Austin, Texas, the vibrant capital known for its live music and eclectic culture, is also rapidly gaining recognition as a premier food destination. Beyond the buzzing music venues and outdoor adventures, lies a diverse and dynamic culinary scene waiting to be explored. From innovative fine dining experiences to laid-back BBQ joints and international flavors, Austin offers a taste for every palate. Dive into our curated guide to discover the Best Food In Austin, featuring restaurants that define the city’s unique gastronomic identity.
1. Juniper: Northern Italian Elegance in East Austin
Located in the trendy East 6th neighborhood, Juniper stands out with its modern and stylish interior and exquisite Northern Italian cuisine. Since opening in 2018, Juniper has become a dining destination for those seeking a sophisticated experience. Chef Nicholas Yanes crafts a premiere tasting menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and innovative culinary techniques, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the best food in Austin with an Italian flair.
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2. Eberly: A South Lamar Culinary Sanctuary
Eberly, nestled on South Lamar, is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Behind its ivy-covered walls lies a sanctuary of rich stories and even richer food. This warm and inviting space offers a menu as diverse as its history, promising a culinary journey that extends beyond a simple meal. Eberly embodies the spirit of Austin’s best food scene, blending ambiance with exceptional dining.
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3. Aba: Mediterranean Flavors on South Congress
Since its debut in 2020, Aba on South Congress has captivated diners with its stunning indoor and outdoor spaces and an outstanding Mediterranean menu. The restaurant’s bar area, bathed in subdued lighting and adorned with lush greenery, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. Aba is a testament to the best food in Austin, offering a taste of the Mediterranean in a vibrant setting.
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4. Intero: Farm-to-Table Italian on Cesar Chavez
For authentic Italian cuisine with a farm-to-table philosophy, Intero on Cesar Chavez is a top choice. Owners Ian Thurwachter and Krystal Craig collaborate with over 20 local farms to bring the freshest ingredients to their dishes. Intero exemplifies the best food in Austin by focusing on sustainable practices and delivering exceptional Italian flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
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5. This Too Shall Pass: A 4th Street Culinary Fantasy
Escape the city bustle at This Too Shall Pass, a unique 4th Street destination that combines a sultry cocktail lounge with an innovative culinary experience. This intimate and sensual setting provides a perfect backdrop to unwind and savor wildly delicious dishes. For those seeking a unique and immersive dining experience, This Too Shall Pass offers some of the best food in Austin with a touch of fantasy.
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6. Hillside Farmacy: East Side Charm and Farm-Fresh Fare
Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s drugstore, Hillside Farmacy is a beloved East Austin gem known for its farm-to-table cuisine. Sourcing fresh produce from their sister farm in Bastrop, along with meats from Texas ranchers and Gulf Coast seafood, Hillside Farmacy delivers dishes that are both fresh and flavorful. It’s a cornerstone of the best food in Austin, offering a taste of local Texas ingredients in a historic setting.
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7. Arlo Grey: Lakeside Dining with Top Chef Talent
Located within The LINE Hotel, Arlo Grey, opened by Top Chef winner Kristen Kish in 2018, provides a refreshing and modern dining experience with stunning lakeside views. Arlo Grey offers premium plates crafted by a world-class team in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Experience some of the best food in Austin with a view at this celebrated restaurant.
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8. Dai Due: Manor Road’s Cult Favorite
Dai Due on Manor Road has garnered a devoted following among Austin food enthusiasts since opening in 2014. Owned by Chef Jesse Griffiths, a James Beard Award-winning author, Dai Due is committed to showcasing hyper-local and seasonal ingredients. Known for its butcher shop and dedication to wild game, Dai Due represents the best food in Austin for those seeking unique and thoughtfully sourced dishes.
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9. Ember Kitchen: Caribbean Flavors in Seaholm District
Ember Kitchen, situated in downtown Austin’s Seaholm District, brings a modern and elegant twist to upscale dining with a Caribbean-infused menu. Utilizing a Josper Grill, Ember Kitchen combines charcoal grilling with oven temperature control to create uniquely flavorful dishes. For a sophisticated dining experience with Caribbean flair, Ember Kitchen offers some of the best food in Austin’s downtown core.
