Welcome to Waco, Baylor Bears!
Even if you are a returning student, discovering all the places that make this city a unique and fun place to live can be daunting. And fortunate for you, Baylor has you set, so you don’t have to be confined to dining court dishes and dining services platters.
No doubt you’ve already scoured the Discount Directory in search of your next dinner plans but knowing what to pick is a whole other ball game. The WACOAN is here to be your guide to find your next favorite spot around town.
Each discount requires a valid Baylor ID to redeem.
This blog is sponsored by Di Campli’s Italian Ristorante.
Di Campli’s Italian Ristorante
Italian
6500 Woodway Drive, Suite 121
Perk — 10% off food Monday–Thursday; 20% off to go lunch or dinner Friday & Saturday; 15% off catering, with a minimum $1,000.
Di Campli’s Italian Ristorante brings the warmth and flavors of Italy to Waco with a menu rooted in classic Italian cooking and genuine hospitality. At lunch, guests will find familiar favorites alongside Italian classics, from fresh salads and sandwiches to traditional pasta dishes and hearty entrées. House made pasta is a cornerstone of the kitchen, while pizzas begin with dough made from scratch and are topped with thoughtfully selected ingredients before being baked to order.
Di Campli’s is known for warm hospitality and attentive, knowledgeable service, whether guests are stopping in for a casual lunch, enjoying dinner with friends or celebrating that special occasion.
Craft cocktails complement an extensive wine program with a particular emphasis on Italy’s diverse regions and producers. The wine list has earned Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence, recognizing both the depth of the collection and its strong connection to the restaurant’s cuisine.
From house made pasta and scratch pizzas to exceptional wine and welcoming service, Di Campli’s offers an authentic Italian dining experience meant to be shared and enjoyed around the table.
Accolades
Best of Waco, New Restaurant, 2020; Pasta, 2021–2025; Italian, 2021–2025; Take a Date 2021; Atmosphere, 2022; Dessert, 2024; Celebration Meal, 2024–2025
Editor’s Pick, Pasta, 2020; Dessert, 2022
3 Spoons Yogurt
Frozen Yogurt
2440 W. Loop 340|
Perk — 10% off your purchase
Serving up a variety of colorful, fun and tasty flavors, this family-owned Waco froyo staple has been voted Best Frozen Yogurt for Best of Waco for six years in a row! Not only can you customize your own froyo treat with an endless variety of toppings, from fresh hot fudge to candy and marshmallows, but they also offer fruity teas, lemonades, boba and shakes. For the classic frozen treat lovers, swirl together chocolate, strawberry and vanilla and top with fresh fruit. Or, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, 3 Spoons has everything from Pineapple Dole Whip to Salted Caramel Popcorn. Keep up with them on socials to see all the new flavors they are constantly adding to the swirling line up of frozen yogurt combinations.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Frozen Yogurt, 2012–2016
AC Hotel Waco Downtown
American
600 Mary Ave.
Perk — 15% off food and fountain beverages at AC Kitchen and AC Lounge; 10–15% discount on guest rooms, subject to availability and blackout dates.
Don’t pass up hotel dining. AC Kitchen is made for community and invites Wacoans to breakfast, lunch or dinner, no hotel reservation required. The menu is crafted with classic dishes and some with a unique flair.
Shareables like the Smoke Achiote Chicken Nachos and Pork Belly Burnt Ends are perfect for a quick bite out, but the Bear Burger is a can’t-miss. Loaded with American cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion and not-so-secret-sauce, it’s a classic that provides a bang for the buck.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Hotel, 2025–2026
Armstrong Bayou Café
Cajun
720 Franklin Ave.
Perk — 10% off any item (excludes catering)
Get a taste of New Orleans at Armstrong Bayou Cafe with traditional Cajun po’boys, fried seafood baskets, boudin and more bold, spicy flavors of the South. Owner Aneka Armstrong brings her own Louisianna Roots to every bite of this fresh seafood cooking, all inspired by a tradition of rich flavors and history. Enjoy the classic Bayou Fries, topped with shrimp, crawfish tails, chives and Bayou Sauce for a tasty shareable option!
