Restaurants & Dining
Within the beautiful Hippodrome grounds, you can find two of Waco’s finest local restaurants, The Raleigh Diner and The Hightop Bar. Both are in the two-story space facing the scenic South 8th Street, which offers lovely patio dining.
The Raleigh Diner
The Raleigh Diner (view the Raleigh Diner menu) is one of the prime casual dining restaurants in Waco. It’s conveniently located on the first floor of the historic Hippodrome grounds. At The Raleigh Diner, you can enjoy local and homegrown charm served on a warm, hearty platter.
Our menu is designed to convey the feelings of warmth and happiness brought by delicious home-style meals – all in a fun and relaxed diner setting. Try our take on traditional culinary fare named after beloved movies. Classic favorites include “True Grit,” which is tender and juicy chicken fried steak on buttery Texas toast, or “The Birds,” which is lip-smacking wings drenched with a choice of Buffalo, BBQ, dry rub, or salsa verde, and the “Some Like It Hot” sandwich, a scrumptious smash burger with pico de gallo, pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, and guacamole. We have the classic flavors of Texas and a whole lot more waiting to satisfy your palette.
Whether you’re eating out with the family, enjoying dinner with friends, or taking your significant other out on a date, The Raleigh Diner is a foodie experience you’ll never forget. We serve lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, and Friday from 11 am to 11 pm. Weekends are busy with Brunch 9 am to 2 pm. We have ample parking for our customers, so you don’t have to worry about finding a parking spot downtown. The Raleigh Diner is also a pet-friendly restaurant with a pup water station on the patio.
The Hightop Bar
After dinner, head on up to the third floor and treat yourself to delicious brews and stunning views. The Hightop Bar (view the Hightop Bar menu) overlooks the historic Austin Avenue and gives you a magnificent view of the downtown skyline.
A night out at The Hightop Bar guarantees a fun and social evening. It’s the trendy downtown spot for sampling craft beers, exquisite wines, one of our signature cocktails, and delectable appetizers. Catch the sunset or gaze at the stars in our comfortable patio setting. We serve Happy Hour every day from 4 pm to 7 pm. We are also ADA accessible with access to the rooftop bar via an elevator.
Whether you are a fan of relaxed drinking or just looking for a fun outdoor spot in the city, hit up The Hightop Bar for stunning views and a cozy atmosphere.
Outdoor Dining and Drinking
While there’s no shortage of heat and humidity in Texas, we still get days when the temperature is just right. Why not take advantage of those perfect, warm and breezy days at our outdoor patio dining spaces? Enjoy the sunshine as you drink and eat outside with spectacular views of buildings and shops downtown.
Brunch at
The Raleigh Diner
Weekend brunch (view the Brunch menu) has become the most important meal of the week. It’s the best time to relish a relaxing dining and drinking experience after a busy week – and where it’s perfectly acceptable to have coffee and cocktails! A great weekend brunch can be soothing for the soul. Recharge and propel yourself into the new workweek over delectable food and mimosas.
Try one of our favorite brunch entrees like the “Austin Avenue Eggs Benedict,” a popular brunch favorite with a Texas flair. It’s delicious poached eggs served with fire-smoked ham on a fresh-baked buttermilk biscuit topped with homegrown green chile hollandaise sauce. It’s a dish like no other in town and a must-try in Waco!
You can also sample the “Casey’s Stuffed French Toast” filled with cream cheese mousse, fresh berries and pecans, or the “Heaven is for Real” dish of tasty chicken tenders over Belgian waffles sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Make sure you save room for dessert! Complete your brunch experience and indulge in our Encore dessert options. From a traditional New York-style cheesecake to “Hope Floats,” two scoops of vanilla ice cream in your favorite fountain soda, to “The Santa Clause,” giant chocolate chip cookies and milk. Satisfy your sweet tooth at The Raleigh Diner.
Brunch is served every Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm. If a full brunch entrée is too much for you, you may order a la carte.
Freshness and Satisfaction Guaranteed
We take pride in every fine detail that goes into preparing and serving your food and drinks. Our premium wine, cocktail, and beer selections are sure to complement any meal. Come as you are and delight in delectable meals in a scenic downtown setting. We have plenty of on-site parking and can be easily accessed from anywhere in town.
