Where to Eat Lunch or Brunch After Your Family Photo Session at Lemon Drop Studio – McKinney, TX

You’ve just finished your family photos with Erica Grandin Photography at Lemon Drop Studio — everyone’s looking their best, the kids are still smiling (hopefully!), and now it’s time to reward yourselves. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café, a kid-friendly patio, or just great coffee, McKinney has plenty of local gems to explore.

Here are some of our favorite lunch and brunch spots just minutes from the studio:

WHERE TO EAT

1. The Yard McKinney

📍 107 S Church St, McKinney, TX 75069

Set in a historic home with a huge backyard patio, The Yard is casual, kid-friendly, and packed with Southern-style comfort food. It’s a great place to let little ones run around while you relax.

What to try: Chicken & waffles, brisket grilled cheese, Yard burger
🌳 Spacious outdoor dining and weekend brunch options

2. Tupps Brewery

📍 402 East Louisiana Street, McKinney, TX 75069

A 4-acre property nestled in Downtown McKinney’s Mill District. A place for people to enjoy time together, try something new, take a brewery tour, indulge in delicious food, or simply relax in a vibrant space. 

3. Spoons Café

📍 100 E Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069

Located right on the downtown square, Spoons is a cozy café offering all-day breakfast, hearty lunches, and a touch of small-town charm. It’s been a local staple for years.

What to try: McKinney omelet, cinnamon rolls, chicken salad sandwich
🎶 Often features live music on weekends

4. Hugs Café

📍 224 E Virginia St, McKinney, TX 75069

A heartwarming lunch spot with a mission—Hugs Café employs adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and serves up fresh, delicious fare in a welcoming setting.

What to try: Pimento cheese sandwich, tomato basil soup, “The Hugger” chicken salad
💛 Eat good and do good!

5. Filtered

📍 218 E Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069

For those who want a quiet, artsy coffee shop vibe after the shoot, Filtered is the perfect place to slow down. Grab a light bite, sip a latte, and reflect on a great session.

What to try: Honey lavender latte, quiche, homemade muffins
🎨 Local art, chill ambiance, live music on some afternoons

6. Layered – McKinney

📍 111 E Virginia St, McKinney, TX 75069

A local favorite for stylish brunch, Layered offers gourmet coffee, creative breakfast dishes, and a relaxed, modern vibe. Perfect for winding down while still feeling a little fancy after your shoot.

What to try: Cinnamon roll pancakes, seasonal French toast, breakfast tacos
☕ Great coffee bar, indoor + outdoor seating

🍦 Bonus: Treats for the Kids (and You!)

Make it a full outing with a sweet stop before heading home:

• Emporium Pies – 107 S Tennessee St: Handmade pies with seasonal flavors.
• Mom & Popcorn Co. – 215 E Louisiana St: Nostalgic candy, popcorn, and sweets galore.

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WHERE TO SHOP

Historic Downtown McKinney is full of locally owned boutiques and specialty stores that make for a perfect follow-up to your photo day. Whether you’re looking for a keepsake, a gift, or a little treat for yourself, there’s something for everyone.

1. The Little Red Hen

📍 101 E Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069

A whimsical shop filled with curated gifts, home goods, and seasonal décor. It’s a local favorite for unique finds and small treasures you won’t see anywhere else.

🛒 Best for: Cute gifts, candles, kitchen items, and holiday-themed goodies

2. Birds & Words

📍 203 E Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069

A beautiful blend of rustic farmhouse style and modern charm, this home décor boutique is perfect for anyone looking to add a cozy, personal touch to their space.

🛋️ Best for: Wall art, signs, vintage-inspired decor, and McKinney-themed gifts

3. Fair & Square Imports

📍 219 E Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069

A fair-trade shop offering artisan-made goods from over 40 countries. Think handmade jewelry, kids’ toys, home goods, and more—each with a story and a purpose.

🌍 Best for: Ethical gifts, handmade toys, eco-conscious products

4. Haberdasher

📍 105 E Virginia St, McKinney, TX 75069

Looking for a unique shopping experience for men or dads who deserve a little treat post-photo session? Haberdasher offers high-quality men’s fashion, grooming products, and accessories.

👔 Best for: Men’s gifts, leather goods, and stylish dad-approved finds

5. Doozie’s Corner

📍 211 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069

An adorable boutique for women and girls with clothing, accessories, and gifts that are playful, trendy, and often locally sourced.

👗 Best for: Women’s clothing, fun gifts, mommy-and-me matching sets

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✨ From Photos to Food – Make It a Memory

Thank you for trusting Erica Grandin Photography to capture your family’s story. We know family photos can be a big deal (outfits, timing, wrangling the kids!), so you deserve a fun, delicious reward.

Whether you head to brunch in downtown McKinney or grab a to-go treat, we hope your photo day ends with full hearts—and full bellies.