10 Best Lunch Spots in Downtown Austin for a Midday Break
Top Choices to Satisfy Your Cravings
Finding the perfect spot for a midday break in downtown Austin can add a touch of magic to your workday or a delightful twist to your sightseeing itinerary. With a rich culinary scene that ranges from innovative food trucks to upscale dining establishments, there's something to satisfy every palate. This guide showcases some of the best lunch spots, ensuring you enjoy the vibrant flavors that Austin has to offer.
Whether you're in the mood for classic American dishes, international flavors, or healthy, fresh options, downtown Austin has it all. The city's eclectic mix of restaurants provides a variety of choices, making it easy to find the ideal place to refuel and relax.
1) Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue is a cornerstone of Austin’s culinary scene, renowned for its exceptional barbecue. Located on Austin's historic East Side, this spot has gained a legendary status among locals and visitors alike.
Known for its tender brisket and juicy ribs, Franklin Barbecue attracts crowds willing to wait hours for a taste. The restaurant opens for lunch six days a week, and lines often start forming well before opening time.
Aside from the brisket, pulled pork, and sausage are also popular menu items. The meat is smoked to perfection, creating a rich, smoky flavor that BBQ lovers crave.
To avoid the long wait, consider placing orders ahead of time for takeout. Franklin Barbecue also offers the convenience of shipping its famous barbecue to your home.
For those planning a visit, it’s worth noting that the lively and casual atmosphere adds to the dining experience.
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 653-1187
Website: franklinbbq.com
2) Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill
Located in one of Austin's oldest buildings, Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill is a staple for Southern comfort food. This restaurant has built a reputation since 2003 for its delicious menu and welcoming atmosphere.
The décor features stone walls, wooden floors, and a cozy fireplace, creating a warm, inviting setting. The restaurant is particularly popular for its Sunday brunch buffet, offering an extensive array of dishes.
For lunch, the menu includes options like horseradish-crusted salmon, green chile macaroni with grilled chicken, and a chicken artichoke BLT.
Their attentive staff ensures a pleasant dining experience, making it a must-visit spot in downtown Austin.
Address: 303 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701-4130
Phone: +1 512-236-9599
Website: Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill
3) Easy Tiger
Easy Tiger stands out as a unique lunch spot in Downtown Austin, marrying fresh bakery items with a friendly beer garden atmosphere. Known for its artisanal bread, pastries, and craft beers, it offers a relaxed environment perfect for a midday meal.
The menu has a mix of hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and distinct pretzels. Each dish showcases locally-sourced ingredients. Their pastrami sandwich is a favorite for many, offering a perfect blend of flavors.
The spacious patio, equipped with ping pong tables, provides a great setting for a casual and enjoyable lunch. It’s especially popular among locals looking for a break from the usual office environment.
Contact details, address, and website: Easy Tiger 709 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701 (512) 614-4972 Easy Tiger
4) Koriente
Koriente is a go-to spot for those seeking a healthy and satisfying lunch in downtown Austin. This restaurant stands out with its diverse menu featuring Asian-inspired dishes that are both flavorful and nutritious.
Patrons can enjoy a variety of options such as the Obake Bowl, which includes a choice of beef, chicken, pan-seared tofu, or shrimp sautéed with button mushrooms, broccoli, and carrots.
The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for a midday break. Whether you prefer dining in or taking out, Koriente offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin.
Contact Details:
Address: 621 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: Koriente Restaurant
Phone: (512) 275-0852
5) Italic
Italic, located in the heart of downtown Austin, is a chic restaurant known for its modern take on classic Italian cuisine. The menu offers a variety of delicious options, from wood-fired pizzas to handmade pastas and fresh salads.
The ambiance at Italic is sleek and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch break. Diners can enjoy a comfortable atmosphere with stylish decor, ideal for both casual meals and business lunches.
Their lunch menu frequently features seasonal ingredients, ensuring fresh and flavorful dishes year-round. Popular choices include the Margherita pizza, the “Cacio e Pepe” pasta, and the signature Italic Salad.
Outdoor seating is available for those who prefer to dine al fresco. With accommodating staff and a central location, Italic is a top contender for those looking to enjoy a quality Italian meal in downtown Austin.
Contact Details: Italic
123 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 555-1234
6) Emmer & Rye
Emmer & Rye, located on Rainey Street, stands out in downtown Austin with its commitment to seasonally inspired, farm-to-table cuisine. This contemporary American restaurant offers a unique dining experience, including a dim sum service with circulating carts. They focus on local ingredients, utilizing freshly milled heirloom grains for their house-made pastas, breads, and desserts.
Diners can expect a menu that changes daily, reflecting the freshest ingredients sourced from local farms. Emmer & Rye also practices whole animal butchery and features an extensive in-house fermentation program.
The ambiance is rustic yet modern, making it a popular destination for lunch. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Contact Information:
Address: 51 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701-4401
Phone: +1 512-366-5530
Website: Emmer & Rye
7) The Peached Tortilla
The Peached Tortilla on Burnet Road combines modern Asian comfort food with Southern influences. Their menu features unique fusion dishes like the JapaJam burger and famous tacos. They offer daily specials such as Taco Tuesday and Ramen Thursday.
The ambiance is perfect for dinner, brunch, and happy hour, making it a versatile lunchtime spot. Diners can enjoy dishes crafted by Chef Eric Silverstein, inspired by his childhood in Asia.
For those who prefer convenience, The Peached Tortilla also offers takeout and delivery options. This location ensures a memorable midday meal with its carefully curated menu and inviting atmosphere.