Around the World Bakery
Bakery
119 N 12th St.
Perk — 10% off purchase
Visit sweets from all over the globe at this charming little bakery on Austin Avenue. Cakes, macarons and pastry delights all fill the display cases in a colorful array, ready to be paired with seasonal coffees, teas and matcha. The best part of visiting this bakery is discovering a new corner of the world that owner Adeline Camarena has brought to our city, maintaining authenticity in each recipe.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Bakery, 2025; Gluten-free Desserts, 2025
Be Kind Coffee
Coffee Shop
1534 Washington Ave.
Perk — 15% off your purchase
Spreading kindness with every craft coffee and tasty treat, Be Kind Coffee is known for bold-iced lattes, award-winning matcha drinks and so many vegan and gluten-free food options. Start off your morning bright with a seasonal iced drink made with their house-made pumpkin sauce and pair with a protein-packed breakfast bagel with fluffy eggs, bacon and cheese. Settle in and stay a while to make this your next go-to study spot and enjoy the shop’s vibrant aesthetic and welcoming atmosphere.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Matcha, 2025
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee
Coffee Shop
110 Franklin Ave.
Perk — 10% off your purchase
Step into the “happiest place in Waco,” Bitty & Beau’s Coffee, where delicious drinks and warm smiles are always there to greet you for your next cup of ‘jo! Pair a specialty drink with one of their fresh, served hot breakfast sandwiches or burritos. Make this your next study or hang out spot and if you stay a while, you may even be lucky enough to be in time for mid-workday karaoke!
Blaine’s Restaurant & Wine Shoppe
Fine dining, wine shop
1101 Richland Drive
Perk — 10% off your purchase
From neighborhood to culinary experience centered around bringing people together, Blaine’s daily menus and wine selections are designed to pair together for a quality experience with every meal. The small, intimate atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to unwind, with delicious dishes or a specialty Charcuterie et L’Atelier Fromager to share with the table! Not sure what wine to pair with what dish? Always ask the chef!
Accolades
Editor’s Pick, Girls’ Night Out, 2025
Burgertology
Burgers
1425 LaSalle Ave.
Perk — 10% off your order for students
For burger flavor combinations you can’t find anywhere else, the Burgertology food truck parked at Route 77 food park in LaSalle has it all. Enjoy stacked burgers, Chicago-style dogs, Philly cheesesteaks, loaded fries, shakes and floats. Pack in the protein with the Black Sabbath: a double meat, double cheeseburger on a jalapeno bun with avocado, bacon, lettuce and tomato. Or rather, cheese it up with the Chumbawamba: a three-cheeses grilled cheese with applewood smoked bacon, tomatoes and pesto sauce.
The Butcher’s Cellar
Fine dining
13701 Woodway Drive
Perk — 10% food and fountain beverage purchases
Recognized from Season 21 of “Hell’s Kitchen,” Executive Chef Alejandro Najar explores bold flavors and brings fresh ingredients to the Waco culinary scene. Stop in for small plates, seafood and steaks for an elevate fine dining experience. Perfect for date night, this upscale restaurant sets the mood with ambiance lighting and a quiet atmosphere.
Accolades
Editor’s Pick, Appetizers, 2025
Cha Community
Boba tea
1001 Franklin Ave., 1205 S. Eighth St.
Perk — Free topping of choice for one drink; 10% off food at any location (including SUB and food truck)
Bubble tea, boba and dumplings galore are all made in traditional Chinese and Taiwanese style of delicious eats and drinks. From matcha and chai, to milk tea and Vietnamese coffee, there are plenty of flavor combinations and unique syrups and boba options to choose from. Find your favorite go-to drink and pair it with handcrafted steamed buns or Korean panfried dumplings. Best of all, browse their menu for vegan options!
Accolades
Best of Waco, Waco Downtown Farmers’ Market Booth, 2021; Boba, 2025
Cheddar Box
Grilled cheese
601 Webster Ave.
Perk — 15% off your order
This ain’t your mom’s grilled cheese! Cheddar Box has everything from mouthwatering bacon-gouda combos to locally baked sourdough bliss and smoked brisket. No matter what unique, gourmet grilled cheese you choose, you don’t want to miss adding a cup of tomato soup to go with it, just in time for fall! Located in the food truck park at Magnolia Market, this cheesiest, savory meal goes wonderful with a refreshing Pop’s lemonade.
