Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city where live music spills out of honky-tonks and trendy food trucks dish up gourmet fare. The state capital buzzes with a youthful energy, fueled by a mix of tech startups, creative minds, and passionate foodies.
Whether you are looking for a melt-in-your-mouth barbecue station or Tex-Mex cuisine, restaurants in Austin have them all. So to make it easier, we have listed some of the top 20 eateries to savor.
1. Olamaie
For those who love Southern fare, Olamaie welcomes you seven days a week in an elegant refurbished home. They craft culinary masterpieces from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring every bite is a symphony of taste.
Whether it's the melt-in-your-mouth buttermilk fried chicken or the decadent pecan pie with gooey filling, each dish is a testament to the artistry of the kitchen.
Where: 1610 San Antonio Street
2. Odd Duck
Odd Duck prides itself on using the freshest seasonal ingredients to create small plates that are surprising and delicious. The restaurant has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, making it a great spot for a fun night out.
The open kitchen at Odd Duck allows you to watch the chefs in action, and the mismatched vintage plates add to the quirky charm.
Where: 1201 S Lamar Blvd
3. Jeffrey's
Jeffrey's doesn't hold back on elegance. It's the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or simply a luxurious escape from the everyday.
And, their menu masterfully blends classic American cuisine with contemporary flair. Indulge in wood-fired steaks cooked to perfection, savor the buttery richness of lobster bisque, or try their innovative seasonal dishes.
Where: 1204 W Lynn Street
4. Emmer & Rye
In Austin, you can't miss stepping into Emmer & Rye if you love homemade bread and pasta. Emmer & Rye is committed to supporting local farmers and ranchers, so be sure you're enjoying food that is not only delicious but also ethically sourced.
This commitment to local ingredients often translates into dishes bursting with flavor.
Where: 51 Rainey St UNIT 110
5. Lonesome Dove Austin
Not only the restaurants in Austintown Ohio offer classic fare to culinary enthusiasts. Eateries in Downtown like Lonesome Dove also offer a wild ride for your taste buds.
Forget your wimpy chicken fingers and limp salads. Lonesome Dove serves up fire-kissed dishes that scream Texas, like mesquite-grilled wild boar ribs and rabbit rattlesnake sausage.
Where: 123 W 6th Street
6. Intero Restaurant
Intero Restaurant is not one of the first Italian restaurants in East Austin to create pasta. But, what you get here is a whole new level.
The hand-rolled goodness, crafted with passion and tossed in sauces, is totally out of this world. While pasta is the star dish, It has plenty of other food menus like Grilled octopus and eggplant fritters with whipped ricotta are among the must-try dishes.
Where: 2612 E Cesar Chavez St Suite 105
7. Caroline
Nestled in the heart of Austin's Central District, Caroline is a must-visit place to kickstart your morning. Their buttermilk biscuits are legendary, light, and fluffy yet substantial enough to soak up the rich, sausage-laden gravy.
This place boasts a charming vintage vibe with flickering lanterns, exposed brick, and vintage wallpaper. It's the perfect setting for a leisurely breakfast, solo or with loved ones.
Where: 621 Congress Ave Suite 101
8. Tacodeli
Stuck in the Austin Aerodrome during a layover? Don't despair! Look for Tacodeli to indulge in delicious food at Austin airport.
Tacodeli isn't just another airport taco stand. It's a beloved Austin restaurant, known for its fresh, made-to-order, and undeniably delicious tacos. Forget the greasy airport fare, this place brings the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex to your gate.
Where: 3600 Presidential Blvd
9. Ciclo
Ciclo is a modern Texas kitchen brought to life through a unique collaboration with Sandoval. It occupies a prime spot within the hotel, offering indoor and outdoor dining options with stunning city views.
Along with the chef's culinary artistry, you can complement your meal with creative cocktails.
Where: 98 San Jacinto Blvd
10. Geraldine's
This hidden gem offers live music to the patrons. From local songwriters to professional musicians, get a stage to showcase their talent. The Geraldine's offers a uniquely Austin dining experience fusing culinary excellence with live music.
