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A bowl of noodles and vegetables and meats.
A noodle soup from P Thai’s.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

The 38 Best Restaurants in Austin

A guide to the city's defining restaurants spanning all cuisines, neighborhoods, and price ranges

by Nadia Chaudhury and Erin Russell Updated
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A noodle soup from P Thai’s.
| Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin
by Nadia Chaudhury and Erin Russell Updated

What are the best restaurants in Austin — those essential dining destinations that should not be missed? Eater Austin’s Eater 38 strives to show diners where to eat across the Texas city, with restaurant recommendations fit for any situation. The list spans numerous cuisines and budgets, collectively satisfying every need from food trucks to fine dining spots (we have map trails for those, too). Ultimately, the 38 covers the restaurants and food trucks that truly define Austin.

Every quarter, Eater Austin updates the map to add pertinent restaurants, whether it’s because they have become newly eligible (our standard is a spot must have been open for at least six months) or revamped their menus or services. The goal is always to keep the list highly specific, inclusive, and reflective of the Texas city. The winter 2025 update adds P Thai’s Khao Man Gai & Noodles, Lao’d Bar, and LeRoy & Lewis.

For a running list of past featured restaurants, head to the Eater Austin 38 archive. For other Austin picks, check out the heatmap, a collection of the city’s hot new dining options.

For all the latest Austin dining intel, subscribe to Eater Austin’s newsletter.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Himalaya Kosheli Nepali & Indian

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Within Austin’s South Asian food scene is a small but strong contingent of North Indian and Nepalese restaurants. Of those, this casual Barrington Oaks restaurant is one of the most standout — it serves the greatest hits from the Indian subcontinent, including all sorts of momos, chow mein, chilis, dals, meats, and biryanis. Inside, find a cozy, diner-like interior with booths flanking the far wall and 1980s-style lighting. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

8650 Spicewood Springs Road, TX 78759
(512) 582-0157
(512) 582-0157
Dumplings on a plate.
Momos at Himalaya Kosheli.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

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Ramen Del Barrio

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Named Eater Austin’s best new restaurant in 2023, Ramen Del Barrio, up in Scofield Farms, is all about Japanese Mexican ramen. The steaming bowls from chef Christopher Krinsky are fun and inventive: there’s the carnitas tonkotsu, mole tsukemen, and more. Then there are the yaki-tacos, where glistening, skewered meats come inside a fresh tortilla. The restaurant is tucked away within the Hana World Market food court. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor dine-in services.

1700 W Parmer Ln, Austin, TX 78727
Two bowls of ramen.
Ramen from Ramen del Barrio.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

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Sunflower Vietnamese Cuisine

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Austin is a better place since the longtime Vietnamese restaurant reopened a couple of years ago by original owner Ngoc Dang’s daughter Anh Dang, now in the Milwood neighborhood. The casual restaurant’s menu includes all of its home-style hits: banh xeo (savory crepes), bo luc lac (shaken beef), and the ca chien dac biet (sea bass with a ginger-soy glaze), along with classics like pho and vermicelli. Takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

6001 W Parmer Ln, Austin, Texas 78727
(512) 291-6749
(512) 291-6749
Fried fish on a cast-iron pan.
The ca chien dac biet at Sunflower.
Sunflower Vietnamese Cuisine/Facebook

Usta Kababgy

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This casual Middle Eastern restaurant in North Austin focuses on delectable halal grilled meats. There are all sorts of kebabs, from lamb-and-beef adana to chicken, as well as shawarma bowls and wraps. The lahmajun (meat flatbread) is a filling, ripe-for-any-time comfort food, as are the falafels and dolmas. Inside, find booth seating and an elaborate counter for teas. There’s a second location up in Round Rock. Takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

9310 North Lamar Boulevard, TX 78753
(512) 465-2720
(512) 465-2720
A container of yellow rice, grilled vegetables, a salad, hummus with spices, and two long meat kebabs.
The kebab plate at Usta.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

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House of Three Gorges

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The casual North Austin Sichuan restaurant offers some of the best regional Chinese in the city for lunch and dinner. Find specialties like red braised pork belly, spicy jumping fish, and brisket in a tangy radish soup. The small dining room is normally filled on weekends, so consider getting there early. Uber Eats and DoorDash takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

8557 Research Boulevard, TX 78758
(512) 953-8666
(512) 953-8666
A variety of Sichuan dishes from House of Three Gorges including soup, noodles, and vegetables arranged on a dark wooden tabletop.
A variety of Sichuan dishes at House of Three Gorges
House of Three Gorges

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Korea House

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Dining at the casual Korean restaurant in North Shoal Creek is a perfectly homey experience. The menu is a traditional one, with loads of stews (budae jjigae and the seaweed-y miyukguk), kimbap, and kimchi jeon. Then there’s the fun grill-it-yourself barbecue setup with all sorts of meats, such as galbi and duck breasts. The physical space is beautiful and cozy as well, with a pond outside and many group-friendly tables. And it’s a place for the community: co-owner Mrs. Kim opens up the restaurant to free meals monthly to those who need them. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2700 W Anderson Ln (Village Shopping Center), Austin, TX 78757
(512) 458-2477
(512) 458-2477
Food in black packages.
Doshirak from Korea House.
Korea House

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Bufalina Due

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Owner Steven Dilley and his pizzeria teams continue to impress diners at this Brentwood restaurant (and the East Austin location. The Neapolitan pies are simple but skillfully executed; under chef Eli Rodriguez, you can’t go wrong with the exemplary margherita and special pies like the zucchini or potato pies, alongside burrata with peaches and Caesar salad. The pasta game has never been as good as it is now. Wine nerds will dig the intriguing and affordable bottles selected by wine managers Dominique Bobbio and Brianna Leahy at Due, Monica Moreno at East Cesar, along with wine director Rania Zayyat. Takeout orders can be placed online (Brentwood, East Austin); there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

6555 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757
(512) 215-8662
(512) 215-8662
Bufalina’s brunch pie
Pizza at Bufalina.
Bufalina

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Fonda San Miguel

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This high-end restaurant in Allandale is a classic for a reason: co-founders Tom Gilliland and late chef Miguel Ravago are credited for really focusing on finer-dining interior Mexican food in Austin since the 1970s. There are the classic regional Mexican dishes like the array of chile rellenos, cochinita pibil, and wagyu steak tacos, all to be enjoyed in the beautiful dining rooms decked out with Mexican artwork. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2330 W North Loop Blvd (at Hancock Dr.), Austin, TX 78756
(512) 459-4121
(512) 459-4121
A plate of meat.
The cochinita pibil at Fonda San Miguel
Fonda San Miguel/Facebook

