RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS
aROUND aUSTIN
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24 Diner-
600 N Lamar Blvd; (512)-472-5400 The top-notch comfort food at this 24-hour diner is far from typical round-the-clock fare. Try the fried chicken served on a huge waffle with brown sugar butter and maple syrup. |
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Apis-
23526 Hwy 71 West Spicewood, TX 78669; (512)-436-8918 Apis Restaurant and Apiary offers elegant cuisine in a rustic yet refined atmosphere. Apis aims to offer Hill Country residents and visitors a unique and exquisite dining experience, gracefully refined for special occasions, yet relaxed enough to become your regular culinary sanctuary. With 20 honeybee hives onsite, the apiary provides their own house honey and represents the cycle of sustainability. |
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FIXE-
500 W 5th St; (512) 888-9133 This progressive Southern restaurant from chef James Robert features down-home classics (biscuits, grilled shrimp, a variety of grits) and reimagined favorites (think lobster-crawfish pot pie with sweet corn miso béchamel). The Downtown space offers an upscale-but-homey vibe, with a variety of dining rooms and even an elaborate indoor porch setup, with vintage pieces and local art adding to the warm atmosphere. |
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Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile- 3235 E Cesar Chavez St; (512) 366-5808 Jacoby’s serves beef from owner Adam Jacoby's family ranch in Melvin, as well as recipes inspired by his family's small town restaurant. Jacoby's partner Kris Swift designed a striking, rustic space, complete with a backyard overlooking the Colorado River. |
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Launderette-
2115 Holly St, Austin; (512) 382-1599 Chef Rene Ortiz has no hesitation when it comes to bold seasoning, and his familiarity with the salt shaker might make a cardiologist faint. The Mediterranean-inspired and seasonally appropriate dishes that make up the menu at Launderette are definite proof of that. The snacks, grilled items, toasts, vegetable dishes, entrées, and desserts here reflect a conscious layering of flavor, whether those flavors are subtle or robust, savory or sweet. Launderette opened mid-February, and crowds have been streaming in for Ortiz's big flavors and exemplary desserts ever since. |
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Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill-
303 Red River St; (512) 236-9599 This Downtowner is an “Austin fave”, beloved for its Southern-American fare with modern flair such as popcorn, instead of bread, while you wait; a rustic setting with a lovely patio further enhances the pleasant experience, not to mention the “outstanding” Sunday brunch for which there are frequent “long waits.” |
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Searsucker-
415 Colorado St; (512) 394-8000 Patrons are “thoroughly impressed” with Brian Malarkey’s Warehouse District outpost featuring “excellent” cocktails and “creative combinations of flavors” on the New American menu, which includes an “amazing” Sunday brunch; the “modern” setting, with palm trees, oversized farm animal paintings and “expansive seating”, has a loungey vibe and is ripe for “people-watching.” |
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La Barbecue- 1906 E Cesar Chavez St; (512) 605-9696 Look no further than La Barbecue as a shiny example of Austin’s true love of barbecue. Helmed by pitmasters John Lewis, Francisco Saucedo, and Esaul Ramos, along with owner LeAnn Mueller (yes of the famous barbecue family), the barbecue trailer dishes out tasty smoked meats that are very worthy of the long customer lines. |
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Rudy’s BBQ- 2451 S Capital of Texas Hwy; (512) 329-5554 Their pits are 100% wood fired with oak, a slower burning wood than the mesquite used by others. Along with time and oak, they cook with a dry spice that ensures each plate of Rudy's Bar-B-Q is perfectly ready for you. Apply some of their famous "Sause" and dinner is served! |
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Lamberts-
401 W 2nd St; (512) 494-1500 Fancy barbecue and great beers are what’s on tap at this lively Second Street District destination that’s also known for its fantastic cocktails and happy hour; set in the historic Schneider Brothers Building and outfitted in leather banquets, it’s got a dignified, upscale feel to it, plus good live music in the bar upstairs. |
