Bryan, Texas Is A Foodie City – We're Officially Claiming It

Messina Hof Winery & Resort planted its roots here in Bryan, Texas back in 1977 – at what is now their Estate Vineyard. Today, Messina Hof's Bonarrigo family is known affectionately as the First Family of Texas Wine. Over the years, Messina Hof has earned the title "Most Awarded Winery In Texas," and they continue to that moniker in 2025.

Messina Hof was named Top Texas Winery at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition in 2021 and 2023. They also received an additional 21 awards, including 10 Class and Texas Class Champion awards, three Reserve Texas Class Champion awards, and three Gold Medals. Most recently, Messina Hof was awarded the Texas Travel Awards' Best Winery in Texas for 2025.

The winery also received several awards at the largest competition in the U.S., the 2021 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition which featured more than 2,500 entries from 18 countries. Messina Hof’s 2018 Private Reserve Tempranillo and 2019 Private Reserve Viognier both received Best of Class awards, the top honor in each category. Messina Hof won six other awards at the competition, including a Gold Medal for their Angel Late Harvest Riesling.

Messina Hof has also been honored with at least 20 other awards on the regional, national, and international levels in the past year. Click here to start planning your trip to Messina Hof Winery & Resort.

Lamar & Niki’s Pit BBQ and Soul Food opened in 2014, fulfilling a long-held dream for owners Lamar & Niki Cole. They’ve been serving up some of the best, most authentic soul food & barbecue in the Brazos Valley ever since. This year, they’re being recognized by Yelp has one of the Top 100 Places To Eat In Texas For 2021.

This small, family owned and operated restaurant is featured on Yelp’s list alongside some of the most well-known restaurants across the state thanks to an incredible number of 5 star ratings on the popular restaurant review site.

Lamar & Niki’s serves classic, homestyle soul food Tuesday-Saturday, and mouthwatering pit bbq plates every Friday and Saturday. To find their full menu and operating hours, visit www.lamarandnikis.com

Right at the end of 2020, Texas Monthly released their Tacopedia issue – an in-depth guide of all the best examples of various styles of tacos found throughout the state. Two of Bryan's very own taquerias, Raspas El Payasito & Taqueria Poblana, were featured as some of the best examples of tacos estilo Matamoros & trompo, respectively.

Raspas El Payasito has since moved their operations into Texas Meat Market on Texas Avenue near Historic Downtown Bryan. Taqueria Poblana has become one of the most popular taquerias in town, and they've got an incredibly inspiring story to tell. Click here to check it out.

2025 welcomed a wave of new Bryan businesses into the culinary spotlight. From craft coffee roasters to breweries, wine bars, and artisan eateries, this year’s additions have continued to expand and elevate our thriving foodie scene.

Little Tokyo brings fresh, flavorful Japanese cuisine to Bryan in a relaxed, casual setting. Located on South Texas Avenue, this international favorite serves everything from ramen and sushi rolls to noodle soups and hearty fusion dishes like a Japanese cheeseburger and chicken karaage. Customers rave about the generous portions, standout flavors, and attentive service, with one reviewer calling the lunch combo “amazing” for just $9.99. Whether you’re craving classic sushi or inventive comfort food, Little Tokyo delivers both quality and charm in Downtown Bryan.

KinderHill Brew Lab is the Bryan-College Station area's newest brewery & only biergarten. Creating unique & tasty microbrews is their specialty, but their craft cocktails are not to be missed either. You'll find plentiful seating options at KinderHill Brew Lab, in their Biergarten shaded under sprawling trees, or inside if the weather isn't cooperating. They also have delicious Detroit-style pizza. Follow KinderHill Brew Lab on Instagram to keep up with all their latest offerings.

What's The Buzz is a beloved Bryan/College Station micro-roastery that elevates coffee by roasting small-batch, single-origin beans for fresh, richly flavorful cups. Their ethically sourced selection—from fair-trade, estate, and organic farms—is roasted in-house to highlight each bean’s unique character. More than just a café, it’s a community hub offering studio tours, cuppings, and brewing classes for anyone enthusiastic about coffee—from growers to drinkers. Locals consistently praise the quality and freshness, noting that their beans are roasted to perfection and packed with vibrant flavor. Whether you’re looking for a stellar latte or to explore what makes specialty coffee special, What’s the Buzz delivers—literally from seed to cup.

Aroma Indian & Nepalese Cuisine infuses Bryan with authentic, flavor-forward dishes crafted from India and Nepal’s rich culinary traditions. Favorite dishes like Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala, bold Goat Curry, and crispy, flavor-packed samosas keep diners coming back, while the generous portion sizes and welcoming vibe make it a hit for groups and families. The cozy, warm interior and attentive service add to its charm, creating a dining experience that’s both genuine and inviting. Customers consistently praise the quality and authenticity—with one saying Aroma is “one of the best Indian food places in the Bryan–College Station area,” while another raved that “the veg momos were fresh, and I could have eaten the sauce with a spoon”

Kanji Sushi brings modern Japanese flair to Bryan with artfully plated dishes that are as delicious as they are beautiful. Chef Tai Lee elevates sushi with signature creations like the Aburi Maguro, Zuke Sake, and the luxurious Fugo topped with 24-carat gold flakes. The menu also features inventive rolls, omakase experiences, and premium options like A5 Wagyu. Diners praise the fresh, creative flavors and immersive atmosphere, making Kanji one of Bryan–College Station’s standout dining destinations.

Frida’s Kitchen & Bar is a standout gem in Bryan’s dining scene, and a must-visit for anyone who appreciates food with soul (which, honestly, is all of us). Founder Irma Arellano brought Frida’s to life as a passion project rooted in her love for authentic Mexican heritage, cooking, and culture. Located on South Texas Avenue, Frida’s extends a warm invitation with its slogan “de nuestro corazón a su mesa”—“from our hearts to your table”—and every dish delivers on that promise.

Elia Café & Tapas Bar brings the vibrant flavors of Spain to the heart of Downtown Bryan. Housed in the historic Old Bryan Marketplace, this family-owned spot celebrates heritage with an inviting atmosphere, live music, and warm hospitality. The menu features Spanish classics like paella, gambas al ajillo, and croquettes, alongside house-made sangria and carefully curated wines. Whether you’re sharing tapas with friends or savoring dessert with a cocktail, Elia offers an experience that feels both authentic and unforgettable.

The Bryan Taco Trail launched in September 2021 and features dozens of authentic taquerias, Mexican restaurants, and even a few non-traditional & fusion taco offerings. From the trendy birria at Don Chente to the traditional pastor straight off the trompo at Taqueria Poblana, or even a Cubano taco complete with pulled pork & pickles at Proudest Monkey, there are so many incredible tacos to try. Whether you prefer to stick with the more traditional taqueria offerings, or like to venture out into the more unique fusion options… It’s all on the table here in Bryan!

Simply sign up for your digital passport & check in at participating restaurants to start earning points which can be redeemed for exclusive prizes!

Get started on your Bryan Taco Trail adventure today.