15 of the Best Restaurants Near DBU

Local Happenings, Student Life

Students at Dallas Baptist University know that part of the college experience includes exploring the area and sharing the community with family and friends. Next time you’re looking for a place to grab a quick bite or sit down for a meaningful meal, try one of these restaurants near campus.

15 Tasty Spots to Eat Near Dallas Baptist University

Fast Food Favorites near DBU

Life in college gets busy. Having options for fast food near Dallas Baptist University’s campus will make it easier to stay fueled when you’re short on time.

The Coaches Box

When you’re looking for classic fast-food fare with a local twist, head to The Coaches Box, less than 10 minutes from DBU. You’ll find an impressive selection of burgers, sandwiches, wings, and sides for lunch and dinner. The Coaches Box is top-rated as one of the best places to find fast food that’s prepared fresh and from the heart. Make sure to save room for dessert if you visit; the peach cobbler is a must!

Raising Cane’s

If you’re in the mood for good ‘ole fashioned chicken fingers, Raising Cane’s is the place to go. This fast food chain is known for serving high-quality, tender chicken fingers alongside freshly made, hand-cut fries. Plus, there are several Raising Cane’s within a short driving distance from DBU — it’s the perfect quick lunch or early evening meal for chicken lovers!

Guanataco

Living in the Dallas area means plenty of Mexican food spots, but one of the best (by far) is Guanataco Taqueria. This spot is only five minutes from DBU and offers fast service (just like traditional Mexican street food) and more than 10 taco varieties. Mark your calendar for Taco Tuesdays for the lowest prices, or take a group of friends and buy in bulk for a discount.

Outlaw’s BBQ

One of the highest-rated barbeque spots in Dallas is just five minutes from the DBU campus: Outlaw’s BBQ. For more than 30 years, Outlaw’s has served quality barbecue for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Choose to dine in or order ahead for pickup. Either way, you’ll get fresh, home-cooked fast food.

Rice Pot

For a Chinese fast food option near Dallas Baptist University, head ten minutes away to Rice Pot. Sit outside on the patio while you take advantage of daily lunch specials, large portions, and the much-praised courteous staff. Repeat customers appreciate the freshly made food and relaxed atmosphere.

Pizzaiolo’s Pizza & Pasta

Ordering from Pizzaiolo’s is worth the 10-minute drive from DBU’s campus. The quality of this fast-food Italian fare is far above chain restaurants. Build your own pizza, sample the subs, or try one of the seafood entrees. Reviewers remind new customers not to overlook the salad options or the desserts, either.

Unique Dining Experiences Close to DBU

Finding a quality restaurant near DBU isn’t only about the food — the experience matters just as much. A night out with friends or family can be a memorable event at some of the best spots near campus, and many are still well within budget.

The Finch

Known for its delicious menu and memorable ambiance, The Finch has expanded to a new location in Grand Prairie. You can enjoy waterfront dining at this location, just 15 minutes away from DBU. Try the Raw Bar for some of the best seafood in the area, or visit on a weeknight to take advantage of the daily specials. The Finch is one of the top-rated restaurants thanks to its versatility and commitment to showcasing the true culinary gifts of its chefs. Whether you’re booking a casual lunch with friends, a sophisticated celebration, or a night out with the family, The Finch should be high on your list.

Nova

If you’re a fan of combining old and new, upscale and eclectic, then a visit to Nova gastro pub is for you. Consistently ranked one of the best restaurants in Dallas, this modern-day diner is just a short 15-minute drive from DBU in Oak Cliff. Enjoy the funky décor and stunning light fixtures while you sample the chef’s special each night. The seasonal menu offers high-quality options for everyone, even vegetarians or those looking for a lighter fare.

Roma’s Italian Bistro

Dining out should be fun, and the atmosphere at Roma’s Italian Bistro in Grand Prairie makes it easy to relax and enjoy good company. You’ll feel the energy and warmth of Italy’s culinary tradition when you visit this restaurant near DBU. Hand-painted murals on the walls bring Italian art and culture to life. Locals rave about the authentic Italian food, and the curbside pickup and delivery options make it easy to enjoy the best-selling dishes any time.

Options Near DBU for Every Meal

Some of the best restaurants near Dallas Baptist University are perfect for breakfast, brunch, dinner — and everything in between. Save time in your schedule to visit some of these spots and enjoy everything from traditional breakfast fare for brunch to local Mexican favorites, chicken, and pizza or pasta for dinner.

Good Day Café

Less than 10 minutes from DBU, the Good Day Café is a classic American diner with delicious breakfast food served all day. Locals return again and again for the family-friendly atmosphere and consistently tasty food. In fact, the original location wasn’t big enough to accommodate so many repeat customers who bring family and friends every chance they get. Order from the impressive selection of ten unique omelets, or create your own platter of sweet and savory bites.

First Watch

Upscale and creative dining isn’t just for dinner. Try First Watch in Grand Prairie and enjoy brunch celebrating culinary creativity and local flavors. This restaurant is one of the most popular spots in the DBU area, so save your place in the virtual line before you head out the door. You’ll find seasonal specials on the menu, including delicious fruit juices and coffees.

Chuy’s Tex-Mex

No Dallas restaurant list is fully complete without highlighting Tex-Mex! Enter: Chuy’s. Founded in Austin, Texas in 1982, its popularity helped the chain grow to the more than 90 locations across the U.S. open today. Its authentic Tex-Mex menu features favorites like fajitas, quesadillas, enchiladas, burritos, and tacos — all with handmade tortillas, fresh ingredients, and signature sauces that give the food an extra kick. You can find a few Chuy’s near DBU, so, if you’re hankering for some Tex-Mex, you know where to go.

Babe’s Chicken

Grandma’s recipes and a family-friendly atmosphere rule the roost at Babe’s Chicken. It's located about 9 driving miles north of DBU and boasts a casual, sit-down atmosphere and delicious country-style food that uses only the freshest ingredients. Babe’s is a popular chain with 10 Texas restaurants total, so be sure to get there early to snag a table!

Sam’s Pizza and Pasta

Whether you’re looking for a sub sandwich, calzone, pizza, or pasta, you’ll find a delicious version at Sam’s Pizza and Pasta. The restaurant is located about 10 driving miles south of DBU, with people saying it has a “homey atmosphere” and a go-to spot for family and friends.

Mija Barbecue

Located about 13 driving miles from DBU, Mija Barbecue is arguably one of the best barbecue joints in the area. Its founder started barbecuing as a hobby and morphed his love of cooking into a restaurant with unique Mexico-meets-American flavors the owner dubs “Texican Style.” Their award-winning street tacos alone are worth the visit, but traditional offerings of meat by the ½ pound, burgers, and BBQ sandwiches are readily available as well.

Whether you’re heading out for a quick bite or treating family and friends to a unique dining experience, these restaurants near Dallas Baptist University are all worth a visit.