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The Salt Lick-
18300 FM 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619; (512) 858-4959 This landmark bastion of beef in Driftwood (with spin-offs in Round Rock and at the airport) provides a quintessential Texas BBQ experience to loyal locals and out-of-towners thanks to moist brisket, terrific ribs, first-rate sausage and its famous tangy sauce; it’s cash only and usually crowded, and though it’s BYO beer, you can pick up a bottle of wine from their on-site tasting room, and on weekends enjoy some music from local bands while you wait. |
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Terry Black's- 1003 Barton Springs Rd; (512) 394-5899 Terry Black’s on Barton Springs offers Lockhart-style barbecue in Austin along with a large patio and short wait times. |
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Baguette et Chocolat-
12101 FM 2244; (512) 263-8388 In addition to a full espresso bar and French bakery, this place has an extensive menu including sweet and savory crepes, quiches, and croque-monsieurs. Sandwiches are available as paninis or on a fresh half-baguette, and all breads and pastries are baked in-house. |
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Blue Dahlia Bistro-
1115 E 11th St; (512) 542-9542 & 3663 Bee Cave Rd A Euro-style bistro featuring exquisite breads, salads, tartines & cheeses. Using the freshest ingredients & organic when available. Mondays are lasagna day, which means you will find their tasty lasagna layered with rich ricotta and mozzarella, spinach, mushrooms and cashews. |
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Elizabeth Street Cafe-
1501 South 1st Street; (512) 291-2881 While Elizabeth Street Cafe is often thought for Vietnamese food only, they serve up a variety of French dishes. After all, Vietnamese cuisine is heavily influenced by the French, so it’s no surprise to find escargot, crêpes, financiers, and pots de crème served up with their own special twist. They open early, making it a great place to stop for a special breakfast before work. |
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Justine's Brasserie-
4710 E 5th St; (512) 385-2900 This East Austin hot spot is a true French brasserie offering a short but sweet menu, great cocktails and wine that’s perfect for the cuisine; a lively atmosphere pervades the setting, featuring a tin ceiling indoors and a delightful light-strung patio, all just right for a girls' night out or date night, meaning it's popular and can sometimes be difficult to get a seat. -- Don't be put off by their weird website either! |
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Lenoir-
1807 S 1st St; (512) 215-9778 The ever-changing prix fixe menus at this Bouldin Creek destination comprise locally sourced, sustainable fare from hot-climate cuisines (Mediterranean, Indian, French) plus craft beers and wine; the date-worthy, intimate space, bedecked with reclaimed furnishings, vintage crochet curtains and an old drugstore–style bar, seats only 34 people (though there’s a tree-shaded wine garden too), so make a reservation. |
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Le Politique-
110 San Antonio St; (512) 580-7651 New comer Le Politique offers a long raw bar where you can sit and watch the nonstop oyster-shucking action, plus big windows for those who prefer watching people to watching mollusks. The space is big, with thoughtful decoration choices throughout - the wallpaper, dishware, furniture, and even the matchbooks are very elegant. The French food - from giant seafood towers to a mille crepe cake for dessert - is just as attractive as the setting. At brunch, you’ll find classic breakfast dishes with little twists (like Parisian ham on the benedict, and poached apples on the French toast). But dinner is where Le Politique really shines. There’s caviar (ranging from $50 to $195 per ounce), escargot, and a foie gras terrine. There are high-quality French cheeses and classic dishes like moules frites. |
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South Congress Cafe-
1600 S Congress Ave; (512) 447-3905 Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail at the airy bar. This place is the home of Carrot Cake French Toast, one of the most decadent and buzzed-about brunch options around. With cinnamon-y cream cheese pecan syrup (maybe better described as icing), this dish is the hands-down winner. |
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Botticelli’s South Congress-
