Beaumont has the best of two worlds - as a Texan city, it carries a long tradition of great steaks, barbecue and Tex-Mex specialties, but with its proximity to Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico, tasty seafood, Cajun and Creole food are also found in abundance. Good soul food and Southern comfort staples are big draws here as are small lunch-only cafes and hearty hash houses with huge breakfasts. Those drawn to fine dining will find new American eateries offering creative spins on traditional favorites with farm-to-table ingredients, but those looking for the fun in eating will enjoy dishes like tamales covered with shrimp étouffée, which only a city with such strong overlapping influences could produce. From basil noodles to iconic cheeseburgers, Beaumont has something for everyone.