10 Best Restaurants in Austin Texas
Introduction
Hey there, my name is Emily Johnson and I’m a foodie who loves to explore new restaurants. Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant food scene and I’m excited to share with you the 10 best restaurants I’ve discovered in this amazing city. From Tex-Mex to barbecue, there’s something for everyone in Austin.
Before we dive into the list, let’s take a look at some interesting facts about Austin’s food scene:
- Austin is home to over 1,000 food trucks, making it the food truck capital of the world.
- The city is known for its breakfast tacos, which can be found at many of Austin’s restaurants and food trucks.
- Austin’s barbecue scene is so popular that it has its own festival, the Texas Monthly BBQ Festival.
- The city has a thriving craft beer scene, with over 50 breweries in the area.
1. Franklin Barbecue
Located in East Austin, Franklin Barbecue is a must-visit for anyone looking for the best barbecue in the city. The restaurant is known for its mouth-watering brisket, which is smoked for up to 14 hours over oak and pecan wood. Be prepared to wait in line for hours, but trust me, it’s worth it.
My personal experience at Franklin Barbecue was unforgettable. I waited in line for three hours, but the smell of the barbecue and the excitement of finally getting to try it kept me going. When I finally got my plate of brisket, I was blown away. It was tender, juicy, and had the perfect amount of smokiness.
If you’re a barbecue fan, Franklin Barbecue is a must-visit.
2. Uchi
If you’re in the mood for sushi, Uchi is the place to go. This Japanese restaurant is one of the best in Austin, with a wide variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. The restaurant has a sleek and modern atmosphere, making it a great spot for a date night or special occasion.
My favorite dish at Uchi is the hamachi nigiri, which is made with yellowtail, ponzu, and Thai chili. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory.
If you’re a sushi lover, Uchi is a must-visit.
3. Tacodeli
Tacodeli is a local favorite for breakfast tacos. The restaurant has several locations throughout Austin and offers a variety of tacos made with fresh ingredients. The migas taco is a crowd favorite, made with scrambled eggs, tortilla chips, cheese, and salsa.
My personal favorite at Tacodeli is the Otto taco, which is made with refried black beans, bacon, avocado, and queso fresco. It’s the perfect combination of salty and creamy.
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious breakfast, Tacodeli is the place to go.
4. La Condesa
La Condesa is a modern Mexican restaurant located in downtown Austin. The restaurant has a vibrant atmosphere and offers a variety of Mexican dishes, from tacos to ceviche. The margaritas at La Condesa are a must-try, made with fresh-squeezed lime juice and high-quality tequila.
I had the pleasure of dining at La Condesa on a recent trip to Austin and was blown away by the food and drinks. The carne asada tacos were some of the best I’ve ever had, and the margaritas were the perfect balance of sweet and sour.
If you’re looking for a fun and delicious night out, La Condesa is the place to be.
5. Ramen Tatsu-Ya
Ramen Tatsu-Ya is a popular ramen restaurant with several locations throughout Austin. The restaurant offers a variety of ramen dishes, from classic tonkotsu to spicy miso. The restaurant has a casual and friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
My personal favorite at Ramen Tatsu-Ya is the tonkotsu shoyu ramen, which is made with pork broth, soy sauce, and thin noodles. It’s the perfect comfort food on a chilly day.
If you’re in the mood for some delicious ramen, Ramen Tatsu-Ya is the place to go.
6. Dai Due
Dai Due is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on using locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from venison to quail, all cooked over an open flame. The restaurant has a cozy and rustic atmosphere, making it a great spot for a special occasion.
My favorite dish at Dai Due is the wild boar ribs, which are cooked over an open flame and served with a side of roasted vegetables. The meat is tender and flavorful, and the crispy skin adds the perfect crunch.
If you’re looking for a unique and delicious dining experience, Dai Due is the place to go.
7. Barley Swine
Barley Swine is a modern American restaurant that focuses on using local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of small plates, allowing diners to try a variety of dishes. The restaurant has a sleek and sophisticated atmosphere, making it a great spot for a date night or special occasion.
My favorite dish at Barley Swine is the pork belly, which is served with pickled peaches and pecans. The pork belly is cooked to perfection, with crispy skin and tender meat.
If you’re in the mood for some delicious small plates, Barley Swine is the place to go.
8. Lenoir
Lenoir is a French-inspired restaurant that focuses on using local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from steak to seafood, all cooked with a French twist. The restaurant has a charming and romantic atmosphere, making it a great spot for a date night.
My personal favorite at Lenoir is the beef tartare, which is made with local grass-fed beef and served with a side of crispy chips. The dish is perfectly seasoned and the beef is incredibly tender.
If you’re in the mood for some delicious French-inspired cuisine, Lenoir is the place to go.
9. Odd Duck
Odd Duck is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on using locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from roasted vegetables to grilled meats. The restaurant has a casual and friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
My favorite dish at Odd Duck is the smoked duck breast, which is served with a side of roasted carrots and a cherry sauce. The duck is perfectly cooked and the cherry sauce adds the perfect amount of sweetness.
If you’re looking for a delicious and casual dining experience, Odd Duck is the place to go.
10. Kemuri Tatsu-Ya
Kemuri Tatsu-Ya is a Japanese smokehouse that offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Texas flavors. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from smoked brisket ramen to queso fundido. The restaurant has a lively and fun atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.
My personal favorite at Kemuri Tatsu-Ya is the hot pocketz, which are made with brisket, cheese, and jalapenos. It’s like a Texas-style empanada, but with a Japanese twist.
If you’re looking for a fun and unique dining experience, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya is the place to go.
FAQs
What is Austin known for food-wise?
Austin is known for its barbecue, breakfast tacos, and craft beer scene. The city also has a thriving food truck scene, with over 1,000 food trucks in the area.
What is the best time to visit these restaurants?
It’s best to visit these restaurants during off-peak hours to avoid long wait times. For example, visiting Franklin Barbecue during the week instead of on a weekend can help you avoid the long lines.
What is the dress code for these restaurants?
The dress code varies by restaurant, but most are casual. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm.
Are these restaurants kid-friendly?
Most of these restaurants are kid-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time. Some restaurants may not have high chairs or kids’ menus.