The Ultimate Guide to Dining Near DFW Airport: A Local Chef's Perspective
The Ultimate Guide to Dining Near DFW Airport: A Local Chef's Perspective
For many travelers flying through Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), finding a great meal before takeoff or during a long layover can be a challenge. Whether you're arriving at DFW, waiting for your next flight, or have a few hours to spare, Chef Point Bar & Restaurant is the perfect stop—just nine minutes from the terminals.
For over 25 years, we've welcomed hungry travelers, airline crews, and locals looking for a chef-driven dining experience near DFW Airport. With a full bar, free WiFi, and our legendary Bloody Best Bloody Mary make us a top pick for anyone who wants more than just airport food.
Traveling with Luggage?
DFW no longer provides on-site baggage storage due to post-9/11 security changes. If you visit Chef Point, we're happy to hold your bags while you dine. Alternatively, many airlines allow luggage check-in up to four hours before departure, giving you extra time to explore top local restaurants stress-free.
Here's your insider's guide to the best restaurants near DFW Airport, from historic Texas flavors to hidden gems worth the trip.
Best Restaurants Near DFW Airport (within 15 minutes)
Chef Point Bar & Restaurant
Distance from DFW: 9 minutes
Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives
Family-owned for 25 years | Free WiFi | Full Bar with TVs & Wine List
A unique blend of Italian-American comfort food with African-inspired specials, Chef Point has become a DFW dining institution. From our legendary Bloody Best Bloody Mary to our chef-driven duck à l'orange and stuffed pork chops, we offer a layover-friendly dining experience with unlimited tea and coffee refills—perfect for travelers needing a break from airport chaos.
Location:
Chef Point Bar & Restaurant
5220 State Hwy 121, Colleyville, TX 76034
(817) 826-9664 | info@chefpointcafe.org
Make a Reservation at Chef Point
NAPA Thai Asian Cuisine
Distance from DFW: 15 minutes
One of my family's absolute favorite restaurants, NAPA Thai offers healthy options, a great bar, and some of the best Thai food in the DFW area. The name "NAPA" comes from the Thai language, meaning "The Blue Infinite", a reflection of the restaurant's tranquil and stylish atmosphere. Open since 2018, NAPA Thai is a foodie heaven, known for authentic Thai flavors, craft cocktails, and a relaxing ambiance that blends modern elegance with traditional Thai culture.
Esparza's Mexican Restaurant (Downtown Grapevine)
Distance from DFW: 15 minutes
Accessible via TEXRail from DFW Airport
Located in historic downtown Grapevine, Esparza's is a local Tex-Mex legend. Known for its famous margaritas and authentic flavors, this spot is ideal for travelers who want a true taste of Texas hospitality in a vibrant setting.
Worth a Longer Trip (20-30 Minutes from DFW)
Babe's Chicken Dinner House (Carrollton)
Distance from DFW: 20 minutes
For authentic Texas comfort food, Babe's Chicken Dinner House is a must-visit. Their chicken-fried steak with creamy gravy, homemade biscuits, and legendary pies create the ultimate Texas feast.
Visit Babe's Chicken Dinner House
Joe T. Garcia's (Fort Worth)
Distance from DFW: 30 minutes
Best for longer layovers or evening arrivals
A Fort Worth institution since 1935, Joe T. Garcia's serves authentic Tex-Mex in one of the most famous patios in Texas. If your layover allows, head here between 3:30–5:30 p.m. to avoid crowds.
Joe T. Garcia's Official Website
Best Restaurants Inside DFW Airport (For Short Layovers)
For those with tighter connections, DFW Terminals offer great dining options:
CRU Food & Wine Bar (Terminal D)
Named "Airport Wine Bar of the Year" in 2019, CRU is perfect for relaxing with a wine flight and charcuterie board.
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen (Terminal A & Terminal C)
Inspired by the vibrancy of New Orleans' French Quarter, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is the largest concept in one of the largest family-owned and operated restaurant companies in the United States. The Pappas family of restaurants offers an array of cuisines and experiences, but common to all is a tradition of generous hospitality, creative thinking, and excellence in all they do. Proudly based in Houston, Texas, since 1967, Pappadeaux delivers bold Cajun flavors, including fresh seafood, gumbo, and étouffée, making it one of the best sit-down dining options inside DFW Airport.
Visit Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
Whataburger (Terminal D)
Texas' most famous fast-food chain, serving classic burgers and fries.
Whataburger's Official Website
Pro Tips for Dining Near DFW Airport
- Allow at least 2.5 hours of leaving the airport for a meal.
- Use TEXRail for stress-free travel to downtown Grapevine.
- Avoid peak traffic (7-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.) when heading to off-airport restaurants.
- Try hidden gems—small, family-owned Tex-Mex cafés and historic diners in Grapevine and Colleyville often deliver a more authentic experience than corporate chains.
- If you're traveling with luggage, remember that DFW no longer offers storage facilities. At Chef Point, we're happy to hold your bags while you dine.
The Bottom Line: Where to Eat Near DFW Airport
From historic Tex-Mex in Grapevine to chef-driven cuisine at Chef Point, DFW travelers have incredible dining options just minutes from the terminals. If you're on a short layover, stick with CRU, Pappadeaux, or Whataburger inside the airport. But if you have a little extra time, venture out—some of the best Texas dining experiences are right outside DFW's gates.
Looking for the best layover dining near DFW?
Join us at Chef Point—just 9 minutes from the airport.
Make a Reservation at Chef Point