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10 Best Austin Restaurants

The top 10 restaurants in Austin are Birdie’s Austin, Craft Omakase, Dai Due, Franklin Barbecue, LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue, Odd Duck, Uchi, Interstellar BBQ, Mexta, and El Raval. Austin is the capital city of Texas, known for Central Texas-style barbecue, breakfast tacos, and queso. One of the most well-known food establishments in Austin is Franklin Barbecue, a simple trailer that grew into a globally recognized BBQ joint known for its brisket. 

The city's reputation as a food destination is built on a foundation of casual, high-quality food. Neighborhoods like East Austin, has plenty of modern restaurants and food trucks, and South Lamar, has chef-driven establishments, said to be among the best places to eat in Austin. 

Austin is situated in Central Texas and many restaurants put a strong emphasis on smoked meats and ingredients suited to the local climate. The city's identity is shaped by its unique blend of Texas traditions and a casual vibe.

10 Best Austin Restaurants are listed below.

  1. 1 Odd Duck
  2. 2 Birdie’s Austin
  3. 3 Craft Omakase
  4. 4 Dai Due
  5. 5 Franklin Barbecue
  6. 6 LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue
  7. 7 Uchi
  8. 8 Interstellar BBQ
  9. 9 Mexta
  10. 10 El Raval
  1. Odd Duck 1
    Odd Duck 0.00 (0 Reviews)
    Odd Duck is a restaurant that evolved from a food trailer, serving a menu of small plates that feature locally sourced Texas ingredients. The atmosphere is rustic and lively, with an open kitchen.
    • Item Prices 99
    • Average Item Price $11.78
    Odd Duck Charcuterie & Cheese Boards Price Odd Duck Lone Duck Farm Bibb Lettuce Salad Price
    Type of Restaurant:

    Casual Elegant

    Type of Food:

    New American, Texan

    Signature Dishes:

    Pork Belly, Cast Iron Duck Egg, Parker House Roll, Redfish Ceviche, and Goat Chili Frito Pie.

    Odd Duck signature dishes Pork Belly, Cast Iron Duck Egg, Parker House Roll, Redfish Ceviche, and Goat Chili Frito Pie.
    Location:

    1201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

    Special Feature:

    A wood-fired grill is the centerpiece of the kitchen and is used to prepare many of the dishes.

    What Makes It Special:

    Odd Duck is known for its creative, ingredient-driven menu and its foundational role in Austin's farm-to-table food movement.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its commitment to using almost exclusively Texan ingredients results in a unique and authentic representation of the region's food.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday–Wednesday, Sunday: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PMThursday–Saturday: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM

    Price:

    Small plates range from $11 to $15.

    Odd Duck Menu Prices
  2. Birdie’s Austin 2
    Birdie’s Austin
    Birdie's is a counter-service restaurant and wine bar in East Austin offering a seasonal menu of American food with French and Italian influences. The setting is casual, with seating available in a minimalist dining room and a large outdoor patio.
    Type of Restaurant:

    Casual Dining, Wine Bar

    Type of Food:

    New American

    Signature Dishes:

    The menu changes seasonally. Past dishes include Steak Frites, Beef Tartare, Golden Tilefish, seasonal salads, and soft serve ice cream.

    Birdie’s Austin signature dishes The menu changes seasonally. Past dishes include Steak Frites, Beef Tartare, Golden Tilefish, seasonal salads, and soft serve ice cream.
    Location:

    2944 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

    Special Feature:

    A no-reservations and no-tipping policy, with counter-service ordering for all guests.

    What Makes It Special:

    Birdie's is recognized for its high-quality, fine-dining level food served in a relaxed, neighborhood setting.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its unique counter-service model for dinner, combined with a curated wine list, creates an accessible yet elevated dining experience.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday: ClosedTuesday–Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PMSunday: Closed

    Price:

    Plates range from $32 to $68.

  3. Craft Omakase 3
    Craft Omakase
    Craft Omakase is an intimate, 10-seat sushi counter offering a multi-course omakase experience. The focus is on high-quality, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Japan and other parts of the world.
    Type of Restaurant:

    Fine Dining

    Type of Food:

    Japanese, Sushi

    Signature Dishes:

    A 22-course omakase menu that changes based on ingredient availability.

    Craft Omakase signature dishes A 22-course omakase menu that changes based on ingredient availability.
    Location:

    4400 N Lamar Blvd, Suite 102, Austin, TX 78756

    Special Feature:

    The experience is exclusive and highly personal, with the chefs preparing each course in front of the guests.

