and games like cornhole. Local tip: this spot tends to sell out of their BBQ rather quickly, so we recommend arriving early and getting ready to queue up for some of the best BBQ in West Texas!
Curb Side Bistro
Odessa legend Chef Alejandro runs Curb Side Bistro, Chef Alejandro has competed in national TV competitions like Beat Bobby Flay and Chopped. Curb Side Bistro is the holy grail of comfort food, which is known for their gourmet sliders and loaded CSB fries! The atmosphere is more of a relaxed setting to unwind and catch up with your loved ones.
El Taco Loco Birria
This famous taco spot specializes in birria, a slow-braised meat dish that’s become a social media sensation. Their melt-in-your-mouth birria is served with consomé for dipping and soft tortillas, perfect for creating your own delicious tacos. El Taco Loco Birria also offers a variety of other Mexican favorites like quesadillas, family-sized pizzadilla, and vampiros. Be sure to try their house-made agua fresca!
Flair Taverna
This restaurant is one of the newest from this list in town, however it has soon become one of Odessa’s hottest restaurants. This spot has a beautiful romantic ambiance with a delectable menu to match! Dive into a modern fusion of Italian styles, with a strong influence of Spanish and French cuisine with a hint of Mediterranean flavors. Their menu begins with dishes like lobster bisque to lobster ravioli and ends with tasty desserts like tiramisu and much more.
La Fiesta Bakery
Looking for the best empanadas in town? Look no further – La Fiesta Bakery is a family-owned Odessa must try, when you’re craving authentic Mexican sweet bread. From legendary pumpkin empanadas, conchas, pink cake and more, these treats pair perfectly with your coffee in the morning or evening! Local tip: Be sure to arrive early and be prepared for the possibility of waiting in line, this bakery shop tends to sell out early, especially on the weekends!
Mamasita’s Mexican Grill
This restaurant serves up authentic Mexican plates & margaritas in a laid-back setting alongside outstanding service. With the occasional live mariachi music, you’re guaranteed to have great eats and drinks while unwinding. When you arrive, you’re greeted with chips & salsa at your table, and a must is to ask for their chicharrones! You’re warned, many have mentioned they love visiting Mamasita’s for their mouth-watering enchiladas that have a kick of spice.
Mi Piaci Italian Restaurant
A taste of Italy awaits at Mi Piaci! This family-friendly restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxed dining experience. You’ll be greeted with their all-time famous bread before your meal and have a choice of the famous soups or salads before your entrée arrives. Their menu features all your Italian favorites, from classic pasta dishes like spaghetti or fettuccine alfredo, calzones, pizzas loaded with fresh toppings and much more. Local tip: arrive hungry and note that this restaurant is BYOB if you’re looking to enjoy an alcoholic beverage.
Red Oak Kitchen
Known for their electric southwestern dishes – this restaurant is the go-to place for brunch, lunch, or dinner! You will find a phenomenal brunch menu that begins with a gorgeous stack of lemon ricotta pancakes to dishes like chicken & waffles. The patio area is a must in the warmer months and is also pet-friendly for your furry friends. For lunch, be sure to check out their wood-fire pizza, prime rib, and the famous cornbread. This restaurant serves cocktails, mocktails, or coffee also!
Southern Maid Donuts
Near downtown Odessa – these donuts are known for literally melting in your mouth! Southern Maid opened in 1955 and is still an Odessa staple. The most popular flavors are chocolate, glazed, and cherry, however you’re more than likely to fall in love with the first bite that you take. Local tip: Be prepared to wait in line as locals and visitors begin to que up for the best donuts in town. Remember to bring cash, they do not accept debit or credit cards.
Taqueria Reynosa
This authentic taqueria uses fresh ingredients to create delicious tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and other Mexican staples. Their friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to grab a casual lunch or a satisfying dinner. Be sure to try their al pastor tacos – it’s a local favorite for a reason!
The Legendary Barn Door Steakhouse
As the name suggests, The Legendary Barn Door Steakhouse has been an Odessan staple since 1963. This restaurant is great for a business trip or a large group. The atmosphere will give you a true western experience. Once you sit down, you’ll be greeted with bread, butter and the famous block of cheese for your table to enjoy. You must also visit the Historic Depot that is attached to the restaurant and learn about the history of the depot and maybe even hear ghost stories!
