A Day in the Life of an Austin Foodie
Exploring Culinary Hotspots
Austin, Texas, is a paradise for food enthusiasts who crave a diverse culinary adventure. From iconic BBQ joints and vibrant Tex-Mex cantinas to stylish food trucks and hidden gem eateries, each corner of the city offers a unique taste experience that caters to both the adventurous and traditional palate. Imagine strolling through famous neighborhoods like South Congress, Rainey Street, and East Austin, every stop promising a new and delightful flavor.
A typical day for an Austin foodie might start with a visit to Paperboy for breakfast, savoring dishes like the Texas Hash or Chilaquiles. As the day progresses, they could explore a variety of food truck parks such as Rainey Food Truck Park or South Austin Trailer Park & Eatery, where quirky spots like Ms P's Electric Cock and Little Lucy's offer both memorable names and delectable bites. This is complemented perfectly by visits to beloved hidden gems like Taquito Aviles, known for its mouthwatering quesabirria de chivo taco.
For lunch and dinner, Austin's landscape doesn't disappoint. They might find themselves at June's on South Congress enjoying a Fried Chicken Sandwich or at Nixta Taqueria indulging in tacos bursting with huge flavors. The city's unique culinary treasures provide endless opportunities for delightful discoveries, solidifying Austin as a food lover's haven.
Best Austin Breakfast Spots
Austin is known for its vibrant food scene, blending a mix of Tex-Mex, Southern, and modern culinary delights. From the unbeatable breakfast tacos to cozy coffee shops and renowned biscuits, there's a flavor for every palate in the city.
Irresistible Breakfast Tacos
Veracruz All Natural stands out with their migas tacos, combining scrambled eggs, tortilla chips, pico de gallo, and avocado. Found at various food truck locations, it's a local favorite.
Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ adds a smoky twist, offering smoked brisket breakfast tacos that boast rich flavor and tenderness.
For a blend of traditional and creative, Tacodeli offers diverse options such as the Jess Special with eggs, cheese, avocado, and their signature salsa. The range of salsas available enhances any taco experience.
Must-Visit Coffee Shops
Patika on South Lamar is the go-to for artisanal coffee and house-made pastries. Open early, it’s perfect for a morning caffeine fix. Their espresso and cold brews are particularly noteworthy.
Houndstooth Coffee offers meticulously brewed coffee in a relaxed atmosphere. Their Chemex and AeroPress options provide distinct flavors due to their unique brewing methods.
If you're in North Austin, head to Radio Coffee & Beer. It’s not just about the drinks; their kolaches and breakfast tacos from onsite food trucks like Veracruz complement the coffee perfectly, making it a full experience.
Famed Biscuits and Brew
Kerbey Lane Cafe is a must for their house-made biscuits served with rich gravy, a perfect match to their bottomless coffee and laid-back ambiance. Locations around the city make it accessible for all.
At Franklin Barbecue, while primarily famous for their brisket, the occasional breakfast specials featuring biscuits and sausage are worth any early morning wait.
Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden offers a unique twist with biscuit sandwiches coupled with craft beer, making it an ideal spot for brunch in the heart of Rainey Street.
Austin’s breakfast offerings combine tradition with innovation, ensuring every meal is an event.
Austin's Iconic BBQ Joints
Austin is world-renowned for its barbecue, with a plethora of spots that offer everything from melt-in-your-mouth brisket to roving food trucks serving smokey delights on the go.
Brisket That Melts in Your Mouth
Brisket is the crown jewel of Austin BBQ, and no place does it quite like Franklin Barbecue. Located at 900 E 11th St, Franklin Barbecue has earned its reputation for long lines and truly perfect brisket. Aaron Franklin's slow-smoked meats strike the perfect balance between tenderness and rich, smoky flavor.
La Barbecue is another top contender, consistently praised for its meticulously smoked brisket. You’ll find them at 2027 E Cesar Chavez St, where queues form early for a chance to savor their well-seasoned, deeply flavorful cuts. Each slice of brisket is a testament to Austin's culinary artistry.
Roving Food Trucks
Food trucks in Austin are equally impressive, often rivaling their brick-and-mortar counterparts. Micklethwait Craft Meats, formerly a food truck now at 1309 Rosewood Ave, offers a full BBQ experience without the extensive wait times of other famed spots.