    What Makes It Special:

    The restaurant is dedicated to a traditional omakase format, ensuring a focused and high-quality sushi meal.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its small size and reservation-only model create one of the most intimate and sought-after omakase experiences in Austin.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PMFriday, Saturday: 4:30 PM – 11:30 PM

    Price:

    $175 to $300 per person for the omakase menu.

  4. Dai Due 4
    Dai Due
    Dai Due is a restaurant and butcher shop that serves a menu centered on locally sourced Texas ingredients, with a focus on wild game and produce. The name of the restaurant translates to "from the two," representing the two kingdoms of plants and animals.
    Type of Restaurant:

    Casual Elegant, Butcher Shop

    Type of Food:

    New American, Texan, Farm to Table

    Signature Dishes:

    Wild Boar Confit, Venison Ceviche, and the Dry-Aged Wagyu Double Cheeseburger.

    Dai Due signature dishes Wild Boar Confit, Venison Ceviche, and the Dry-Aged Wagyu Double Cheeseburger.
    Location:

    2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

    Special Feature:

    An on-site butcher shop sells fresh cuts of meat, sausages, and other prepared goods sourced from local farms and ranches.

    What Makes It Special:

    Dai Due is celebrated for its strict commitment to local sourcing and its educational approach to food, hunting, and butchery.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its menu is entirely based on what is available from Texas farmers and ranchers, meaning it does not use common ingredients like olive oil or lemons.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday: ClosedTuesday–Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

    Price:

    Entrees range from $18 to $42. Price per person ranges from $50 to $100.

  5. Franklin Barbecue 5
    Franklin Barbecue
    Franklin Barbecue is a world-renowned barbecue joint famous for its Central Texas-style smoked meats, especially its brisket. It is known for the long lines of customers that form hours before it opens.
    Type of Restaurant:

    Casual Dining, Barbecue

    Type of Food:

    Barbecue

    Signature Dishes:

    Brisket, Pulled Pork, and Ribs.

    Franklin Barbecue signature dishes Brisket, Pulled Pork, and Ribs.
    Location:

    900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702

    Special Feature:

    The restaurant serves a limited amount of barbecue each day and closes once it sells out.

    What Makes It Special:

    It is widely considered to be one of the best barbecue restaurants in the world, earning a James Beard Award for its chef-owner, Aaron Franklin.

    What Sets It Apart:

    The combination of its exceptional quality brisket and the communal, tailgate-like atmosphere of the line makes it a unique cultural event.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday: ClosedTuesday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

    Price:

    Meats are sold by the pound, with a meal costing $22 to $40 per person.

  6. LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue 6
    LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue
    LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue is a food truck that serves "new school" barbecue, blending traditional Texas smoking techniques with a focus on alternative cuts of meat and creative side dishes.
    Type of Restaurant:

    Food Truck, Barbecue

    Type of Food:

    Barbecue

    Signature Dishes:

    Smoked Beef Cheeks, Barbacoa, and house-made sausages.

    LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue signature dishes Smoked Beef Cheeks, Barbacoa, and house-made sausages.
    Location:

    5621 Emerald Forest Dr Ste 101 Austin, TX 78745

    Special Feature:

    The menu changes daily based on what the pitmasters are experimenting with, encouraging repeat visits.

    What Makes It Special:

    The restaurant is celebrated for its innovative approach to barbecue, pushing the boundaries of what is traditionally served.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its focus on sourcing whole animals from local ranchers and using unconventional cuts sets it apart from more traditional barbecue joints.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PMTuesday: ClosedFriday, Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

    Price:

    A meal costs between $20 and $60 per person.

  7. Uchi 7
    Uchi
    Uchi is a contemporary Japanese restaurant known for its inventive sushi, sashimi, and small plates. It blends traditional Japanese techniques with modern flavor combinations in a stylish, renovated bungalow.
    Type of Restaurant:

    Fine Dining

    Type of Food:

    Japanese, Sushi

    Signature Dishes:

    Machi Cure, Hama Chili, and a variety of creative nigiri and sashimi.

    Uchi signature dishes Machi Cure, Hama Chili, and a variety of creative nigiri and sashimi.
    Location:

    801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

    Special Feature:

    The restaurant offers a daily "Sake Social" happy hour with discounted prices on select menu items.

    What Makes It Special:

    Uchi is one of Austin's most acclaimed restaurants, with its chef-owner winning a James Beard Award for his innovative approach to Japanese food.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its non-traditional approach to sushi, focusing on unique textures and flavor pairings, distinguishes it from more classic sushi establishments.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday, Saturday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

    Price:

    Small plates range from $15 to $35. Omakase menus range from $250-$300 for two people.

