Waco is unique. And every Baylor student can tell you that. Somewhere between McLane Stadium and the Alico building, this quirky town has become home. Adding to this, the food of Waco is limited, but there are a few hidden jewels among the rows and rows of fast food. Chick-Fil-A sauce, Sonic slushies, and Whataburger honey butter chicken biscuits have their rightful place in the college diet. But here’s a list of restaurants around Waco that will be better than microwavable meals or fast food.
When you need a good lunch: Schmaltz’s
What to get: The Schmaltz ($5.35, $7.35)
Distance from campus: 5 minutes
Get Schmalz’s when you’re tired of ordering Jimmy John’s or making your own lunch. This local sandwich shop gives you a huge sandwich that can easily be split or saved for later. The homemade bread brings this into the category of great sandwich shops. You’ll never eat cold cuts or Subway again.
When you’re sick of the Waco bubble: World Cup Café
What to get: World Cup Burger ($7.75)
Distance from campus: 10 minutes
World Cup has some of the greatest food and friendliest staff in Waco. It’s away from campus, making it a great escape and a nice study spot. It’s a hidden gem of Waco with some history. Try their breakfast too—it’s also amazing.
When you’re craving sweets: Pokey O’s
What to get: Chocolate chip cookie with cookies and cream sandwich ($4)
Distance from campus: Fluctuates
Pokey O’s is addicting. This ice cream sandwich food truck roams around Waco, making it the perfect reason to take a study break. It’s satisfying and delicious. Ask for it “princess style” to get your sandwich in a cup, avoiding spills and maximizing yumminess.
When you’re on a healthy kick: Milo Biscuit Company
What to get: Hungry Heart Burger ($10)
Distance from campus: Fluctuates
Milo is fresh, there’s no doubt about it. Their biscuits are baked daily, and should be eaten. Milo takes you away from the normal fast food and pizza college diet. This meal will be better than anything you could probably make at home, I guarantee it.
When you’re feeling cheap: Taqueria Zacatecas
What to get: Chicken fajita tacos
Distance from campus: 5 minutes
Close to campus, fresh, and cheap are the factors that set Taqueria Zacatecas, or Taco Z as it’s affectionately known, apart from all other Mexican food around Waco. To some, this might look like a random taco stand with a few picnic tables in front, but it’s so much more. On Friday and Saturday they’re open until 3:30 a.m., so if you’re getting the munchies on the weekend, go grab a taco. You won’t regret it.
When you’re in a brunchin’ mood: Café Cappucino
What to get: Pancakes ($3+)
Distance from campus: 5 minutes
Café Capp is the classic breakfast stop of Waco. Their pancakes are huge and cheap, easily making one or two a meal. They have unique flavors like gingerbread and chocolate chip pecan. If you’re not a pancake fan, there are plenty of other amazing breakfast items (think omelets, crepes, and breakfast burritos) to choose from. Plus, breakfast is served all day.
