5 Best Restaurants in Arlington, Texas to Try

Sitting between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington mixes Texas bravado, sports fever, and international flavor—all reflected in its restaurant scene.

Whether you’re feeding a stadium crowd or savoring a chef’s table, these five are local essentials.

1. Hurtado Barbecue

Arlington’s most famous pitmaster draws lines for melt-in-your-mouth brisket, juicy turkey, pork ribs, and creative specials like brisket birria and smoked elote.

The patios fill on sunshiney days, the staff is quick with sauce recommendations, and their tortillas, barbecue tacos, and poblano mac set them apart.

It’s where Texas barbecue tradition gets a spicy twist.

2. Prince Lebanese Grill

This legendary eatery operates out of a former Dairy Queen, but inside it’s all about warm pita, rich hummus, grilled kabobs, beef shawarma, and silky lentil soup.

Prince is a pillar of the city’s international community, with a crowd that includes everyone from Cowboys fans to college students and three generations of families.

3. Mariano’s Hacienda

An original creator of the frozen margarita, Mariano’s provides Tex-Mex of the highest order—tableside guac, mesquite-grilled fajitas, cheese enchiladas, and zippy salsas in a hacienda-style setting.

The festive atmosphere and attentive staff make it just right for group hangs, celebrations, or quick post-game bites.

4. Vietnam Restaurant

This long-running spot is locally celebrated for its comforting pho, bún (rice noodle) salads, grilled pork plates, and surprising depth of flavor.

The dining room is simple, the service is brisk, but the regular crowd proves how addicted Arlington is to Vietnamese food.

5. The Tipsy Oak

Opened by local craft beer enthusiasts, The Tipsy Oak offers creative burgers, brisket sandwiches, house sausages, and loaded fries, all in a house-turned-gastropub with a giant patio.

Local and regional brews dominate the taps, and on warm nights, music and laughter fill the neighborhood.