Lakefront at Little Elm in North Texas should be your next getaway destination if you want to experience upscale dining amidst a pristine sandy beach. This charming town of Little Elm on the stunning shores of Lake Lewisville is home to plenty of restaurants that serve delicious food in an unbeatable lakeside ambiance. We loved that it was small enough to be able to enjoy for our time, but still packed with a mixture of high quality dining options!
Having spent almost a week in this water paradise I can give you an “inside scoop” of the best dining spots in the heart of Little Elm.
Best Places to Eat in Lakefront Little Elm
Let’s dive into some of the best dining spots that Little Elm Lakefront has to offer.
Tender Smokehouse: Best for Melt-in-Your-Mouth Brisket and Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs
If you’re in the mood for some good barbecue, Tender Smokehouse is the perfect place to be. This spot is a meat lover’s paradise, known for its melt-in-your-mouth brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs. As seen in Texas Monthly, their Prime Brisket sandwich is guaranteed to win hearts, while loaded potatoes never fail to impress as they come out of the kitchen and grace your dinner table.
Be sure to try their jalapeño cheddar sausage—it has just the right kick to complement the smoky, savory flavors. They also have tempting options like Frito Pie and a delicious Banana Pudding. Add a side of their creamy mac and cheese, and you’re in for a treat. And here’s a tip for you: visit close to the end of breakfast hours so you can enjoy breakfast and the regular menu in one go.
When it comes to breakfast at Tender Smokehouse, you can expect a delightful experience! Enjoy tender, smoky brisket served alongside delicious homemade biscuits that are perfect for soaking up all the goodness. Dive into a stack of light and fluffy buttermilk pancakes, drizzled with syrup and topped with fresh fruit for a sweet start to your day.
Or, try their unique take on a breakfast sandwich, featuring perfectly melted cheese and your choice of smoked meats. Tender Smokehouse serves breakfast from 7:00 AM to 10:45 AM, making it the perfect spot to fuel up before a busy day or to enjoy a leisurely morning meal.
Hula Hut: Tex-Mex Meets Hawaiian Fusion
Craving a little tropical flair? Hula Hut brings the island vibes to Little Elm with its Tex-Mex-meets-Hawaiian fusion cuisine. The vibrant, tiki-inspired decor and waterfront patio with a live music scene make it feel like you’re on vacation, even just for a meal. Pipeline Enchiladas here are the real crowd-pleaser stuffed with spicy chicken and topped with a creamy Guajillo sauce.
Treat your taste buds to the mouthwatering Hula Hut Burger with Monterey Jack cheese & bacon, the flavorful Grilled Chicken Sandwich, or an extensive range of Five-O Fajitas.
No better way to end your meal than sipping on their refreshing Wipeout Margarita on the rocks or my personal favorite island cocktails served in fun 16-oz glasses.
Margarita Hut To Go: Top Cocktails and Margaritas
Sometimes all you need is a refreshing cocktail to unwind after a long day of exploration. With its tropical-themed bar, laid-back vibe, and killer margaritas, Margarita Hut To Go in the heart of the lakefront delivers just that. Their bestseller, Lemon-Lime Gold Margarita, is a must-try. For those who don’t like it too sweet, Blue Hawaiian is a mildly sweet beverage that hits the spot with a touch of blue raspberry.
The fun thing about this place is that you can take advantage of their cocktail-like drinks right there. Alternatively, you can opt for a sealed margarita to take out on the lake or home! They even let you sample their large list of frozen margaritas!
Of course, you can’t leave without trying their intensely alcoholic yet mildly sweet Hypnotic with just the right hint of grapes. Enjoy Happy Hour every Monday through Thursday from 12 PM to 7 PM. Meanwhile, ladies can take advantage of the Wednesday Special – $2.50 in-house margaritas all day long.
Towers Tap House: All About Meat, Cheese, and Craft Beers
Towers Tap House is a fun waterside beer garden and restaurant overlooking Hydrous Wake Park and Hydrous Aqua Park. Its casual outdoor seating and lively atmosphere make it the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the water. But they also have indoor seating to stay cool. It’s almost like dinner and a show because you can either grab a drink and meal or watch the wake surfers or catch their regular live music.
Their boneless Wings were crispy and smothered in tangy buffalo sauce. They are served with a side of Garlic Parmesan Jamaican Jerk mango habanero for just $19.
If you’re looking for something heartier, the En Fuego Burger—stacked high with beef patty, buffalo sauce, jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, & pickles—is a solid choice. If you’re craving seafood, don’t miss out on Catfish Family Basket – a platter of 15 pieces of catfish served with hush puppies and fries for $49.99.
And for something cheesy and fulfilling, you can’t go wrong with their Texas Cheesesteak for just $15. And with a wide selection of craft beers on tap, you will surely find the perfect brew to wash it all down.