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Foreign & Domestic

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Co-owners and chefs Sarah Heard and Nathan Lemley are still knocking it out of the park at this North Loop restaurant with their fresh energy and ideas. The New American menu is familiar, but has been spruced up since the restaurant’s original owner sold it to the couple in 2017, with soothing dishes like goat mafaldine and Parisian gnocchi. Adventurous eaters should seek out the offal dishes, such as chicken liver mousse. The neighborhood restaurant works as well for spontaneous meals as it does for special occasions. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

306 E 53rd St, Austin, TX 78751
(512) 459-1010
(512) 459-1010
A plate of risotto.
A risotto dish from Foreign & Domestic.
Foreign & Domestic/Facebook

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Komé

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Co-owners Také and Kayo Asazu transformed their popular sushi trailer Sushi A-Go-Go into a full-blown laid-back North Loop restaurant, offering their takes on homestyle Japanese fare. Along with impeccable sushi and affordable rolls, the lunch menu features bentos for those seeking a little bit of everything, as well as loaded donburi bowls (the hokkai-don is a richly indulgent one, with salmon sashimi, ikura, and scallops; add the uni if it’s available). There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

5301 Airport Boulevard, TX 78751
(512) 712-5700
(512) 712-5700
Pieces of sushi.
Sushi from Kome.
Kome/Facebook

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Jewboy Burgers

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El Paso native Mo Pittle honors his Jewish heritage and Texas border city upbringing with his food truck-turned-restaurant in North Loop that is certainly not kosher. The dinner menu centers on burgers and burritos, filled with beef, cheese, Hatch green chiles, and even crispy potato latkes. There are also hot dogs slathered with earthy chili and comforting sides like queso. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

5111 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
(512) 291-3358
(512) 291-3358
A halved burger.
A burger from JewBoy Burgers.
JewBoy Burgers/Facebook

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P Thai’s Khao Man Gai & Noodles [North Loop]

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The Eater Award-winning casual North Loop restaurant is the premier destination for comforting Thai Chinese dishes courtesy of chef Thai Changthong. The namesake khao man gai is the Thai iteration of Hainanese chicken, with such tender chicken paired with chicken-fat rice, a sweet chile sauce, cucumbers, and chicken broth. Don’t skip the noodle soups nor the daily specials. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

4807 Airport Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78751
A red-white checkered table with food on plates.
The khao man gai at P Thai’s.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

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Asti Trattoria

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The casual neighborhood sit-down restaurant in Hyde Park serves up classic Italian dishes for dinner and brunch. There are always stellar pastas and risottos (the rigatoni amatriciana is a good bet), alongside stand-out desserts and sides. The restaurant also also offers plentiful gluten-free pizza and pasta. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

408 E 43rd St, Austin, TX 78751
(512) 451-1218
(512) 451-1218
Pasta with mushrooms and cheese on a white plate.
Pasta from Asti Trattoria.
Asti Trattoria/Facebook

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KG BBQ

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Given that it is Austin, there are a lot of barbecue restaurants in town, with some of them on this map. This MLK smoked meat truck from pitmaster Kareem El-Ghayesh stands out because of the incredible Egyptian-Texan menu. Smoke works well for both cuisines, which makes it even better when combined into dishes like pork ribs glazed with pomegranate seeds and za’atar, kebabs, and turmeric rice studded with brisket and tahini. Takeout orders can be placed online or in-person; host site Oddwood Brewing has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723
(737) 294-8598
(737) 294-8598
A tray of ribs, a cardboard tray of rice and nuts and a dessert in a container.
Barbecue from KG BBQ.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

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Dai Due

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The Cherrywood New Texan restaurant — which is so regionally minded that even beer and wine are exclusively from the state — is equally satisfying for lingering brunch or a blowout feast at dinner. The restaurant version of this former farmers market stand/supper club from owner/chef Jesse Griffiths is everything Austin could have hoped for. He even won a James Beard Media Award for his tome about wild hogs. The Texas-forever menu under executive chef Janie Ramirez has heavier dishes like dry-aged wagyu rib-eyes, quails stuffed with boudin noir, grilled chicken hearts, and coffee-cured antelope leg filets, as well as lighter fare like mixed greens salads and grilled cabbage. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
(512) 524-0688
(512) 524-0688
A giant piece of meat on bone on a plate with leafy greens on top of it.
A meat dish from Dai Due.
Dai Due

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Este

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This Cherrywood restaurant from the team behind Suerte is the ultimate destination for quality coastal Mexican food in Austin — that’s why the team, led by Fermín Núñez, won an Eater Award in 2023. Everything is so flavorful, such as the messy camarones “el ricas” (buttery spicy grilled shelled shrimp), the creamy salsa-drenched pan-seared halibut, and the fresh raw bar offerings. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2113 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
(512) 522-4047
(512) 522-4047
Halved-grilled shrimp with onions on it and a halved lime.
The amarones “el ricas” at Este.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

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Olamaie

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The fancy downtown Southern restaurant is a sensational dining experience. There are inventive plates from Top Chef contestant chef de cuisine Amanda Turner and executive chef Michael Fojtasek. This means dishes such as smoked cabbage or the blackened dayboat fish with blue crab sauce and Carolina Gold rice. Then there’s the amazing cocktail and wine menu. The restaurant itself is elegant and offers high-class service. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1610 San Antonio St (17th St.), Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-2796
(512) 474-2796
A plate of stewed okra and beans.
A dish at Olamaie.
Olamaie

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Fabrik

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Through this fine-dining tasting menu restaurant in the Blackland neighborhood, co-owner and chef Je Wallerstein shows the delicate power of high-end vegan dishes. The seven-course tasting menu is full of plates that pull from her Japanese, Italian, and Nordic training. This means seasonal items like the springy focaccia with vegan butter and bean dip or potatoes paired with smoked ricotta and mushrooms. And, yes everything is — again — sans animal products. Book reservations online; there are indoor dine-in services.

