If you’re a lifelong Texan, then you know that some of the state’s best restaurants are hiding in rural areas. From mouthwatering barbecue joints to heartwarming southern diners, you won’t have a hard time stumbling across a delicious place to eat whenever you’re traveling the back roads of Texas' countryside. The following are the 8 best country restaurants in Texas. Believe us, these places are so worth the trip.

1. 7th Street Restaurant (Cushing)

In-between Jacksonville and Nacogdoches lies the tiny town of Cushing, population 656. This down-home eatery just might be the only thing keeping the town together, a theory that's strengthened by the many abandoned storefronts in the downtown district that the restaurant is located in. The chicken-fried steak is to die for, and the creamy mashed potatoes (with peels on, of course!) would be criminal to pass up. You'll find this eatery at 754 7th St, Cushing, TX 75760. To learn more, visit their website here.

2. The Frosty (Woodsboro)

This unassuming little country store is home to the famous "Tortilla Burger," every local's favorite meal. It uses tortillas as buns instead of bread! If that's a bit too strange for your liking, they also have all your favorite southern classics, like this full Thanksgiving-style meal with turkey & gravy, green bean casserole, dressing, and cranberry sauce. Head to 809 Wood Ave, Woodsboro, TX 78393 to experience it for yourself. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.

3. Babe's Chicken Dinner House (Roanoke)

Babe's is a fairly well-known and popular place to eat, and for good reason. The fried chicken and chicken-fried steak are absolute perfection, from the crispy outer crust to the tender, juicy meat and rich, creamy gravy on top. All-you-can-eat salad, biscuits, and creamed corn accompany every entree, and you can also order mashed potatoes with white gravy or french fries. Visit them at 104 N Oak St, Roanoke, TX 76262. Click here to learn more.

4. Willow Creek Cafe (Mason)

This charming cafe is exactly what you'd expect in a small Texas town -- an old-fashioned, antiquated exterior, service with a smile, and delicious southern comfort food complete with some of the best pies you've ever eaten. Flavors include chocolate meringue, apple, pecan, coconut cream, and cherry cheesecake - all equally scrumptious options. Visit Willow Creek Cafe at 106 Fort McKavett St, Mason, TX 76856. Click here to learn more.

5. Inman's Kitchen Bar-B-Q (Llano)

With all the barbecue in the Llano area, it's easy for the smaller, lesser-known places to get swept under the rug - but it's time to bring Inman's to the front of the line. The meat is tender and immensely flavorful, there's a good selection of sides, and the pies are absolutely mouthwatering. You'll find this hidden gem at 809 W Young St, Llano, TX 78643. To learn more, visit their website here.

6. Smokestack Restaurant (Thurber)

Smokestack Restaurant is located in a town with a population of just 8 people, so the fact that it's able to sustain itself is enough of a testament to its quality. Everything from burgers to chicken fried steak to homemade pies is equally delicious. Next time you're in between Fort Worth and Lubbock, don't hesitate to stop by this little hole in the wall and give it a try. You'll find it at 239 Private Road 741, Mingus, TX 76463. Click here to learn more.

7. Harmon's Barbecue (Cibolo)

San Antonio may not be particularly well-known for its barbecue, so you'll have to get out of the city for your fix. Harmon's BBQ is just the place; the smoked turkey, ribs, and brisket are cooked to perfection, and the sides, including creamed corn and coleslaw, make for the perfect compliment to your meal. You'll find this tasty BBQ joint at 102 S Main St, Cibolo, TX 78108. Click here to learn more.

8. Isaacks Restaurant (Junction)

This adorable diner will whisk you straight back to the 1950s starting with the vintage neon sign posted outside. You'll find plenty of variety on the menu, but anyone who's been there knows the onion rings are the star of the show. Fried to perfection, the intended side will inevitably turn into a meal when you realize you're too full to eat anything else - but you won't even care because they're so delicious. Go ahead and indulge a little at 1606 Main St, Junction, TX 76849. To learn more, visit their website here.

Have you ever been to any of these small town restaurants in Texas? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts with us the comments below! And if you know another tasty eatery we should feature, nominate it on our online form here.

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