Venturing into the Wichita Falls culinary scene, a recent outing led to a revisit of a local institution: Pioneer of Texas. Having been some time since my last meal there, and with a new friend in town eager to explore Wichita Falls’ dining options, it felt like the perfect opportunity for a Lunch Bunch review at Pioneer on Maplewood Avenue. My buddy, new to the area, was given the honors of choosing our destination, and Pioneer it was – a choice that promised a taste of classic Wichita Falls fare.
Stepping Back in Time: The Pioneer Ambiance
Walking into Pioneer is like stepping into a nostalgic time capsule. The warm, wood-paneled walls and ceilings, coupled with the classic tiled floor, create an atmosphere brimming with character. In an era of minimalist, modern restaurant designs often featuring white walls and stainless steel, Pioneer’s distinct, seasoned ambiance is a refreshing change, offering a comforting, familiar feel that speaks to its long history in Wichita Falls. This is a place that feels lived-in and loved, a true local diner experience.
Pioneer’s Menu: A Tex-Mex and Comfort Food Journey
Eager to explore beyond my usual choices, and guided by the spirit of discovery for my buddy’s first Pioneer experience, we started with the intriguing “tumbleweeds” appetizer. Described as Pioneer’s take on jalapeno poppers, the tumbleweeds ($4.49) arrived as two substantial, fist-sized fried balls. These weren’t your typical poppers; instead, they were packed with a savory mix of ground meat, cheese, and jalapenos, served with a side of queso and beans. Each tumbleweed was almost a meal in itself, boasting a well-seasoned meat filling and a satisfyingly crispy crust. While the jalapenos provided a pleasant kick, a personal preference would have been for a more generous cheese filling within the ball. However, the accompanying queso dip nicely compensated, adding an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
For the main course, I decided to bravely revisit red tacos ($9.29). Past experiences had left me hesitant, but with a more open palate and the encouragement of local red taco enthusiasts, I took the plunge. Requesting the red sauce on the side initially, I quickly opted to pour it over the tacos after tasting it. The sauce was rich and thick, with a subtle tang that complemented the red taco shell perfectly. The ground meat filling was flavorful, and the toppings were notably fresh. Surprisingly, I enjoyed these red tacos much more than anticipated. They held together well, unlike typical hard tacos, and possessed a pleasing softness that made them less messy to eat. While soft tacos remain my usual preference, Pioneer’s red tacos were a pleasant deviation, and I might even order them again.
However, the true stars of the red taco plate were the sides: rice and beans. These unassuming components truly stole the show, especially when combined with sliced jalapenos and onions. The seasoning was spot-on, requiring no additional salt or pepper, enhancing the overall dining experience. The generous portion of the tumbleweed appetizer meant I could only manage one taco at the restaurant, but even reheated later for dinner, the food remained delicious.
My buddy opted for the lunch portion of the chicken fried steak ($8.49), and his insights provided another dimension to the Pioneer experience. He noted that Pioneer’s chicken fried steak diverges from the traditional crispy, breaded, and pan-fried version. Instead, Pioneer offers a lightly breaded and grilled steak, resulting in a unique, slightly charred flavor. Despite its somewhat unassuming appearance – arriving as a “hunk of brown mystery meat covered in gravy” – the taste was surprisingly enjoyable. He paired his chicken fried steak with fried okra and mashed potatoes. While the okra, a personal comfort food favorite, was well-received, the mashed potatoes were less impressive. They were heavily laden with brown gravy, which, in his preference, was excessive. Furthermore, the potato consistency was firmer than expected, suggesting they might have been of the frozen variety and not quite up to par with the comforting expectation set by Pioneer’s reputation. Despite the potato disappointment, the chicken fried steak itself was a highlight, deemed the best he’d had and a reason to return to Pioneer Wichita Falls.
Final Verdict: Is Pioneer Wichita Falls Worth a Visit?
Pioneer of Texas in Wichita Falls offers more than just a meal; it provides an experience steeped in local tradition. From the nostalgic ambiance to a menu featuring Tex-Mex classics and comforting dishes, Pioneer delivers a taste of Wichita Falls’ culinary heritage. While some dishes, like the mashed potatoes, might have room for improvement, the overall experience, particularly the red tacos and chicken fried steak, alongside standout sides like rice and beans, makes Pioneer a worthwhile dining destination in Wichita Falls. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, Pioneer offers a genuine taste of Texas comfort food in a setting that feels like home.
If you go:
Pioneer of Texas
4545 Maplewood Ave., Wichita Falls, TX 76308
(940) 692-2170
www.pioneeroftexasrestaurant.com
Hours:
Monday – Thursday 6:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday 6:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday 7:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