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10. Yamas Greek Restaurant: Mediterranean Escape in North Austin
Transport yourself to the Mediterranean coast at Yamas Greek Restaurant, a family-owned gem in North Austin. This Greek grotto creates an environment of conversation, connection, and care, offering a healthy and hearty menu for lunch, brunch, or dinner. Yamas provides a taste of authentic Greek cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a contender for the best food in Austin with a Mediterranean touch.
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11. Wu Chow: Modern Farm-to-Table Chinese
Wu Chow stands out as the sole Chinese restaurant on this list, offering a modern farm-to-table approach to Chinese cuisine. With a menu representing all eight styles of Chinese cooking and dim sum service on Sunday evenings, Wu Chow provides a diverse and refined dining experience. For those seeking the best food in Austin with an Asian influence, Wu Chow is a must-try.
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12. Swift’s Attic: Downtown Austin’s Whiskey Wonderland
Located above the popular Elephant Room, Swift’s Attic is a downtown Austin destination that blends a whiskey wonderland with fantastical farm-to-table food. Known for its creative and playful dishes, Swift’s Attic offers a unique dining experience in a vibrant setting. Explore some of the best food in Austin with a whimsical twist at this downtown gem.
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13. P6: Rooftop Views and Delicious Bites
Perched on the 6th floor of The LINE Hotel, P6 boasts breathtaking views of the Congress bat bridge and Lady Bird Lake. Complementing the stunning vistas are delicious food and drinks, making P6 a perfect spot for both locals and visitors. Enjoy some of the best food in Austin paired with unparalleled views at this rooftop destination.
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14. Perry’s Steakhouse: Downtown Austin Elegance
Perry’s Steakhouse, a Texas native located in the historic Norwood Tower, offers an elite steak menu and decadent ambiance perfect for special occasions or business meetings. As a long-standing Austin institution, Perry’s Steakhouse is a go-to for classic steakhouse fare and refined dining, representing the best food in Austin for celebratory meals.
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15. Veracruz Fonda & Bar: Elevated Mexican in Mueller
Veracruz Fonda & Bar elevates the beloved Veracruz All Natural taco trucks into a memorable Mexican dining experience. Located in Mueller, this restaurant offers a full Veracruz treatment with an expanded menu and vibrant atmosphere. For an authentic and elevated taste of Mexican cuisine, Veracruz Fonda & Bar offers some of the best food in Austin.
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16. Truluck’s Downtown: Upscale Seafood and Steaks
Truluck’s Downtown, one of Austin’s first upscale seafood and steak locations, anchors the Warehouse District as a prime spot for elegant dining and cocktails. Known for its impeccable service and high-quality steaks and seafood, Truluck’s is a cornerstone of the best food in Austin for seafood lovers and steak aficionados alike.
17. Verdad True Modern Mexican at The Grove: Mexican Flavors Reimagined
From the creators of Perry’s Steakhouse, Verdad True Modern Mexican at The Grove offers a feast of traditional and modern Mexican flavors. If you crave robust and authentic tastes from Mexico, Verdad is a must-visit. Experience reimagined Mexican cuisine and discover some of the best food in Austin with a modern twist.
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18. Uchi: South Lamar’s Sushi Masterpiece
Uchi has long reigned as one of Austin’s best restaurants, particularly renowned for its innovative sushi. Chef Tyson Cole’s culinary genius has made Uchi a training ground for many successful chefs across Austin and the country. For an unparalleled sushi experience and some of the best food in Austin, Uchi is an essential destination.
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19. The Salt Lick BBQ: Texas BBQ in the Hill Country
For authentic Texas BBQ, The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood offers some of the best food near Austin, combined with a scenic drive into the Texas Hill Country. Despite being outside of Austin proper, it’s a must-visit for BBQ lovers. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and enjoy the BYOB policy while indulging in classic Texas barbecue.
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20. Salty Sow: East Austin Gastro Pub Delights
Salty Sow, an American Gastro Pub in East Austin, is celebrated for its unique savory menu. Known for appetizers like Triple Fried Duck Fat Fries with a 110-minute egg and cold béarnaise, Salty Sow offers creative and indulgent dishes. Explore the best food in Austin’s gastro pub scene at this East Austin favorite.