  8. Interstellar BBQ 8
    Interstellar BBQ
    Interstellar BBQ is a barbecue restaurant that serves classic Central Texas-style smoked meats along with creative, chef-driven side dishes. It has quickly gained a reputation as one of the top barbecue spots in the city.
    Type of Restaurant:

    Casual Dining, Barbecue

    Type of Food:

    Barbecue

    Signature Dishes:

    Smoked Brisket, Pork Belly, Glazed Pork Shoulder, Chimichurri Short Rib, and Jalapeño Popper Sausage.

    Interstellar BBQ signature dishes Smoked Brisket, Pork Belly, Glazed Pork Shoulder, Chimichurri Short Rib, and Jalapeño Popper Sausage.
    Location:

    12233 N FM 620, Suite 105, Austin, TX 78750

    Special Feature:

    The menu includes unique side dishes like Smoked Scalloped Potatoes and Mac and Gouda.

    What Makes It Special:

    The restaurant is acclaimed for executing traditional barbecue at a very high level while also offering creative and well-made sides.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its location in Northwest Austin provides a top-tier barbecue experience outside of the central city's crowded barbecue scene.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday-Tuesday: ClosedWednesday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

    Price:

    A meal costs between $25 and $40 per person.

  9. Mexta 9
    Mexta
    Mexta is an intimate, 12-seat tasting-menu restaurant that combines Mexican ingredients and flavors with Japanese cooking techniques and plating styles. The name is a blend of "Mexico" and "next."
    Type of Restaurant:

    Fine Dining

    Type of Food:

    Mexican-Japanese Fusion

    Signature Dishes:

    A multi-course tasting menu that changes seasonally. Past dishes include a "Tamale" with uni and a "Sikil P'aak" with ikura.

    Mexta signature dishes A multi-course tasting menu that changes seasonally. Past dishes include a "Tamale" with uni and a "Sikil P'aak" with ikura.
    Location:

    106 E 6th St Ste 110 Austin, TX 78701

    Special Feature:

    The dining experience is highly interactive, with the chefs preparing and explaining each dish in front of the guests.

    What Makes It Special:

    The restaurant offers a unique and focused fusion concept executed at a high level of precision.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its specific blend of Mexican and Japanese food philosophies creates a one-of-a-kind tasting menu not found elsewhere.

    Operating Hours:

    Monday–Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PMThursday, Friday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PMSaturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:30 PMSunday: Closed

    Price:

    Prices range from $50.

  10. El Raval 10
    El Raval
    El Raval is a Spanish restaurant and bar that channels the energy of Barcelona's El Raval neighborhood. It serves a menu of classic and modern tapas, as well as larger shared plates.
    Type of Restaurant:

    Casual Elegant, Tapas Bar

    Type of Food:

    Spanish, Tapas

    Signature Dishes:

    Pan con Tomate, Patatas Bravas, and a selection of Spanish hams and cheeses.

    El Raval signature dishes Pan con Tomate, Patatas Bravas, and a selection of Spanish hams and cheeses.
    Location:

    1500 S Lamar Blvd, Suite 150, Austin, TX 78704

    Special Feature:

    A large bar program focused on Spanish wines, sherries, and gin and tonics.

    What Makes It Special:

    The restaurant provides an authentic taste of Barcelona's vibrant tapas culture in a stylish, modern setting.

    What Sets It Apart:

    Its focus on the specific food of the Catalan region of Spain distinguishes it from more general Spanish restaurants.

    Operating Hours:

    Tuesday–Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PMSunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

    Price:

    Tapas plates range from $8 to $20. Chef’s special from $70 per person and wine pairing from $40 per person.

What Food is Austin Famous For?

The Austin food scene is famous for two main things which are barbecue and breakfast tacos. Central Texas-style barbecue, with its focus on slow-smoked brisket, is considered the best food in Austin. Breakfast tacos, simple tacos filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese, or bacon, are a staple of the city's diet. Other notable foods include queso, a melted cheese dip, and kolaches, a Czech pastry with fruit or sausage fillings. 

What is the Average Cost of a Meal in Austin?

The average cost of a meal in Austin varies by restaurant type. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant or food truck costs between $15 and $25. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant averages between $70 and $110. At fine-dining establishments, tasting menus or multi-course meals can cost $125 to over $200 per person. Breakfast tacos are under $5 each, while a fast-food meal is under $15.

Are There Fancy Restaurants in North Austin?

Yes, there are fancy restaurants in Austin, with several located in the northern part of the city. Although downtown and South Austin have a higher concentration of fine dining, North Austin has its own popular spots. Some of the best restaurants north Austin include Andiamo Ristorante, an intimate Italian restaurant, and Truluck's, an upscale seafood and steakhouse in the Arboretum area. 

What are the Most Popular Fast-Food Restaurants in Austin?