Club Sandwich
Asian, American style
601 Webster Ave.
Perk — $3 off bowls
Don’t be deceived by the name of this food truck nestled in Magnolia Market. The tasty aromas wafting from this little must-try food stop do not belong to that of a club sandwich. Serving up tasty Asian, American style rice bowls with options ranging from spicy pork to chicken or tofu, this hidden gem has it all.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Food Truck, 2021–2022
Editor’s Pick, Food Truck, 2020
Common Grounds
Coffee shop
1123 S. Eighth St., 3401 Franklin Ave.
Perk — 10% off any drink
Whether you’re stopping by the one on campus, enjoying the live music on Eighth Street or looking for a quiet study spot like the shop on Franklin, Common Grounds has been a Baylor-Waco staple for a long time. With specially crafted local coffee flavors that will keep you awake for those late-night study sessions, you don’t want to miss out on their specialty fall menu and flavor combinations.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Coffeehouse, 2012–2021, 2024–2025; Live Music Venue, 2013–2015; Place to Study, 2013–2014; Specialty Coffee, 2015
Dog Haus
Hot dogs
215 S. University Parks Drive
Perk — 10% off food + free fountain drink
Dog Haus is a casual spot to enjoy gourmet hot dogs, delicious burgers and craft beer with friends. The outdoor seating makes this a great spot to soak up the sun while you grab a bite to eat. Stop by in the morning to check out some of their iconic breakfast burritos!
Fox & Co. Bakery
Bakery
601 Franklin Ave.
Perk — Buy any pastry (excluding mini cakes), get $2 off a 12 oz. Vanilla Vice latte
Croissants, pastries, cake slices, specialty coffees and more can be found tucked away in this foxy, brand-new little locally owned bakery. Visit on a Friday to be a part of their “first taste Fridays,” and taste test the newest treats and bakery creations. You don’t want to miss this Baylor Perks deal to treat yourself to a pastry and latte after a long exam week!
Glory Bell Coffee
Coffee shop
600 Columbus Ave.
Perk — 15% off your purchase
Glory Bell Coffee is the largest coffee shop in Waco, with plenty of space to spread out with a group of friends, visiting family or just take up a lot of table space with your studies. The menu has recently expanded to include more food options, such as fresh avocado toast on sourdough and the new breakfast sammy. Pair any of these with one of their specialty coffees, matcha lattes, teas or dirty sodas!
Hecho en Waco
Mexican
300 S. Sixth St.
Perk — 10% off your purchase
Classic Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican dishes fill the air with mouthwatering aromas from the kitchen at Hecho en Waco. Tacos, fajitas, chimichangas, craft cocktails and all your favorite Tex-Mex combos are all made with the best ingredients in the welcoming indoor and outdoor dining spaces. Try out the Best of Waco and Editor’s Pick winning margaritas!
Accolades
Best of Waco, Mexican, 2021–2022; Enchiladas, 2021; Tacos, 2021–2022; Fajitas, 2022; Margaritas, 2022, 2025
Editor’s Pick, Margaritas, 2020; Tacos, 2021
Helados La Azteca — Colcord Ave.
Ice Cream
1500 Colcord Ave.
Perk — 10% off your purchase
Paletas (Mexican Popsicles) and so many more creamy, fruity and tangy frozen treats are available at Helados La Azteca! With so many fresh and fruity flavor combinations to choose from, this is a bucketlist spot to stop by in person and enjoy the quality ingredients and colorful fun of this ice cream shop. This is the perfect place to cool off from the Waco heat!
Helberg Barbecue
Barbecue
7809 Hwy 6
Perk — 10% off your order
Two-time winning Texas Monthly Top 50 BBQ joint, Helberg Barbecue, is the place to be for quality Central Texas barbecue with brisket, ribs, chicken, sausage, turkey and so much more. The deals don’t end with Baylor Perks! Check out their weekly specials, such as Wednesday’s $1 smoked wings.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Ribs, 2021–2025; Barbecue, 2022–2025
Editor’s Pick, Barbecue, 2020–2021; Sandwich, 2025
Hey Sugar Candy Store
Candy, ice cream
324 S. Sixth St.
Perk — 10% off candy or ice cream purchase
Satisfy your sweet tooth with discounts on ice cream and all the candy you could ever need at Hey Sugar Candy Store. Branch out and try one of their classic vintage sodas, or better yet, make it a specialty float! If you’re into nostalgia and truly a sweets lover and kid-at-heart, this is the next Waco bucket list item for you.
