Ventured into Waco today to go see a show and we decided to go have an early dinner at the Olive branch. When we looked up the menu, there were gluten-free options for my sister; which was an immediate draw. The dishes seemed really good, authentic, and something that we really wanted to try. When when we walked in, I was a little surprised, it didn't look like a higher based restaurant, it looked like a sports bar. It was indeed a sports bar, TVs with games of various types on with bar music playing. Neither one of those things was a bad thing. It just didn't fit the menu in my opinion. It was still inviting, but very much a sports bar not the restaurant that we expected. We sat down. They brought over two glasses of water and some menus. We looked over the menus. We had some questions, they answered all of our questions in anything that they couldn't answer. The waitress went back and asked the chef or the kitchen. She was very helpful. I ordered the chicken marsala with mushroom orzo and I substituted the green beans (yuck) with cream spinach. They brought me the green beans instead, but then took them off when I told them that was not what I ordered and brought me the cream spinach. My sister ordered one of the other chicken dishes. We also shared spinach, dip, and chips. The chicken marsala was fantastic. The spinach dip was also fantastic. The cream spinach tasted just like the dip so I did not finish it and brought it home for my son. We each ordered a drink. She had the cranberry mimosa and I had the pineapple mimosa. They were not true mimosas. They were not made with champagne. It was fruit juice and wine. They were not bad. they just weren't mimosas. Our waitress was super sweet, very accommodating, and when she realized that my dish was not what I had ordered, she quickly remedy the problem. I would recommend this particular restaurant. It's in a very cute area, there are shops in the same building and many things within walking distance. If you go, just realize that it's more of a sports bar setting and not a nice restaurant where you would dress up. We felt a little out of place, but it was still wonderful. read more

My boyfriend and I have eaten here twice on our visits to Waco and the food has been good. Three-stars to me is good. Not extraordinary but good and that means I'll be a repeat customer. We've shared breakfast on both visits. The first time we had The Olive Branch Breakfast which is three eggs (we had scrambled), biscuit (you can get toast or biscuit), bacon, hashbrowns, and house made sausage. That's A LOT of food and you can see why we shared it. Our second visit we shared a jalapeño popper omelette and wheat toast. We also added a side of bacon. We were satisfied and happy with the service as well. We will return. read more

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Cool venue, the food is wonderful and the staff is exceptional. So glad this place was recommended to my wife and me. Five stars read more

The Olive Branch has been my favorite restaurant in Waco for more than ten years. I lived in Waco for five years and couldn't get enough of this place. It was even the first restaurant we took our son to when he was old enough! Everything here is great. My favorite lunch dish is the chicken pesto sandwich. The sauce is tasty but not overwhelming. The chicken tastes very fresh. Their chocolate chip pancakes are also phenomenal. Large and properly stuffed with chocolate chips! The staff is always attentive and welcoming. I left Waco back in 2019, but every time I come back or drive through, I always schedule an Olive Branch visit. It might be my favorite part. read more

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The food was great! I have no complaints! My steak & fries were delicious today! Also I'm always willing to give a new server the benefit of doubt. But I had to ask for my salad. She said "she didn't know salad came out first"!!? I learned that when I was a server, first day! She mentioned that she works breakfast and lunch, but even with that you get salad or soup it always comes out first. So I didn't worry too much about that but then it took forever to get our food. I had to ask for a refill in a "to go" cup. Then she proceeded to tell us how they give her free food & the meal that my husband just paid almost $20 for, "she can get free anytime she wants"! That is not something you should tell a customer who's just paid $20 for their meal. I'm not real happy with this place right now. We do love the food and will probably try again. I gave it three stars because the other person that was working here was nice. The food was wonderful and the atmosphere is ok. It's always a bit cold but other than that, The best part about this restaurant is that the food is delicious. One thing I'd like to say is that this new server (*we know that because she told us she was new. She has been here about two weeks). She was over in the corner, eating and drinking in front of us & chewing and just sitting there while we were waiting for our salad and food forever. When I worked at a restaurant, we weren't allowed to do that. One last thing, that my husband and I would both like to say is that there was some kind of an art show going on after we sat down and had already ordered. And there were people standing around our table, taking art up and down off the wall and walking around us closely. They were talking around us closely and all of that and it was just kind of annoying... when we were having a nice dinner and there was like nobody there when we walked in. It was really weird to have an art show going on during the height of dinner time when we were there at 4:30 in the afternoon and we're leaving at 5:15 PM. There were other tables of people sitting against the wall, who were even more annoyed because people were much closer than grabbing pictures of the wall right next to them. But again, I will say the food was wonderful read more