The most popular fast-food restaurants in Austin are listed below:

  • Whataburger: A Texas-based chain with a devoted following, famous for its large, customizable burgers and iconic orange-and-white A-frame buildings.
  • P. Terry's Burger Stand: An Austin-based chain known for its simple menu of high-quality burgers, fresh-cut fries, and milkshakes, all served at low prices.
  • Torchy's Tacos: Started as a food trailer in Austin, this chain is famous for its creative and unconventional tacos with names like the "Trailer Park" and "Democrat."
  • Taco Cabana: A Texas chain known for its Mexican-style fast food, including sizzling fajitas, margaritas, and a 24-hour drive-thru at many locations.

What are the Newest Restaurants in Austin?

The new restaurants in Austin are listed below. These Austin new restaurants are generating excitement in the city:

  • Bureau de Poste: An all-day French cafe and bistro located in the former post office on Hyde Park's Duval Street, serving pastries, sandwiches, and classic French dishes. Located at 4300 Duval St, Austin, TX 78751.
  • The Tatsu-ya Restaurant Group Test Kitchen: An intimate, 10-seat tasting counter from the acclaimed Tatsu-ya team, offering a multi-course menu that explores new concepts. Located at 2323 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704.
  • Ezov: A modern Israeli restaurant in the Holly neighborhood from the team behind Emmer & Rye, focusing on dishes cooked over a charcoal hearth. Located at 2708 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702.
  • Underdog: A Korean-American bar and restaurant on South First Street, serving dishes like kimchi fried rice and Korean fried chicken. Located at 1600 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704.

What are the Best Restaurants in Downtown Austin?

Some of the best downtown Austin restaurants are listed below, popular for their food and atmosphere:

  • Comedor: A modern Mexican restaurant known for its striking architecture, creative dishes, and extensive selection of tequila and mezcal.
  • Hestia: A live-fire restaurant where chefs cook over a 20-foot custom hearth, offering a menu of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables.
  • Roaring Fork: Located in the historic Stephen F. Austin hotel, this restaurant serves rugged American food cooked over a wood fire.
  • Red Ash: An Italian restaurant specializing in handmade pastas and dishes cooked in a custom-built wood-burning grill and oven.

Are There Nice Restaurants in Austin for Birthdays?

Yes, there are many nice restaurants in Austin for birthdays. For a celebratory atmosphere, Aba offers Mediterranean-inspired food in a tree-filled patio setting. Suerte is one of the more fun restaurants in Austin for birthdays, known for its modern Mexican food, lively bar, and energetic dining room. For a more classic fine-dining experience, Jeffrey's is an upscale steakhouse with an elegant, old-world feel. Uchi provides a sophisticated and inventive Japanese dining experience perfect for a special occasion.

What are the Best Places to Eat on the East Side of Austin?

The East Side has some of the best places to eat in Austin including:

  • Suerte: A modern Mexican restaurant that focuses on dishes made with house-made masa, known for its creative food and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Canje: A Caribbean-inspired restaurant from the team behind Emmer & Rye, offering a menu of flavorful dishes in a lively setting.
  • Birdie's: A casual, counter-service restaurant and wine bar with a seasonal menu of high-quality American food and a large patio.
  • Franklin Barbecue: One of the most famous barbecue joints in the world, serving exceptional Central Texas-style brisket from its East Austin location.

Which Restaurants in Austin Serve Vegan Food?

Austin has many restaurants that serve vegan food. The Vegan Nom is a popular food truck and restaurant serving a wide variety of plant-based tacos. Counter Culture is a long-standing cafe offering vegan comfort food, including sandwiches, salads, and mac and cheese. Casa de Luz is a community-focused restaurant serving a set daily menu of 100% organic, vegan, and gluten-free food.

Which Restaurants in Austin Serve Gluten-Free Food?

Many Austin restaurants serve gluten-free food. Picnik is a health-focused restaurant with a 100% gluten-free menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. Via 313, a popular Detroit-style pizzeria, offers a gluten-free crust option. The entire menu at modern Mexican restaurant ATX Cocina is gluten-free, with a focus on dishes made with corn.

What are the Most Famous Cuisines in Austin?

The most famous cuisines in Austin are listed below:

  • Barbecue: Central Texas-style barbecue, with its emphasis on brisket and simple salt-and-pepper rubs, is the city's most iconic food.
  • Tex-Mex & Mexican: From breakfast tacos and queso to interior Mexican food, this is a fundamental part of the Austin diet.
  • Tacos: Beyond Tex-Mex, Austin has a strong taco culture, with countless food trucks and restaurants serving every imaginable style.
  • New American: Many of the city's top restaurants offer modern American menus that focus on local, seasonal Texas ingredients.

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