Jess Watson
Aug 20, 2024
A Local's Guide to the BEST Food in Austin, TX!
I've lived in Austin, TX for 10 years and I've spent most of this time visiting as many restaurants, cafes, and food trucks as I possibly can. I started an Instagram account about 8 years ago where I share my findings. There's always a new spot opening in Austin, so there's so much to explore! These suggestions, however, are my tried-and-true. When I'm asked by an Austin visitor where to find the best food, these are the ones I'm always promoting. You may even be someone who asked, and I gave you this article! Anyway, let's get to it...
(P.S. This of course is not an all-inclusive list. If you're not seeing what you're craving, contact me and I'll find what you're looking for!)
Best Overall
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, they have it all and it's all amazing!
Elizabeth Street Cafe
I love Elizabeth Street Cafe. Period. The food, the decor, the vibes...immaculate! They serve Vietnamese French fusion and every single thing I've ever eaten here has been incredible. I don't think I EVER leave them off a list of places to visit in Austin!
Hank's
Hank's is my go-to for group outings. They take reservations, have plenty of free parking, and a big ol' patio. They serve a variety of delicious foods, coffee, and desserts. Try the chantilly cake!!! Their cafe is open 8am-8pm every day AND has a drive-thru, just in case you need a quick drink and bite.
The Peached Tortilla
One of my absolute favorites is The Peached Tortilla. They have 4 restaurant locations (including one in the airport!) and I've eaten at every one. Asian fusion at its best, you will not be disappointed at anything you get at Peached Tortilla. Tacos? Rice bowls? Kimchi arancini? Bingsu? Get it all, baby!
Best Brunch
They don't call me ATXBRUNCHES for nothing! OK...I guess I called myself that...whatever, brunch is my favorite. I've scoured Austin for the best brunches, and these are my top of the tops!
Paperboy
Paperboy started as a food truck and recently moved into a beautiful brick-and-mortar cafe. Their specialty is brunch, and they sure do know how to do it! They have coffee, cocktails, and an expansive food menu. My personal fave is the B.E.C. (bacon, egg, pimento cheese) breakfast sandwich.
Patika
Patika is one of those places that I've brought every single out-of-town visitor to and will continue to forever. The scones here are the best I've ever had, and I've stuffed myself with many a scone. Their brunch foods are always top-notch. Their S. Lamar patio is one of my favorites...because of atmosphere but ALSO...powerful fans. It's one of the only patios I'll sit at in the summer!
Bird Bird Biscuit
When I think of Bird Bird Biscuit, I think "AHHHHHHHHHHH. AHHHHHGHHHHHHHHHHHH!" What does this mean? It means I love it so much I don't have words, only screams. The Queen Beak is the most perfect breakfast anyone could ever consume. The biscuit is flaky and soft, the fried chicken is crispy, the chipotle mayo and honey sauce give it just the right amount of heat and sweet...it's truly perfection. Order ahead, because people be wanting these biscuits!
Civil Goat
Speaking of the world's best breakfast sandos, Civil Goat is right up there with their Curney Sam croissant sandwich. A huge serving of scrambled eggs, American cheese, Cholula, honey, and your choice of protein gingerly placed between a croissant. AHHHHHHHH I'M SCREAMING AGAIN! They have three locations, and sometimes at their N. Curnavaca location, Butters the Goat will make an appearance! Oh, and also, the coffee is roasted by them and is fantastic.
Sour Duck Market
If you're looking for a great big patio, great food, and great drinks...you have to check out Sour Duck Market. They have a nice selection of food and pastries and the best chocolate chip cookies in town, IMO!
Best Dinners
Obviously, I'm very passionate about brunches but I've gone out to dinner a few times too! Here are my recommendations:
Wu Chow
Wu Chow is the place to go if you're hungry and you have friends who want to try everything on the menu and share. This modern Chinese restaurant has two locations and an incredible menu. They even have a dim sum brunch (hehe can't get away from brunch)! Go hungry and try EVERYTHING!
Summer House
Summer House on Music Lane is one of my favorite newer Austin restaurants. Their food menu is Mediterranean-inspired and divine. Located at Hotel Magdalena, this restaurant has cozy, chic vibes and a great patio. Something about Austin that I find interesting, some of the best restaurants are attached to hotels??? Anyway, this is one of them and I love it. If I were visiting Austin, I would also love to stay here, so two recommendations in one!
tumble 22
I could write sonnets about my love for Tumble 22...if I knew how to write sonnets. The desire is there, though! Maybe I'm addicted to fried chicken, I don't know but Tumble 22 is one of my favorite dinner foods. Nashville hot chicken in Texas! You can choose your spice level (I'm a "hot" girly"), and they have a new sandwich every month. I highly recommend getting a side of queso or mac and cheese to slather on top of your sandwich> You will NOT regret it!
Coffee Shops
I'm going to speed run through my favorite coffee shops, because there are just so, so many to choose from. Peruse this list (in no particular order) and see which ones pique your interest!