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Very tasty brunch spot! We came without a reservation on a Saturday morning and I thought it would be hopeless but they worked it out for us. Very kind and accommodating staff. The biscuit was a stunner - and I know my biscuits! I got the maple fried chicken biscuit entree and it was everything I was hoping for. Large flaky biscuit with fried chicken and runny egg, perfection. We sat outside which was warm but doable. Inside would have been cooler but we came without a reservation so we were willing to go wherever! I'll go back for that biscuit anytime! Picnic table outside could use cushions - painful to sit on for more than a bit. read more

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Delicious brunch menu. We shared the brisket skillet and fried chicken biscuit. I wish the brisket was a little more tender and that the maple butter on the biscuit had a little stronger maple flavor, but would get both of those items again. The chocolate croissant was good but nothing out of this world. The place is big and open. It seemed like they could fit more seating in the dining room, especially considering the wait was 20+min. Staff was friendly and attentive. read more

The Olive Branch - Fried chicken biscuit Brisket skillet - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

This restaurant has great food, the trick is getting it. We waited for 30 minutes just to be seated, which was no Big deal. Placed our order and after 40 minutes, and watching others be seated, order, eat, and leave, was frustrating. When we asked what was taking so long, our server didnt want to admit she didnt put our order in. She was indignant and used avoidance to deal with us. She did not put our order in, per management. We will not go back to this restaurant. If you go, make sure your server knows you would like to eat what you order. read more

Service was a little slow at first. We were told to seat ourselves, even though several servers were standing around chatting. No one came by to check on us, so we had to ask at the counter whether to order there or at the table. The gentleman said at the table, so we sat back down and waited again. Once our waitress Annabelle came over, though things turned around. She was very kind, attentive, and gave us some good recommendations. She knew the menu well and made sure we had everything we needed. Since we're visiting, we ordered a few different items to try: the Protein Bowl, a la carte Biscuits & Gravy, the Brisket Bowl, and the Cinnamon Biscuit Bites. The Protein Bowl was my absolute favorite, with the Biscuits & Gravy a very very close second. The Brisket Bowl was also really good. The Cinnamon Biscuit Bites weren't quite for us. they were a bit too greasy....but that's just personal preference. Next time, I think we'd try a pancake instead. Overall, once we got settled in, we enjoyed the food and especially appreciated Annabelle's service. Inside is cute and clean. read more

Great location, ample parking. Good menu selection. Coffee was really good. Pasties VERY GOOD.

August 2026 went to the olive branch in Waco ordered french fries and a sweet tea, server presented the meal. Received the receipt, total It was $9.10 I added a three dollar tip total $12.10 somehow the server stole three more dollars from me it was on my credit card receipt. Never again I guess people think seniors are crazy and they don't notice. read more

