Historic yet bohemian, McKinney is the North Texas city where quaint brick streets, indie shops, and live-music bars line up beside a suddenly sophisticated food scene—incubator for young chefs, and home to pure Texas roots.
1. Harvest
Harvest is the heart of McKinney’s “farm to table” philosophy: exposed brick and Edison bulbs glow over plates of Texas quail, Wagyu brisket, collard greens, and chocolate-cayenne cake.
All produce comes from within a 150-mile radius, and staff are proud to explain each farm’s ethos.
The bar stirs inventive cocktails with local honey and garden herbs, and the lively patio is perfect for twilight toasts and post-market brunches.
2. Hutchins BBQ
A pilgrimage for barbecue purists and casual diners alike: trays of brisket, jalapeño cheddar sausage, burnt ends, and pork ribs—smoke-ringed and meltingly tender.
The potato salad and mac and cheese are beyond hearty.
Dessert—pecan pie or banana pudding—is served on the house. Lines form before noon, and every regular has their own sauce ritual.
3. Rick’s Chophouse
At home in an extravagant, restored hotel, Rick’s is downtown’s white-tablecloth destination: dry-aged ribeyes seared to order, lobster tails, pan-seared duck breast, and tableside Caesar salads.
The wine list draws raves, and every month brings a new “Chef’s Tasting” event with pairings from Texas and France.
The piano bar hosts jazz on weekends and the waitstaff works in concert, ensuring nothing is rushed.
4. Square Burger
Modern American with a twist—gourmet burgers topped with roasted chilies, blue cheese, fried eggs, or jalapeño jam; house-cut fries; local beers; and boozy shakes.
The century-old building’s original tin ceiling and vast windows add to the vibe: retro, friendly, a little quirky.
Families, business lunches, and craft beer enthusiasts flock here starting at noon.
5. Patina Green Home and Market
Avant-garde meets homey at this chef-run café/market. You might find smoked ham sandwiches with jalapeño-pear jam, carrot soup, or innovative salads built from local microgreens.
Inside, the space is also a shop for quirky Texas gifts and gourmet hippie snacks.
Staff beams with local pride—ask about their favorite small-batch honey or the latest local cheese.
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