When it comes to Amarillo’s best-kept culinary secrets, the Belmar neighborhood deserves a spot at the top of every food lover’s list. Nestled in southwest Amarillo, Belmar is an inviting residential enclave bordered by 34th Avenue, Western Street, and Bell Street—bustling with flavor and surprises for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving sizzling barbecue, down-home Tex-Mex, artisan coffee, or sweet bakery treats, Belmar offers an array of go-to dining destinations. Let’s dig into the can’t-miss flavors and local favorites that make this neighborhood such an exciting spot for Amarillo foodies.
The Best Restaurants in Belmar: From Tex-Mex to Asian Fusion
Belmar’s restaurant scene effortlessly blends tradition and trend, with both well-loved family establishments and inventive newcomers clustered along key arteries like 34th Avenue and Bell Street.
- Emilio’s Mexican Restaurant (34th & Bell)
Step inside Emilio’s and feel instantly at home. This family-owned staple is known far and wide for scratch-made Tex-Mex classics—from pillowy-soft cheese enchiladas to hearty carnitas tacos. The lunch combo plates are generous and affordable (most under $12), ideal for families or hungry friends. Don’t skip their salsa bar or famous queso blanco!
- Crazy Larry’s BBQ (located near 34th & Western)
Barbecue purists swear by Crazy Larry’s. This rustic joint’s meteoric popularity comes from oak-smoked brisket, spicy house-made sausage, and melt-in-your-mouth ribs. Try the loaded baked potatoes or the lunch special—both provide big Amarillo flavor without breaking the bank ($10-$15 range). It’s the kind of spot where regulars are greeted by name.
- Bangkok Tokyo (on 34th Ave, close to Bell)
Craving something a little different? Bangkok Tokyo’s cozy dining room offers a remarkable blend of Thai and Japanese staples: spicy pad Thai, crisp dragon rolls, savory curries, and creative sushi combinations. With most entrees between $10 and $18, it’s a fantastic value for bold flavors and attentive service—a real gem for Belmar residents.
Cozy Cafés and Bakeries: Sips, Sweets, and Morning Vibes
From fresh pastries to rich lattes, Belmar’s bakery and café scene is a delight for early birds, remote workers, and anyone with a sweet tooth.
- Roasters Coffee & Tea (34th & Coulter)
A local institution, Roasters is Amarillo’s answer to big-chain coffee—with far more heart. Expect house-roasted beans, creative espresso drinks, and a vibe that’s equal parts relaxed and bustling. The breakfast burritos and homemade pastries are legendary, making this a great stop for a casual morning or weekend meetup.
- Belmar Bakery & Café (on 34th just east of Western)
If you ask any Amarillo native where to go for the city’s best cakes and cookies, odds are they’ll send you to Belmar Bakery. Since 1965, this cheery spot has served mouthwatering kolaches, cookies, doughnuts, and elaborate custom cakes. The deli counter offers fresh sandwiches and soups for lunch (most under $10), with the bakery case providing irresistible desserts for sweet lovers of all ages.
Food Trucks and Hidden Gems: Flavor on Wheels and Under-the-Radar Eats
The Belmar neighborhood also boasts some amazing food trucks and low-key hangouts perfect for diners in the know.
- The Brunch Truck (regularly parked on Bell near 34th)
Serving up gourmet breakfast sandwiches, spicy migas tacos, and hand-cut fries, The Brunch Truck is a favorite among Belmar locals for a quick and satisfying bite. Popular items like the “Texas Sunrise”—bacon, fried egg, and tomato on buttery brioche—fly off the grill on weekend mornings. Follow their social media for schedules and rotating specials.
- Mimi’s Lebanese Cuisine (pop-up on select evenings at Western & 36th)
This under-the-radar pop-up is worth seeking out for those who crave authentic Mediterranean fare. House-made hummus, shawarma wraps, and baklava are highlights, with plenty of vegetarian-friendly options. Dishes cost between $8 and $15, making this a solid choice for adventurous foodies on a budget.
Local Traditions and Foodie Favorites: What Sets Belmar Apart
What makes Belmar’s dining scene truly special isn’t just the diversity of offerings—it’s the sense of community and family pride these independently owned establishments share.
- Friday Night at Emilio’s
Locals know that Emilio’s becomes the unofficial gathering spot on Friday nights. Neighbors catch up over margaritas, kids dig into dessert empanadas, and the kitchen sends out plates of sizzling fajitas as fast as they’re ordered.
- Holiday Desserts at Belmar Bakery
From Easter to Christmas, Belmar Bakery churns out seasonal sweets—decorative cookies, fruitcakes, pumpkin rolls—that bring generations together. Custom cakes for life’s milestones are a rite of passage for many Amarillo families.
- Lunch on the Patio at Roasters
Roasters’ patio is perfect for a breezy lunch or afternoon study session. Pair a cold brew coffee with a turkey pesto panini (or a giant brownie if you’re feeling decadent) and soak up Belmar’s easygoing energy.
Where to Eat: Navigating Belmar’s Food Map
Most of Belmar’s mainstays are clustered along:
- 34th Avenue between Western Street and Bell Street—the neighborhood’s “restaurant row”.
- Bell Street running north and south, dotted with small restaurants, food trucks, and cafés.
- Western Street—look for pop-ups and off-the-beaten-path bakeries near intersections with 34th and 36th.
Keep your eyes open for tucked-away patios and hand-painted signs—some of the best meals are hidden in plain sight.
Final Bite: Why Belmar is Amarillo’s Foodie Haven
Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, Belmar offers a slice of Amarillo’s best food culture—affordable, family-owned, and rooted in tradition yet open to fresh flavors. From the morning buzz at Roasters to late-night bites from a food truck, every meal in Belmar brings a story. Grab a friend, bring your appetite, and explore—it’s the easiest way to fall in love with Amarillo’s most delicious neighborhood.