Hilltop Tavern
Sports Bar
13701 Woodway Drive
Perk — 10% off food and fountain drinks
Step into a vibrant tavern nestled in Woodway with local brews, quality eats and a great atmosphere that make it the place to catch the game or just hang. Enjoy fried seafood baskets, classic country sides and plenty of savory shareables like loaded nachos, woodfire pita, pizza empanadas, pretzel bites and more!
JD’s Café
Café
6500 Woodway Drive
Perk — 10% off dine-in meal
JD’s Cafe really does it all, with cozy dine in seating, easy grab-and-go lunches, bakery treats, specialty coffees and drinks, and plenty of specially curated dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy the aesthetic atmosphere of this local art cafe and try any of their mouthwatering signature entrees, like the Cowboy Steak Frites or the Filipino Chicken Adobo.
J-Petal & Poke
Poke bowls
315 S. University Parks Drive
Perk — 10% off your order
With the freshest and healthiest ingredients, J-Petal & Poke serves up refreshing poke bowls, crepes and delicious desserts like their iconic Thai rolled ice cream. Treat yourself to a refreshing meal to beat the Central Texas heat and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this hidden gem.
Kilwins Ice Cream – Chocolate – Fudge
Ice cream, chocolate
323 S. Sixth St.
Perk — 10% off your purchase
Stop by Kilwins for hand-crafted confections that are worth the indulgence, whether it’s to celebrate passing an exam or just a mid-week treat. It’s always a good day for Kilwins. From luxurious Dubai chocolate to crisp caramel apples to brain-freezing original recipe ice cream, the options are endless.
Krazy Dogz Fanzy Hotdogz
Hot dogs
720 Franklin Ave.
Perk — $2 off any meal; free cookie on Mondays
Studying makes us want a hot dog real bad and Krazy Dogz at Union Hall has an assortment of fun and, well, crazy hot dogs. Topped with ingredients like the classic chili cheese or the unusual Takis and nacho cheese combo, explore the possibilities.
La Hacienda San Diego Restaurant
Mexican
1229 N. 18th St.
Perk — 15% off individual meal
Authentic and indulgent, La Hacienda dishes up traditional Mexican recipes the whole table will enjoy. Fresh dishes include menudo, fajitas, breakfast burritos, all with homemade tortillas to complete each meal.
Luna Clean Food Café
Café
1516 Austin Ave.
Perk — 10% off all purchases
Waco’s only café crafting consciously clean food, Luna Café is the perfect stop for a breakfast or lunch run. Staples like the Breakfast Plate loaded with eggs, bacon, sourdough toast and fruit are available alongside Moroccan Eggs, a delectably spicy plate with eggs overtop spiced chunky tomato sauce, za’atar labneh, feta and toasted organic baguettes.
Mila Café
Coffee shop
108 N. 25th St.
Perk — 15% off your purchase
Beautiful windows that open out to 25th Street provide ample natural light for this perfect little study spot that serves up sweet coffees with a touch of Mexican flavor. Popular drinks include the Banana Cream Matcha and the Café de Olla Latte, a blend of whole milk with cinnamon and cloves with two shots of espresso.
Mila Rose
Coffee shop
201 S 2nd St.
Perk — 15% off
The sister shop to Mila Café, this coffee shop is the perfect grab-and-go spot downtown for the flavors you love from Mila in a pink and green shop that sparks joy. The newest drink on the block is the Mango Sticky Rice Matcha in collaboration with Curry Up & Wok This Way.
Motown Eatz
Comfort food
1801 N. 25th St.
Perk — 10% off your order
Get a taste of Detroit at Motown Eatz, created from the craving for the classic tastes of the city. Pick up an order of crispy Waffle N’Wingz or the Motwon Single Classic Smash Burger. And with 29 signature sweet tea flavors, no two meals will be the same.
