Moving Stress + Great Gluten-Free Food in Waco, Texas

Discovering Waco’s Best Bites for GF Eating

Moving is no joke, friends. Between the towers of boxes, endless unpacking, and a steady stream of calls to electricians, landscapers, and painters (seriously, does the list ever end?), cooking has definitely taken a back seat. The silver lining? Eating out in Waco has given me a chance to explore some fantastic new-to-me restaurants—and let me tell you, a few really stood out.

Now, let’s get one thing straight: BBQ is practically its own food group here in Texas. Can I get an amen? I’m planning to do a full post just on BBQ once I’ve sampled more spots, but for now, one place deserves a special mention—Terry Black’s. Hands down, it’s the best I’ve had in Waco so far. Their menu is a dream for folks like me who look for gluten-free (GF), and they call out dairy-free (DF), and vegetarian (V) options too. Our large party ordered a family dinner loaded with brisket that was tender, smoky, and full of flavor. And I don’t usually gush about sausage, but the jalapeño cheese sausage? Oh my word. Just the right kick of spice and heat—perfection. Bonus: we sat outside on the porch, which was ideal since our little ones had space to stretch their legs.

Next up: Mexican food—which, if you ask me, deserves its own category too. One evening, after a hair appointment, Jeff and I headed to Sagrado Cocina and Bar (a tip from my new stylist!). Jeff had been waiting for me at Bitty & Beau’s Coffee nearby, so it was a natural choice for dinner. I’m so glad we tried it. Their elevated take on Mexican cuisine is both comforting and creative. We nibbled our way through small plates: grilled Mexican street corn that was smoky and addictive, guacamole with fresh chips, and of course, street tacos served on corn tortillas. All naturally gluten-free, all fresh, and all delicious.

But the crown jewel of our Waco dining so far? Without a doubt, Red Herring Restaurant & Bar. From the moment we walked in, I felt like I’d been transported back to a classic Chicago steakhouse—dark wood, low lighting, a splash of modern Texas charm. We settled into a cozy corner table and savored every bite of small plates we shared: sweet grilled carrots, a bright mixed green salad with goat cheese, prosciutto, and apples, and a rich lamb and mozzarella ragu. Everything was timed perfectly, beautifully prepared, gluten free, and just divine.

And then came dessert. Normally, I can’t touch cannoli, but Jeff ordered one. Imagine my delight when it arrived deconstructed: chocolate mousse in a bowl with creamy ricotta filling scoops on top, and the crunchy pastry on the side just for a garnish. Finally, a cannoli I could enjoy! I’m still dreaming about it.

Deconstructed cannoli at Red Herring Restaurant & Bar in Waco, TX

So yes, moving is exhausting—but exploring Waco one delicious bite at a time is making it a whole lot sweeter.

Enjoy,

Deb

The Musing Baker