Austin's Top Foodie Instagram Spots
Best Places for Photos and Bites
Austin has swiftly become a haven for food enthusiasts and social media aficionados alike, with its rich culinary landscape offering a feast for both the palate and the eyes. The city's vibrant dining scene is filled with visually stunning dishes and aesthetically pleasing environments that beckon Instagrammers from all over.
For visitors and locals eager to find the best spots for capturing both taste and trends, Austin's diverse array of restaurants delivers an Instagrammable experience that shouldn't be missed. From colorful Mexican cuisine to artistic ice cream creations, each location offers unique charm and photogenic appeal guaranteed to brighten up any feed.
1) Franklin Barbecue
Barbecue enthusiasts in Austin know Franklin Barbecue as a must-visit destination. Renowned for its tender brisket, Franklin attracts both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor sets it apart in Austin's vibrant food scene.
Located at 900 E 11th St, Franklin Barbecue often sees long lines, with patrons willing to wait hours for a taste. The tailgate-style waiting experience has become a part of its charm.
Franklin's smoked meats, particularly the brisket, have garnered a loyal following. Each slice offers a perfect balance of smoke, tenderness, and seasoning.
With media features and glowing reviews, Franklin Barbecue's popularity continues to soar. Its reputation as one of the best barbecue spots in the country is well-earned.
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 653-1187
Website: franklinbbq.com
2) Tacodeli
Tacodeli has been serving handcrafted tacos since 1999. With locations in Austin, Dallas, Plano, and Houston, this eatery is a favorite for many taco enthusiasts.
The menu boasts a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner tacos using responsibly-sourced ingredients. Tacodeli's offerings cater to a wide range of dietary preferences including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and meat lovers.
Famed for its award-winning salsas, Tacodeli combines Mexican flavors with Texan hospitality. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are the norm, elevating each taco to a culinary delight.
For those visiting Austin, Tacodeli is a must-visit spot for food lovers looking to enjoy a delicious, chef-driven taco experience.
Address: Tacodeli, 1500 Spyglass Dr, Austin, TX 78746
Contact: (512) 732-0303
Website: Tacodeli
3) Lamberts Downtown Barbecue
Lamberts Downtown Barbecue offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary BBQ dishes in Austin. Known for its slow-smoked meats, diners can enjoy classic brisket, pork ribs, and sausage, as well as inventive options like wild boar ribs and juniper lamb ribs.
Located in a historic 1873 Victorian building, Lamberts’ ambiance complements its gourmet BBQ offerings. The intimate setting near Town Lake and Moody Theater makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
In addition to its acclaimed food, Lamberts serves a curated selection of local beers, classic cocktails, and an extensive whiskey collection. The live music performances often held here add to the vibrant atmosphere.
The restaurant is active on Instagram, engaging with a growing number of followers through appetizing photos and updates. This makes it a must-visit for foodies looking to savor top-notch BBQ while capturing their experience for social media.
Address: 401 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701
Contact: (512) 494-1500
Website: lambertsaustin.com
4) Home Slice Pizza
Home Slice Pizza serves authentic New York-style pizza in Austin. With a strong reputation, it ranks highly in various pizza spot lists. Visitors appreciate the crispy crust and generous toppings.
Located in South Congress, it attracts both locals and tourists. The relaxed vibe and friendly staff make it a popular choice for casual dining.
In addition to whole pies, they offer pizza by the slice. Their menu includes a variety of traditional and specialty options, catering to different tastes.
Contact information:
Address: 1415 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: (512) 444-7437
Website: homeslicepizza.com
5) Torchy's Tacos
Torchy's Tacos, a beloved Austin staple, began its journey inside a food truck on South First Street. Founder Mike Rypka, a seasoned chef, would deliver tacos around town on his red Vespa. The phrase "damn good tacos" famously emerged from customer praise during those early days.
Located at various spots across the city, Torchy's Tacos offers an impressive menu that includes a variety of tacos, from traditional beef to unique creations like the Brushfire, featuring Jamaican jerk chicken. Each taco is made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Besides the delectable taste, Torchy's is a hit on Instagram. The vibrant presentation of their tacos and the lively ambiance of the restaurants make for excellent photo opportunities. Their colorful interiors and branded neon signs are particularly popular backdrops.
Torchy's also stands out for its queso, a fan favorite that often garners rave reviews. This cheesy delight, coupled with their signature tacos, keeps both locals and visitors coming back for more.
