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 ★ 3.5 The Back Porch Stage on Broadway
Kilgore
"Check their social media before visiting to see if there'..."
Chicken Fried Steak
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.5 Little Italy
Tyler
"Visit on weeknight evenings to avoid the weekend rush and..."
Chicken Parmigiana
Meat Lasagna
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.5 Mings Cafe
Tyler
"Call ahead during dinner rush hours as the restaurant can..."
General Tso's Chicken
Beef and Broccoli
+1 more
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Sports Bar ★ 3.3 Sportszone Bar and Grill
Tyler
"Arrive early during major games to secure the best seats,..."
Buffalo Wings
Loaded Nachos
+1 more
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Family Friendly ★ 3.5 Razzoo’s Cajun Cafe
Tyler
"Visit on weekdays to avoid the weekend rush, and don't mi..."
Crawfish Étouffee
Blackened Catfish
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.5 Papacita’s Mexican Restaurant
Longview
"Visit during weekday lunch hours for quicker service and ..."
Beef Fajitas
Chicken Enchiladas
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.5 Mercado’s
Tyler
"Visit during happy hour for discounted margaritas and app..."
Beef Fajitas
Chicken Enchiladas
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.4 Mama’s Restaurant #2
Tyler
"Visit during weekday mornings for the freshest breakfast ..."
Loaded Breakfast Burrito
Chicken Fried Steak
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.4 Vietnamese Pho Restaurant
Tyler
"Visit during lunch hours for the freshest broth, and don'..."
Pho Tai
Fresh Spring Rolls
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.4 Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q
Tyler
"Order the moist brisket for the most flavorful cut, and d..."
Smoked Brisket
Pork Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.4 Bruno’s Pizza & Pasta
Tyler
"Order the garlic bread as an appetizer - it pairs perfect..."
Meat Lovers Pizza
Chicken Parmigiana
+1 more
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Family Friendly ★ 3.4 Kawas Hibachi Grill & Lounge
Tyler
"Make reservations for hibachi tables during peak dinner h..."
Hibachi Steak and Shrimp Combo
Dragon Roll
+1 more
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