Best Local Favorite Restaurants in Tyler, TX (2026)
These Tyler restaurants have earned devoted followings among East Texas locals who return again and again. Word-of-mouth favorites where regulars are greeted by name and the food never disappoints. When locals recommend a spot, these are the places they mention first.
Local Favorite ★ 4.2 Richie’s Grill & Cafe
Hawkins
"Visit during weekday mornings for the freshest breakfast ..."
Breakfast Burrito
Chicken Fried Steak
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Local Favorite ★ 4.0 Aspen Creek Grill
Tyler
"Make reservations for weekend evenings, as this popular s..."
Grilled Ribeye Steak
Pan-Seared Salmon
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Family Friendly ★ 4.0 Chuy’s
Tyler
"Come during happy hour for discounted margaritas and avoi..."
Green Chile Cheeseburger
Chicka-Chicka Boom-Boom Enchiladas
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Local Favorite ★ 4.2 Tyler Tortilla Factory
Tyler
"Visit during lunch hours to watch them make fresh tortill..."
Beef Fajitas
Cheese Enchiladas
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Local Favorite ★ 4.0 Leo’s Asian Bistro
Lindale
"Visit during weekday lunch hours for the same great food ..."
Teriyaki Salmon
Dragon Roll
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Local Favorite ★ 4.1 Johnny’s Ozark Fried Chicken
Kilgore
"Visit during lunch hours for the freshest chicken when tu..."
Fried Chicken Dinner
Chicken Tenders with Gravy
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Local Favorite ★ 4.1 The Char-Burger Stock-Ade
Kilgore
"Visit during lunch hours for the freshest ingredients and..."
Char-Grilled Cheeseburger
Hand-Cut French Fries
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Local Favorite ★ 4.0 Twelve Kitchen + Cocktails
Tyler
"Make reservations for weekend brunch as it gets busy, and..."
Chicken and Waffles
Pan-Seared Salmon
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Hidden Gem ★ 4.1 Robertson’s Ham / The Red Barn
Wills Point
"Ask about the daily cheese specials and don't miss trying..."
House-Cured Ham Platter
Turkish Lamb Kebabs
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Local Favorite ★ 4.3 Top Donuts
Tyler
"Arrive early in the morning for the best selection of fre..."
Glazed Old Fashioned Donuts
Breakfast Sandwich Combo
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Family Friendly ★ 4.0 Jimmy’s Egg
Tyler
"Visit on weekday mornings for shorter wait times and the ..."
Stuffed Hash Browns
Country Fried Steak & Eggs
+1 more
View Full Profile →
Local Favorite ★ 4.0 Duke’s Travel Plazaa
Canton
"Arrive before 2 PM on weekends when the brisket is at its..."
Smoked Brisket Plate
Pulled Pork Sandwich
+1 more
View Full Profile →