We went to The Olive Branch for an after-wedding Sunday brunch. We were a party of 15. We were told the wait to sit inside would be 40 min because there was a party of 13 in front of us waiting. The wait for outside seating was 20 min. So we chose outside seating. They went above and beyond and were able to set up our tables inside in less than 20 min. The food was amazing. I had the Breakfast Migas. Never had it with zucchini in it, but it was so good. My husband had the TOB Breakfast. The homemade biscuit was amazing. My son ordered a flight of mimosas, which I'll be ordering next time. Everyone loved their meal. Considering we were a large party and knowing there was another large party in front of us, service was perfect. A little wait for the food, but again, that was expected and understandable. Our waitress made continuous rounds, keeping our glasses topped with our drinks, and keeping us informed of our food status. She was very calm and super friendly! Great job! Great service! We'll be back!!! read more

The Olive Branch - Inside dinning area @ The Olive Branch, Waco, TX. - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

The service, (Leah and Kiara took very good care of me) and the "non-chain restaurant look" was nice. It had the feel of Saturday Brunch with the music and how busy it was. I didn't mind waiting 45 minutes for my table for 1. I ordered The Farmer's Hash. Which is a sausage, potato, a few veggies, and egg bowl. Here's what I wish my bowl had. Crispy potatoes, grilled sausage (the sausage had the texture of being boiled), and brought to me steaming hot. The flavor was just okay because it was warm and not hot. The entire bowl's texture was soft. Soft potatoes, soft sausage, mixed with eggs over easy. It all felt the same while chewing. The croissant was okay. A little doughy in the middle so I removed that part, but the rest good. The combination of the Croissant and the Hash was a 6 out of 10. read more

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Came in for a late lunch. Needed some comfort food and the grilled cheese and a oat milk latte did the trick. IKIK. Oat milk then a full load of cheese on bread. Like I said I needed comfort food. The sweet potatoes fries were cooked just right. My daughter got the chicken pesto penne and loved it. Chicken was cooked just right. read more

The Olive Branch - Grilled cheese - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

Fantastic - Really! - Breakfast delivered by Uber Eats this am. Why fantastic? Scrambled eggs were fluffy and must have been 2 large eggs. Breakfast potatoes were plentiful and soft on the inside and properly crispy on the inside. The sausage patty was the size of a small hamburger and was perfectly char-grilled and really tasty. I ordered a side of bacon and it was some of the best bacon I have eaten in the last several months, four large pieces, and not overly fatty. Just good, crispy bacon cooked perfectly. I also selected a biscuit instead of toast and it was a fluffy, oversized biscuit that was delicious. Again, a fantastic breakfast. I will be taking out from this restaurant again soon. read more

The Olive Branch - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

The mimosa flight and sparkling rose wine were excellent compliments to our pancakes, home fries, and hot chicken breakfast wrap. The food, music, and price were spot on. read more

The Olive Branch - Mimosa flight - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

One of my favorite brunch spots! Their sandwiches are so amazing. Coffee is delicious. Service is always great. One of my go to spots!

Had the absolute best avocado toast in my life there just yesterday! I will be dreaming of it for days to come. Chefs Kiss! read more

The Olive Branch - Toast with avocado spread, fried egg over easy, topped with cherry tomatoes and arugula. Balsamic drizzled over the top. - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

We had an outstanding meal at The Olive Branch. We started with the delicious Brussels sprouts appetizer along with a $5 happy hour Cabernet that was surprisingly good. My husband got the bone-in pork chop with risotto which was one of the best he's ever had. I had the baked lasagna which was delicious and big enough to feed a family of 4. My daughter also really liked her grilled steak salad. The servers were very friendly but were a little unorganized...not a big deal though. The room is very basic but has lovely artwork for sale on the walls. Prices are exceptionally reasonable. I would definitely recommend. read more

Phenomenal Sunday brunch! Expect a wait or be there to get in line when they open. Well worth the wait, just be prepared or come early. Super friendly staff from hostess to waitress. Would love to sit outside next time but big back me was hungry and took first available. Pork belly and grits, bennies, cinnamon bites, and chefs omelette (chicken, feta, etc) that day. All very good and large portions. STOP here and try it! 5 people, food, mimosas, and 3 kids drinks $93. Reasonable for what you get. read more