1701 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Unit 102, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 222-9816
(512) 222-9816
A bread with vegetables on top of it.
A dish from Fabrik.
Chris Praetzel

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Birdie's

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This casual Chestnut neighborhood wine bar, which won Eater Austin’s best neighborhood wine bar of 2021, can be found on the east side offering a pleasant and quality dining experience. There’s the ever-rotating menu of simple dishes done right by co-owner and chef Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and executive sous chef Heejae Galluccio. There’s usually handmade pasta, a rich steak and vegetable dish, and a variety of wine-friendly seasonal appetizers like fried green tomatoes. Don’t skip the creamy soft serve for dessert or the after-dinner drinks. There are no reservations, as it’s a walk-up joint. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2944 E 12th St (Harvey St), Austin, TX 78702
A plate of potatoes and steak.
Steak and potatoes at Birdie’s.
Birdie’s

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Nixta Taqueria

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The funky little taqueria, from co-owners Edgar Rico (the James Beard Awards’ emerging chef of 2022) and Sara Mardanbigi, became a taco darling for good reason. Rico works magic into every single one of the East Austin spot’s new-school tacos and tostadas. While the meatier items are terrific, the vegetarian options really showcase his inventive skills: The beet tartare is a pure work of art. For something more special, check out its omakase service. The natural wine list is worth exploring. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2512 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 551-3855
(512) 551-3855
A blue plate with a circular tostada with pink beets on it.
The beet tartare tostada from Nixta Taqueria.
Robert Jacob Lerma/Eater Austin

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Cuantos Tacos

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The beauty and bounty of Mexico City-style tacos can be found at this Central East Austin food truck run by Luis “Beto” Robledo. The snack-sized tacos make it easier to mix and match fillings. The meats are remarkably tender — don’t miss out on the cachete with barabcoa meat — and the vegetables are nothing to sleep on, either. Look no further than the champiñones (grilled mushrooms that are, unfortunately, not vegetarian). Takeout orders can be placed online or in person; there are outdoor dine-in areas.

1108 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702
A tray of three tacos.
Tacos from Cuantos Tacos.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

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Better Half Coffee & Cocktails

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This all-day cafe was named Eater Austin’s restaurant of 2018, and still, co-owners Matt and Grady Wright, Matthew Bolick, and the team continue to deliver fantastic service and convivial vibes. The West Fifth space feels appropriately Austin with its large patio, great coffee, and a first-rate lineup of beer and wine. The menu is full of laid-back dishes with lovely touches like breakfast sandwiches layered with hash brown patties or the iconic cauliflower tots. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

406 Walsh St (5th Street), Austin, TX 78703
(512) 645-0786
(512) 645-0786
Two plates of food, one with a sunny-side-up egg and a broth and the other with a sandwich with a cup of latte and a drinks menu on a wooden table.
Food and coffee at Better Half.
Courtney Pierce/Eater Austin

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Shirley's Trini Cuisine

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For casual but compelling Caribbean fare, look no further than this East Austin food truck. It’s where owner and chef Janelle Romeo serves up staple Trinidadian dishes like doubles, deeply spiced curried goat, blankets of roti, and and jerk chicken, the latter heady with allspice. Oxtail lovers will gravitate toward the oxtail sandwich, served in crusty French bread, and the loaded oxtail fries, covered in zig-zags of homemade garlic sauce. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are Uber Eats pickups and deliveries; and there are outdoor dine-in areas.

1326 Rosewood Avenue, Austin, Texas 78702
Chickpeas in brown sauce on a bed of crunchy fried bread.
Doubles from Shirley’s Trini Cuisine.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

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Lao'd Bar

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The Eater Award-winning far east Austin bar is chef Bob Somsith’s fully realized vision of his true fiery Loatian American cuisine, which he started during his food truck days. Lao’d Bar is all about full-on spices, from the nam khao with crispy fried rice and red curry to the meaty skewers with dipping sauces. The bright space offers up an unbeatable bar scene, too. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

9909 Fm 969, Austin, Texas 78724
Coconut escolar ceviche at Austin’s Lao’d Bar
The coconut escolar ceviche at Lao’d Bar.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

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Austin Rotisserie

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It’s worth ducking into downtown Austin food hall Fareground to indulge in wonderfully rich casual French fare from this stand. The restaurant focuses on well-made rotisserie chicken accompanied by just-tender-enough potatoes made with drippings from said-roasted poultry. But also the baguette sandwiches — made with house-made bread are top-notch. There’s also a truck on South Lamar. Takeout orders can be placed online or in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

111 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 358-4009
(512) 358-4009
A sandwich.
A baguette sandwich from Austin Rotisserie.
Austin Rotisserie/Facebook

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Veracruz All Natural

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At the essential Austin food truck, sisters Reyna and Maritza Vazquez make the best tacos in the city, served on handmade corn and flour tortillas with fresh salsas. It’s not a complete order without the migas taco and an agua fresca. Takeout and delivery orders are placed online or in person for all of its locations, plus the Veracruz Fonda restaurant in Mueller; most locations include indoor areas and all have outdoor dine-in areas.

2505 Webberville Road, TX 78702
(512) 981-1760
(512) 981-1760
A plate of two tacos.
Tacos from Veracruz.
Veracruz All Natural/Facebook

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Canje

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The East Austin Caribbean restaurant, was named Eater Austin’s best new restaurant in 2022, pays tribute to executive chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph’s Guyanese roots with dishes like buttery roti, wild boar pepper pot, and jerk chicken. Since it’s a Bristol-Joseph project, don’t overlook the desserts, especially the tres leches cake. The restaurant has an upscale tropical vibe, with fruity but balanced cocktails, a large bar, and a small outdoor patio. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1914 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 706-9119
(512) 706-9119
Three pieces of dark-roasted chicken on a large green leaf next to a bowl of reddish sauce with green sprinkled leaves.
The jerk chicken at Canje.
Canje

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Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop

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The historic Mexican bakery, founded in 1962 by Joe and Paula Avila and now run by their granddaughter Regina Estrada who oversees the two generations that run the family restaurant, is a pillar of the East Austin community in two ways. First, there’s the exceptional daytime menu, from the wonderfully tender and juicy barbacoa breakfast and the migas to the lunch tacos. Then there is its community service: Estrada is an advocate for East Austin, making sure people are informed about what’s going on in local politics and even directly registering voters. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone or in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

2305 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 472-0017
(512) 472-0017
A white oval plate with a crispy taco, rice, refried beans, and enchiladas covered in yellow cheese sauce.
Crispy beef taco, rice, beans, and chicken enchiladas from Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop. from Joe’s.
Deana Saukam

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Toshokan

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The East Austin Japanese spot has become one of the city’s best omakases around, so much so that it won Eater Austin’s best omakase of 2022 award. Executive chef Saine Wong offers an awesome intimate meal in a space within the indoor mini-golf course Holey Moley, featuring well-crafted nigiri and other bites in a setting that feels like a fun little party. Reservations can be made online, and plan ahead: It books up quickly. There are indoor dine-in services.

