‘Landman’: Where Is Mary’s Cafe?

On Landman, ever since we met TL Norris (Sam Elliott), father of Tommy Norris (Billy Bob Thornton), we’ve gotten insight into their often troubled time together, and gained a ton of the “TL wisdom” he earned over his wildcatter’s life. But putting the old guy in the passenger seat of Tommy’s M-Tex-branded F-350 Super Duty is one of the best parts about Landman Season 2, because he’s become a griping livestream reflection of every drama popping off in his son’s life. TL will take stock of Tommy’s oil business problems, and tell him all about how he should re-marry Angela (Ali Larter), right after he meets Shelby the neighbor and clowns this plate of corn dogs. Maybe what we like most about TL is watching this guy eat!

And TL’s parade of meals continues in Landman Season 2 Episode 7. On the drive from Fort Worth back to the M-Tex bunkhouse in Midland, Tommy and TL take a side track for lunch through the town of Strawn, where they land at Mary’s Cafe.

What is Mary’s Cafe in Landman? Is Mary’s Cafe A Real Life Location?

Well, it’s only your favorite roadside spot for chicken-fried steaks in three different sizes and gigantic burgers. And if you’re in a hurry like TL notes Tommy always is, no problem – the menu at Mary’s says if you call ahead, they’ll “get it started” for you.

And yes, Mary’s Cafe is a real place. You can find it at 119 Grant Ave, Strawn, TX 76475, which is about 113 miles west of Dallas.

So What Does TL Eat At Mary’s Cafe in Landman?

“I like to enjoy my food. Unlike you, who sucks it down like a fucking catfish.” When TL and Tommy Norris aren’t biting on each other, they’re biting on some delicious Texas-style delicacies. T–bone? Sirloin? Flat Iron? Ribeye? At Mary’s Cafe, the steak is served with mashed potato, salad, toast, and gravy, and TL wants it all. “Whatever time I got left,” the old man says to Tommy, “I’m gonna enjoy. This steak, that sweet tea.” 

We’d be happy watching Tommy and TL driving around and eating lunch at every legendary spot in Texas, but Landman is also famous for Angela’s themed family dining events, so let’s not forget the pirate dinner and the big closer for Season 2 Episode 7, taco night at the Midland house. While Tommy continues to manage his personal dramas, TL reaches for the fresh corn tortillas. Whether he’s at Mary’s Cafe or the M-Tex bunk house, on Landman, TL Norris is always gonna enjoy his meal.  

Johnny Loftus (@johnnyloftus.bsky.social) is a Chicago-based writer. A veteran of the alternative weekly trenches, his work has also appeared in Entertainment Weekly, Pitchfork, The All Music Guide, and The Village Voice.