The Olive Branch - Pork belly and cheese grits - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

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Great Food and Service We had the pleasure of dining at The Olive Branch recently, and were thoroughly impressed. The food was delicious and the service was impeccable. The staff is delightful and attentive. We will definitely return. read more

A local gem, service is friendly and food is consistently good. Family favorites are the Power Bowl, French Toast, cinnamon roll and biscuits and gravy. read more

Came here for lunch w some friends. Ordered penne pasta w pesto. First bite didn't feel special but when the butter and pesto hit my tastebuds I was a happy camper. read more

The FOOD IS AMAZING! Def worth a try for sure!! Service is also great. Staff is nice and welcoming when you enter! It's a really cool date night spot or even just a quick lunch eat place! read more

The food is ridiculously good. Best handmade biscuits- eggs are amazing. Service was excellent by Cooper and Sean. Whatever you read in reviews, just ignore and get over here. Opens at 8am. Highly recommend by a Texas food lover read more

Atmosphere was pretty great! They have indoor and outdoor seating, which is nice and provides for a good ambiance. The dish I got was too salty. It was pretty sodium heavy, the runny yolk was what balance the dish out, but the bacon with the spinach and artichoke, and the hollandaise combined was very salty. There was not anything to help balance it out so I wouldn't recommend it, maybe with some bread it would be nice, but it felt as if it were straight spinach and artichoke dip with extra salt added. Service wasn't super great. I have a lot of respect for service workers and also believe in giving grace, however, we had a 2 hour lunch because we were waiting on our check and asked for to-go boxes five separate times. Each time our waitress came back, she asked if we needed anything and let her know we wanted the check and our to-go boxes, and had to repeat that a couple of times. When we received our check, the food items were on the wrong checks (we had two combined and one single check), and waited quite a while to receive everything back. There were quite a bit of people so ir was understandable, but I feel that asking five times was a bit much. read more

The Olive Branch - Eggs Sardou - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

I found this cute little place while on a road trip through Texas. It's right down the road from Magnolia Market & I HIGHLY suggest it over the food truck options at the silos. It's a quaint little cafe with a chill vibe. They serve breakfast until 2 or 3p, have pastries & WINE!! The service is hit or miss depending on servers & time of day. I came during a shift split. My first server was great. My second one forgot about me - even though I was literally the ONLY table. ‍‍ The fries are those delicious crispy ones that you dream about & the ranch is that homemade kind that leaves you reminiscent of grandma! read more

The Olive Branch - Crispy delicious fries!! - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

We had a great meal with great service here! It can get a bit loud when full, but it's a friendly atmosphere. I stepped out of my regular breakfast norms and tried the Power Bowl and I'm so glad I did! Filled with generous portions of pesto-drizzled avocado, squash, zucchini, tomatoes, and potatoes and then topped with eggs and crispy bacon. So delicious and filling! My friend had the Light Breakfast with a Blueberry pancake on the side and was happy as well. read more

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Leah and her team were AAAAAMAZING! We used them to cater our daughter's wedding this past weekend and I couldn't have asked for better service or food! And the food....SOOOO GOOD! Everyone loved it and there was plenty to go around! Leah was attentive from the first email to the last, day after text. She made a (happy) stressful event very enjoyable! Thank yo, Leah and Olive Branch team! read more

Love the food and the wait staff are amazing. But the hostess the past two times we have went has not been very accommodating.

Every time I order online or over the phone I'm told 10-15 minutes and end up waiting 30-45. Same goes for sit down. Extremely inconsistent in service time. read more

Breakfast is great but lunch was mediocre at best with very poor service. Definitely return for breakfast but not for lunch.