807 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78702
A plate of scallops on a green sauce.
Scallops at Toshokan.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

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Odd Duck

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At the relaxed Zilker restaurant, chef and partner Bryce Gilmore and the rest of the team embrace Texas ingredients through the New American menu. There are inventive dishes (dirty rice-stuffed quail, grilled pork chops with butternut curry) and on-point desserts (tres leches made with fig leaves and chocolate), all served within a rustic, homey dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in a muted natural light. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1201 S Lamar Blvd (Gibson St W), Austin, TX 78704
(512) 433-6521
(512) 433-6521
A plate of food.
A dish from Odd Duck.
Odd Duck

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La Barbecue

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The city has an embarrassment of world-class smoky meats, and this East Austin spot gives Franklin Barbecue a run for its money. After all, the barbecue joint is from the late LeAnn Mueller, who hailed from the legendary Texas barbecue family dating back to 1949; La Barbecue is now solely run by Mueller’s wife, Ali Clem. Go for the brisket, sausages, and any of the inventive sandwiches. Be sure to order the superb shells and cheese made with smoked vegetables and a little spicy kick. The deli menu also includes tinned fish, cheeses, and caviar. Takeout orders are placed online (order in advance to bypass the line); there is in-person ordering; and there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

2401 East Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, Texas 78702
(512) 605-9696
(512) 605-9696
Several white cardboard trays of meats and pickles and peppers with slices of white bread on butcher paper.
Dishes at La Barbecue.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

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Justine's

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This East Austin restaurant has all the makings of a prime neighborhood dining stop: French food with an east-side twist in a convivial atmosphere. There are steak frites, escargot, duck confit, and ratatouille, along with a hefty burger topped with Gruyere cheese. The reasonably priced wine list means this tucked-away gem is perfectly set up for a long, lingering meal. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 385-2900
(512) 385-2900
A table full of food dishes.
Dishes at Justine’s.
Justine’s

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Bouldin Creek Café

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Beloved by residents of the 78704 and beyond, this cafe in Bouldin Creek from owner Leslie Martin offers a varied menu of vegetarian fare paired with locally roasted coffee, and a taste of old-school Austin in its design (a diner-y, 1990s vibe) and food (think loaded vegetable taco plates with crispy plantain chips on the side). The vegetable sandwiches are legitimate, as is the tofu scramble. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1900 S 1st St (at W. Mary St.), Austin, TX 78704
(512) 416-1601
(512) 416-1601
A plate of tacos.
Tacos at Bouldin Creek Cafe.
Bouldin Creek Cafe/Facebook

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El Naranjo

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The Mexican finer-dining restaurant in the South Lamar neighborhood delivers the best taste of interior Mexico in Austin, thanks to co-owner Iliana de la Vega, the James Beard Award-winning chef in the first-ever Texas category, and her daughter chef Ana Torrealba. The menu focuses on fare from Oaxaca — where de la Vega is from — like rich moles (the duck is a must-order) and hearty cochinita pibil. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2717 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
(512) 520-5750
(512) 520-5750
A person holding up a blue tortilla with a shrimp on it with one hand and spooning a bowl of shrimp with the other
The camarones y hongos a la macha from El Naranjo.
El Naranjo/Facebook

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Casper Fermentables

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Some of the city’s best bagels and sandwiches are made at this little casual Sunset Valley deli run by the farmers market stand of the same name. The menus draw from Korean and Jewish food traditions — given the background of co-owner Ben Hollande. During the early daytime, it serves sourdough bagels, with cream cheeses, smoked lox, tuna salads, and more. Then the later-in-the-day lunch offerings include amazing sandwiches made with its springy focaccia bread — the spicy turkey sandwich with Sichuan oil and the kimchi tuna melt are must-orders. Round out the meal with one of its fantastic rugelachs. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

4715 South Lamar Boulevard, Sunset Valley, Texas 78745
(512) 330-4935
(512) 330-4935
Lots of bagels.
Bagels from Casper Fermentables.
Casper Fermentables

Dee Dee

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Chef Lakana Trubiana cooks up a small but mighty Thai menu from this South Lamar neighborhood truck. The flavorful Isan-style dishes (rooted in the northern region of Thailand) range from comforting om gai to a very spicy laab moo. In the summer, during peak mango season, the mango sticky rice is worth the visit alone. Takeout orders can to be placed online; host site Radio has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas (just dress for the weather).

4204 Manchaca Road, Austin, TX 78704
(512) 394-7844
(512) 394-7844
Boxes of food.
Dishes at Dee Dee
Dee Dee

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LeRoy & Lewis [Restaurant]

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The long-awaited restaurant from the award-winning truck run by pitmaster Evan LeRoy and the team can be found in Garrison Park, dishing out its new-school barbecue. Think deeply flavored meats (including beef cheeks, smoked chicken, and pulled hog) as well as dishes like chicken-fried steak specials and burgers. While, yes, it’s a meats-centric spot, don’t skip the vegetables, especially the cauliflower burnt ends. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

5621 Emerald Forest Drive, Austin, Texas 78745
(512) 962-7805
(512) 962-7805
A tray with sliced meats, sides, and breads.
Barbecue from LeRoy & Lewis.
Jessie Attie

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Distant Relatives

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The McKinney food truck has grown into an essential Austin barbecue spot — there’s a reason Eater named it one of the best restaurants in the country and in the city in 2021. James Beard Awards semifinalist pitmaster Damien Brockway and his team showcase the foodways of the African American diaspora through a deceivingly casual menu. There are succulent chicken legs paired with a chile-vinegar dip, pillowy pulled pork with tangy tamarind-molasses barbecue sauce, and superb sides like burnt ends mixed with black-eyed peas. Takeout orders can be placed in person; host site Meanwhile Brewing has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

3901 Promontory Point Drive, Austin, Texas 78744
(512) 717-2504
(512) 717-2504
Six dishes in brown cardboard boxes, including nuts, beans, pickled vegetables, and more.
Sides from Distant Relatives.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

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Himalaya Kosheli Nepali & Indian