1321 S Congress Ave; (512) 916-1315 Botticelli's South Congress is a fun and tasty Italian Restaurant located on South Congress Ave. They serve fresh and delicious Italian food combining old family recipes with new, inventive ones. Andrew and Matt Botticelli are the proud owners and are made even more proud by the food Botticelli's delivers and the incredible staff that surrounds them. They have both an intimate Italian Trattoria in the front and an incredible beer garden out back. Live, local music graces the beer garden Thursday through Saturday. Full menus are available in both the front & back of the restaurant. |
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Home Slice Pizza-
1415 S Congress Ave; (512) 444-7437 Many consider this SoCo parlor a top contender for best pizza in town thanks to fantastic New York–style pies and slices in a kid-friendly yet hip atmosphere; it’s crowded, no matter what time of day, so head out back where you can grab a pitcher or glass of wine or just hang out with friends while you wait; P.S. avoid the lines and go to More Home Slice, next door, for takeout. |
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Italic-
123 W 6th St; (512) 660-5390 The ELM Restaurant Group and chef Andrew Curren (24 Diner, Easy Tiger, Arro) converted the historic Starr Building's bottom floor (formerly a bank) into this casual Downtown Italian concept. Wood-fired pizzas and elegantly plated seasonal pastas are served in an open, polished space with midcentury-modern flair and wooden tables, plus a bar and a wine mezzanine. |
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La Traviata-
314 Congress Ave; (512) 479-8131 This cozy nook in the heart of Downtown offers an outstanding Italian menu alongside wines by the glass and bottle; tables are set between a limestone wall and long wooden bar, a good place to meet perfect strangers and become the best of friends by the time the meal is over. |
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Stanley's Farm House Pizza & Jester King Brewery-
13187 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736 (West Austin); (512) 900-9079 Stanley's Farmhouse Pizza in Dripping Springs boasts some of the best brewery food, including handcrafted pizza. This spot uses produce grown on-site whenever possible (like Logro's oyster mushrooms on their bechamel sauced Beatrice), the thin Neapolitan-style crust is hand-tossed with care, and the pies come with a great selection of toppings. Jester King brewery is just a hop skip and a jump away from Stanley’s but if checking out the brewery isn’t part of the plan and you find yourself curious about their beers, the open-air farmhouse offers freshly brewed Jester King brews on tap! ONLY OPEN ON: Fridays 5:00p-9:00p, Saturdays 11:30a-9:00p & Sundays 11:30a-5:00p! |
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Olive & June-
3411 Glenview Ave; (512) 467-9898 Chef/owner Shawn Cirkiel’s delightful Italian gem features antipasti, pastas and entrees dictated by the seasons and served in a beautiful setting. Other highlights include family-style dinners each Sunday and weekday happy hour deals plus plenty of patio seating spread across several levels under the shade of a giant oak tree. |
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Vespaio Ristorante-
1610 S Congress Ave; (512) 441-6100 A Popular South Congress eatery drawing long lines with rustic cooking, great wines & elegant space. Vespaio uses locally sourced ingredients and hand makes their pastas from scratch! Also check out their sister restaurant Enoteca which offers pizza, pasta & Sunday brunch along with deli items & dry goods. Located next door to Vespaio. |
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Juliet Italian Kitchen-
1500 Barton Springs Road; (512) 479-1800 Their menu is a balance of rustic and refined Italian fare, complemented by pastries and breads from pastry chef Carly Rossmeissl. Juliet’s outdoor dining area is beautifully shaded, yet open and brimming with greenery. Inside, intimate groupings and larger gatherings are seated comfortably within the roomy yet cozy space. The bar is anchored by a slab of Carerra marble recalling the style of a bygone era, and offers a curated wine program and beer selections, an artisanal cocktail list, and the perfect place to perch for people watching. |
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Buenos Aires Café-
