The Best Restaurants in Killeen, TX: Local Dining Spots Worth a Visit

By Rebecca Thompson

Killeen may be best known as the home of Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), but its dining scene is quietly keeping pace with the city’s steady growth. What was once a collection of chain-heavy options has turned into a local patchwork of ambitious kitchens and family-run operations serving everything from tender brisket to surprisingly good ramen. I’ve spent more than a few meals here, wiping brisket grease off my fingers and debating whether I need that second (or third) taco. Killeen may not shout about its culinary offerings, but it doesn’t need to—the food speaks for itself.

Brick & Forge

1. Brick and Forge Taproom

Brick and Forge Taproom offers the kind of hearty American fare that pairs perfectly with a cold beer. Their burgers are stacked and unapologetically messy, but it’s the wood-fired pizzas that steal the show. Try the "Forge Favorite" with pepperoni, sausage, and a house-made marinara that leans on just the right amount of tang. The laid-back, industrial-chic vibe makes it a great spot for dinner with friends or a casual date night.

2. Acropolis Greek Cuisine

For a taste of the Mediterranean, Acropolis Greek Cuisine delivers fresh, flavorful dishes with a generous side of hospitality. The moussaka, layered with tender eggplant, ground beef, and creamy béchamel, is a standout, while the gyro platters overflow with perfectly seasoned meat and fluffy pita. Don’t skip the spanakopita—it’s flaky, savory, and everything it should be. The family-owned feel adds to the charm, making it a local favorite for Greek classics.

3. C & H Hawaiian Grill

For a taste of the islands in the middle of Texas, C & H Hawaiian Grill brings generous portions of Hawaiian comfort food. The loco moco, a mountain of rice, hamburger patty, and fried egg smothered in brown gravy, is pure stick-to-your-ribs satisfaction. Pair it with their macaroni salad, sweetened just enough to balance the savory dishes, and you’re set. The plate lunch vibe is casual and nostalgic, the kind of spot you return to weekly.

4. Arepitas

Arepitas brings Venezuelan comfort food to Killeen. The namesake arepas are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and generously stuffed with fillings like shredded beef, black beans, and melted cheese. Their cachapas (sweet corn pancakes) are equally addictive, especially when paired with tangy crema. The space is cozy, and the staff treats you like family—the way a good arepa shop should.

5. Petty’s BBQ

Petty’s BBQ keeps it simple, smoky, and satisfying. This family-run spot serves up brisket that falls apart at the touch of a fork and ribs with a smoky bark that speaks to hours spent in the smoker. Don’t skip the sides—the baked beans have just the right amount of sweetness, and the potato salad is creamy perfection. It’s everything you want from Texas barbecue without any of the fuss.

6. Taqueria Mexico

I don’t toss around the phrase "best tacos" lightly, but the small local chain of Taqueria Mexico restaurants have the goods to back it up. The tacos al pastor comes with pineapple so sweet it feels like dessert snuck into dinner. The carne asada, charred and tender, needs little more than the house-made salsa and a squeeze of lime. There are no frills here, just honest, deeply satisfying tacos and sizzling fajitas that might ruin you for other places.

7. KPOT

Killeen’s food scene gets a welcome jolt of interactivity at KPOT, a Korean BBQ and hot pot hybrid. Tables come equipped with grills and simmering broths, letting diners cook everything from thinly sliced brisket to shrimp, tofu, and vegetables. The variety of dipping sauces makes every bite customizable, and the all-you-can-eat setup ensures you leave happy (and full). It’s a lively spot perfect for groups or adventurous eaters.

8. Krab Kingz

Seafood boils in Killeen might seem like a risky bet, but Krab Kingz proves otherwise. This casual joint specializes in Cajun-style boils drenched in garlic butter that could probably solve minor world crises. The shrimp and crab legs come out piping hot, accompanied by corn, potatoes, and sausage. Bring napkins—lots of them—because there’s no dainty way to get through this meal.

El Taco Jalisco Mexican Restaurant Killeen TX

9. El Taco Jalisco

El Taco Jalisco might not look like much from the outside, but it’s home to some of Killeen’s best traditional Mexican plates. The chile rellenos is everything you want: a crispy fried chile stuffed with cheese and smothered in a richly flavored sauce. The salsa bar, stocked with everything from mild tomatillo to fiery red chili, gives you a reason to experiment. Grab an agua fresca, and you’ve got the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

10. Bobby B’s Soul Food Kitchen

Bobby B’s on Zephyr Road is soul food at its unapologetic best—warm, generous, and seasoned like someone’s grandma is working the back burners. The smothered pork chops arrive so tender they could double as a pillow, and the collard greens don’t need a single extra shake of hot sauce (but you’ll do it anyway). The cornbread, crumbly and sweet, practically demands a follow-up visit.