8650 Spicewood Springs Road, TX 78759

Within Austin’s South Asian food scene is a small but strong contingent of North Indian and Nepalese restaurants. Of those, this casual Barrington Oaks restaurant is one of the most standout — it serves the greatest hits from the Indian subcontinent, including all sorts of momos, chow mein, chilis, dals, meats, and biryanis. Inside, find a cozy, diner-like interior with booths flanking the far wall and 1980s-style lighting. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

8650 Spicewood Springs Road, TX 78759
(512) 582-0157
(512) 582-0157
Dumplings on a plate.
Momos at Himalaya Kosheli.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

Ramen Del Barrio

1700 W Parmer Ln, Austin, TX 78727

Named Eater Austin’s best new restaurant in 2023, Ramen Del Barrio, up in Scofield Farms, is all about Japanese Mexican ramen. The steaming bowls from chef Christopher Krinsky are fun and inventive: there’s the carnitas tonkotsu, mole tsukemen, and more. Then there are the yaki-tacos, where glistening, skewered meats come inside a fresh tortilla. The restaurant is tucked away within the Hana World Market food court. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor dine-in services.

1700 W Parmer Ln, Austin, TX 78727
Two bowls of ramen.
Ramen from Ramen del Barrio.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

Sunflower Vietnamese Cuisine

6001 W Parmer Ln, Austin, Texas 78727

Austin is a better place since the longtime Vietnamese restaurant reopened a couple of years ago by original owner Ngoc Dang’s daughter Anh Dang, now in the Milwood neighborhood. The casual restaurant’s menu includes all of its home-style hits: banh xeo (savory crepes), bo luc lac (shaken beef), and the ca chien dac biet (sea bass with a ginger-soy glaze), along with classics like pho and vermicelli. Takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

6001 W Parmer Ln, Austin, Texas 78727
(512) 291-6749
(512) 291-6749
Fried fish on a cast-iron pan.
The ca chien dac biet at Sunflower.
Sunflower Vietnamese Cuisine/Facebook

Usta Kababgy

9310 North Lamar Boulevard, TX 78753

This casual Middle Eastern restaurant in North Austin focuses on delectable halal grilled meats. There are all sorts of kebabs, from lamb-and-beef adana to chicken, as well as shawarma bowls and wraps. The lahmajun (meat flatbread) is a filling, ripe-for-any-time comfort food, as are the falafels and dolmas. Inside, find booth seating and an elaborate counter for teas. There’s a second location up in Round Rock. Takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

9310 North Lamar Boulevard, TX 78753
(512) 465-2720
(512) 465-2720
A container of yellow rice, grilled vegetables, a salad, hummus with spices, and two long meat kebabs.
The kebab plate at Usta.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

House of Three Gorges

8557 Research Boulevard, TX 78758

The casual North Austin Sichuan restaurant offers some of the best regional Chinese in the city for lunch and dinner. Find specialties like red braised pork belly, spicy jumping fish, and brisket in a tangy radish soup. The small dining room is normally filled on weekends, so consider getting there early. Uber Eats and DoorDash takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

8557 Research Boulevard, TX 78758
(512) 953-8666
(512) 953-8666
A variety of Sichuan dishes from House of Three Gorges including soup, noodles, and vegetables arranged on a dark wooden tabletop.
A variety of Sichuan dishes at House of Three Gorges
House of Three Gorges

Korea House

2700 W Anderson Ln (Village Shopping Center), Austin, TX 78757

Dining at the casual Korean restaurant in North Shoal Creek is a perfectly homey experience. The menu is a traditional one, with loads of stews (budae jjigae and the seaweed-y miyukguk), kimbap, and kimchi jeon. Then there’s the fun grill-it-yourself barbecue setup with all sorts of meats, such as galbi and duck breasts. The physical space is beautiful and cozy as well, with a pond outside and many group-friendly tables. And it’s a place for the community: co-owner Mrs. Kim opens up the restaurant to free meals monthly to those who need them. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2700 W Anderson Ln (Village Shopping Center), Austin, TX 78757
(512) 458-2477
(512) 458-2477
Food in black packages.
Doshirak from Korea House.
Korea House

Bufalina Due

6555 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757

Owner Steven Dilley and his pizzeria teams continue to impress diners at this Brentwood restaurant (and the East Austin location. The Neapolitan pies are simple but skillfully executed; under chef Eli Rodriguez, you can’t go wrong with the exemplary margherita and special pies like the zucchini or potato pies, alongside burrata with peaches and Caesar salad. The pasta game has never been as good as it is now. Wine nerds will dig the intriguing and affordable bottles selected by wine managers Dominique Bobbio and Brianna Leahy at Due, Monica Moreno at East Cesar, along with wine director Rania Zayyat. Takeout orders can be placed online (Brentwood, East Austin); there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

6555 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757
(512) 215-8662
(512) 215-8662
Bufalina’s brunch pie
Pizza at Bufalina.
Bufalina

Fonda San Miguel

2330 W North Loop Blvd (at Hancock Dr.), Austin, TX 78756

This high-end restaurant in Allandale is a classic for a reason: co-founders Tom Gilliland and late chef Miguel Ravago are credited for really focusing on finer-dining interior Mexican food in Austin since the 1970s. There are the classic regional Mexican dishes like the array of chile rellenos, cochinita pibil, and wagyu steak tacos, all to be enjoyed in the beautiful dining rooms decked out with Mexican artwork. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2330 W North Loop Blvd (at Hancock Dr.), Austin, TX 78756
(512) 459-4121
(512) 459-4121
A plate of meat.
The cochinita pibil at Fonda San Miguel
Fonda San Miguel/Facebook

Foreign & Domestic

306 E 53rd St, Austin, TX 78751

Co-owners and chefs Sarah Heard and Nathan Lemley are still knocking it out of the park at this North Loop restaurant with their fresh energy and ideas. The New American menu is familiar, but has been spruced up since the restaurant’s original owner sold it to the couple in 2017, with soothing dishes like goat mafaldine and Parisian gnocchi. Adventurous eaters should seek out the offal dishes, such as chicken liver mousse. The neighborhood restaurant works as well for spontaneous meals as it does for special occasions. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

306 E 53rd St, Austin, TX 78751
(512) 459-1010
(512) 459-1010
A plate of risotto.
A risotto dish from Foreign & Domestic.
Foreign & Domestic/Facebook