Mobile options like Rollin Smoke BBQ bring Austin’s barbecue scene right to your doorstep. They specialize in brisket but also offer a range of smoked meats from their roving truck. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want top-tier barbecue with maximum convenience.
Authentic Tex-Mex and Mexican Cuisine
Austin offers a vibrant culinary landscape, with authentic Tex-Mex and Mexican dishes forming a critical part of the city's food identity. From savory tacos bursting with flavors to regional specialties that showcase Texas's diverse cultural influences, Austin's food scene is a culinary adventure.
Savory Tacos and Queso
Breakfast tacos in Austin are more than a meal; they are a cultural staple. Juan in a Million is renowned for its "Don Juan" taco, filled generously with potatoes, eggs, and bacon.
Another must-try is Veracruz All Natural, where tacos brim with fresh ingredients like migas and al pastor.
Queso, a cheesy Tex-Mex dip, is another local favorite. Torchy's Tacos offers a famed green chile queso, blending spicy peppers with creamy cheese. The combination is perfect for a snack or a side with any meal.
Regional Specialties
Tex-Mex cuisine in Austin juxtaposes traditional Mexican flavors with Texan flair. Ninfa Laurenzo's legacy, which began in 1973, introduced diners to innovative dishes like fajitas.
Barbecue integration into Tex-Mex results in unique creations such as brisket tacos and smoked meat enchiladas. These dishes represent the fusion of Central Texas's beef-centric barbecue with classic Mexican techniques.
Classic ingredients include corn and flour tortillas, essential for dishes such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Pinto and black beans add texture and protein. The use of ground beef, pork, and yellow cheddar cheese further characterizes Tex-Mex, making each bite a hearty experience.
Lunchtime in Austin
Austin offers a diverse lunchtime experience, featuring everything from dive bars serving hearty burgers to food trucks offering creative culinary delights. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there's something to suit every palate.
Dive Bars and Casual Eats
Austin's dive bars and casual eateries are perfect for those who want a laid-back dining experience. An iconic spot is Dai Due, a butcher shop and supper club known for its farm-to-table approach. This venue offers a seasonal menu with items such as wild boar sausage and grilled quail.
For those who enjoy classic American fare, numerous dive bars serve up some of the best burgers in town. Casino El Camino is a local favorite, known for its juicy, flame-grilled burgers. The relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices make it a great lunchtime choice for many.
Food Truck Favorites
Food trucks are an integral part of Austin's culinary scene, providing a wide variety of options for a quick but delicious lunch. Franklin Barbecue, though famous for its brisket, often has a food truck where the wait is shorter but the flavors are just as impressive.
Another must-visit is Distant Relatives, a food truck that explores the African roots of smoked meats. Serving innovative dishes such as smoked turkey and pork ribs, it offers a unique twist on traditional barbecue.
For something more eclectic, head to La Tunita 512, now known as Palo Seco 512, where you can enjoy mouth-watering quesabirria tacos. This food truck is a hit among taco lovers, combining tender meat with rich, flavorful spices.
Tables, open-air seating, and the vibrant food scene make food trucks a popular lunchtime destination.
International Flavors and Sushi Stops
Austin's culinary scene offers a diverse array of international flavors, particularly excelling in Asian smokehouse cuisine and sushi. For those looking to explore delightful Japanese dishes and inventive Asian fusion, Austin has several noteworthy spots.
Asian Smokehouse Delights
Loro, an Asian smokehouse concept by chefs Tyson Cole and Aaron Franklin, stands out. Merging Texas barbecue with Asian influences, Loro serves dishes like smoked brisket with chili gastrique and Malaysian chicken bowls. The relaxed atmosphere complements its creative menu.
Another highlight is Kemuri Tatsu-ya, known for its blend of Japanese izakaya dining with Texan barbecue. The smoked meats such as BBQ eel and brisket alongside traditional ramen showcase this unique fusion.
Top Sushi Restaurants
Austin boasts several exceptional sushi restaurants. Uchi and its sibling, Uchiko, are highly regarded for their innovative menus crafted under the guidance of Chef Tyson Cole. Both offer an array of sushi and sashimi that elevate traditional Japanese techniques with local ingredients.