From weekend jazz brunches to Chef-curated shareable plates, respect for Austin’s history and culture seeps into every part of your experience.
Where: 605 Davis Street
11. Josephine House
The sister eatery of fine dining institution Jeffrey's, Josephine House is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious dining experience in Austin.
The food here is excellent, with highlights like the lemon ricotta pancakes, huevos rancheros, and shrimp & grits. Moreover, it is close to many tourist attractions like Lady Bird Lake, Blanton Museum of Art, and several music venues.
Where: 1601 Waterston Avenue
12. Blue Lacy
If not for finger-licking good food, Blue Lacy attracts patrons through a combination of factors that create a unique and appealing atmosphere. One is their creative cocktail options, including the signature The Blue Lacy Jubilee.
Unlike most of the restaurants in Mueller Austin, this hub allows your furry friends. Moreover, they provide a special menu for pups, and their food is served in a doggy bowl.
Where: 1825 McBee Street
13. The Well
Everything is perfect at The Well in Downtown Austin. Be it the sophisticated ambiance, fresh locally sourced meals, or the happy-hour specials, there's no such thing you would dislike here.
The cherry on the top is its healthy diet meals. The Well offers 100% gluten-free options and several vegan items. Even the diet-conscious can eat without worrying about their health here.
Where: 440 W 2nd Street
14. Perry's Steakhouse
You can't conclude your trip to Austin without visiting Perry's Steakhouse at least once. They offer a selection of Prime Steaks, world-famous hamburgers, and many more.
Perry's serves a classic steakhouse atmosphere with an elegant ambiance, attentive service, and premium cuts of meat. Get ready to spend a significant amount on your meal cause this place is high-end with prices to match.
Where: 114 W 7th Street
15. Salty Sow
Want to know the specials at Salty Sow? If it's your first time, go blindly for Triple Fried Duck Fat Fries with a 110-minute egg and cold bearnaise.
This is the unique dish of the house, to begin with an appetizer. Besides, bone marrow with roasted garlic and herbs is equally popular. The chefs regularly get creative with classic dishes with flavorful combinations.
Where: 1917 Manor Road
16. BarChi Sushi
Craving some authentic sushi rolls in the city? Look no further than BarChi Sushi to relish inventive and delicious specialty rolls.
You might be pleasantly surprised if you're adventurous and enjoy trying new flavor combinations. While sushi and sashimi are the main items, they also have seafood items on the list.
Where: 206 Colorado Street
17. Clay Pit
Clay Pit, one of the few trending Indian restaurants in Austin offers delicious buffet lunch in the historical Bertram building. Even though they have limited items in the food line, each one is second to none.
Students are charged less than $10 for the AYCE meal. From chicken tikka masala to Kothmir Salmon, all these will leave you wanting more.
Where: 1601 Guadalupe Street
18. Quattro Gatti
Stepping through the doors at Quattro Gatti is akin to crossing into a timeless haven. The aroma of wood-fired pizza mingles with the murmur of lively chatter, and the ambiance exudes warmth as comforting as a Tuscan sunset.
No Italian feast is complete without a finale fit for an opera's grand closing act. And at Quattro Gatti, the curtain falls on a chorus of dolci that would tempt even the most disciplined sweet tooth.
Where: 908 Congress Avenue
19. Juniper
Chef Nicholas Yanes opened the door of his flagship eatery in 2015 and named it Juniper. Yanes brings the flavors and effortless luxury of Northern Italy and serves them on a plate.
It avoids open-plan and offers a more intimate and elegant ambiance. The cocktail program is another reason it stands out
Where: 2400 E Cesar Chavez St UNIT 304
20. Black's Barbecue Austin
Located just outside the UT campus, Black's Barbecue Austin has been serving tender BBQ since 2014. It stands out from the pack, thanks to its focus on tradition and unique meats.
Black's boasts a 100-year-old family legacy of pit-smoking that translates into deep-smoky flavors and perfectly cooked meats. They use traditional methods like open pits fueled by post oak, resulting in an authentic Texas BBQ experience.
Where: 3110 Guadalupe Street