Komé

5301 Airport Boulevard, TX 78751

Co-owners Také and Kayo Asazu transformed their popular sushi trailer Sushi A-Go-Go into a full-blown laid-back North Loop restaurant, offering their takes on homestyle Japanese fare. Along with impeccable sushi and affordable rolls, the lunch menu features bentos for those seeking a little bit of everything, as well as loaded donburi bowls (the hokkai-don is a richly indulgent one, with salmon sashimi, ikura, and scallops; add the uni if it’s available). There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

5301 Airport Boulevard, TX 78751
(512) 712-5700
(512) 712-5700
Pieces of sushi.
Sushi from Kome.
Kome/Facebook

Jewboy Burgers

5111 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751

El Paso native Mo Pittle honors his Jewish heritage and Texas border city upbringing with his food truck-turned-restaurant in North Loop that is certainly not kosher. The dinner menu centers on burgers and burritos, filled with beef, cheese, Hatch green chiles, and even crispy potato latkes. There are also hot dogs slathered with earthy chili and comforting sides like queso. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

5111 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
(512) 291-3358
(512) 291-3358
A halved burger.
A burger from JewBoy Burgers.
JewBoy Burgers/Facebook

P Thai’s Khao Man Gai & Noodles [North Loop]

4807 Airport Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78751

The Eater Award-winning casual North Loop restaurant is the premier destination for comforting Thai Chinese dishes courtesy of chef Thai Changthong. The namesake khao man gai is the Thai iteration of Hainanese chicken, with such tender chicken paired with chicken-fat rice, a sweet chile sauce, cucumbers, and chicken broth. Don’t skip the noodle soups nor the daily specials. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

4807 Airport Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78751
A red-white checkered table with food on plates.
The khao man gai at P Thai’s.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

Asti Trattoria

408 E 43rd St, Austin, TX 78751

The casual neighborhood sit-down restaurant in Hyde Park serves up classic Italian dishes for dinner and brunch. There are always stellar pastas and risottos (the rigatoni amatriciana is a good bet), alongside stand-out desserts and sides. The restaurant also also offers plentiful gluten-free pizza and pasta. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

408 E 43rd St, Austin, TX 78751
(512) 451-1218
(512) 451-1218
Pasta with mushrooms and cheese on a white plate.
Pasta from Asti Trattoria.
Asti Trattoria/Facebook

KG BBQ

3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723

Given that it is Austin, there are a lot of barbecue restaurants in town, with some of them on this map. This MLK smoked meat truck from pitmaster Kareem El-Ghayesh stands out because of the incredible Egyptian-Texan menu. Smoke works well for both cuisines, which makes it even better when combined into dishes like pork ribs glazed with pomegranate seeds and za’atar, kebabs, and turmeric rice studded with brisket and tahini. Takeout orders can be placed online or in-person; host site Oddwood Brewing has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723
(737) 294-8598
(737) 294-8598
A tray of ribs, a cardboard tray of rice and nuts and a dessert in a container.
Barbecue from KG BBQ.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

Dai Due

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

The Cherrywood New Texan restaurant — which is so regionally minded that even beer and wine are exclusively from the state — is equally satisfying for lingering brunch or a blowout feast at dinner. The restaurant version of this former farmers market stand/supper club from owner/chef Jesse Griffiths is everything Austin could have hoped for. He even won a James Beard Media Award for his tome about wild hogs. The Texas-forever menu under executive chef Janie Ramirez has heavier dishes like dry-aged wagyu rib-eyes, quails stuffed with boudin noir, grilled chicken hearts, and coffee-cured antelope leg filets, as well as lighter fare like mixed greens salads and grilled cabbage. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
(512) 524-0688
(512) 524-0688
A giant piece of meat on bone on a plate with leafy greens on top of it.
A meat dish from Dai Due.
Dai Due

Related Maps

Este

2113 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

This Cherrywood restaurant from the team behind Suerte is the ultimate destination for quality coastal Mexican food in Austin — that’s why the team, led by Fermín Núñez, won an Eater Award in 2023. Everything is so flavorful, such as the messy camarones “el ricas” (buttery spicy grilled shelled shrimp), the creamy salsa-drenched pan-seared halibut, and the fresh raw bar offerings. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2113 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
(512) 522-4047
(512) 522-4047
Halved-grilled shrimp with onions on it and a halved lime.
The amarones “el ricas” at Este.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

Olamaie

1610 San Antonio St (17th St.), Austin, TX 78701

The fancy downtown Southern restaurant is a sensational dining experience. There are inventive plates from Top Chef contestant chef de cuisine Amanda Turner and executive chef Michael Fojtasek. This means dishes such as smoked cabbage or the blackened dayboat fish with blue crab sauce and Carolina Gold rice. Then there’s the amazing cocktail and wine menu. The restaurant itself is elegant and offers high-class service. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1610 San Antonio St (17th St.), Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-2796
(512) 474-2796
A plate of stewed okra and beans.
A dish at Olamaie.
Olamaie

Fabrik

1701 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Unit 102, Austin, TX 78702

Through this fine-dining tasting menu restaurant in the Blackland neighborhood, co-owner and chef Je Wallerstein shows the delicate power of high-end vegan dishes. The seven-course tasting menu is full of plates that pull from her Japanese, Italian, and Nordic training. This means seasonal items like the springy focaccia with vegan butter and bean dip or potatoes paired with smoked ricotta and mushrooms. And, yes everything is — again — sans animal products. Book reservations online; there are indoor dine-in services.

