The parking lots surrounding AT&T Stadium have long been hallowed ground for barbecue pits, burger griddles, and rows of coolers decked out in silver and blue. If you’d rather let a proven pro handle the pre-game spread or want a lively spot to celebrate a Cowboys win, turn to the North Texas restaurants that wowed Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. From legendary smokers to creative burger joints, these kitchens keep the Lone Star flavor flowing, making it easy to roll straight into tailgate mode.

1. Pecan Lodge — Dallas, TX

Set in the heart of Deep Ellum, Pecan Lodge turns out the kind of slow-smoked brisket and ribs that practically beg to be the centerpiece of a game-day feast. The line can snake around the block, but patient fans know the payoff is moist meat, peppery bark, and a friendly staff that understands you may be hauling half the menu back to a tailgate. Order by the pound, snag a pile of butcher paper, and you’re already halfway to the parking lot party.

2. Maple & Motor — Dallas, TX

Just a short hop up Interstate 35, Maple & Motor plates up half-pound burgers that embrace dive-bar charm in the best way. Football crowds appreciate the garage-door dining room, ice-cold beer selection, and no-nonsense service that keeps things moving during a busy Sunday. Grab a sack of burgers and tots for the whole crew, or linger at a picnic table to soak in the pre-kickoff chatter.

3. Twisted Root Burger Co. — Dallas, TX

Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for playful toppings and scratch condiments, Twisted Root Burger Co. is a natural stop for fans who like a little swagger with their beef. The generous portions, creative game-meat options, and self-serve pickle bar translate seamlessly to tailgate trays. Plus, its Deep Ellum location puts you minutes from the stadium spur, giving you extra time to set up chairs and claim bragging rights.

4. Red’s Texas Cafe — Fort Worth, TX

Since 1978, Fred’s Texas Cafe has been a neighborhood joint where country guitar riffs mingle with the aroma of mesquite. Guy loved its laid-back cowboy attitude and big-flavor plates—both ideal traits for a post-game bite or a roadie meal before the drive to Arlington. Patio seating (complete with ceiling fans) keeps the party comfortable even when September temperatures are flirting with triple digits.

5. Choop House Burgers — Arlington, TX

You can practically smell the smoke from AT&T Stadium at this Arlington staple, and Guy zeroed in on the beefy house grind during his visit. The signature Chop House Burger is a crowd-pleaser, but the menu’s variety means even picky eaters in your caravan leave happy. Call ahead for a box-load of patties and house-made chips, then roll into Lot 4 like a seasoned offensive line.

6. Cane Rosso — Dallas, TX

If you crave something beyond smoke and burgers, the certified-VPN pies at Cane Rosso bring a taste of Italy to game day. The fast bake time means large orders of margheritas and pepperoni arrive hot and blistered, ready to slide into insulated carriers. On Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Guy admired the char on the crust—your fellow fans will, too, when you open the box during a TV timeout.

7. Avila’s Restaurant — Dallas, TX

Tucked into a cozy house near Love Field, Avila’s has been ladling red chile gravy since the early ’80s. The family vibe shines through in generous combo plates perfect for sharing, and the kitchen efficiently packages large take-out orders for groups. Swing by on the way to the game for salsa-soaked comfort that pairs just as nicely with an ice-cold cerveza under the tailgate tent.

8. Louie Mueller Barbecue — Taylor, TX

Planning an away-game pilgrimage down I-35? Make a detour to this Central Texas smoke cathedral, where the pepper-crusted beef rib made national headlines on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. The century-old pits impart a depth of flavor that survives the drive back to DFW, giving your tailgate a legendary flair that rivals the team’s Super Bowl highlight reel.