The bracket is set in our first annual McAllen Food Madness!
Here’s a look at the 32 eateries our followers choose to see in the competition. Kokio, ’76, Brine, and Bonhomia took the top 4 spots with the highest amounts of Likes and mentions – but ANYTHING can happen once the madness begins!
Round 1 starts Monday, March 7th.
The head-to-head matchups will be posted in a poll on our Facebook and Instagram stories everyday until only ONE restaurant remains standing.
Thank you so much to all who voted in last week’s prelims, and good luck to our 32 qualifying restaurants in McAllen!
Here are the teams:
Kokio Korean Fried Chicken
76 Bar and Kitchen
Brine and Honey Grazy Co.
Bonhomia
New York Deli
Dragon Warrior Noodle
Tea Garden
Tingy Tacos
Oak Texas Bar & Grill
Yasuke Japanese Sushi
Stacks!
Fares Arabic Cuisine
SALT – New American Table
Nak Won Jung Korean Restaurant
Mama’s Pizzeria
Taco El Plebe
La Costa Grill
La Uno Cocina De Mar
The Gremlin
Nuri Fusion Street Kitchen
Semilla Coffee Lab
Ms G’s Tacos N’ More
The Cookshack
Tacos Pepe
London Grill & Tavern
Winecow Argentina Steak House
Cabalen Filipino Restaurant
Reserva Coffee Roasters
Azucar and Sal
Khan’s Grill
The Republic of the Rio Grande
Salomé on Main
Play along!
Fill out your own bracket, and predict who will win:
Springtime is nearly here! The month of March is over the brim with community meetups, markets, educational events, and celebrations! So we invite your family and friends into town to enjoy the following events happening throughout the city of McAllen. Check out our events calendar for more!
Attend “Unfold: The Meetup,” a night of connection and poetry amongst fellow artists. This poetry meetup will begin the Unfolded Poetry Workshop Series led by McAllen’s very own Poet Laureate. Event is from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
March 4
Show up to support your local artists and musicians for the McAllen Art Walk at the Creative Incubator! The event will take place 7 PM to 10 PM.
Participate in the McAllen Art Crawl at different venues and galleries, showcasing our local arts, creativity, and culture at the heart of the McAllen Art District from 6 PM to 10 PM.
Support your local small businesses while sipping on your favorite coffee drink at the March Pop Up Event at Moonbeans. This event is from 11 AM to 3 PM.
Join the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center for Science on a Saturday – a day of science presentations, experiments, and educational activities with your family and students interested in STEM careers. The event will take place from 9 AM to 2 PM.
March 6
Head over to ‘76 Bar and Kitchen to support local vendors while enjoying food and drinks at Pop Up World Spring Edition. The event will take place from 1 PM to 6 PM.
March 12
Show up at the McAllen Parking Garage and support your small businesses at A Golden Market. The event will take place from 4 PM to 9 PM.
If you’re looking for a place to send your talented child to learn more about the arts and sciences, then the Braniacs Spring Break Camp at IMAS is the perfect place to go! The camp runs for four days from 9 AM to 3 PM. Registration is required.
Celebrate Trucha’s 1-Year Birthday Celebration at Tropicasa! You can expect fun, food, music, vendors, and mariachi! The pachanga is from 6 PM to midnight.
March 27
Are you and your family planning a wedding or a quinceañera? You’re in luck! The RGV Wedding and Dance Expo will be treating guests to promotions, giveaways, food, cake samples, and more at the Convention Center. The event is from 12 to 4 PM.
Explore and Enjoy McAllen
Keep a lookout for more in our events calendar! Don’t forget to show us how you #ExploreMcAllen with your family, friends, and loved ones on Instagram and Facebook.
Our local businesses are the bread and butter of our growing and prospering city! We honor our small businesses by highlighting how they bring something new for you to enjoy with your family and friends. Mikhuna, a unique restaurant in McAllen, is introducing a new cuisine to the city of McAllen.
The Inspiration Behind Mikhuna
Mikhuna’s dream for elite culinary expressions started during 2020, and since, Mikhuna has found a way to share their table with yours! Their dishes are inspired by the growing population in Peru, resulting in the creation of Nikkei, a bold combination of their traditional culinary styles.
“…What makes Mikhuna different is the fusion of cuisine that blends native Peruvian flavors with imported traditions. Peruvian food is an important expression of Peru’s culture and…is said to be the next biggest thing in the culinary tourism industry and has proven that there is so much more to Peru than just Machu Picchu. We are so happy to be the first to introduce this cuisine to our community.”
– Stephanie Ramirez, Vice President of Mikhuna
Step Into a Lively Environment
Mikhuna used to be known as Kocina Il Forno, in relation to its sister restaurant Il Forno a Legna, rebranding with a mission to bring the flavors of Peru to the Rio Grande Valley. As you step inside the restaurant, you will notice a colorful mural, as well as vibrant hand-woven art pieces from Peru adorning the walls, embodying the cuisine it represents.