1701 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Unit 102, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 222-9816
(512) 222-9816
A bread with vegetables on top of it.
A dish from Fabrik.
Chris Praetzel

Birdie's

2944 E 12th St (Harvey St), Austin, TX 78702

This casual Chestnut neighborhood wine bar, which won Eater Austin’s best neighborhood wine bar of 2021, can be found on the east side offering a pleasant and quality dining experience. There’s the ever-rotating menu of simple dishes done right by co-owner and chef Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and executive sous chef Heejae Galluccio. There’s usually handmade pasta, a rich steak and vegetable dish, and a variety of wine-friendly seasonal appetizers like fried green tomatoes. Don’t skip the creamy soft serve for dessert or the after-dinner drinks. There are no reservations, as it’s a walk-up joint. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2944 E 12th St (Harvey St), Austin, TX 78702
A plate of potatoes and steak.
Steak and potatoes at Birdie’s.
Birdie’s

Nixta Taqueria

2512 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

The funky little taqueria, from co-owners Edgar Rico (the James Beard Awards’ emerging chef of 2022) and Sara Mardanbigi, became a taco darling for good reason. Rico works magic into every single one of the East Austin spot’s new-school tacos and tostadas. While the meatier items are terrific, the vegetarian options really showcase his inventive skills: The beet tartare is a pure work of art. For something more special, check out its omakase service. The natural wine list is worth exploring. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2512 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 551-3855
(512) 551-3855
A blue plate with a circular tostada with pink beets on it.
The beet tartare tostada from Nixta Taqueria.
Robert Jacob Lerma/Eater Austin

Cuantos Tacos

1108 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

The beauty and bounty of Mexico City-style tacos can be found at this Central East Austin food truck run by Luis “Beto” Robledo. The snack-sized tacos make it easier to mix and match fillings. The meats are remarkably tender — don’t miss out on the cachete with barabcoa meat — and the vegetables are nothing to sleep on, either. Look no further than the champiñones (grilled mushrooms that are, unfortunately, not vegetarian). Takeout orders can be placed online or in person; there are outdoor dine-in areas.

1108 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702
A tray of three tacos.
Tacos from Cuantos Tacos.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

Better Half Coffee & Cocktails

406 Walsh St (5th Street), Austin, TX 78703

This all-day cafe was named Eater Austin’s restaurant of 2018, and still, co-owners Matt and Grady Wright, Matthew Bolick, and the team continue to deliver fantastic service and convivial vibes. The West Fifth space feels appropriately Austin with its large patio, great coffee, and a first-rate lineup of beer and wine. The menu is full of laid-back dishes with lovely touches like breakfast sandwiches layered with hash brown patties or the iconic cauliflower tots. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

406 Walsh St (5th Street), Austin, TX 78703
(512) 645-0786
(512) 645-0786
Two plates of food, one with a sunny-side-up egg and a broth and the other with a sandwich with a cup of latte and a drinks menu on a wooden table.
Food and coffee at Better Half.
Courtney Pierce/Eater Austin

Shirley's Trini Cuisine

1326 Rosewood Avenue, Austin, Texas 78702

For casual but compelling Caribbean fare, look no further than this East Austin food truck. It’s where owner and chef Janelle Romeo serves up staple Trinidadian dishes like doubles, deeply spiced curried goat, blankets of roti, and and jerk chicken, the latter heady with allspice. Oxtail lovers will gravitate toward the oxtail sandwich, served in crusty French bread, and the loaded oxtail fries, covered in zig-zags of homemade garlic sauce. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are Uber Eats pickups and deliveries; and there are outdoor dine-in areas.

1326 Rosewood Avenue, Austin, Texas 78702
Chickpeas in brown sauce on a bed of crunchy fried bread.
Doubles from Shirley’s Trini Cuisine.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

Lao'd Bar

9909 Fm 969, Austin, Texas 78724

The Eater Award-winning far east Austin bar is chef Bob Somsith’s fully realized vision of his true fiery Loatian American cuisine, which he started during his food truck days. Lao’d Bar is all about full-on spices, from the nam khao with crispy fried rice and red curry to the meaty skewers with dipping sauces. The bright space offers up an unbeatable bar scene, too. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

9909 Fm 969, Austin, Texas 78724
Coconut escolar ceviche at Austin’s Lao’d Bar
The coconut escolar ceviche at Lao’d Bar.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

Austin Rotisserie

111 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

It’s worth ducking into downtown Austin food hall Fareground to indulge in wonderfully rich casual French fare from this stand. The restaurant focuses on well-made rotisserie chicken accompanied by just-tender-enough potatoes made with drippings from said-roasted poultry. But also the baguette sandwiches — made with house-made bread are top-notch. There’s also a truck on South Lamar. Takeout orders can be placed online or in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

111 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 358-4009
(512) 358-4009
A sandwich.
A baguette sandwich from Austin Rotisserie.
Austin Rotisserie/Facebook

Veracruz All Natural

2505 Webberville Road, TX 78702

At the essential Austin food truck, sisters Reyna and Maritza Vazquez make the best tacos in the city, served on handmade corn and flour tortillas with fresh salsas. It’s not a complete order without the migas taco and an agua fresca. Takeout and delivery orders are placed online or in person for all of its locations, plus the Veracruz Fonda restaurant in Mueller; most locations include indoor areas and all have outdoor dine-in areas.

2505 Webberville Road, TX 78702
(512) 981-1760
(512) 981-1760
A plate of two tacos.
Tacos from Veracruz.
Veracruz All Natural/Facebook

Canje

1914 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

The East Austin Caribbean restaurant, was named Eater Austin’s best new restaurant in 2022, pays tribute to executive chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph’s Guyanese roots with dishes like buttery roti, wild boar pepper pot, and jerk chicken. Since it’s a Bristol-Joseph project, don’t overlook the desserts, especially the tres leches cake. The restaurant has an upscale tropical vibe, with fruity but balanced cocktails, a large bar, and a small outdoor patio. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1914 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 706-9119
(512) 706-9119
Three pieces of dark-roasted chicken on a large green leaf next to a bowl of reddish sauce with green sprinkled leaves.
The jerk chicken at Canje.
Canje

Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop

2305 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702

The historic Mexican bakery, founded in 1962 by Joe and Paula Avila and now run by their granddaughter Regina Estrada who oversees the two generations that run the family restaurant, is a pillar of the East Austin community in two ways. First, there’s the exceptional daytime menu, from the wonderfully tender and juicy barbacoa breakfast and the migas to the lunch tacos. Then there is its community service: Estrada is an advocate for East Austin, making sure people are informed about what’s going on in local politics and even directly registering voters. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone or in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

2305 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 472-0017
(512) 472-0017
A white oval plate with a crispy taco, rice, refried beans, and enchiladas covered in yellow cheese sauce.
Crispy beef taco, rice, beans, and chicken enchiladas from Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop. from Joe’s.
Deana Saukam

Toshokan

807 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78702

The East Austin Japanese spot has become one of the city’s best omakases around, so much so that it won Eater Austin’s best omakase of 2022 award. Executive chef Saine Wong offers an awesome intimate meal in a space within the indoor mini-golf course Holey Moley, featuring well-crafted nigiri and other bites in a setting that feels like a fun little party. Reservations can be made online, and plan ahead: It books up quickly. There are indoor dine-in services.

