If you find yourself passing through Ruston, La. on I-20 with just enough time to grab a quick bite to eat, do yourself a favor and skip the fast food chains. Instead, try a local spot that offers quick service and dynamite food. We’ve picked a handful of fast, local Ruston eats that are sure to leave you coming back for more on your next trip through town.
La Bamba has become a local favorite for its tasty assortment of Tex-Mex cuisine. Add in their always-speedy service and great prices, and you have a perfect place to sit down and have a quick lunch or dinner. Try their signature queso, the Burrito La Bamba or their homemade tamales.
Location/Hours: 207 N Service Rd E; Mon-Sun: 11am - 10pm
If you’re in the mood for barbeque, Brister’s Smokehouse is the place to go. Located right off the interstate, Brister’s is an ideal spot for travelers looking for a hearty and delicious meal. Feel free to sit down in this homey little restaurant or take your meal to-go on the road. Locals rave about their homemade BBQ sauce, the scatter load sandwich and the BBQ nachos.
Location/Hours: 1420 Cooktown Road; Mon-Sat: 10am - 8pm
Don’t have time to sit down and eat? No worries, they have an easy and quick to-go option too.
Tacos the Guero offers an authentic taste of variety of tacos, tortas, quesadillas and burritos all made with fresh ingredients. The super-reasonable prices also make this a top pick if you’re traveling on a budget. People can’t stop talking about their authentically-delicious burritos.
Location/Hours: 744 Celebrity Drive, Ruston, LA 71270; Mon-Sat: 11am - 7pm.
Log Cabin is a large restaurant, bar, and market. They have options ranging from tex-mex to gourmet burgers, full racks of ribs to fine steaks. Take the experience home with you with their large market of freshly seasoned and packaged products.
Location/Hours: 1906 Farmerville Hwy, Ruston, LA 71270; Mon-Thurs 10:30am-9:00pm; Fri-Sat 10:30am-9:30pm
They are located on the right about 1/2 mile when getting off of I-20 on the Farmerville exit. Their address is 1906 Farmerville Hwy, Ruston, LA 71270.
Call ahead and get your order to go: (318) 255-8023
The baddest barbeque in the land can be found directly across the street from Log Cabin Grill and Market. Talk about heating up the competition! Both places offer exquisite selections and Hot Rod BBQ is your home for all things barbeque. You won't be disappointed by their large selection of plates and even a salad or two.
Location/Hours: 1911 Farmerville Hwy, Ruston, LA 71270; Mon-Sat 11am-9pm
Need to call ahead? Use this number: (318) 254-8010
Just past Log Cabin and Hot Rod, you'll find Portico, a local hotspot that offers a varied menu of burgers, southern favorites, and daily lunch specials. Outdoor dining is available on their covered patio and bar.
Location/Hours: 1821 N Pointe Ln, Ruston, LA 71270; Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-12am; Sun 11am-9pm
Go see them at or call ahead! Their number is 318-255-9900.
This regional favorite is known for their chicken wings and apps. Their menu also features a variety of southern favorites, making it a great stop on your way through Ruston.
Location/Hours: 215 N Service Rd E, Ruston, LA 71270; Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm