Kitok Restaurant
A no-frills Korean-American eatery famous for its award-winning burgers and unique Oriental Fries, boasting a cozy, retro atmosphere since 1975.
Highlights
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Kitok Restaurant
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A no-frills Korean-American eatery famous for its award-winning burgers and unique Oriental Fries, boasting a cozy, retro atmosphere since 1975.
"Discover the best of both worlds with legendary burgers and flavorful Korean dishes at this beloved Waco spot."
Arrive Early to Avoid Lines
Visit near opening time to bypass crowds, as the restaurant can get quite busy later in the day.
Try Recommended Dishes
Consider the Liplocker Burger or Oriental Fries, highly recommended in articles for their unique flavor.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Korean-American
Price
$
Phone
(254) 754-1801
Address
1815 N 18th St, Waco, TX 76707, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Best Burgers in Texas
Renowned for its burgers, especially the Liplocker, a double cheeseburger with a flavorful griddle crust. A must-try for burger aficionados.
Unique Oriental Fries
Crispy, thinly sliced vegetables battered and deep-fried to perfection. A unique and addictive side that complements any main dish.
Cozy Vintage Atmosphere
Experience a warm, welcoming ambiance reminiscent of the 80s and 90s, with retro decorations that add to its charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early to Avoid Lines
Visit near opening time to bypass crowds, as the restaurant can get quite busy later in the day.
Try Recommended Dishes
Consider the Liplocker Burger or Oriental Fries, highly recommended in articles for their unique flavor.
Ask for Recommendations
If you're unsure about what to order, don't hesitate to ask the servers for their best suggestions.
Veggie Fries Best Fresh
Veggie fries are best enjoyed hot and crispy when dining in; they can become soggy if ordered for takeout.
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early to Avoid Lines
Visit near opening time to bypass crowds, as the restaurant can get quite busy later in the day.
Try Recommended Dishes
Consider the Liplocker Burger or Oriental Fries, highly recommended in articles for their unique flavor.
Ask for Recommendations
If you're unsure about what to order, don't hesitate to ask the servers for their best suggestions.
Veggie Fries Best Fresh
Veggie fries are best enjoyed hot and crispy when dining in; they can become soggy if ordered for takeout.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kitok Restaurant is a beloved local institution offering a unique fusion of Korean and American comfort food. Diners rave about the legendary burgers and addictive Oriental fries, often praising the cozy, vintage atmosphere and generous portions. However, some reviews suggest inconsistency in Korean dishes, with occasional complaints about overcooked meat or bland flavors. Despite mixed feedback on some Korean specialties, the overall sentiment leans positive, highlighting Kitok as a must-visit for its classic American fare and unique sides.
"Two of us ate here on Feb. 19th after I'd had a medical procedure done. It was really windy and cold that day. Parking is in the back. We were greeted as soon as we entered and told to pick our own table. It's a small place and there was a gas heater going which made it even more cozy. The food was great and the two ladies were so sweet and attentive. We've told multiple people about Kitok and will 100% be going back when we're in the area. We found it sort of by accident, but that was a great accident. Everything we had was great, try it all!"
Bravo Six
"I found this place on eater as a MUST TRY in Waco. The food was ok. Service was genuine and the atmosphere was "vintage" I'd like to try it again because the Pork Bulgagi was not it."
Ryan Brown
"Opened in 1975 this local favorite is definitely a must stop. It’s small and cozy but I love how it feels inside. It feels very cozy and welcoming. Reminds me a lot of the 80’s and 90’s restaurants because of the decorations and ambiance. I really appreciated it.
We were sat down immediately at 5pm which is nice. 5pm on a Saturday could be a risk going out to eat and having or wait for a table. Our server was friendly.
The food is really the best part which explains why it has such high esteem in the community. You absolutely must try the beef bulgogi. It’s incredibly tender and flavorful. I was also very impressed with my burger. It was simple but full of flavor.
The oriental fries were also very good and the onion rings were crispy. We will be back to try the bulgogi burger next time!"
Evan Burrows
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Kitok Restaurant is most famous for its burgers, particularly the Liplocker, and its unique Oriental Fries. It's also recognized for its blend of Korean and American cuisine.
The Oriental Fries are a signature side dish made from thinly sliced vegetables battered and deep-fried, offering a crispy and unique flavor profile.
While not explicitly detailed, the menu includes vegetable stir-fries and the Oriental Fries, which can be a good option. It's recommended to inquire about other possibilities.
Yes, Kitok is known for its casual, no-frills atmosphere, making it perfect for a relaxed meal in shorts and t-shirts.
The restaurant has a cozy, vintage atmosphere with retro decorations, reminiscent of diners from the 80s and 90s, creating a welcoming vibe.
Yes, Kitok offers a range of Korean dishes, including various Bulgogi options like beef, pork, and chicken.
The restaurant can get busy, especially later in the day. Visiting early, around opening time, is advised to avoid potential wait times.
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Restaurants in Waco
It's a Korean restaurant, and yet Kitok's been mentioned in The New York Times as home of one of the best burgers in Texas. The Liplocker (double cheeseburger) and Oriental fries (a battered, deep-fried nest of thinly sliced vegetables) comprise what is arguably the best meal for the money in Waco. Korean cuisine fills out the remainder of the menu.
Celebrate National Hamburger Day at one of our 12 favorite Waco burger joints
* Kitok Restaurant — The Kitok Lip Locker with Cheese is precisely what one would expect of a diner‑style burger: flattened on a griddle, thin patties, with American cheese melted over both to secure the patties together. The flavor of the griddle crust makes the whole burger work — whether you add bacon, jalapeños, or a fried egg (yes, really). Regardless of your burger choice, don’t forget a side of Oriental Fries.
18 Places to Eat in Waco, TX You'll Love
For those of you who love a good hole-in-the-wall spot, you’ll want to stop at Kitok Restaurant. This has been a staple restaurant in Waco for decades as they opened back in 1975. They serve a blend of Korean and American dishes so you can get burgers here (the Egg Burger is highly recommended) but you can also get bulgogi or kimchee.
Highest-rated Cheap Eats in Waco, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (87 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Asian- Address: 1815 N 18th St, Waco, TX 76707-1511- Read more on Tripadvisor. You may also like: Highest paying jobs in Waco for high school graduates
Tour | Heart O' Texas Foodways
Over the past forty years, Kitok Restaurant has gone from a humble diner to a local institution, known for its blend of American and Korean fare. But when it first opened in 1975, owner Kitok Moore stuck to diner classics and hesitated calling her…
One Girl, Three Days, Four Burgers | Wacoan®
Some people believe a burger is only as good as its side option. While Kitok’s burger is delicious, the oriental fries have developed a loyal fan base. These crispy, thinly sliced fries are the perfect sidekick to the burger.
20 Best Restaurants in Waco, TX for 2025 (Top Eats!)
1815 N 18th StWaco, TX 76707(254) 754-1801 Open in Google Maps. The Kitok Restaurant, which debuted in 1975, is a highly acclaimed dining establishment serving traditional Korean-style dishes.
Ethnic — Waco Wise
This small Korean-American restaurant has been doing it in Waco for almost 50 years. Get yer noodles and burgers, and you absolutely have to order the Oriental Fries. 1815 North 18th Street
26 Best Restaurants in Waco, TX You Don't Want to Miss (2025)
Kitok Restaurant is a hidden gem that combines American and Korean cuisine. Their Lip Locker Burger and Oriental Fries are a unique treat!
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