This Iconic Texas Buffet Is Known For BBQ And Sides Locals Call The Best In The State
If you have not yet experienced the legendary spread at The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, you are missing out on one of the most talked-about dining adventures in Texas.
This place has built a reputation that stretches far beyond its famous 72-ounce steak challenge, offering a buffet loaded with barbecue and sides that locals swear by.
Whether you are passing through on a road trip or making a special trip just to eat, the combination of smoky meats, hearty sides, and that unmistakable Texas hospitality makes every visit unforgettable.
A Landmark Of Amarillo And Route 66 Americana
The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo is one of the most recognizable landmarks along historic Route 66, standing out with its towering cowboy statue and unmistakable neon signage.
Originally opened in 1960, the business was first located on Amarillo Boulevard before relocating closer to Interstate 40 to follow the flow of cross-country travelers.
Its larger-than-life exterior was designed to capture the spirit of Texas bravado, instantly signaling that this is no ordinary roadside stop.
Over the decades, it has become a symbol of Amarillo itself, often serving as a first impression for visitors entering the Texas Panhandle.
The surrounding open landscape reinforces its frontier identity, blending wide skies with bold architecture.
Few places in the region are as instantly identifiable from the highway.
Iconic Texas Roadside History
Beyond its visibility, The Big Texan functions as a destination rather than a simple pit stop, drawing tourists from around the world.
Its Western-themed interior, complete with rustic décor and oversized design elements, reflects a romanticized vision of Texas history.
The location also includes a motel and gift shop, reinforcing its role as a self-contained travel experience.
Situated just east of downtown Amarillo, it benefits from easy interstate access while still feeling rooted in regional heritage.
Generations of travelers have marked their journeys by stopping here, turning the site into a shared cultural reference point. In many ways, The Big Texan represents Amarillo’s blend of roadside Americana, showmanship, and enduring local pride.
Fluffy Dinner Rolls Fresh From The Oven
Dinner rolls might seem like an afterthought at some places, but The Big Texan treats them with the respect they deserve.
These rolls come out warm and fluffy, with a golden crust that gives way to a soft, pillowy interior.
A pat of butter melts instantly when you tear one open, soaking into the bread and adding richness to every bite.
The slight sweetness of the roll balances the savory barbecue flavors, making them perfect for soaking up sauces or enjoying on their own.
I always grab at least two because they are the kind of bread that makes you want to slow down and savor the moment.
The texture stays light and airy, never dense or doughy like some rolls you encounter at buffets.
Locals know to hit the roll basket early because fresh batches disappear quickly once people realize how good they are.
Whether you use them to make little brisket sandwiches or simply enjoy them with butter, these rolls add a comforting touch to an already impressive spread.
Sweet And Smoky Baked Beans
Baked beans at The Big Texan offer a sweeter take on the classic side, with molasses and brown sugar creating a rich, candy-like sauce.
Bits of bacon or ham add a savory element that keeps the beans from tipping too far into dessert territory.
The beans cook low and slow until they reach a thick, syrupy consistency that clings to your spoon.
Each bite delivers layers of flavor, from the initial sweetness to the smoky finish that lingers on your palate.
These beans pair especially well with the tangier barbecue items, creating a balance that makes your taste buds dance.
The contrast between sweet and savory keeps the meal interesting from start to finish.
I have noticed that families with kids tend to gravitate toward these beans because the flavor profile appeals to younger palates while still satisfying adults.
The Big Texan clearly puts time and care into this dish, and it shows in every spoonful you scoop onto your plate.
Tangy Pickles And Onions
Pickles and onions might seem like minor players, but they serve a crucial role in cutting through the richness of barbecue.
The Big Texan offers both dill pickles and pickled onions, each providing a sharp, tangy bite that refreshes your palate.
The pickles stay crisp and cold, offering a cool contrast to the warm meats.
The onions bring a sweeter, more delicate acidity that adds brightness without overwhelming heat.
I always grab a few pickle spears and a pile of onions because they help pace the meal and keep my taste buds engaged.
The acidity cuts through the fat of the brisket and ribs, making each subsequent bite taste as good as the first.
Barbecue veterans know that these little additions make a big difference in the overall dining experience.
The Big Texan keeps these condiments fresh and well-stocked throughout the meal service, ensuring that everyone can customize their plate to their exact preferences and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors.
Golden Cornbread Squares
Cornbread at The Big Texan arrives in perfect golden squares that crumble just slightly when you break them apart.
The texture lands somewhere between cake and bread, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
A subtle sweetness plays against the corn flavor, creating a taste that complements both sweet and savory dishes.
The top develops a slight crust while the interior stays moist and fluffy.
During one visit, I watched someone make a little sandwich with brisket tucked between two pieces of cornbread, and it looked so good I had to try it myself.
The cornbread soaks up the meat juices and barbecue sauce without falling apart, which speaks to its sturdy yet tender structure.
Locals often mention the cornbread as one of their favorite sides because it feels authentically Southern and pairs perfectly with everything on the buffet.
Whether you eat it plain, with butter, or as a vehicle for your favorite meats, this cornbread delivers comfort and satisfaction in every single bite.
Fresh Garden Salad Bar
A fresh salad bar provides a lighter option for those who want to balance out the heavier barbecue items.
The Big Texan keeps the salad bar stocked with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a variety of other vegetables.
Multiple dressing options allow you to customize your salad to your taste, from creamy ranch to tangy vinaigrettes.
The vegetables stay fresh and cold throughout the meal service, which is impressive given the volume of diners passing through.
I appreciate having the salad option because it adds color and nutrition to a plate that might otherwise be entirely brown and beige.
The crunch of fresh vegetables provides a textural contrast that makes the entire meal more interesting.
Families with picky eaters or health-conscious diners appreciate that The Big Texan offers this lighter option alongside the barbecue feast.
Whether you fill an entire plate with salad or just add a small portion to your meal, the freshness and quality of the vegetables enhance the overall dining experience.
Buttery Green Beans
Green beans offer a vegetable option that feels lighter than some of the other sides while still delivering satisfying flavor.
The Big Texan prepares them simply, with butter and seasonings that enhance rather than hide the natural taste of the beans.
The beans stay tender-crisp, never mushy or overcooked like some buffet vegetables.
A hint of garlic and onion adds depth without overwhelming the dish.
I always make sure to include some green beans on my plate because they provide a fresh, bright element that balances the richness of the meats.
The butter adds just enough richness to make them feel indulgent while still being a vegetable.
Families appreciate having options like green beans for kids who might be overwhelmed by the bolder flavors of barbecue.
The Big Texan treats even simple sides with care, ensuring that every dish on the buffet meets the high standards that have made this place a local favorite for generations of Texas diners.
Sweet Honey Butter
Honey butter might seem like a small detail, but it transforms simple bread items into something special.
The Big Texan offers a whipped honey butter that spreads easily and melts into warm rolls and cornbread.
The sweetness of the honey balances the richness of the butter, creating a topping that enhances without overpowering.
A light, fluffy texture makes it feel luxurious despite being such a simple combination.
I remember my first visit when I slathered honey butter on a warm roll and understood immediately why people rave about even the small touches at this place.
The butter adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory barbecue perfectly.
Locals know to grab extra honey butter because it makes everything taste better, from cornbread to biscuits to plain dinner rolls.
The Big Texan could easily skip this detail and still serve great food, but including touches like honey butter shows the level of care that goes into creating a memorable dining experience for every single guest.
Savory Gravy For Everything
Gravy might not be the star of the show, but it plays a crucial supporting role in making everything taste better.
The Big Texan offers a rich, savory gravy that you can pour over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even your meats.
The gravy has a deep, meaty flavor that comes from real drippings and stock, not from a powder or mix.
A smooth consistency ensures it coats everything evenly without being too thick or too thin.
During one memorable visit, I watched someone create what they called a Texas poutine by pouring gravy over fries, and it looked so good I had to try it myself.
The gravy adds moisture and flavor to anything it touches, elevating simple sides into something more substantial.
People who grew up eating gravy with every meal appreciate that The Big Texan keeps this classic condiment available and well-stocked throughout service.
Whether you use it sparingly or drown everything in sight, this gravy delivers rich, comforting flavor that makes you feel right at home.