807 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78702
A plate of scallops on a green sauce.
Scallops at Toshokan.
Cat Cardenas/Eater Austin

Odd Duck

1201 S Lamar Blvd (Gibson St W), Austin, TX 78704

At the relaxed Zilker restaurant, chef and partner Bryce Gilmore and the rest of the team embrace Texas ingredients through the New American menu. There are inventive dishes (dirty rice-stuffed quail, grilled pork chops with butternut curry) and on-point desserts (tres leches made with fig leaves and chocolate), all served within a rustic, homey dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in a muted natural light. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1201 S Lamar Blvd (Gibson St W), Austin, TX 78704
(512) 433-6521
(512) 433-6521
A plate of food.
A dish from Odd Duck.
Odd Duck

La Barbecue

2401 East Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, Texas 78702

The city has an embarrassment of world-class smoky meats, and this East Austin spot gives Franklin Barbecue a run for its money. After all, the barbecue joint is from the late LeAnn Mueller, who hailed from the legendary Texas barbecue family dating back to 1949; La Barbecue is now solely run by Mueller’s wife, Ali Clem. Go for the brisket, sausages, and any of the inventive sandwiches. Be sure to order the superb shells and cheese made with smoked vegetables and a little spicy kick. The deli menu also includes tinned fish, cheeses, and caviar. Takeout orders are placed online (order in advance to bypass the line); there is in-person ordering; and there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

2401 East Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, Texas 78702
(512) 605-9696
(512) 605-9696
Several white cardboard trays of meats and pickles and peppers with slices of white bread on butcher paper.
Dishes at La Barbecue.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

Justine's

4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

This East Austin restaurant has all the makings of a prime neighborhood dining stop: French food with an east-side twist in a convivial atmosphere. There are steak frites, escargot, duck confit, and ratatouille, along with a hefty burger topped with Gruyere cheese. The reasonably priced wine list means this tucked-away gem is perfectly set up for a long, lingering meal. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 385-2900
(512) 385-2900
A table full of food dishes.
Dishes at Justine’s.
Justine’s

Bouldin Creek Café

1900 S 1st St (at W. Mary St.), Austin, TX 78704

Beloved by residents of the 78704 and beyond, this cafe in Bouldin Creek from owner Leslie Martin offers a varied menu of vegetarian fare paired with locally roasted coffee, and a taste of old-school Austin in its design (a diner-y, 1990s vibe) and food (think loaded vegetable taco plates with crispy plantain chips on the side). The vegetable sandwiches are legitimate, as is the tofu scramble. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1900 S 1st St (at W. Mary St.), Austin, TX 78704
(512) 416-1601
(512) 416-1601
A plate of tacos.
Tacos at Bouldin Creek Cafe.
Bouldin Creek Cafe/Facebook

El Naranjo

2717 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

The Mexican finer-dining restaurant in the South Lamar neighborhood delivers the best taste of interior Mexico in Austin, thanks to co-owner Iliana de la Vega, the James Beard Award-winning chef in the first-ever Texas category, and her daughter chef Ana Torrealba. The menu focuses on fare from Oaxaca — where de la Vega is from — like rich moles (the duck is a must-order) and hearty cochinita pibil. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2717 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
(512) 520-5750
(512) 520-5750
A person holding up a blue tortilla with a shrimp on it with one hand and spooning a bowl of shrimp with the other
The camarones y hongos a la macha from El Naranjo.
El Naranjo/Facebook

Casper Fermentables

4715 South Lamar Boulevard, Sunset Valley, Texas 78745

Some of the city’s best bagels and sandwiches are made at this little casual Sunset Valley deli run by the farmers market stand of the same name. The menus draw from Korean and Jewish food traditions — given the background of co-owner Ben Hollande. During the early daytime, it serves sourdough bagels, with cream cheeses, smoked lox, tuna salads, and more. Then the later-in-the-day lunch offerings include amazing sandwiches made with its springy focaccia bread — the spicy turkey sandwich with Sichuan oil and the kimchi tuna melt are must-orders. Round out the meal with one of its fantastic rugelachs. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

4715 South Lamar Boulevard, Sunset Valley, Texas 78745
(512) 330-4935
(512) 330-4935
Lots of bagels.
Bagels from Casper Fermentables.
Casper Fermentables

Dee Dee

4204 Manchaca Road, Austin, TX 78704

Chef Lakana Trubiana cooks up a small but mighty Thai menu from this South Lamar neighborhood truck. The flavorful Isan-style dishes (rooted in the northern region of Thailand) range from comforting om gai to a very spicy laab moo. In the summer, during peak mango season, the mango sticky rice is worth the visit alone. Takeout orders can to be placed online; host site Radio has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas (just dress for the weather).

4204 Manchaca Road, Austin, TX 78704
(512) 394-7844
(512) 394-7844
Boxes of food.
Dishes at Dee Dee
Dee Dee

LeRoy & Lewis [Restaurant]

5621 Emerald Forest Drive, Austin, Texas 78745

The long-awaited restaurant from the award-winning truck run by pitmaster Evan LeRoy and the team can be found in Garrison Park, dishing out its new-school barbecue. Think deeply flavored meats (including beef cheeks, smoked chicken, and pulled hog) as well as dishes like chicken-fried steak specials and burgers. While, yes, it’s a meats-centric spot, don’t skip the vegetables, especially the cauliflower burnt ends. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

5621 Emerald Forest Drive, Austin, Texas 78745
(512) 962-7805
(512) 962-7805
A tray with sliced meats, sides, and breads.
Barbecue from LeRoy & Lewis.
Jessie Attie

Distant Relatives

3901 Promontory Point Drive, Austin, Texas 78744

The McKinney food truck has grown into an essential Austin barbecue spot — there’s a reason Eater named it one of the best restaurants in the country and in the city in 2021. James Beard Awards semifinalist pitmaster Damien Brockway and his team showcase the foodways of the African American diaspora through a deceivingly casual menu. There are succulent chicken legs paired with a chile-vinegar dip, pillowy pulled pork with tangy tamarind-molasses barbecue sauce, and superb sides like burnt ends mixed with black-eyed peas. Takeout orders can be placed in person; host site Meanwhile Brewing has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

3901 Promontory Point Drive, Austin, Texas 78744
(512) 717-2504
(512) 717-2504
Six dishes in brown cardboard boxes, including nuts, beans, pickled vegetables, and more.
Sides from Distant Relatives.
Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Austin

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