13500 Galleria Cir; (512) 441-9000 Relish the taste and aroma of housemade pastas like the Gnocchi Quartet, a warm and hearty meal of pumpkin-cinnamon, sweet potato, cilantro-jalapeno and potato-herb Gnocchi. Savor their roasted, salty entrées like Pollo Al Horno (marinated chicken with whipped sweet potatoes and Swiss chard), juicy Pork Tenderloin and their Argentinian version of a Shepherd’s Pie. You can’t visit Buenos Aires without ordering their famous Empanadas! Beef, Chicken, Tuna and Vegetarian choices remain as golden, flaky and melt-in-your-mouth as ever. Located in the Hill Country Galleria |
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Licha's Cantina-
1306 E 6th St; (512) 480-5960 A cute cottage in East Austin is home to this Mexican cantina, specializing in modern takes on classic fare (big tortas, tacos on homemade blue corn tortillas and seafood cazuela), matched by a selection of cervezas and signature cocktails with an emphasis on mezcal and tequila; the street-facing patio is great for people-watching, while the intimate back patio offers a setting for late-night revelry. |
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Chuy’s (Tex-Mex)-
4301 West William Cannon Drive; (512) 899-2489 Chuy's is a Tex-Mex chain restaurant headquartered in Austin, Texas. The restaurant chain was established in 1982. Chuy's Mexican Food serves up fresh, made-from-scratch Tex-Mex, featuring hand-rolled tortillas, salsa fresca made every hour, and fresh New Mexican green chiles. Enjoy great Chile Rellenos, enormous burritos, seven homemade salsas, and great drinks, including the Texas Martini. Chuy's strives to create the best, healthiest Mexican food on the planet on every plate. DOES NOT TAKE RESERVATIONS |
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Guero’s Taco Bar-
1412 S Congress Ave; (512) 447-7688 Sitting right in the heart of SoCo, in a rustic former feed store, this cantina is an Austin staple for traditional Mexican food, strong margaritas and live music on the patio; the festive vibe attracts plenty of locals and out-of-town visitors, meaning it’s often crowded and crazy. The salsa bar makes it worth the insanity though. |
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Hula Hut (Tex-Mex)-
3825 Lake Austin Blvd; (512) 476-4852 You'll definitely want to try Hula Hut if only for the curious spectacle of a Hawaiian Mexican restaurant (Tiki-Mex, they've coined it) on the banks of Lake Austin. The tiki torch-lined view from the jutting outdoor patio is pretty spectacular, and it's long been a favorite spot for Austinites to spend lazy weekends sipping margaritas and noshing on huge plates of nachos. The Polynesian-tweaked menu has a number of diverse flavors for just about every palate, from fried appetizers to macho burgers to enchiladas and tacos. |
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Juan in a Million-
2300 E Cesar Chavez St; (512) 472-3872 One of Austin's most iconic taco joints turns 35 years old in July. Juan in a Million is known as much for their triple-sized signature "Don Juan" breakfast tacos as they are for owner Juan Meza's legendary handshake.Get the "Don Juan" with chorizo. You won't be sorry. |
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La Condesa-
400 W 2nd St; (512) 499-0300 Downtown's La Condesa takes traditional Mexican fare to the next level. The menu at La Condesa is loaded with gluten-free and low-fat options. The bar at this restaurant is fully stocked, so pair your meal with a glass of wine or beer. La Condesa is ready to make any occasion a special one with a great space and thoughtful food. Bring your laptop here and tap into the complimentary wifi. On warmer days, take advantage of La Condesa's outdoor seating. Dogs are welcome at La Condesa, so feel free to bring Fido along. |
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Polvo’s-
2004 S 1st St; (512) 441-5446 Polvos Mexican Restaurant can be spotted from afar, on South First, by its brightly-colored sign featuring a martini glass in place of the “v.” With Mexican music trumpeting from the speakers, diners can either relax on the covered patio or head inside, where the tables are decorated with photographs and posters of historical figures and landmarks. Menu highlights include Mexican staples like enchiladas, quesadillas and carne guisada, while a self-serve freshly made salsa bar makes sure everything is to each patrons’ desired heat level. |
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Torchy’s Taco’s-
4301 W William Cannon Dr; (512) 514-0767 What started as a trailer in South Austin is now “a bona fide institution” with locations across town serving up addictive, inventive tacos (fillings include fried avocado, jerk chicken and smoked beef brisket) alongside to-die-for queso; the no-frills outposts have a laid-back feel and patio seating; P.S. the breakfast tacos are also delicious. |
