Lone Star Cafe is your go-to destination for classic American comfort food in Hillsboro, TX. Conveniently located just off I-35 at Exit 368—right before the Fort Worth/Dallas split—we’re an easy stop whether you’re a local or passing through. For over 30 years we’ve been serving up our famous chicken-fried steak and juicy burgers to hearty meatloaf and homestyle favorites, our kitchen serves up the kind of meals that feel like home. With a full bar, big screens for the game, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, Lone Star Cafe is the perfect place to relax, refuel, and enjoy good food and good company. Quick on-and-off highway access makes us a must-stop for road trips and travelers heading toward DFW.
Easygoing American place with vintage signs featuring homestyle Texan fare & other hearty eats.
Belen Ruiz
I am so glad I finally pulled over! I’m constantly commuting between Fort Worth and Waco, and the name of this spot finally piqued my interest. If you’re looking for authentic home-cooked vibes, this is it!
I kicked things off with the stuffed egg rolls—tangy, rich, and loaded with cream cheese. Even though the ranch was a bit runny, the flavor was spot on with those crispy shells. Then came the main event: the fried catfish. OMG. The portions are massive! I got two huge fillets over white rice with fried okra and mac on the side. Honestly? It’s easily some of the best catfish I’ve ever had—perfectly seasoned, crunchy, and amazing with a squeeze of lemon.
The mac was a little loose, but the flavor was still delightful. Major props to my server, too; they were super attentive even with a few large parties in the house. Just a heads-up: the bar is smoking-friendly, so I opted for the dining room to keep my lungs (and my food) clear. The bathrooms could use a little TLC, but for food this good? It’s a must-stop off I-35!
… moreMichael Nuzzi
We were traveling through Hillsboro, TX and wanted a bite to eat at a non fast-food place, and found this place right off of I-35, and we were glad we did! The parking lot was full which reassured us we made a good choice, and the positive reviews reinforced that. Upon entering the facility, we were promptly greeted, and brought to our table in the cozy dining room. Our server greeted us promptly and took our drink order. We chose to order the meatloaf entree along with the chicken finger dinner. Our drinks and meals arrived promptly, and the meals were hot and fresh. Definitely check this place out if you’re in the area and craving a good home-cooked meal.
… moreErnest Valdez
Ordered the Bubbalo Chicken Sandwich. Upon first looks I was disappointed because the Sandwich came as a plain fried chicken sandwich with the Buffalo sauce (Frank’s Red Hot) on the side and not dipped in the sauce already. I love Frank’s Red Hot so I slathered up the fried chicken brest and added the side of ranch as well. This is the perfect example of why not to judge a book by its cover. The 1st bite and I was in love. The chicken is so moist and tender, the exact right amount of breading and the bun is a good solid bun holding up to the sauce. This is my new favorite Buffalo chicken sandwich. Sorry Popeyes.
… moreChris Vaughn
We enjoy stopping in here every time we’re in Hillsboro. We had a party of 11 and waited less than 5 minutes for a table on a Saturday at 5:30. The appetizers and entrees were large and cooked to perfection. The waitress was friendly but could’ve been more attentive to refill drinks and remove leftover plates. My nephew is on a very strict diet and requested just a steak with no seasoning except salt which they accommodated.
… moreClay Bradley
I’d say it was a solid 4, took a time or 5 to see it. Service is really fast, but sometimes seems forgetful. Sundays are particularly inconsistent, but never really any issues. I’d say 85% of the time my food was on point. Those onion rings tho. AMAZING!!! Don’t get the catfish if you’re really expecting catfish. Maybe it was late and didnt think I’d notice. Whatever it was, wasn’t bad. Prices are pretty fair, plenty of seating and parking spots. The lady at the door could stand to find a lil better personality. Shes never very personable. Over all its a good place to eat. Just has some minor things, but check it out if you come thru town.
… moreEdie Corbitt
Excellent steak, baked potato & salad 3 diners from early dinner. Quick service, friendly staff and plated so appealing.
… morewbred83
Great food, very nice staff, bartender was really nice and interactive, cool environment, we try to eat here everything we pass through town.
… moreGeorge
It’s a whole different experience beyond the food they serve, very kind people work here, food is very delicious
… moreRobert Wooster
Can you give a zero for service? Poor service. Ate there 2/19 Took over an hour to get food and eat burger. When checking out the waitress took card, charged me 49 and some change. 5 minutes later charged me 62 plus. When she came back I asked why I was double charged, told oh just a mistake. You will get your money back next week. I asked the manager, a waitress showed up 5 minutes later, never introducing herself as a manager. Said it was just a mistake. When I asked why I wasn’t just charged the difference, was told she couldn’t. But they as don’t produce the original refund paperwork either. She got mad and stormed off says well you probably will get all of it back. We waited a couple minutes and after another table walked out, we right behind them.
Food was awesome. The server we had was horrible and the supposed manager was either a bad manager or just faking it.
We live in the area so sadly that place is crossed off our list!
… moreRenee Brewer
We saw the mixed reviews! Our experience was great. The place was a little busy but we were able to sit in the bar. Eric hurried over and got the order. The fried mushrooms are amazing! I was full by the time the salad got there. My husband said the pinto beans were spot on! The water tastes good, they make their own Ranch Dressing (has Mayo), the music was good and kept changing genre. The grilled chicken salad with veggies on the side was so delicious. The zucchini was grilled to perfection, soft with just a bit of crispy. The place made our day with fast service and great food. Thank you Eric! We will be back.
… more