Feast on Their Popular Dishes
Mikhuna offers a diverse menu with fresh fish shipped directly from Hawaii. Try:
Sushi Nikkei
Lomo Saltado
Palta Rellena
Ceviche Peruano
Enjoy a Flavorful Cocktail Menu
Their cocktail drinks have a twist of freshness and spices. Sip on a True Tamarindo Experience, served on the rocks with sweet flavors of passionfruit and tamarindo! Also enjoy a Chica Morada Margarita, a traditional Peruvian drink infused with orange and pisco.
Explore McAllen’s Restaurants Today
Enjoy a joyous and lively dining experience at Mikhuna! Follow and tag us enjoying Mikhuna on Instagram and Facebook! Use #ExploreMcAllen.
The big game weekend is finally here! Enjoy your favorite game day foods, beer, and entertainment with your fellow football fanatics as the Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals play for the championship title. We have listed eight mcallen restaurants and bars.
Buffalo Wild Wings are giving away free wings this year if the game goes into overtime! So grab your friends and enjoy wings, tenders, and burgers on game day. Their hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM to 12 AM and Friday through Saturday from 11 AM to 1 AM.
Easy Eights is the go-to location to watch the game and play pool with your friends in McAllen. They are open every day from 4 PM to 2 AM.
Dave & Buster’s
(956) 217-5800
2700 W. Expressway 83
Eat, drink, play, and watch sports with fellow football fanatics at Dave & Buster’s in McAllen! Hours of operation are Monday and Tuesday from 11 AM to 11 PM and Wednesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 12 AM.
Want to enjoy a slice of Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and award-winning beer while watching your team win? Head on over to BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse. They are open every day from 11 AM to 11 PM.
Play a game of pool on one of 39 pool tables at Eddy’s Tavern & Social on Sunday! You will enjoy the spacious environment and full bar that Eddy’s has to offer. Eddy’s is open every day from 11 AM to 2 AM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 2 AM.
Are you looking for fun things to do in McAllen this Valentine’s Day? Enjoy a fun brunch at a bar in McAllen, a casual dinner, or a fancy four-course dinner! Be sure to check out these eight McAllen restaurants for the perfect Valentine dinner!
Don’t forget to end the evening with a romantic stroll at any of our McAllen parks!
Reserve your spot at one of the best pastry shops in town for Valentine’s Day Dinner! Enjoy a modern chic environment with delicious pastries and dinner from 7 PM to 11 PM. Dinner includes:
Surprise your Valentine with a four-course dinner at house. wine & bistro. Don’t forget to pair your romantic meal with a bottle of wine from their selection of over 150 bottles. Reserve your spot for February 11, February 12, or February 14.
Bring your Valentine to enjoy a special four-course dinner made from locally sourced foods at SALT – New American Table. This meal includes champagne and a bottle of wine! Call now to reserve your Valentine’s dinner for February 11, February 12, or February 14.
If you’re looking for a relaxed environment with natural romantic ambience, then reserve your table at Salomé on Main. Book your reservation for February 11, February 12, or February 14 and delight in a special four-course menu of:
Mikhuna will leave you craving exotic Peruvian-Japanese all night long! Book your Valentine’s dinner for two and enjoy one of two options for each course:
Tuna Tataki or Ceviche Chalaco
Suspiro Helado or Goat Cheese Tres Leches
Grilled Palmito and Parmesan Crisp or Shrimp Causa
Petite Filet Mignon and Shrimp or Black Tacu Tacu Salmon
Reserve a spot for you and your Valentine at Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina! Enjoy live music, spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a steak dinner that will leave you in ecstasy! This experience is available on Valentine’s Day at 5 PM.
Enjoy Valentine’s Day in McAllen!
Show us your Valentine’s dinner meals by following and tagging us online on Instagram and Facebook. Use #ExploreMcAllen! Have a romantic Valentine’s Day!
Do you want to explore more of McAllen in 2022? Get to shopping in McAllen, and try a variety of drinks, food, coffee, and yoga with your loved ones. Be sure to check out these seven new businesses in McAllen today!
Magnolia Coffee Bar
(956) 322-3043
800 N. Main St.
Unwind and relax with a cup of coffee at Magnolia Coffee Bar, located on Main Street in McAllen! Business hours are:
Closed on Sunday and Monday
Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM
Tuesday through Friday from 9 AM to 2 PM and 4 PM to 7 PM
Stacks is a unique food establishment that provides delicious potato cones! You can find them at the food court at La Plaza Mall. Be sure to check out their menu for their other nutritious products!
Bring your friends to enjoy some housemade kombucha, wine, beer, and food at Stick Lizards. Their hours of operation are every day from 4 PM to midnight.
If you’re looking for a new brunch spot in town, head on over to Lou’s Brunch and Brews! Enjoy classic and unique brunch dishes with your friends and family. Their hours of operation are:
Closed on Mondays
Tuesday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM
Saturday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM
Yoga House RGV
(956) 446-2423
6421 N. 10th St.
Sweat your heart out alongside your closest comrades at the Yoga House RGV! Sign up for a class, meet your yoga coaches, and visit Yoga House RGV today!
