10 Best Food Gifts from Austin to Take Home as Souvenirs
Unique Flavors to Remember
When visiting Austin, Texas, the city's vibrant culinary scene offers an array of delectable treats that make perfect souvenirs. From savory snacks to sweet indulgences, the unique flavors of Austin are a great way to share a piece of your trip with friends and family.
Austin's food gifts embody the essence of its local culture and heritage. Whether it’s artisanal products made by local craftsmen or iconic Texas flavors, these gifts are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who receives them.
1) Amy's Ice Creams Mexican Vanilla
Amy's Ice Creams has become an Austin institution, known for its vast array of flavors, including its famous Mexican Vanilla.
This vanilla flavor is richer and sweeter than typical vanilla ice cream, making it a standout. It pairs perfectly with various toppings like hot fudge.
Amy's offers their Mexican Vanilla in pints, allowing you to stock up on this iconic taste and bring it home as a delightful souvenir. Each pint weighs 14 oz, ensuring you get a generous amount of this delectable treat.
Contact Details:
Address: Multiple locations in Austin, TX
Website: Amy's Ice Creams
2) Franklin Barbecue Sauce
Franklin Barbecue Sauce is an iconic gift for anyone who appreciates quality barbecue. Known for its tangy and slightly sweet flavor, this sauce perfectly complements the rich, smoky flavors of various meats. Texans and visitors alike rave about its versatility, making it a favorite to drizzle over pulled pork, poultry, beef, and even shrimp.
What sets Franklin Barbecue Sauce apart is its careful balance of ingredients. With a tomato puree base combined with apple cider vinegar, the sauce delivers a tangy punch. A hint of sweetness ensures that it cuts through the smokiness without overpowering the meat's natural flavors. This nuanced taste makes it popular among barbecue enthusiasts.
Franklin Barbecue, located in Austin, Texas, has become a culinary landmark. Known for its classic Texas-style barbecue, the restaurant attracts long lines of devoted fans eager to sample its offerings. The sauce is available for purchase, allowing you to bring a piece of this barbecue haven home.
For those looking to gift a true taste of Texas, Franklin Barbecue Sauce is an excellent choice.
Contact Information:
Address: Franklin Barbecue, 900 E. 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Website: Franklin Barbecue
Phone: (512) 653-1187
3) Kerbey Lane Pancake Mix
Kerbey Lane Cafe has been an Austin staple since it opened in 1980. Known for their famous big and fluffy pancakes, Kerbey Lane Cafe offers a pancake mix that lets you recreate their beloved dish at home.
This pancake mix can be easily customized with ingredients like blueberries, chocolate chips, or a cinnamon swirl to suit different tastes.
The pancake mix isn’t limited to making pancakes alone. Creative cooks utilize it to prepare a variety of breakfast items including waffles and muffins. It’s a versatile gift that brings a touch of Austin’s culinary heritage into any kitchen.
Kerbey Lane Cafe maintains a reputation for quality, and their pancake mix is no exception. It’s available for purchase online, making it an accessible choice for a uniquely Austin souvenir.
Contact Details:
Address: 3704 Kerbey Lane, Austin, TX 78731
Website: kerbeylanecafe.com
Phone: (512) 451-1436
4) Lammes Texas Chewie Pecan Pralines
Lammes Texas Chewie Pecan Pralines are a beloved treat with a rich history. This confection was first produced by David Lamme, Sr. in 1892, and has been a hit ever since. The pralines are known for their rich, buttery caramel and high-quality Texas pecans.
These pralines are consistently praised by customers. The candy is made using a 109-year-old family recipe, ensuring each bite is both authentic and delicious. The factory produces an impressive 2,000 pounds of these candies daily.
Perfect for gifting, Lammes offers several packaging options. From gift boxes to bags, there's something for every occasion. Each praline is about 1 ounce, making them a perfect sweet snack.
For those interested in trying this Texas specialty, they can visit Lammes Candies in Austin or order online.
Contact Details:
Address: Lammes Candies, 5330 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
Website: Lammes Candies
Phone: (512) 310-1885
5) Salt Lick BBQ Sauce
Salt Lick BBQ Sauce stands as a quintessential representation of Austin's rich barbecue tradition. Known for its flavorful blend, this sauce is a staple at Salt Lick BBQ, where it's used not just as a condiment but as a key ingredient from start to finish in their cooking process.