Torchy's Tacos is not just about good food; it's also about a great dining experience. With its casual vibe and friendly service, it’s a must-visit for anyone in Austin.
Address: Multiple locations including 1311 South 1st Street, Austin, TX 78704
Contact: (512) 366-0537
Website: torchystacos.com
6) Güero's Taco Bar
Güero's Taco Bar has been a staple in Austin's dining scene for over 30 years. Located in the heart of Austin, this Mexican restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic menu. It offers a blend of traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites.
Patrons can enjoy their meals in various settings, whether they prefer dine-in, patio seating, or take-out. The Oak Garden hosts live music from Wednesday to Sunday, adding to the lively ambiance.
The menu features a wide selection of tacos, including fish and shrimp options, alongside other popular items like sabana de pollo. For drinks, the Beer Rita and Mexican martini are highly recommended.
Güero's Taco Bar remains a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique culinary experience in Austin.
Address: 1412 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Contact: +1 (512) 447-7688
Website: Güero's Taco Bar
7) The Driskill - 1886 Cafe & Bakery
The 1886 Cafe & Bakery is nestled within the historic Driskill Hotel, an iconic landmark in Austin, Texas. This Victorian-style cafe offers a delightful blend of traditional Texas comfort foods with a contemporary twist.
Visitors can enjoy dishes like Helen Corbitt's Cheese Soup or the famed Texas Shaped Pecan Waffle.
The cafe's charming ambiance is complemented by its rich history and elegant decor, making it a picture-perfect spot for Instagram enthusiasts. Its historical significance and delightful menu items add a layer of depth and character to each visit.
The monthly Afternoon Tea and classic Victorian charm provide both a visual and culinary treat.
The Driskill - 1886 Cafe & Bakery is more than just a dining spot; it is a part of Austin's culinary history that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.
Address: 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
Contact: (512) 439-1234
Website: Driskill Hotel 1886 Cafe & Bakery
8) Kemuri Tatsu-ya
Kemuri Tatsu-ya is a standout on Austin's culinary scene, blending Japanese izakaya traditions with Texas barbecue flair. Situated in East Austin, this fusion approach delivers unique dishes that pay homage to both cultures.
The restaurant features an atmospheric setting, complete with traditional Japanese decor and Texan touches. This creates a unique dining environment where patrons can enjoy diverse flavors and innovative presentations.
Fans of both cuisines will enjoy menu staples like smoked fish, barbecued meats, and creative small plates. The chefs, known for their skill at Ramen Tatsu-ya, bring the same excellence to Kemuri, ensuring each dish is both flavorful and memorable.
Instagram enthusiasts will find plenty here to capture, from the beautifully plated dishes to the eclectic interior design. It's not just a meal; it's an experience worthy of sharing online.
Address: 2713 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: 512-803-2224
Website: kemuri-tatsuya.com
9) La Condesa
La Condesa stands out in Austin’s vibrant 2nd Street District. Known for its modern twists on classic Mexican dishes, this restaurant has gained significant attention for its excellent cuisine and inviting atmosphere.
Helmed by Executive Chef Rick Lopez, La Condesa features interior Mexican dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a variety of large-format entrees accompanied by petite tortillas. Tacos are notably absent, but the diverse offerings appeal to a wide range of tastes.
The restaurant's bar is acclaimed, boasting one of the largest collections of 100% blue agave tequila and mezcal in Austin. Their commitment to quality spirits and inventive cocktails enhances the dining experience.
La Condesa has twice been nominated for a James Beard award, adding to its reputation as a top foodie destination. Whether for the food or the drinks, visitors leave with memorable dining experiences.
Address
400 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701
Contact
Phone: (512) 499-0300
Website
10) Loro
Loro, located on South Lamar in Austin, Texas, is an Asian smokehouse and bar that has gained significant popularity on social media. Its fusion of Texas BBQ with Southeast Asian flavors makes it a standout culinary destination.
Known for its inviting atmosphere and innovative menu, Loro offers dishes like smoked beef brisket, candied kettle corn, and bo ssam. The interiors combine rustic charm with modern decor, enhancing the dining experience.
Loro is also a frequent feature on Instagram, with visitors sharing mouth-watering images of their meals. The restaurant's patio and communal seating provide a perfect backdrop for food photography.
Happy hour at Loro is a crowd favorite, drawing in locals and tourists alike.