Leo’s Brunch House: Hearty Meals and Irresistible Waffles
Leo’s Brunch House is a hotspot for the most significant meal of the day and is known for its creative takes on brunch classics. Their pulled chicken carnitas are a crowd favorite, filled with tomatoes, green peppers, onion, jalapeños, & fresh avocado. If you’re in the mood for something savory, the Classic Egg and Smoked Salmon Benedicts are a must-try. They are served with Hash Browns or Grits.
And for those with a sweet tooth, the Strawberry Banana Nutella and Belgium Waffles are a delightful treat, all topped with powdered sugar. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a comforting latte.
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Krab Kings: A Must-Try for Southern Seafood Boils!
Seafood lovers rejoice! Krab Kingz brings the ocean taste to Little Elm with its mouthwatering “Florida-style” seafood boils and delicious garlic butter seafood platters. This Black Woman Owned business in Little Elm brings the laid-back to dig into some serious comfort food. Their Fried Lobster, Fish, and Shrimp stand out, loaded with hushpuppies and coleslaw.
And if you’re in the mood for some creamy goodness you shouldn’t miss out on the Lobo Chicken Pasta and Lobo Shrimp Pasta topped with Parmesan cheese. We practically licked that pasta plate clean! For a super filling meal, try the Turkey Neck Platter. It features a tender turkey neck, flavorful sausage, sweet corn, a perfectly cooked egg, and seasoned potatoes – a dish that will hit all your right spots.
TURBO Coffee | Pizza | Wine Bar: Your One-Stop for All Cravings
For those who like to keep their options open, TURBO is the place to be. This unique spot combines a coffee shop, pizzeria, and wine bar all in one. It makes for the perfect hangout at any time of day. It’s located at the Elm hotel, but I would stop by just for a meal for how casual it is, and especially for the lattes. I enjoyed a blackberry white mocha with a cute bear latte art most mornings!
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In the evening they have wine and artisanal pizzas. Choose from Sriracha-Q Chicken Pizza topped with Sriracha-BBQ sauce, onions, chicken, jalapeños, and cheddar. Or, if you get lucky, you may get to order their limited-edition Bianca Brisket Pizza with white cheese sauce, brisket, onions, cheddar, BBQ, and habanero honey.
Cocktails, sodas, and beers here are perfect for washing everything down. Try Steph’s Crown & Jewel made with Jameson, lime, strawberry, and ginger beer. Or opt for the Good for Life cocktail, made with Bacardi, Malibu, blueberries, mint, lime, and club soda.
Barracruda Tex-Mex & Mariscos: Authentic Tex-Mex at Its Best
Last but certainly not least, BarraCruda Tex-Mex offers a fusion of traditional Tex-Mex flavors with a modern twist. The lively, vibrant atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or family. Their steak and shrimp Quesadillas are a must-try. These are packed with tender steak and gooey cheese, and are served with Mexican rice and beans.
And if you’re in the mood for something indulgent, their Loaded Nachos piled high with tortilla chips, refried beans, Pico, queso, sour cream, guac, lettuce, & pickled guacamole are the ultimate comfort food. Wash it all down with one of their house margaritas and cocktails, and you’re in for a great time.
Best Things To Do in Lakefront Little Elm TX
Now that you’ve discovered the best places to eat, it’s time to dive into the top activities in Lakefront Little Elm, TX! From relaxing at the picturesque Little Elm Beach to enjoying thrilling adventures at The Cove at The Lakefront, this town has it all. For the ultimate splash, head to Hydrous Wake Park for exciting cable wakeboarding. Ready for more fun?
Discover All The Best Things To Do in Lakefront Little Elm TX
Kid Friendly Things To Do in Lakefront
Looking for fun things to do with your family in Lakefront Little Elm, TX? Discover the best kid-friendly activities, from splashing in the lake to exploring interactive museums. Let’s make unforgettable memories together!
Read More: Kid-Approved Attractions in Lakefront
Little Elm Lakefront Restaurants: FAQs
What is Little Elm, Texas known for?
Little Elm, Texas, is known for its scenic location along Lake Lewisville. It offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, and hiking. Also, Little Elm’s lakefront parks, special events, and waterfront dining options make it a popular destination for residents and visitors seeking relaxation and adventure.
What district is Little Elm in?
Little Elm is located in Denton County, Texas. The town is served by three primary school districts: Little Elm Independent School District (ISD), Frisco ISD, and Denton ISD.
Is Little Elm a suburb?
Yes, Little Elm is a suburb of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex in Texas.
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Best Restaurants in Lakefront at Little Elm, TX: Final Thoughts
After spending a week exploring Little Elm Lakefront, I can confidently say this lakeside gem is a culinary haven for food lovers. Beautiful lake views, endless recreation amenities, a friendly atmosphere, and diverse culinary options create a truly unique dining experience. Little Elm’s lakefront restaurants will leave you with a satisfied appetite and beautiful memories.
I’m already planning my next visit—there are still so many dishes I’m eager to try, and I can’t wait to share the experience. So, if you find yourself in this lakefront district, do yourself a favor and explore these fantastic restaurants. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Last Updated 4 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: August 20, 2024