The sauce itself is a well-guarded secret recipe. Diners can expect it to enhance their meats both before and during the cooking process. This versatile sauce is also served alongside meals, adding the perfect finishing touch to smoked ribs, brisket, and more.
For those looking to take a piece of Austin’s barbecue culture home, a bottle of Salt Lick BBQ Sauce is an ideal choice. The complex taste combines sweet, tangy, and smoky elements that embody the essence of Texas barbecue.
Customers can purchase Salt Lick BBQ Sauce directly from the restaurant or order it online. It's also included in various mail-order barbecue packages, making it easy to share this local favorite with friends and family.
Contact details: Restaurant: 512-858-4959
Mail Order: 512-829-5295
Address: 18300 FM 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
Website: Salt Lick BBQ
6) Texas Hill Country Olive Co. Olive Oil
Texas Hill Country Olive Co. provides award-winning olive oils produced from their certified organic olive orchard in Dripping Springs, Texas. They offer a wide range of options, including extra virgin olive oils and various infused selections.
Each bottle of olive oil is crafted with the highest quality standards, using a state-of-the-art Italian olive press. The company’s products are well-regarded for their rich flavors and freshness, making them ideal gifts.
Popular varieties include the Sola Stella Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Texas Miller's Blend Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Additionally, they offer tantalizing infused options like herb-infused or fruit-infused oils.
For those who enjoy a touch of heat, the Texas Hot & Spicy Keepsake Box is a perfect choice. These products can also be found in local stores such as Faraday's Kitchen Store in Bee Cave, Texas.
Contact Details:
Address: 2530 W Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Phone: (512) 607-6512
Website: Texas Hill Country Olive Co.
7) Austin Eastciders Original Dry Cider
Austin Eastciders Original Dry Cider stands out for its crisp and refreshing taste. Made with high-quality apples and natural ingredients, this cider has garnered awards and praise from cider enthusiasts. It's an ideal gift for those who appreciate well-crafted beverages.
This cider boasts a well-balanced flavor profile, combining the perfect amount of sweetness and tartness. It pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a versatile addition to any meal or gathering. The cider's clean finish leaves a lasting impression, making it a memorable souvenir from Austin.
A can or bottle of Austin Eastciders Original Dry Cider can elevate any occasion. Whether you're gifting it to a cider aficionado or someone new to the beverage, this cider is sure to delight. It’s also a great talking point, reflecting the vibrant and innovative spirit of Austin.
For more information, you can contact Austin Eastciders at their address:
4007 Commercial Center Dr, Austin, TX 78744, USA
Website: austineastciders.com
8) Kendra Scott Elaina Bracelet
The Kendra Scott Elaina Bracelet is a perfect Austin-inspired gift to take home. Designed with iridescent drusy stones, this bracelet offers both elegance and a touch of local flair. Crafted with 14k yellow gold over brass, its sparkling stone and distinctive shape make it a standout piece.
Kendra Scott, an Austin-based jewelry designer, has grown her brand worldwide while maintaining a commitment to quality and philanthropy. The Elaina Bracelet is a reflection of her dedication to unique design and craftsmanship.
This bracelet can be worn alone or stacked with other pieces, making it versatile for various styles. It’s not just a piece of jewelry; it’s a keepsake that represents Austin’s vibrant culture and artistic spirit.
Contact Details:
Address: Kendra Scott, 1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Website: kendrascott.com
9) Stubb's Bar-B-Q Sauce
Stubb's Bar-B-Q Sauce is a must-have for any barbecue lover visiting Austin. Known for its rich, savory flavors, this sauce has a deep connection to Texas barbecue traditions. Created by C.B. "Stubb" Stubblefield in the 1960s, the sauce became famous for enhancing grilled meats with its complex, balanced taste.
Whether marinating beef, chicken, or pork, Stubb's sauce adds a unique depth of flavor, characterized by ingredients like tomato paste, brown sugar, molasses, and a secret blend of spices. The sauce’s versatility makes it perfect for grilling, slow cooking, and even as a dip.
Stubb's offers a range of flavors, including Original, Spicy, and Sweet Heat, ensuring that there's something to suit every palate. Each bottle reflects the heritage of Texas barbecue, making it a perfect gift that carries the essence of Austin back home.