Otoko is a more intimate venue, providing an omakase experience that promises a personalized and exquisite sushi journey. With only 12 seats, reservations are essential.
For a more casual yet top-quality experience, Komé is a go-to. It's known for an extensive sushi menu and creative rolls. Another spot is Ramen Tatsu-ya, combining authentic ramen with fresh sushi options, making it a favorite among locals.
Gourmet Dinners and Fine Dining
Austin’s fine dining scene offers something for every palate, from innovative farm-to-table experiences to romantic date night destinations. These gourmet spots are perfect for a special occasion or a memorable evening out.
Innovative Farm-to-Table
Austin's farm-to-table restaurants highlight fresh, local ingredients. They focus on seasonal produce and sustainable practices. Emmer & Rye is a standout, known for its ever-evolving menu. Diners can enjoy dishes made from ingredients sourced directly from local farms.
Chef Kevin Fink leads a team that prepares small plates designed for sharing. The menu changes daily, reflecting the best of what the season has to offer. It's an experience that combines creativity with a commitment to fresh, quality food.
Barley Swine, another farm-to-table gem, offers a tasting menu that showcases the bounty of Texas. Chef Bryce Gilmore’s dishes are crafted with precision and care. Each plate tells a story of local farmers and artisans. It's a place where innovation and tradition meet.
Date Night Favorites
For an unforgettable date night, Red Ash Italia offers a rustic-modern ambiance perfect for couples. Located at Colorado Tower, this eatery is celebrated for its craft Italian fare. The wood-fired dishes, including handmade pastas and aged steaks, provide a dining experience that feels both elegant and cozy.
Another top pick is Jeffrey’s, an acclaimed fine dining restaurant that specializes in dry-aged prime beef and seasonal favorites. The dimly lit setting adds a touch of romance, making it ideal for intimate dinners.
Last but not least, Uchi provides a sophisticated atmosphere for sushi lovers. The omakase options offer an adventurous tasting experience, allowing diners to sample a variety of expertly prepared dishes. Chef Tyson Cole’s modern take on traditional Japanese food ensures a night to remember.
Local Drink Culture
Austin's drink culture is a blend of craft breweries, innovative bars, and distinctive cocktails. The city’s landscape is dotted with unique spots that offer an enjoyable drinking experience, from classic brews to creative concoctions.
Craft Breweries and Bars
Austin is home to a multitude of craft breweries, each contributing its own flavor to the local drink scene. Craft Pride, located on Rainey Street, is a haven for beer enthusiasts, boasting a selection of over 50 Texas-only beers on tap. With a laid-back, rustic vibe, it's a great spot to unwind while enjoying local brews.
Barley Swine, while primarily a restaurant, features a stellar beer list that complements their farm-to-table dishes. It's an excellent place to pair high-quality food with exceptional craft beers. Craft beer lovers can also find hidden gems at Houndstooth, which, aside from its renowned coffee, offers a well-curated beer menu, making it perfect for both morning and evening visits.
Signature Cocktails and Speakeasies
Austin's cocktail scene is vibrant, with bars that emphasize creativity and craftsmanship. Midnight Cowboy, a renowned speakeasy, delivers an intimate experience with its reservation-only policy and expertly crafted cocktails. Located in Downtown, this bar offers a throwback to the Prohibition era with its secretive vibe and classic drinks.
Small Victory is another exceptional spot, offering cocktails that showcase both skill and imagination. This cozy bar prides itself on precise techniques and high-quality ingredients, making every drink a masterclass in mixology. For a more casual yet equally impressive experience, Nickel City provides a fun atmosphere with inventive cocktails that balance playfulness and sophistication.
From the historic to the contemporary, Austin's drinks scene is as diverse as it is delightful, ensuring that there is something for every palate.
Sweet Treats and Bakeries
Austin is rich with delicious desserts, perfect for cooling off or indulging in decadent pastries. From scoopable nostalgia to indulgent donuts, there's something for every sweet tooth.
Cool Off with Ice Cream
In Austin, ice cream is a staple for beating the heat. Amy's Ice Creams is an iconic choice, known for its Mexican Vanilla and playful mix-ins. With shops around the city, it’s convenient for any local or visitor.
For a more artisanal experience, head to Dolce Neve. Offering gelato made with traditional Italian techniques, flavors like stracciatella and pistachio are crowd favorites. Don’t miss their affogato, gelato topped with a shot of hot espresso.