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Clark’s Oyster Bar-
1200 W 6th St; (512) 297-2525 Amazing oysters are the calling card of Larry McGuire’s Clarksville find, where hearty lobster rolls and other fresh, inventive seafood combinations, plus a luscious array of tasty cocktails, round out the menu; the digs, which include marble and pecan bars and outdoor seating, are charming but small, so it is best to make reservations in advance. |
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Eddie V’s Prime Seafood-
301 E 5th St; (512) 472-1860 This bustling, swanky chainlet is lauded for outstanding chophouse fare like big, juicy steaks, fabulous seafood and decadent sides (think truffle mac ’n’ cheese), all delivered amid plush furnishings in a well-appointed dining room to a crowd of dealmakers and politicos; sure, it’s expensive, but both locations offer excellent service, plus live jazz and a wonderful happy hour with reduced-price app deals. |
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McCormick & Schmick’s-
11600 Century Oaks Terrace; (512) 836-0500 McCormick & Schmick's offers the finest seafood, flown in daily, aged steaks, and hand crafted cocktails. If you love seafood, check out this mainstream surf ’n’ turf chain that adherents say is reliably good every time and fans single out the old-school settings, bartenders who know what they are doing and awesome value happy hours. |
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Perla’s-
1400 S Congress Ave; (512) 291-7300 Fans love the whole shebang at this laid-back spot dishing a Cape Cod–style menu including super-tasty oysters, lobster rolls and other well-prepared seafood. In addition to the airy, nautical-themed interior, there’s a spacious deck overlooking South Congress that’s great for people-watching, cocktail sipping and ensuring that paying the bill means money well spent. |
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Truluck’s-
400 Colorado St; (512) 482-9000 The fine dining restaurant features menu items such as fresh Florida stone crab claws, South African lobster tail, and steaks and chops in various styles of preparation. The miso-glazed seabass is absolutely incredible and the carrot cake lives up to all of the hype. |
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Estancia Churrascaria-
10000 Research Blvd; (512) 345-5600 Be prepared to eat a lot of meat at this Great Hills carnivores’ delight, a Brazilian rodizio that also offers a fabulous salad bar and lovely sides. They offer top-notch service and an extensive wine list which adds to the tremendous treat, after which you should plan for a nap. The menus are fixed priced. |
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Perry’s Steakhouse-
114 W. 7th St; (512) 474-6300 Located downtown in the historic Norwood Tower, Perry’s is within walking distance of the Capital Complex and other landmarks. Staying grounded to its butcher shop roots, Perry’s serves hand-selected, USDA-aged Prime beef and a mouthwatering seven-finger-high pork chop carved tableside. Enjoy our award-winning dishes or a mixology creation at Bar 79 with live music nightly! The Perry family has redefined dining with an experience that's truly Rare and Well Done. |
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TRIO-
98 San Jacinto Blvd; (512) 685-8300 This Downtown New American in the Four Seasons Hotel features a menu focused on steaks and seafood, including raw bar options and fresh catch from the Gulf, plus cocktails and an impressive wine list; the setting is upscale, yet comfortable, with views of Lady Bird Lake making for great patio dining |
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Alamo Drafthouse-
5701 W Slaughter Ln / 1120 S Lamar Blvd / 320 E 6th St Cold beer, hot movies, and delicious snacks and meals; The Alamo Drafthouse is dinner, drinks, movies and events, all under one roof. Their attention to detail in film presentation and programming has made them a second home to movie fans all over the planet and earned accolades from the likes of Entertainment Weekly (#1 theater in America), Wired.com (Coolest Movie Theater in the World) and Fandango.com (One of the Best Theaters in the Country). Alamo Drafthouse is originally from Texas but has expanded to other states all across the country. |
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Amy’s Ice Cream-
