When traveling to Austin, Texas, there are a few things people look for. First: Any markers that might tell them which cowboys are real and who are just putting on a facade to fit in. Second: The many historic buildings in the area, like The Driskill and the Texas State Capitol, attract visitors who are curious and want to learn more about the Lone Star State. And finally: The best restaurants in Austin stay on people’s radar because they have a reputation for cooking up some of the tastiest food in the country.
Whether you’ve lived in the capital of Texas your whole life or are planning a trip there for the first time, we hope at least one place on this list will hold a special place in your heart when you eat there. In the South, BBQ and Cajun food are hard to resist, but we also have options for those craving Caribbean, Italian, Japanese, and other dishes. Read on to discover the best restaurants in Austin, and let us know where you plan to go first in the comments.
A plate of Franklin Barbecue is always just the thing
Due to its popularity, expect to wait a while for a seat at Franklin Barbecue, but Trip Advisor users promise that your hungry stomach will be full and satisfied by the time you leave. Franklin is best known for their brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, all of which can be purchased by the pound. They also serve ribs and turkey, or you can try their great cuts of meat in a chopped beef or tipsy Texas sandwich. It’s not the cheapest choice on our list of the best restaurants in Austin, but if you’re in town and hoping for an unforgettable BBQ feast, this one won’t disappoint.
Azul Rooftop is a 5-star bar with fantastic Mexican food
A visit to Azul Rooftop will make you forget you’re still in Austin thanks to the beautiful blue pool with skyline views and amazing Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is located in the Westin Austin Downtown on 5th Street, making the hotel a great choice for foodies staying here who want to check out all that Azul has to offer while relaxing in the pool. Bachelor and bachelorette parties often rent cabanas and enjoy hours of partying, but even a quick visit for a cocktail and an appetizer can be a great way to start the weekend.
Craving Caribbean food in Austin? Canje is the answer
Eater has named Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph’s Canje (pictured above, left) the best new restaurant of 2022. You’ll want to arrive with a hungry stomach and an open mind when you enter this hip downtown spot; inside, you’ll find a large bar and small outdoor patio with a tropical boujee vibe, and plenty of fruity drinks on the menu to match. Highly recommended mains include jerk chicken and roti, but you’ll want to save room for dessert—tres leches cake!
One of the best restaurants in Austin for brunch is Josephine House
Josephine House is the sister restaurant to Austin’s fine dining establishment Jeffrey’s. The former serves breakfast, lunch, brunch, happy hour, dinner, and Monday night steak frites. The location is beautiful both inside and out, though some Trip Advisor users note that Josephine House gets cold when sitting inside, so bringing a sweater can save you goosebumps. If you like a hearty breakfast, the avocado toast is a popular choice, and anyone with a sweet tooth might gravitate toward the lemon ricotta pancakes.
Let Komé Sushi Kitchen bring you the taste of Japan
Komé Sushi Kitchen is located near Austin’s airport, making it a great option for your first or last meal in the city while traveling. The Japanese restaurant is known for its excellent service, which makes their delicious menu even more satisfying. It’s worth noting that they don’t take reservations, so expect to wait for a table, but the quality of your sushi will be worth every second you spend waiting in line to order it.
Great Italian cuisine at Red Ash
Chef John Carver takes great pride in serving Austin dishes influenced by both Northern and Southern Italy at his own restaurant, Red Ash, on Colorado Street, with its impressive custom-built charcoal grill, oven and blancha. Carver and his team roast prime local meats in their kitchen, and also cook homemade pastas and flavorful seafood that impress locals and tourists alike.
The Cajun and Creole food at Cypress Grill is a must
Even in the middle of Austin, you can enjoy a slice of authentic Louisiana cuisine at Cypress Grill. The restaurant’s warm, Southern atmosphere is comfortable for most guests, whether they’re grabbing eggs Napoleon for breakfast or a bowl of seafood gumbo for lunch. Prices at Cypress Grill are very reasonable, making the restaurant a great place for a family meal.
Clark’s Oyster Bar is one of the best restaurants in Austin
Oysters may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Clark’s Oyster Bar in Austin makes sure their extensive menu has something for everyone. Plus, they can confidently guide you through your first oyster tasting if you’re ready to try the alleged aphrodisiac. Located on the west side of town, the seafood shack is known for its house-made sourdough and pan-fried burgers, as well as seafood specialties like lobster rolls and fresh fish.