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21. Clay Pit: Upscale Indian Cuisine in a Historic Setting
The Clay Pit, Austin’s premier upscale Indian restaurant, is located in the historic Bertram Building, known for its legendary ghost hauntings and appearances on TV shows. Offering an amazing and reasonably priced menu, The Clay Pit is highly recommended for a unique date night. Experience some of the best food in Austin with an Indian flair in a historic and atmospheric setting.
22. Buenos Aires Cafe: East 6th Street Argentine Staple
Buenos Aires Cafe, located on East 6th Street since 2005, is a testament to quality and staying power in Austin’s evolving food scene. Offering authentic Argentine cuisine, Buenos Aires Cafe remains a beloved dining destination. Discover some of the best food in Austin with South American flavors at this East 6th Street staple.
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23. Canje: Caribbean Cuisine Lights Up East 6th
Canje on East Sixth Street captivates with its remarkable Caribbean cuisine and comfortable atmosphere. Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph draws inspiration from his native Guyana and beyond to create a truly exceptional menu. For a taste of the Caribbean and some of the best food in Austin’s East 6th neighborhood, Canje is a must-try.
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24. Second Bar + Kitchen: East Austin Hotel Hotspot
Now located at the East Austin Hotel, Second Bar + Kitchen continues to impress under Chef Gerard Kenny. With enthusiasm and skill, Chef Kenny crafts each dish with love, making Second Bar + Kitchen a vibrant part of East Austin’s food scene. Experience some of the best food in Austin in a stylish hotel setting.
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25. Bar Chi Sushi: Warehouse District Happy Hour and Energy
Bar Chi Sushi, located in the Warehouse District, is known for Austin’s best sushi happy hour from 4-7 daily and all day Sunday. On weekend nights, the energy amps up, creating a club-like atmosphere perfect for a night out. Enjoy some of the best food in Austin’s sushi scene with a lively and energetic vibe.
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26. Lucky Robot: South Congress Sushi with Global Influences
Lucky Robot on South Congress has been serving sushi for over a decade, blending Japanese and Latin American influences, along with Taiwanese and Peruvian flavors. Located in the heart of South Congress, Lucky Robot pulses with an eclectic Asian-meets-Austin atmosphere. Discover some of the best food in Austin with a globally inspired sushi experience.
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27. Black’s Barbecue: Central Texas BBQ Tradition
Black’s Barbecue, originally opened in Lockhart in 1932, brings nearly a century of BBQ tradition to Central Austin. Operated by 4th generation pitmaster Barret Black, this location features some of Austin’s best barbecue. Experience authentic Central Texas BBQ and taste some of the best food in Austin’s renowned BBQ scene.
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28. Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden: Rainey Street Casual Dining
Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden is a Rainey Street staple known for its gourmet sausages, exceptional beer selection, and energetic outdoor community seating. For a casual and fun dining experience, Banger’s offers some of the best food in Austin’s vibrant Rainey Street district.
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29. Quattro Gatti: Downtown Italian Hidden Gem
Nestled in a quieter part of downtown near the Capitol, Quattro Gatti Ristorante y Pizzeria is a cool Italian spot with a brick oven delivering true Italian fare. This hidden gem offers a taste of authentic Italy in downtown Austin. Discover some of the best food in Austin with classic Italian flavors at Quattro Gatti.
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30. Kalimotxo: Spanish Tapas and Culinary Cocktails on East Sixth
Kalimotxo, relocated to East Sixth Street, is a culinary cocktail bar offering superior Spanish food and traditional tapas. Bringing a taste of Spain to East Sixth, Kalimotxo is a must-visit for tapas lovers and cocktail enthusiasts. Experience some of the best food in Austin with Spanish flair at this East Sixth Street destination.
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Exploring More of Austin’s Best Food
This list is just a starting point for your culinary exploration of Austin. From food trucks to fine dining, the city’s food scene is constantly evolving and offering new and exciting experiences. Be sure to venture beyond this guide to uncover your own personal favorites and truly taste the best food Austin has to offer.
