While Waco is definitely on the rise (hello Torchys, Smashburger and Rusty Taco), I still find myself craving food from certain restaurants that would require me to drive to Dallas or Austin just to get my fix. Since starting a petition probably won’t do the trick and I’m totally under-qualified to begin franchising, I’ll keep day-dreaming that the day will come… or I’ll just keep driving to Dallas. A girl’s gotta get her favorite eats in somehow, am I right?
Mellow Mushroom -- With at least 10 locations in Texas, it is time for this pizza place to make its way to Waco. What I love about Mellow Mushroom is the menu and the atmosphere. With a menu that includes pizzas by the names of “Holy Shiitake Pie," “Kosmic Karma” and “Thai Dye," you will definitely be ordering a pizza that tastes different than any pizza you’ve ever had before. Sandwiches, salads and a gluten-free menu are also offered. Mellow Mushroom and craft beer are a natural pair. Each location has its own unique collection of beers. The collection is made up of craft, local, regional and even international beers. In addition to the menu, Mellow Mushroom locations typically have stellar atmospheres. Whether it’s an awesome patio, sweet lighting or live music, the Mellow Mushroom makes it easy to stay and hang out while getting your grub on in any college town.
Qdoba -- With more variety to its menu than Chipotle, it would be great to see Qdoba make an appearance. Preferably an appearance closer to campus, too. With options like tortilla soup, nachos (basically a burrito bowl with chips instead of rice) and queso (yes I said it... queso), I think Qdoba could give Chipotle a run for its money. What I love most about Qdoba is the Choose Two option for when your taste buds can’t settle on one menu item. The Choose Two lets you get smaller portions of two items. That's a game-changer for an indecisive human like myself.
Cedars Woodfire Grill -- A new restaurant in the Dallas area has taken the idea of fast, casual food and combined it with the idea that quality food should not be sacrificed just because of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a menu that lets you decide between freshly grilled chicken, steak, salmon or baby bellas (Cremini mushrooms), there is something for everyone to delve into. Whether you want chicken on your Thai wrap or salmon on your Summer Harvest salad, the option is up to you. While you’re at it, you might as well enjoy the S’mores fondue. Use graham crackers and strawberries to dive into marshmallows that have been toasted over melted chocolate.
Hopdoddy -- You can’t go wrong with another burger joint... especially one that combines handcrafted beer (hop) and burgers (doddy--the nickname given to a native cow in Scotland). With 12 different burgers, there is something for everyone. The Kennebec fries are essential to rounding out your order. Be sure and see what beers they have on tap. Options vary by season and locations but include beers from local, small batch and artisanal breweries.
Fish City Grill -- With locations mainly in the DFW area, and sometimes called Half Shells… let me introduce Fish City Grill. With oyster nachos, fish tacos and the best fried seafood anyone could ask for, this place is a must. Their beer batter makes for melt-in-your-mouth fried seafood, and the ranchero sauce on the fish tacos definitely makes them a best-in-town menu item. A full bar and daily specials make this an easy yes, especially considering Waco is lacking a solid seafood option.
Snappy Salads -- With more variations than one could imagine, even guys will like eating salad. This fresh option adds a way to mix up your dining experience. There are days when I want something slightly healthy but don’t want to be left hungry. Snappy Salads will not only leave you full, but typically involve a to-go box as well. Also on the menu are wraps and a few different flat breads. Eating a fresh salad out on the patio sounds like the perfect combination to me.
In-N-Out -- A classic California chain made its way to Dallas, so why not send those Double-Doubles and Animal-Style burgers a little further South down I-35? The secret menu is where it’s at, so be sure to do some research first. Even though Whataburger will forever be No. 1 in the heart of a true Texan, an Animal-Style can be a little tempting to pass up.