Address: 2115 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Contact: (512) 916-4858
Website: www.loroaustin.com
Best Times to Visit Austin's Instagram Spots
Timing can enhance the visual appeal of your photos. Consider the seasonal landscapes and the influence of lighting to make the most out of Austin's Instagrammable food locations.
Seasonal Highlights
Different seasons offer unique backdrops for photographs. Spring showcases vibrant wildflowers, particularly bluebonnets, which can elevate any shot. BBQ joints like Franklin Barbecue are perfect for pairing with spring’s lively colors.
Summer delivers long days and dramatic sunsets, ideal for capturing evening vibes at outdoor spots such as Mount Bonnell. Despite the heat, morning hours are cooler and less crowded, making it the best time to visit places like Texas State Capitol Dome.
Autumn brings mild temperatures and colorful foliage. Locations with rich outdoor settings, such as the central park in the Mueller community, come alive with autumnal hues.
Winter might seem less appealing, but it offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere. The Austin Motel’s retro neon sign is particularly striking against a crisp winter sky, making it a unique photo opportunity.
Optimal Lighting for Photography
Maximize your photoshoot potential by understanding lighting. Golden Hour, occurring shortly after sunrise and before sunset, casts a warm, diffused light that enhances texture and colors. This is perfect for capturing cozy café interiors and outdoor murals like the "Love From Austin" mural.
Midday light can be harsh and create strong shadows. However, this time is ideal for indoor spots or shaded outdoor areas. Restaurants with large windows, like those on South Congress Avenue, benefit from the bright, natural light filtering through.
Blue Hour, the period of twilight before sunrise and after sunset, adds a magical, cool-toned effect. It’s perfect for capturing the city’s illuminated signs and night scenes, especially around vibrant neighborhoods like the South Congress area.
Tips for Capturing the Perfect Food Photo
To get that perfect Instagram food photo, focus on using natural light effectively and choosing the right angle and composition.
Use of Natural Light
Natural light can elevate a food photo, making colors more vibrant and details clearer. Shoot near a window or outside to utilize this light source without harsh shadows. Natural light can soften the appearance of food, making it look more appetizing.
Avoid shooting under artificial lights like fluorescent bulbs, which can cast unflattering hues over your dish. Morning and late afternoon light are particularly conducive to achieving a pleasing effect. Position the food so the light hits from the side, creating gentle highlights and adding depth.
Reflectors can be used to bounce light and reduce shadows. Using a white napkin or plate also helps in reflecting natural light, enhancing the overall clarity of the image.
Angle and Composition
Angle and composition are crucial for a stunning food photo. A top-down angle, often referred to as a ‘flat lay,’ is perfect for dishes with intricate details on top. This angle allows viewers to see every element clearly and is great for an organized display of multiple items.
A 45-degree angle can work wonders for layered foods like burgers or desserts, showcasing their depth and texture. Experiment with a combination of close-ups and wider shots to capture different perspectives.
Consistency in composition helps build a recognizable style. Gridlines or the rule of thirds can guide the arrangement of items within the frame. It’s also effective to include utensils or ingredients to fill empty space and create a more complete scene.
By considering these elements thoughtfully, anyone can take their food photography to the next level.
Engaging with Austin's Foodie Community
Engagement within Austin's foodie community involves utilizing popular hashtags and collaborating with influential local figures. These strategies can help boost visibility and create meaningful interactions.
Popular Hashtags
Popular hashtags are essential for connecting with the foodie community. In Austin, #ATXeats and #AustinFood are widely used. These tags help food enthusiasts discover local dining experiences and unique dishes.
Using niche tags like #AustinBBQ or #AustinBrunch can target specific food interests. It's important to mix broad and niche hashtags for maximum reach. Consistent use on posts will enhance engagement.
Always stay updated with trending hashtags. Seasonal tags, like #AustinSummerEats, can provide additional visibility during specific times of the year.
Collaborating with Local Influencers
Collaborating with local influencers can significantly boost credibility and exposure. Influencers like @austinfoodstagram and @bestfoodaustin have substantial followings and can introduce your content to a wider audience.
Reaching out for collaborations can be straightforward. Offer invites to special events or co-host pop-up dinners. Joint giveaways or features in each other's posts can also be effective.
Keep track of their engagement rates and follower demographics to ensure they align with your target audience. Establishing genuine relationships with influencers can lead to long-term partnerships.