The bad.... It's loud, they need to invest in some wall coverings to tone it down. The good..... service was great, food arrived quickly and was plentiful. As for the food, it was very good. We had a large party of nine, and everybody enjoyed their meal. All in all highly recommend this place for Sunday brunch. read more

The Olive Branch - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

The food was excellent! Six in our party and all enjoyed our meal. The beef tenderloin was nicely seasoned and the garlic fries were some of the best I've ever had. The service on the other hand was very slow. Our server got two orders wrong and brought our wine as dinner was being served. He didn't seem very organized. Also, the chairs were very uncomfortable. They are hard metal chairs. I don't know that we'll be back. If they had better seating and service I would definitely go back. The food was delicious! read more

This was THE BEST chicken caesar salad I have EVER had. I paired it with some sweet potato fries which were, much to my dismay, pretty soggy and sad. Our waiter was the kindest human and the vibes were okay! read more

we had a large party for a birthday brunch. Bailey was incredibly nice and attentive! the food was delicious and everyone enjoyed the pastries, coffee, and mimosas. read more

The Olive Branch - Brisket Burrito - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas

What is this place? Odd menu Lacking character Food was CRUSTED in salt Cannot recommend read more

Met some friends from California (yes I have friends from California), and stopped here after church. Like any restaurant on a Sunday from 9:00am - 1:000m, it was busy. The better the food, the longer the wait. We had a party of 11, so we expected a longer wait. Yet, the staff was very accommodating and seated us within 45 mins. Now let's discuss coffee. Five different choices. I had the "2-5-4", (Waco area code). Delicious with a bit of a nutty flavor. Now for the meals. I had the Steak and Eggs, my wife the "Power Bowl." The numerous bites of Sirloin was very tender and tasty. Potatoes were a little over cooked for my taste, but I do have a delicate tongue. The Power Bowl came with eggs and two nice slices of bacon, and a mix of vegetables over a bed of hash browns. Way too healthy for me, but she loves it. Warning, like most bacon it is a bit salty...but it's bacon right? Other members of our party had "French Toast", "Chicken & Biscuit", and others. Some complaints of the French Toast being soggy, or salty bacon. Over all, everyone loves their choices. I had a chance to taste the French Toast and "WoW! It was sweet. But tender and delicious! Not for the weak at heart or Diabetics. The "French Toast" and the "Power Bowl", were the all time favorites. When visiting Waco, check out the nice folks at the "Olive Branch". We had a party of 11, and without a fight they split the check 5 ways and didn't charge the large party gratuity. For that alone, we tipped extra! Thanks "Landra" for your excellent service and perfect order presentation. I will return. Michael C. Georgetown, Tx. read more

The service was 5 stars for sure, the staff members are friendly and helpful. However, the food was 1-2 stars at best. The chicken pesto sandwich on focaccia that everyone recommends was so dry and almost no flavor, also arrived like it had been sitting on the counter for a long time, the cheese was hardened instead of melty, it was extra dry! The fruit is hard unripe cantaloupe and melon mostly, so definitely skip that. I know Olive Branch is great at catering, so you would think operating as a restaurant the food would be even better, but it was a big disappointment. I could easily make this at home for less and much better. Another issue with this restaurant that is the acoustics are terrible, it's so intensely loud and hard to hear your conversations with friends. I kept having to raise my voice just so my friends could hear me. They should install booths or do some creative sound proofing when they can because it's really unpleasant to sit down and eat here. I think I'll be back to try a croissant or their breakfast items, maybe that is what this place is good for. I will update if it's good! read more

Wasting some time before kickoff at Spice, jumped into the Olive Branch for a quick snack. No wait to sit, table was dirty. Staff was pleasant but took 20 minutes for our order of soup and a sandwich. Soup was tasty but not my definition of potato soup with no potatoes or bacon and a sprinkle of cheese. The chicken salad sandwich was bland, not seasoned but the sweet potato fries were good. Big room, seating is sporadic but for a quick bite (supposed to have been) it did the trick. read more

The Olive Branch - Potato soup, chicken salad sandwich and sweet potato fries. - Cafes Near Me - Waco, Texas