2 of the COZIEST & Delicious Hole in the Wall Spots in McAllen, TX

Hidden in the heart of McAllen, TX, Philly 77 and Rex Cafe & Bakery are the treasure troves food lovers dream about! 🍔

These cozy gems offer authentic local flavor in charming, intimate settings.

From Rex’s nostalgic Mexican home cooking to Philly 77’s mouthwatering cheesesteaks, these spots deliver big flavors in unassuming places. 🌮

Philly 77

Craving a cheesy, meaty masterpiece that’ll make your taste buds throw a party? Philly 77 in McAllen, Texas, delivers messy, indulgent joy in every bite.

This unassuming spot has become a local favorite for its creative twists on the classic Philly cheesesteak, loaded fries, and Instagram-worthy milkshakes.

With a menu that packs flavor and a vibe that’s equal parts laid-back and lively, it’s no wonder this place keeps folks coming back for more.

Food Highlights

• Original Philly Cheese Steak: Thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, peppers, and authentic Cheese Whiz spill out of a soft, fresh-baked roll. Reviewers call it the “real deal” for purists and newcomers alike.
• Buffalo Philly Steak: For spice lovers, this version piles on jalapeños, crispy bacon, and tangy buffalo sauce. It’s a fiery, smoky twist that regulars swear by. 🌶️
• Philly Steak Potato: Who needs a bun? This loaded baked potato swaps carbs for more carbs, stuffing a spud with steak, mushrooms, and melted cheddar. Perfect for fry-adjacent enthusiasts. 🥔
• Strawberry Chicken Salad: A sweet-savory hybrid with grilled chicken, fresh strawberries, pecans, and raspberry vinaigrette. It’s the menu’s sneaky health hack (sort of). 🥗
• Cheese Fries in a Cup: Fries drowned in cheese whiz, ranch, and bacon bits. Reviewers warn: “Wear stretchy pants!” 🍟
• Milkshakes: Over-the-top creations like the strawberry shake—thick, creamy, and topped with candies or cookies. They’re basically dessert FOMO in a glass. 🥤

Atmosphere 🎶

Philly 77 feels like a backyard hangout with a side of hipster charm.

The outdoor patio is a go-to for families and couples, strung with lights and buzzing with casual energy. Indoors, retro decor and upbeat music keep the mood fun without trying too hard.

Staff greet guests like old friends, and the open kitchen lets you watch the cheesesteak magic happen.

It’s the kind of place where you’ll linger over fries while planning your next visit. 🌟

Bottom Line

Philly 77 isn’t just a meal—it’s a vibe. Come for the cheesy, meaty euphoria, stay for the shakes, and leave plotting your return.

Whether you’re a cheesesteak rookie or a seasoned pro, this spot turns comfort food into a celebration.

Address: 1123 W US Highway 83, McAllen, TX 78501

Rex Cafe & Bakery

Rex Cafe & Bakery in McAllen, Texas, is where time travel meets comfort food. 🕰️ Since 1947, this family-owned gem has dished out heaping plates of nostalgia alongside affordable Mexican-American classics.

Locals and travelers flock here for its retro charm, wallet-friendly prices, and flavors that make you glad you stopped in. Seriously.

Forget trendy avocado toast—this spot keeps it real with homemade tortillas, crispy empanadas, and coffee strong enough to power a time machine.

Food Highlights

• Un Taco de Papa Breakfast ($2.99): A hearty morning mashup of potatoes, chorizo, bacon, or sausage wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for carb-loading before exploring McAllen’s shops. 🌮
• Griddled Biscuits with Jelly ($2.15): Flaky, buttery biscuits kissed by the griddle—a hack so good, regular toast feels basic. Reviewers swear it’s “like dad used to make.” 🧈
• Bacon & Tomato Sandwich ($2.99): A no-nonsense BLT that’s crispy, salty, and cheaper than a gas station soda. The ultimate lunch steal. 🥪
• Empanadas: Golden pockets of joy stuffed with savory fillings. Pro tip: Ask for them grilled—game-changer alert. 🥟
• Pan Dulce: Shelves of conchas, orejas, and other sweet breads that’ve fueled McAllen’s breakfast rituals since the Truman administration. 🥐
• Abuelitas Hot Chocolate ($2.75): Spiced Mexican cocoa so thick, your spoon might stand up in it. Winter in a cup. ☕

Atmosphere

Step inside and you’re greeted by vinyl booths, checkerboard floors, and walls plastered with vintage McAllen photos. 📸

The clatter of dishes and Spanglish chatter create a soundtrack that’s been playing since Eisenhower was president.

Families squeeze into red stools at the Formica counter, old-timers debate politics over café de olla, and everyone leaves smelling like fresh tortillas.

It’s less “Instagram aesthetic” and more “your cool tío’s basement”—in the best way possible.

Bottom Line

Rex Cafe & Bakery serves history on a plate without museum prices. Come for the $3 breakfast tacos, stay for the time-capsule vibes.

Whether you’re a broke college student or a sentimental grandparent, this is where McAllen’s heart beats—one crispy empanada at a time.

Address: 321 S 17th St, McAllen, TX 78501