Show Us Exploring McAllen!
Be sure to follow and tag us online on Instagram and Facebook as you visit these new businesses! Use #ExploreMcAllen! Have fun exploring!
2022 made from healthy food on pink background, Happy New year, health diet resolution, goals and lifestyle
Embrace healthy living in 2022 with delicious meals, smoothies, and sweets! Don’t forget to tag your supportive friends and family on our Instagram! Take pride in your nutrition and fuel healthy eating habits at these seven McAllen restaurants.
ProteinHouse offers nutritious meals, and protein shakes to help you maintain your health goals this year. Check out their menu today! Their hours are:
Siempre Natural prides itself on healthy American food with a Mexican flair and delicious sandwiches, soups, and yogurt. Hours of operation are Monday through Sunday from 11 AM to 9:30 PM.
Rejoice in the wonders of delicious and nutritious vegan food at FoodAmed Vegan Restaurant and Emporium. Check out FoodAmed’s healthy plant-based menu. FoodAmed is open:
Friday from 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Sunday through Thursday from 6:30 AM to 8 PM
Check out their event on Sunday, January 16, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM!
Enjoy authentic Mexican vegan meals at Maria Cruz Cuisine. Their cuisine includes a healthy selection of brunch plates, bar snacks, and dinner options. Their hours of operation are:
Meal Preps To Go offers healthy and nutritious meals to enjoy on to go. Call them to order from their weekly menu of meals. Their hours of operation are:
Monday from 9 AM to 10 PM
Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM
Saturday through Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM
Explore McAllen Online!
Make sure to tag us enjoying your healthy meals in 2022 on Instagram andFacebook! Use #ExploreMcAllen! Happy, healthy eating!
Dance, rave, and celebrate 2022 with your best friends! Here are our top seven city of McAllen events to enjoy. Don’t forget to keep the party going at these other McAllen events, and send us your pics on Instagram and Facebook.
Ring in the new year at the Santa Fe Steakhouse Supper Club Celebration! Enjoy classical music and fine dining at this McAllen restaurant before you dance till you drop at the cantina! Call to RSVP.
Bike on over at the McAllen Convention Center at 7 PM and join Critical Mass McAllen on a ride through the streets of McAllen to celebrate the New Year!
Say goodbye to 2021 at the NYE Party with the Ismael Chavez Jazz Collective at The Gremlin. Enjoy a special dinner menu and a special champagne toast at midnight!
Everyone is welcome to have the time of their life at the New Year’s Eve drag show extravaganza at The Old Beer House! Express yourself and enjoy a night of fabulous performances.
Don’t miss out on the South Pole Illuminated Festival! Take the family on a stroll to gaze upon bright lights and family activities! Kids 12 and under are free!
Embrace McAllen Nightlife and Tag Us Online!
Make sure to tag us in your celebration photos on Instagram and Facebook! Use #ExploreMcAllen! Happy New Year!
Libelula Arte Urbano offers a unique selection of art and music graphic designs on all their clothing for the fashion-savvy people in your family! Their hours:
Looking for things to do in McAllen, Tx? Listen to music, connect with artists, shop local, and learn something new by attending these 10 amazing holiday events with your friends and family! Find more events on our event calendar. Here’s what you can look forward to.
Visit Tropicasa and see the “El Rumbo De Mi Sangre,” art exhibition while listening to live music, and shopping at 11 local businesses. This event is from 7 PM to 11:30 PM.
All are welcome to celebrate the classic holiday film, ELF, enjoy McAllen drinks with Edra & Friends at a Sunday Brunch at Love Buzz! This event is from 12 PM to 5 PM.
Dance your heart out at the Sabrosonico dance party and market featuring food, art, live musicians, and DJ La Lovemaker. This event is from 4 PM to 10 PM.
Spot the Grinch at A Grinchmas Market on the McAllen Parking Garage rooftop! Hosted by GG’s Boutique, the market also features a toy drive! Join us from 5 PM – 9 PM.
Experience brilliant light shows with your friends and family at Illumina Fest at Quinta Mazatlán! Illumina Fest is from December 14 to December 18. First day begins at 6 PM to 9:30 PM.
Finish your last-minute Christmas McAllen shopping at Winter Wonderland Market! Support small businesses and don’t forget to bring your own reusable bag! This event begins at 5 PM.
Blast to the past with your friends, Sifting Through South Texas Ancient History: Stone Tools and Archeology at the McAllen Public Library! Nick Morales, a Texas Master Naturalist and Geologist will present archeological methods that were used while collecting these ancient tools. The event is from 2 PM to 3 PM.
Gather with your local community at the Orange Valley Holiday Workshop at Tropicasa! Enjoy local artists, workshops, and live music. They are also accepting clothing and canned or boxed food donations. This event is from 5:30 PM to 12:30 AM.
Bring your friends and revel in Heartspoken: A Night of Art and Poetry at Roosevelt’s at 7. This evening, compete in a poetry competition while you enjoy live music, local vendors, and live art. Join us from 7 PM to 1 AM.
