17 Incredible Restaurants in Austin, TX

Travel Lens

Nov 19, 2023 • 9 min read

Austin, a city renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, is characterized by the aroma of smoked brisket and ubiquitous taco stands.

The diverse gastronomic landscape mirrors the city's rich history, offering a unique journey for both newcomers and long-term residents.

The Austin restaurant scene constantly surprises with its variety, presenting a flavorful adventure through some of Texas' finest eateries.

Chinas Oaxaqueñas

Chinas Oaxaqueñas in Austin offers an intimate and inviting dining experience, reminiscent of dining in a friend's kitchen.

The restaurant specializes in Oaxacan cuisine, with each dish masterfully balancing flavors and using fresh ingredients.

The homely ambiance and personal customer service make guests feel right at home, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Texami

Texami in Austin, a hidden gem for food lovers, specializes in Tex-Mex cuisine with a heavy emphasis on the Tex.

Known for its crispy and savory fried chicken sandwich, served with delicious tots, the restaurant has quickly become a favorite.

The chicken and veggie quesadillas, hot chicken sandwich, and nostalgic fries stand out for their freshness and quality.

Located at the backside of Sam's Town Point, Texami is a go-to spot for those in South Austin seeking top-notch ingredients and flavors.

AustinMed Break LLC

AustinMed Break LLC in Austin is a destination for those craving authentic and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine.

The spiced kafta burger with American cheese is a standout dish, offering a unique taste.

The menu features a variety of dishes, including well-spiced rice, perfectly cooked meats, and a special "Med" cheeseburger.

The crinkle-cut fries and chicken shawarma with hummus are particularly noteworthy.

The restaurant's customer service is commendable, with dishes like zalouk, chicken shawarma with rice, and roasted pepper hummus leaving a lasting impression.

Ember Kitchen

Ember Kitchen in Austin offers a unique culinary journey, renowned for its sizzling steaks, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional service.

A memorable experience included indulging in a wagyu skewer appetizer, which was so tender and succulent that it was almost irresistible to order more.

Unique touches like welcome cocktails, a choice of steak knives for steak service, and an entertaining playlist contribute to Ember Kitchen's distinct dining experience.

This combination of delicious food and extraordinary service makes it a go-to place for various occasions.

Corinne Austin

Corinne Austin stands out with its upscale yet cozy ambiance, offering a refined dining experience in the city's heart.

The scallops are so impressive; Corinne Austin is known for honest food and drink, with dishes like the key lime pie receiving high recommendations.

ZIKI

ZIKI in the city's heart has become a favorite lunchtime stopover, known for its refreshing Blueberry Green Tea and delightful Ziki bites.

The consistency in the quality of food and prompt service, whether ordering online or at the food truck, ensures a satisfying experience.

The garlic sauce and chipotle sauce are flavorful without being overpowering, and dishes like the chicken plate and gyro stand out for their culinary excellence.

ZIKI's efficiency in meal preparation and the inclusion of ingredients like avocado make it a memorable spot for a quick and delicious lunch.

Los Pollos Hermanos

Los Pollos Hermanos in Austin offers a unique dining experience with its amazing chicken dishes.

The restaurant is known for its unique blue salt seasoning, which enhances the chicken's flavor, making it irresistibly delicious.

Their addictive candy also adds to the restaurant's appeal.

Miranda's Café

Miranda's Café, located near the JW Marriott in Austin, is a go-to spot for breakfast, particularly for its warm, fresh, toasted sandwiches.

Customers can customize their sandwiches with a variety of ingredients, adding to the café's appeal.

Its cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it a regular part of many locals' morning routines, especially during the bustling SXSW event.

The café also offers a salad bar and a special British menu, including dishes like shepherd's pie and fish and chips.

Vic and Al's

Vic and Al's in Austin is a favorite for delicious Cajun cuisine and cocktails, set in a warm ambiance with wood paneling and elegant chandeliers.

The blackened catfish on greens comes highly recommended for its fantastic taste.

The menu features daily specials and satisfying portion sizes, with crispy chicken strips as a standout dish.

The strong and well-crafted cocktails complement the food perfectly, making Vic and Al's a great choice for Cajun food lovers.

Uchiko Austin

Uchiko in Austin, an offshoot of the famed Uchi restaurant, is renowned for its upscale sushi and small plates.

Set in a chic, farmhouse-style space, it provides an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for special occasions like birthday parties.

Each dish at Uchiko is a culinary masterpiece, from hot items to desserts, with the 'milk and cereal' dessert being a memorable highlight.

The lava rock experience, where diners can sear thin strips of Wagyu at their table, adds an interactive element to the meal.

Stella San Jac

Stella San Jac in Austin offers modern Southern dishes in a sleek space with an open kitchen.

Known for its smoked salmon Benedict and live music lounge, the restaurant provides a charming dining atmosphere.

The menu includes dishes like avocado toast with sunny-side-up eggs and strong, smooth coffee.

The combination of great food, exceptional service, live music, and inviting ambiance makes Stella San Jac a must-visit spot in Austin, especially for its heavenly biscuits.

Red Ash

Red Ash in Austin offers exceptional Italian cuisine, known for its wood-fired specialties and housemade pasta.

The restaurant's rustic-modern ambiance enhances the dining experience, with the aroma of wood smoke and simmering sauces setting the tone.

Signature dishes include the truffle beef shoulder pasta and spicy sausage rigatoni, both praised for their rich flavors.

Their garlic bread, although pricey, is a must-try, offering a perfect blend of crunch and flavor.

The espresso affogato stands out as a perfect dessert choice, marrying bitter espresso with sweet, creamy gelato.

Interstellar BBQ

Interstellar BBQ in Austin is a go-to destination for Texas BBQ lovers, renowned for its slow-roasted meats and inviting aroma.

Popular choices include fatty brisket, pork belly, and turkey, noted for their perfect cooking and juiciness.

The scalloped potatoes and homemade pickles add a delicious side to the meaty feast.

Out of Nowhere ATX

Out of Nowhere ATX has quickly become a standout in Austin's food scene, especially for burger enthusiasts.

The Texan Burger is a highlight, featuring perfectly cooked meat, a fluffy bun, and expertly grilled toppings.

As one of the best food trucks in Austin, the team impresses with fast and efficient service, even during busy events.

Wee's Cozy Kitchen

Wee's Cozy Kitchen, located in a gas station near UT territory, offers an authentic Malaysian dining experience.

Their Beef Rendang and Seafood Wat Tau Hor are renowned for their rich flavors and balanced heat.

The sides complement the main dishes well, creating a wholesome meal.

The restaurant, recognized by major publications like the New York Times, is popular for its authentic Malaysian dishes, including kaya croissant, curry laksa, char keoy teow, and crispy eggrolls.

Thistle Cafe

Thistle Cafe, situated in an office building, is a hidden gem offering American cuisine with a Mexican twist for both breakfast and lunch.

Their beef tacos, rice and beans, and breakfast waffles are highly recommended.

The cafe is known for its warm service, delicious salsa, and reasonable prices.

Paperboy

Paperboy, a favorite brunch spot in Austin, features a cozy patio setting and is known for its steak and eggs with cheddar hash browns.

The quality of food, including the fried chicken with hot honey sauce, is worth it.

Their menu offers a range of delicious options at reasonable prices, making it a popular weekend destination.

Final Thoughts

The culinary landscape of Austin, Texas, is diverse and inspiring.

An array of exceptional restaurants, each reflecting the city's vibrant personality, are conveniently located.

These establishments highlight culture, tradition, and innovation through their food offerings.

Each dish served is a narrative of these elements.

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