McKinney is home to restaurants that serve both classic and unique flavors. Here is a look at 11 local eateries featured by Community Impact Newspaper in 2021.

Layered offers breakfast, lunch and family-like bonds to McKinney

Guests enjoy decadent breakfast and brunch fare, from sweet potato pancakes and banana foster Belgian waffles to what Owner Nir Sela called “the best coffee in McKinney.”

Blue Goose Cantina in McKinney boasts familial environment

This family-owned and -operated business has several locations in the area, including one in McKinney that opened in 2013. The restaurant’s general manager said it is known for its strong margaritas and Tex Mex food.


Score drinks, dining and digital ventures at Arcade 92

Arcade 92 culminates the business owner’s obsession into an interactive gathering spot. While the arcade-bar-restaurant combination is tailor-made for adults, the venue has hosted gamers of all ages since opening on Black Friday of 2019.

Mexican-food mainstay Petra brings family, McKinney community together

Authentically prepared Mexican dishes featuring strong spices alongside a full-service bar are in store for those who pay a visit to Petra.


JC’s Burger House in McKinney serves fresh burgers daily

All their burgers are hand-packed and made fresh daily using USDA choice chuck, Owner Bill Oglesby said.

Guitars & Growlers fosters community through craft beer, music

Guitars & Growlers opened its first location in Richardson in 2017. Both locations serve local craft beer, ciders and root beer on tap, in addition to a full menu with items named after well-known musicians.


McKinney’s Hydeout Cafe owner honors the past while reaching for the future

Owner Arsim Ibishi said what brings their customers back is the quality of food and the customer service.

“Anywhere you go, let’s be realistic, an egg is an egg, a burger is a burger. It’s how you present the egg or the burger to the customer that makes a difference,” he said.

El Mejor Mexican Kitchen + Cantina serves wide menu to downtown crowd


An expanded food and drink menu as well as renovations at El Mejor Mexican Kitchen + Cantina have the team excited for the future, General Manager Marques Jeudy said.

McKinney’s Grind Burger offers eclectic food and drink items

Jake Clouden, general manager of Grind Burger Bar, has worked in the restaurant industry for 11 years, gaining experience with everything from taco bars to fine dining. He attributes the success of Grind, which opened in fall 2018, to the kitchen crew members with their quality and consistency.

The Guava Tree Cuban Cafe & Cantina transforms from food truck model to restaurant


In addition to guava being in most of Guava Tree’s sauces, staff also serve guava glazed bacon and a guava and cream cheese puffed pastry which are all made by Onel Perez in house.

End Zone Bar & Grill provides relaxed atmosphere

The menu and recipes were created by Rachel Bradley and feature traditional bar fare made in their scratch kitchens. Popular food items are wings, burgers and sandwiches.