Before you watch Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys work their magic, you’re going to need something to eat. Thankfully, AT&T Stadium is just a short walk or drive from a wide variety of restaurants, from Lone Star steakhouses and Tex-Mex joints to pizza parlors and good, old-fashioned sports bars. Stop at any of the below spots before kick-off and you’ll be more than ready to cheer on America’s Team.
Read MoreWhere to Eat and Drink Near the AT&T Stadium
Pappasito's Cantina
For huge servings of Tex-Mex cuisine in a lively setting, look no further than Pappasito’s. Here, the salsa and flour tortillas are handmade, the guacamole is mashed tableside and the steak is marinated in a special recipe before hitting the mesquite-fired grill. Diners can also expect mixed ceviche, freshly baked desserts and a wide range of tequila, from basic blancos to rare añejos.
Blue Mesa Grill
This Southwestern grill takes an artisan approach to cooking, making everything from scratch with the freshest ingredients. Opt for the signature churrascaritas (flash-grilled skewers of jumbo shrimp, smoked pepper sausage, red chile-glazed steak and ginger-chipotle chicken) or try a specialty like the adobe pie, which goes perfectly with the more than 100 premium tequilas on offer.
Airways Hamburgers
If you’re seeking a quick, cheap meal before the game, head to Airways for a famous char-grilled hamburger. Cooked over an open flame with mesquite wood charcoal, the burgers here are both juicy and deliciously smoky. If you’re not in the mood for beef, the spot also offers fish burgers, fried chicken sandwiches and hot dogs. Just be sure to get some chili cheese fries with that.
Tailgate Tavern
Just steps from the stadium, this rowdy sports bar is home to the second largest TV screen in Arlington. Catch some pre-game commentary either inside or out on the patio while enjoying classic bar food like spicy wings, nachos with homemade beef chili, and burgers by the quarter- and half-pound. Wash it all down with a draft beer or specialty martini.
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
On a mission to serve the freshest seafood possible, Pappadeaux boasts generous portions of fried catfish, crawfish étoufée and Alaskan king crab. Also available are steaming bowls of gumbo, aged rib-eye steaks and pastas like linguine in marinara-cream sauce, which work best when followed by a slice of sweet potato pecan pie with vanilla ice cream.
Texas Land & Cattle
A self-described “true Lone Star steakhouse,” this Arlington favorite puts a Texas twist on Southern classics, using only locally raised beef. Look forward to juicy steaks in a range of cuts and sizes as well as brisket-stuffed jalapeños, flame-grilled chicken sandwiches and slowly smoked baby back ribs, all perfect for fueling up before a big game.
Mariano's Hacienda Arlington
Known for its steak fajitas, Mariano’s is also famous for inventing the frozen margarita machine on display in the National Museum of American History. Here, the chefs use sweet mesquite wood in a custom log-fired grill to give their chicken, steak and seafood an intensely smoky flavor. Whatever you order, be sure to also get a signature margarita, made with 100-percent blue agave tequila.
Marquez Bakery & Tortilla Factory
Family-owned and operated since 1990, Marquez got its start as a small Mexican bakery. Today, the community staple also offers a full menu, featuring everything from pork asado burritos and beef fajita tacos to chicken enchiladas and overstuffed tortas. Before heading out, make sure to grab some homemade flour tortillas to take home.
Babe’s Chicken Dinner House
A local institution, Babe’s is beloved for its down-home cooking. The only non-fried entrée on the menu is the hickory-smoked chicken, but you’re here for the chicken fried steak anyway. Pair it with sides like Grandma’s corn and buttermilk biscuits, then finish with a slice of homemade chocolate meringue pie. Everything is served family-style so it’s best to come with a group and share a bunch of dishes.
Mellow Mushroom
Born out of the hippie culture of the 1970s, this eclectic pizzeria serves hand-tossed, stone-baked Southern pies, favored for their flavorful crust, slow-cooked sauce and unique toppings. In the fun, art-filled space, guests pair pizzas like the Kosmic Karma (red sauce, feta, mozzarella, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, Roma tomatoes and pesto) with an extensive selection of craft beer, including several local favorites.