Donuts and Pastries to Crave
When it comes to donuts, Gourdough’s Big. Fat. Donuts. is a must-visit. These oversized creations are as inventive as they are delicious, with options like the classic "Flying Pig" topped with bacon.
Tiny Pies offers a unique twist with its hand-held pies, perfect for on-the-go cravings. Located on South Lamar, they provide flavors ranging from apple to chocolate, ensuring a tasty indulgence.
Another noteworthy stop is Little Lucy's on Rainey Street, featuring mini donuts dusted in a variety of flavored sugars. For a classic bakery experience, Upper Crust Bakery on Burnet Road delivers with fresh pastries and robust coffee options.
For an innovative twist, Cold Cookie Company integrates cookie dough and ice cream, making it a favorite for those looking to indulge in both worlds. They offer combinations that range from simple chocolate chip to adventurous seasonal flavors.
Austin’s bakeries and sweet shops cater to every desire, ensuring a delightful and satisfying culinary journey.
Austin's Vibrant Food Scene
Austin's food scene brims with diverse options from street eats at local markets to unique restaurant experiences on South Congress Avenue. This includes renowned food trucks, hidden gem eateries, and local favorites that showcase the city's culinary creativity.
Street Eats and Markets
Austin's street food culture is anchored by its vibrant food markets and food trucks. The Texas Farmers' Market at Mueller hosts vendors offering locally sourced produce and artisanal delights. It's a great place for fresh and organic food options.
Food trucks are a staple of Austin’s culinary offerings. Popular trucks like Veracruz All Natural serve delectable tacos that have gained a loyal following. At East Side King, visitors can enjoy fusion dishes that combine Asian and Tex-Mex flavors.
For those active on social media, following local food bloggers and Austin's Instagram food scene ensures you never miss out on popular spots and new openings.
A Guide to South Congress Eateries
South Congress Avenue, often referred to as SoCo, is a hotspot for eclectic dining experiences. Home Slice Pizza offers a classic New York-style slice that’s beloved by locals and visitors alike. For a unique blend of Japanese and Texas cuisine, Kemuri Tatsu-ya on East Cesar Chavez is an essential stop.
SoCo eateries also include Guero's Taco Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering tex-mex dishes. For breakfast, Jo’s Coffee, famous for its 'I love you so much' mural, serves up hearty breakfast options and locally roasted coffee.
To keep up with the latest foodie favorites, it’s helpful to follow local Austin food bloggers on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. They offer insights, reviews, and tips on must-visit spots.
Healthy and Organic Options
In Austin, healthy and organic food choices abound, catering to diverse dietary preferences and health-conscious lifestyles. From refreshing juice bars to indulgent vegan eateries, the city's culinary scene is rich with options that highlight fresh, local ingredients.
Juice Bars and Smoothie Spots
One can't discuss Austin's organic scene without highlighting JuiceLand, a cornerstone for fresh juices and smoothies. With multiple locations across the city, this popular chain offers a variety of nutrient-packed drinks. Menu favorites include the Originator smoothie, loaded with spinach, kale, apple, and banana, ensuring a perfect blend of taste and nutrition.
Daily Juice, another notable mention, focuses on organic ingredients and cold-pressed juices. Their Green Detox juice, made with cucumber, kale, and lemon, is perfect for a health boost. Meanwhile, Blenders and Bowls combines the best of smoothie culture with delicious acai bowls, all made from organic fruits and vegetables.
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights
Austin’s vegetarian and vegan options are exemplary, catering to both casual diners and dedicated plant-based eaters. Citizen Eatery, located on Burnet Rd, offers a diverse, sustainable menu featuring scratch-made dishes that are entirely vegetarian and vegan. Notable dishes include their plant-based burger and vegan mac and cheese.
For a unique dining experience, Counter Culture Vegan Food Trailer offers globally inspired vegan fare from a cozy food trailer setup. Popular dishes include the Jackfruit BBQ and raw cheesecakes. Picnik is another key player, offering a menu that is entirely peanut-free, gluten-free, and soy-free, making it a safe haven for those with allergies and food sensitivities. Their menu is as delicious as it is inclusive, featuring items like grass-fed butter coffee and zucchini noodle pasta.
