• We believe food can be an invitation to slow down, settle in, and connect with those we love. It not only draws us to the table, but also to one another, finding in everyday moments a slice of life worth savoring. 

    Food creates space for what really matters. So, here’s to making it a little easier—whether here in Waco or at home with family and friends—to gather together and be filled up in more ways than one.

  • Our Eateries

    From our sit-down restaurant to our little corner bakery, cozy coffee shop, and local food trucks, there's plenty of good food and company to go around.

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  • Our Cookbooks

    In Magnolia Table,Volumes 1, 2 and 3, Joanna shares her cooking journey through the lens of favorite family recipes, going beyond her comfort zone, and creating meals worth savoring.

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  • Our Cooking Shows

    Every meal can be an opportunity for more creativity and connection. Follow along from the Gristmill, the Silos, and the kitchen with Joanna to get inspired for your next dish.

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  • Our Recipes

    Bring something delicious to the table, whether you’re short on time or cooking for every course with our collection of recipes from Joanna and more.

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A Brief History

Before there was Magnolia Table, there was the Elite Cafe,a Waco-favorite diner that opened in 1919. The original location on Austin Avenue grew so popular that the owners opened a second location on the Waco Traffic Circle. After the infamous tornado of 1953, along with various renovations and ownership changes, both locations eventually closed. To restore the iconic landmark to its former glory and to fulfill Chip’s longtime dream of opening a breakfast restaurant, Chip and Jo bought the Elite in 2017. As former patrons, they made it their first priority to preserve the cafe’s history while giving it a fresh design and renewed purpose. Magnolia Table opened for business in early 2018. Since then, our breakfast + lunch restaurant has been keeping the Elite’s legacy alive by bringing people together through good food–because everyone deserves a seat at the table.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are not required but are encouraged to minimize your waiting time. Reservations can be made via OpenTable for up to six people. Walk-in parties are welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis and we do not offer call-ahead seating.

How do I edit my reservation with Open Table?

Reservations can be managed through the OpenTable website or app. We are unable to manage or change reservations by phone or email.

Can you accommodate dietary and allergy restrictions?

Our menu includes a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. We are not a nut-free or gluten-free facility, but we take cross-contamination very seriously. Please notify your server of any allergies.

Can I order food to-go?

Absolutely! Our full menu and a variety of grab-and-go options are available at Take Away, connected to the restaurant. To order ahead, call (254) 265-6859.

I found an issue with my to-go order, who do I contact?

After submitting an order, guests will receive a confirmation email that includes the Magnolia Table phone number. Any issue with the order will need to be communicated via telephone.