Contact: 1915 E Whitestone Blvd #105, Cedar Park, TX 78613. Phone: (512) 456-7120. For more information, visit The Peached Tortilla.
8) Second Bar + Kitchen
Second Bar + Kitchen offers a blend of American cuisine with a contemporary twist. Located in the heart of downtown Austin, it attracts both locals and tourists alike.
The restaurant offers diverse lunch options ranging from wood-grilled steaks to artisan pizzas. They also feature creative appetizers like black truffle pommes frites and burrata.
Second Bar + Kitchen’s outdoor seating provides a great atmosphere for a leisurely lunch. The interior combines modern design with a welcoming ambiance, ideal for business lunches or casual meetups.
Located at 200 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, you can contact them at (512) 827-2750 or visit their website Second Bar + Kitchen.
9) True Food Kitchen
True Food Kitchen is a must-visit spot in the Seaholm District of downtown Austin. Known for its health-conscious menu, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes that cater to diverse dietary preferences.
The environment is modern and welcoming, making it ideal for a relaxed lunch break. From vibrant salads to hearty bowls, each meal is crafted with fresh and nutritious ingredients.
Their commitment to wholesome food extends to their beverages, with a selection of refreshing teas and natural juices. Whether dining in or ordering takeout, True Food Kitchen ensures a quality experience.
Visit:
Address: 222 West Avenue, Suite HR100, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: 512-777-2430
Website: True Food Kitchen
10) 24 Diner
24 Diner is a mainstay in downtown Austin, offering hearty American comfort food round the clock. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and retro vibe, this diner is perfect for those looking for a laid-back lunch spot. The diverse menu ranges from classic breakfast items to more substantial meals.
Visitors can enjoy favorites like chicken and waffles or a flavorful meatloaf. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. The diner uses locally sourced ingredients, ensuring fresh and tasty dishes.
Conveniently located, 24 Diner is an excellent choice for anyone in the downtown area needing a quick yet satisfying meal. The friendly service and inviting setting make it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.
Contact Details:
Address: 600 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
Phone: (512) 472-5400
Website: 24 Diner
Healthy Lunch Options
For health-conscious diners in downtown Austin, several spots offer fresh, nutritious meals. Two main categories include salad bars and organic cafes, as well as vegan and vegetarian choices.
Salad Bars and Organic Cafes
Numerous locations in downtown Austin provide vibrant salad bars and organic options. Whole Foods at 525 N. Lamar Blvd. offers an expansive selection with its salad bar, made-to-order deli sandwiches, and fresh sushi choices. Their daily soups and barbecue also ensure variety for repeat visitors.
Flower Child, known for its wholesome meals, delivers an array of salads and bowls that are both delicious and healthy. With an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, Flower Child’s menu includes options like the Mother Earth bowl and Skinny Cobb salad, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Another standout is Mad Greens, located at 3100 Esperanza Xing. This cafe specializes in fresh, customizable salads and is praised for its high-quality ingredients and quick service. Mad Greens allows customers to build their salads from a variety of greens, proteins, and dressings.
Vegan and Vegetarian Choices
Austin doesn’t disappoint when it comes to vegan and vegetarian dining. Koriente, a cozy spot on East Seventh Street, attracts vegetarians with its Asian-inspired dishes like Japchae and Bibimbap. Their menu options are fresh, flavorful, and ideal for a healthy lunch.
Honest Mary's, situated on South Lamar Boulevard, focuses on grain bowls filled with hearty, plant-based ingredients. Their menu offerings like the Aloha Poke bowl and the Teriyaki bowl are designed to be both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for a balanced and refreshing lunch.
True Food Kitchen offers an extensive vegan and vegetarian menu with dishes that are as delightful as they are healthy. Items like the Ancient Grains bowl and Butternut Squash pizza make it a favorite among those seeking plant-based options without compromising on taste.
These spots provide excellent choices for a healthy, rejuvenating midday meal.
Quick and Convenient Choices
When you're pressed for time but don't want to compromise on quality, downtown Austin offers several excellent options. Look out for efficient food trucks and grab-and-go delis that provide a quick, satisfying midday meal without the wait.
Food Trucks
Austin’s food truck scene is vibrant, with many trucks clustered conveniently downtown. One standout is the western downtown truck at 817 W 5th St, offering a delicious selection of tacos and burritos. The Tejana with carne asada is especially popular. These trucks offer online ordering and out-of-doors dine-in areas, making them perfect for quick, tasty lunch breaks.
Another notable truck is Chi'lantro BBQ, located nearby. Known for its Korean-Mexican fusion, the kimchi fries and spicy pork rice bowl are customer favorites. Patika Coffee's truck, offering artisan coffee and light bites, is perfect for those needing a caffeine fix alongside their meal.
Grab-and-Go Delis
Grab-and-go delis like Walton's Fancy & Staple at 609 W. 6th St. offer a range of meals from hearty breakfast items to mouth-watering sandwiches. Their avocado toast and shrimp grits are highly rated by locals. Walton’s provides both takeout and dine-in options, catering to varied lunch preferences.
Swedish Hill, located at 1120 W 6th St, serves delectable baked goods along with a diverse lunch menu. Their baked sweets and savory items like the house-made pastrami sandwich make it a top choice. This bakery also features a comfortable atmosphere with outdoor seating, ideal for a quick bite.
Both options provide efficient service and quality meals, ensuring you can enjoy a break without disrupting your busy schedule.