13420 Galleria Cir / 4477 S Lamar Blvd / 2901 S Lamar Blvd.. Home of the world famous Mexican Vanilla Ice Cream. Established in 1984, Amy's handcrafts artisan super premium ice creams, dairy-free fruit ices and frozen yogurt! With over 350 flavors in rotation your every visit will be a new flavor adventure! We've grown up in Austin, Texas and now have shops in Houston and San Antonio! Explore your favorite flavors and the fun of Amy's Ice Creams. |
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Bangers Sausage House and Beer Garden-
79 Rainey St; (512) 386-1656 This Rainey Street area favorite draws crowds (and long waits) with its truly unique selection of sausages – think currywurst, bulgogi and beet and goat cheese –and a bigger-than-Texas list of craft brews; the very special vibe also owes to the awesome outdoor beer garden featuring long wooden tables for community seating, a stage for live music and a playpen for patrons' dogs |
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Easy Tiger-
709 E 6th St; (512) 614-4972 This dual concept bakery and beer garden makes it easy to grab freshly made baked goods or sit back and enjoy a cold one on the inviting patio. With more than 30 craft beers, doughy pretzels and deliciously seasoned sausages, Easy Tiger has something for everyone (including a line of ping pong tables)! They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. |
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Gourdough’s-
1503 S 1st St; no phone number Gourdough’s Big. Fat. Donuts. is housed in a vintage Airstream Trailer and doles out the most delectable and crazy donut concoctions your mind and taste buds will allow. From the Mother Clucker (topped with fried chicken and honey butter) to the Funky Monkey (topped with grilled bananas and brown sugar), these toppings and fillings take no prisoners. Each donut is handmade, fried fresh to order, and is always served piping hot! Choose from one of 23 “favorites” or create your own. |
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Fareground-
111 Congress Ave. Austin’s first proper food hall in downtown Austin on Congress Avenue. All local and big Austin favorites are tucked together on the first floor of 111 Congress facing a large and beautiful grassy area with a multitude of seating options spread inside and outside. Select from Antonelli's, Henbit, Dai Due, Contigo, Easy Tiger and Ni Kome. TIPS:
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Holy Cacao-
1311 S. 1st Street; (512) 851-2253 This Austin trailer specializes in decadent sweets and is also known for their cake balls and European-style hot chocolate! The best part about this sweet little trailer is that you can create your own “Cake Shake” by picking out your favorite cake ball that they will then blend into chocolate or vanilla ice-cream. |
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Ramen Tatsu-Ya & Kemuri Tatsu-Ya
Ramen Tatsu-Ya: 1234 S Lamar Blvd; (512) 893-5561 These ramen joints deliver with a bang thanks to super-flavorful broths and perfect noodles creating life-changing bowls of the Japanese comfort classic that always hit the mark; the casual spaces are dine-in only, and sometimes there are long lines, but most insist it’s worth the wait. Seriously worth the wait. Kemuri Tatsu-Ya 2713 E 2nd St; (512) 893-5561 The acclaimed team from Ramen Tatsu-Ya blends Japanese and Texan influences in every aspect of this casual eatery, from the barbecue smoke-stained walls to the sake-heavy bar program. Shareable smoked meats, izakaya classics and ramen are on offer, along with brews, spirits and wine from both cultures. |
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Loro
2115 South Lamar blvd. (512) 916-4858 Hai Hospitality’s hotly anticipated collaboration between Tyson Cole (from Uchi) and Aaron Franklin (Franklin's BBQ) is a spacious Asian smokehouse with soaring interiors in a casual, counter-service setting. Franklin’s brisket gets the usual rave reviews, and items like oak grilled snap peas, corn fritters, and chicken karaage keep the menu interesting. There’s also a spacious patio for sipping the many creative cocktails. |
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Uchi-
1509, 801 South Lamar Boulevard; (512) 916-4808 Every bite is a revelation at Tyson Cole’s Zilker jewel box where extraordinary sushi made from the freshest fish and other Japanese food at its finest is paired with a selection of sake, wine and cocktails; the sophisticated setting in a lovely remodeled cottage, the chic crowd and impeccable service are all part the experience, which is a splurge, but well worth it. |
-Reviews are provided by Zagat.com-