The Olive Branch
Café
215 S. Second St.
Perk — 10% off your order
Waco’s favorite brunch spot does more than just a good breakfast. Southern classics Fried Green Tomatoes and Chicken Fried Steak are available alongside indulgent faves like the Fig Prosciutto Flatbread and Salmon Gnocchi.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Salad, 2010–2014; Soup, 2010–2015; Rehearsal Dinner Venue, 2024; Brunch 2025
Editor’s Pick, Pasta, 2024
Pop’s Lemonade
Lemonade
3428 Franklin Ave.
Perk — 15% off your order at the Silos or Franklin location
Nothing refreshes better than a lemonade and Pop’s Lemonade has all the flavor. With a create-you-own selection of over 20 syrup and mix-in’s, you can have a unique combination every day of the week and still come back for more! Hint: pair the watermelon with lime for a sweet and tangy delight.
Poppa Bear Boba
Boba tea
4716 W. Waco Drive
Perk — Free upsize or toppings on any drink
Boba is in the name, but this shop serves up delicious bites, including pho and banh mi. Whatever you choose to satisfy your craving, pick up a Poppa Bear, the house specialty milk tea, for the perfect pairing.
Revival Eastside Eatery
Café
704 Elm Ave.
Perk — Free tea or soda with purchase
This Texas-sourced, women-owned restaurant is a staple of the Bridge Street neighborhood. Every sandwich is made with fresh ingredients, loaded for a filling and savory meal. Try The Leah with roast beef and garlic aioli or order the Veggie Tales, filled with peppers, onions, zucchini, hummus, tomato and sriracha aioli.
Accolades
Editor’s Pick, Sandwich, 2020; Gluten-free, 2025
Sison Tacos
Tacos
601 Franklin Ave.
Perk — 10% off any item
Tacos aren’t just for Tuesday. Sison Tacos serves up craft tacos that are simple yet mouthwateringly delicious. Paired with Hibiscus tea, it’s an easy downtown lunch.
Squirrely’s at Camp Fimfo
Tavern
1000 Chickadee Lane
Perk — 20% off all food and fountain beverages, Wednesday–Sunday; free mini golf and outdoor lawn games
Located at Camp Fimfo, Squirrely’s Tavern offers an outdoor patio next to the waterpark, live music, TVs and beer from Southern Roots Brewing Co. They offer snacks like Pretzel Sticks and Southwest Egg Rolls and mains including Philly Cheesesteak and pizza.
Street Dog Café
Café
406 Elm Ave.
Perk — 10% off coffee or espresso beverages
Street Dog Café not only delivers a hearty breakfast. The café partners with local shelters to ensure that every dog finds its forever home. So, stop by, get a Breakfast Hash with veggies, chimichurri and see a friendly face.
Tru Jamaica
Jamaican
937 Taylor St.
Perk — 10% off any food purchase; 15% off catering orders of 1,000 or more
Waco’s only Jamaican restaurant, Tru Jamaica is not only known for the best jerk chicken ‘round these parts, but for some of the friendliest service you’ll find. Every meal, you’re made to feel like part of the family, so sit back and crack open a coconut — you’ll need it for the spicy Rasta Pasta.
Well Rounded
Mini donuts
601 Webster Ave.
Perk — 15% off your order
Every well-rounded diet includes something sweet and this little truck at the Silos serves up bite-sized donuts loaded into a bucket. Well Rounded also offers crafted sodas and milkshakes.
World Cup Café
Café
1321 N. 15th St.
Perk — 10% off all menu items
Mission Waco is one of Waco’s most notable nonprofits, and you can support their work and get a good meal at the World Cup Café. Try the Fish Basket with Swai catfish fried up with hushpuppies and your choice of side. You can’t get more Southern than that!
Zuke’s Tea Bar
Tea, Boba
319 S. Fourth St.
Perk — 10% off a specialty tea
Zuke’s Tea Bar has an endless selection of teas. From sweet to strong to fruity, no matter what time of tea enthusiast you are, Zuke’s can serve up the right cup for you. The Brown Bear is a delightfully sweet milk tea or pick up a seasonal Spicy Plum Herbal Tea.
Accolades
Best of Waco, Tea Selection, 2025
Editor’s Pick, Vendor at Union Hall, 2023