For those interested in further exploring Stubb's offerings or visiting the restaurant, you can find them at the following contact details:
Address: Stubb's Bar-B-Q, 801 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone Number: +1 512-480-8341
Website: stubbsbbq.com
10) Austin Slow Burn Queso
Austin Slow Burn Queso offers a delightful blend of creamy cheese and green chiles. This award-winning queso is perfect for those who love a flavorful and spicy dip. Made with fresh ingredients you can read, it's free of artificial additives.
The queso's smooth texture and rich taste make it an ideal dip for chips and veggies. It's also a versatile ingredient for enhancing dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or even baked potatoes. The brand’s dedication to quality ensures each bite is a burst of authentic Texan flavor.
For those looking to share a taste of Austin with friends and family, Austin Slow Burn Queso is a memorable choice. Its unique flavor profile is bound to impress anyone who enjoys hearty, spicy foods.
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The Culinary Culture of Austin
Austin's culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry shaped by diverse influences and rich local ingredients. It's a city where the historical mingles with the innovative, offering a unique experience for food enthusiasts.
History and Influence
The culinary culture of Austin is deeply rooted in its Texan heritage, prominently featuring Tex-Mex and barbecue. While slow-cooked meats and smoky flavors are classics, the city has evolved to include a diverse array of cuisines.
The influx of different populations has injected vibrant culinary traditions. Authentic Vietnamese pho, Indian curries, and a variety of fusion dishes like Korean BBQ tacos exemplify this diversity.
Food trucks also play a significant role, serving as incubators for culinary experimentation and innovation. This blend of tradition and modernity makes Austin's food scene dynamic and ever-changing.
Unique Local Ingredients
Austin prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients that define its unique culinary offerings. The region's farms and markets supply fresh produce, meats, and artisanal products.
Texas Chewie Pecan Pralines from Lammes Candies, established in 1878, highlight local creativity and tradition. Another staple is Central Texas beef, often featured in numerous barbecue joints.
Additionally, local bakeries like La Mexicana provide fresh, authentic Mexican baked goods 24/7. These local ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also culturally ground the dishes, making them a true representation of Austin's culinary identity.
Whether it's fresh veggies from the farmers' markets or uniquely crafted confections, the use of high-quality, local components is foundational to Austin's vibrant food scene.
How to Package and Transport Food Gifts
Proper packaging and knowing travel regulations are key when transporting food gifts. The following methods ensure your items stay fresh and safe.
Preservation Techniques
To keep food gifts fresh, use airtight containers for non-perishable items like candies or dried fruits. Insulated coolers with ice packs are suitable for perishable products such as cheeses or meats.
Seal items in vacuum bags to extend shelf life. Place fragile items, like jars of honey and jam, in bubble wrap. Use sturdy boxes to avoid crushing and clear packing tape to secure everything.
Airline and Travel Regulations
Check with the airline for specific regulations on transporting food. Typically, solid foods can be carried on, while liquids and gels over 3.4 ounces must go in checked luggage.
Declare any agricultural items, as some regions have restrictions. Packaging food in clear, labeled containers can expedite security checks.
By adhering to these guidelines, transporting food gifts can be hassle-free and ensures they arrive in perfect condition.
Supporting Local Austin Artisans
Supporting local Austin artisans when purchasing food gifts has several benefits and unique stories behind the products created. Discovering the dedication of these craftspeople can enhance the gift-giving experience.
Benefits of Buying Local
Buying local supports the community by fostering economic growth. When shoppers choose goods from Austin’s artisans, they contribute to the livelihood of small business owners and their families. This, in turn, helps sustain the local economy.
Local products often have a smaller carbon footprint. Goods such as locally produced honey, jams, and pastries travel shorter distances from farm to table. Consumers can enjoy fresher, higher-quality items while reducing environmental impact.
Moreover, buying locally ensures the uniqueness of the products. Artisans offer bespoke, handcrafted items that mass-produced goods cannot replicate.
Stories Behind the Products
Artisans in Austin often have compelling stories that add depth to their products. For instance, Austin Art Garage showcases unique pieces created by local artists like Jake Bryer and Joel Ganucheau, who founded the gallery in 2007.
Many local food artisans come from diverse backgrounds. La Mexicana, a family-owned Mexican bakery operating 24/7, infuses traditional recipes with local flavors, offering a personal touch to every item.
These narratives not only add value but also provide a deeper connection to the gifts. Knowing the creator’s journey makes each purchase more meaningful and memorable.
