If you grew up in Central Texas, the name Luby's probably triggers a very specific sensory memory. You can almost smell the yeast rolls and the steam rising from the industrial-sized pans of macaroni and cheese. It was the kind of place where Sunday best met military fatigues, and everybody stood in the same line. Honestly, for a long time, the Luby's Cafeteria Killeen Texas location wasn't just a place to grab a LuAnn Plate; it was the heartbeat of a town that lived and breathed alongside Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos).
But if you drive down toward the old site today, things look different. The building that once housed the cafeteria at 1705 East Central Texas Expressway has seen a lot of life, and quite a bit of heartbreak.
What Happened to the Killeen Luby's?
Let's get the big question out of the way first. People often ask if there's still a Luby's Cafeteria Killeen Texas location you can visit for lunch today.
The short answer is no.
💡 You might also like: January 14, 2026: Why This Wednesday Actually Matters More Than You Think
The restaurant officially closed its doors for good in September 2000. It's been over two decades since the last tray was slid down that chrome rail. For many locals, the closure felt like the end of an era, but the history of that specific spot is complicated. It's impossible to talk about this location without acknowledging the tragedy that occurred there on October 16, 1991. It was a day that changed Texas law and the community forever.
After the shooting, the restaurant actually stayed closed for five months. There was a huge debate at the time—some people wanted it torn down, while others felt that reopening was the only way to heal and keep people employed. The corporate office eventually decided to renovate and reopen in March 1992. They ran it for another eight years before finally decided to shutter it permanently at the turn of the millennium.
Life After Luby's
After Luby's left, the building didn't just sit empty. For a long time, it was a Chinese buffet called Yank Sing. It’s kinda surreal to see a space so deeply associated with "Square Fish" and "Liver and Onions" transition into lo mein and General Tso’s, but that’s how commercial real estate goes.
📖 Related: Black Red Wing Shoes: Why the Heritage Flex Still Wins in 2026
The Menu We Still Miss
Even though the Killeen doors are locked, the craving for that specific brand of Texas comfort food hasn't gone anywhere. Luby's was basically the gold standard for cafeteria dining. You didn't go there for a quick bite; you went there to be overwhelmed by choices.
- The LuAnn Plate: This was the go-to for anyone who couldn't decide. You got a half-portion of an entree, two sides, and a roll. It was named after a character from the King of the Hill creator's world? No, actually, it was named after LuAnn Greer, but the legend of the plate definitely outlived the origins of the name.
- The "Square Fish": Officially called the Fried Fish, but let's be real—everyone called it the square fish. It was perfectly breaded, suspiciously geometric, and went perfectly with a side of tartar sauce.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Most places use a powdered sauce. Luby's used real American cheese and milk, creating that thick, orange crust on top that kids would fight over.
- The Carrot and Raisin Salad: You either loved it or you avoided it like the plague. There was no middle ground.
Why It Mattered to Killeen
Killeen is a unique town. It’s a transient place because of the military base. Soldiers come and go every few years. Because of that, having a stable, "home-cooked" meal was a big deal for families who were thousands of miles away from their actual homes.
Luby's provided that. It was the place where families met after a graduation ceremony or where soldiers had their last "real" meal before a deployment.
👉 See also: Finding the Right Word That Starts With AJ for Games and Everyday Writing
Where Can You Get Luby's Now?
If you're in Killeen and the craving hits, you're going to have to drive. The closest operating locations as of 2026 are mostly concentrated in the bigger hubs. You’re looking at a trip down to Austin or up toward the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Specifically, the Austin locations on East Anderson Lane and West Slaughter Lane are usually the closest bets for someone coming from the Bell County area. It’s about an hour's drive, which sounds crazy for cafeteria food until you remember the taste of those cloverleaf rolls.
A Legacy Beyond Food
It’s worth noting that the Luby's Cafeteria Killeen Texas story is also a massive part of Texas legal history. After the 1991 event, Suzanna Hupp—who was a survivor of the tragedy—became a fierce advocate for concealed carry laws. She eventually served in the Texas House of Representatives. Her activism, sparked by what happened inside those four walls, led directly to Texas passing its first concealed handgun law in 1995.
Whether you remember it for the politics, the tragedy, or just the best pecan pie in the county, the Killeen Luby's remains a landmark of the mind.
Actionable Takeaways for Luby's Fans:
- Check the map: Before you drive, check the official Luby’s website. The company has gone through several ownership changes and liquidations, so locations can disappear or reappear unexpectedly.
- Try the Recipes: If you can't make the drive, there are "official" Luby's cookbooks out there. The Fried Fish and the Cafeteria Mac & Cheese recipes are widely available online and are surprisingly easy to replicate at home if you have a good cast-iron skillet.
- Visit the Memorial: If you are in Killeen and want to pay your respects, there is a stone memorial stela located near the site (near the Killeen Community Center) that honors the victims of the 1991 tragedy. It's a quiet place for reflection.