College Station's Culinary Scene: A Delicious Expansion

College Station, Texas, and its neighboring city Bryan, are experiencing a surge in exciting new dining and entertainment options. From national chains making their mark to unique, locally-owned establishments, there's something to satisfy every palate and interest. Bryan, in particular, is blossoming into a true food lover's destination, with fresh concepts constantly emerging.

National Chains Arrive: Portillo's Coming to College Station

A well-known national restaurant chain, Portillo’s, is set to open a new location in College Station. Commercial Real Estate company Oldham Goodwin made the announcement that Portillo’s leased the space where Las Palapas used to be, directly across from Texas A&M University. The new Portillo's will occupy a 6,250 square foot building and feature a convenient "double-stacked drive-thru." Headquartered in Illinois, Portillo’s is expanding its presence in Texas, joining existing locations in the DFW Metroplex, Houston, and San Antonio. The fast-casual restaurant is known for its diverse menu featuring classic American favorites such as hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, and burgers. This addition promises to be a popular spot for students and residents alike.

Bryan's Eclectic Culinary Landscape

Bryan boasts a diverse and rapidly evolving food scene, with a focus on unique concepts and locally-owned businesses.

Sweet and Savory Delights

Gummy Bueno offers a playful combination of a candy store and taqueria. This rare establishment allows diners to enjoy both savory and sweet treats, starting with tostadas or pizza and ending with gummy-covered popsicles.

Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Little Tokyo is a budget-friendly Japanese restaurant offering a variety of authentic izakaya-themed dishes. The menu includes ramen, bento specials, and sushi rolls, along with favorites like katsu curry, shrimp tempura, takoyaki, and steamed bao buns with pork chashu.

Mexican Flavors in Historic Downtown Bryan

Casa Monarca brings delicious Mexican cuisine to the heart of Historic Downtown Bryan. The restaurant's relaxed and stylish atmosphere is complemented by top-notch margaritas and specialty Birria Quesadillas.

Ramen and Sushi Fusion

Bo's Ramen & Sushi House is quickly gaining popularity in Bryan. Their extensive menu features a variety of ramen, sushi, and milk tea options. Daily lunch specials and happy hour specials on ramen and half-off boba add to the appeal.

Shipwreck Grill's New Voyage

Shipwreck Grill has moved to a new location. Their new location opened on September 3, 2024. At the new location, the team at Shipwreck Grill continues to serve their delicious menu items, including tasty crawfish.

Coffee, Bagels, and Brews

Sunbeam Bagels, a cozy bagel and coffee shop, has recently opened in Historic Downtown Bryan. With a spacious patio, delicious coffee, and hand-rolled bagels, it's an ideal spot for a morning outing. Adjacent to Sunbeam Bagels is The Owl Pub & Grill, offering great cocktails and pub fare. The Owl features a large patio, ample indoor seating, and a vintage photo booth. Sunbeam Bagels and The Owl are new concepts from Jake Mitchell, Aggie Alum and owner of Rx Pizza. The names are a nod to the passenger train that used to run along the nearby railroad tracks: "The Sunbeam" was the morning train from Houston to Dallas, and "The Owl" was the night train returning to Houston.

International Flavors

Aroma Cuisine is thriving with traditional dishes from tikka masala to chili dumplings. Test your spice limits with the deep fried shrimp appetizers and the chicken vindaloo curry. Don't forget to cool down with a cup of mango lassi-the perfect sweet yogurt drink!

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Healthy Bites

Nourish your soul and body with healthy bites from Toasted Daybreak Cafe. Choose between sweet and savory toast options, including peanut butter with berries, honey and bananas, as well as lox with chives, cream cheese, and cucumber. Enjoy your quick bite in the cafe's hygge-worthy space and pair the experience with a refreshing smoothie!

Unique Cafe and Event Space

This unique, locally-owned cafe, kitchen, and event space recently opened its doors along Texas Avenue. Stop by La Bougainvillea for sweet treats, keto-friendly snacks, Venezuelan empanadas, and more. Be sure to keep an eye out for their monthly events, including cooking classes and dinner parties!

Sweet Treats and Eats

Honey's Favored Sweets & Eats has a new location in Downtown Bryan! At this perfect spot you'll find snow cones, funnel cakes, boudin balls, dessert nachos and so much more. You'll be sure to find something unique at this local spot.

Gourmet Bites at the Presidential Library

Nestled in the Locomotive Pavilion at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, Daisy's Table offers gourmet bites at budget-friendly prices. Whether you're looking for a quick bite for the road or craving a midday treat, this airy cafe has you covered. The breakfast sandwiches and pastries are just some of the highlights on the menu.

Arts and Entertainment in Bryan

Bryan is also experiencing growth in its arts and entertainment sector.

New Art Gallery and Event Space

The Parker-Astin is home to a new art gallery and event space. Keep an eye on their events calendar for upcoming gallery shows, special events, and more.

Accommodation in Bryan

The LaSalle Hotel

Whether it's for a vacation or a staycation, there's plenty of great places to rest your head in Bryan, Texas. Discover where to kick up your boots & settle in to southern hospitality. The LaSalle Hotel has officially opened as one of Marriott's Tribute Portfolio hotels. With 50 newly-renovated, boutique-style guest rooms and five luxury suites (along with an upscale new restaurant and Prohibition-era themed speakeasy), a stay at this historic hotel is sure to be one for the books.

Upcoming Attractions in Bryan

The culinary and entertainment scene in Bryan continues to expand with several spots slated to open soon. KinderHill Brew Lab and The Wild Garlic will reopen at their new location (505 W 31st St in Bryan) in 2025. Midtown will welcome Schulman's Movie Bowl Grille in 2025, an entertainment hub that will feature a movie theater, bowling alley, arcade, a second-level (21+ only) restaurant and brewery, and an outdoor amphitheater for live music and open-air movie screenings.

De Baca

At De Baca, the focus is on high-quality ingredients, elevated technique, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Chef Swetnam’s menu features a refined selection of expertly prepared steaks and thoughtfully curated sides. Every dish is a tribute to tradition and taste, designed for guests who appreciate excellence without pretension. At De Baca, the atmosphere feels just right, elevated yet welcoming. It’s the kind of place where you can celebrate life’s big moments or simply enjoy a great ribeye with the people you love.

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