If you’re anything like us, you know that living in a city with as much culinary excellence as Austin is both a blessing and a curse. Out of all the cities in the U.S., Austin was ranked number 2 for having the most exciting food scene, second only to L.A. (ok we’ll give you that, Californians). That means an endless list of options, guaranteed to infinitely delight and – at some point – strike you with the cruel plague of indecision.

To prepare for those moments of analysis paralysis and to remind all the foodies which spots they still need to hit, we’ve compiled a list – not just of our favorite spots, but a list of which restaurants work best for certain occasions. Date night coming up? Last minute happy hour? Business meeting? Unexpected visitors in town? You now have your very own consultant to guide you to the perfect restaurant: The Ultimate Guide to Austin’s Best Restaurants for Every Occasion.

 

Rise & Shine:

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Brunch

 

Taco Joint

 Tacos | Under $10 | South Austin: 134 E Riverside Dr Austin, TX 78704

Located just off of UT’s campus and Riverside, a UT Austin classic. Known for its sizable breakfast and lunch tacos, crunchy tortillas, and comfortable atmosphere. Perfect for an every day breakfast! (P.S. their street taco is an HMG favorite!)

 

South Congress Cafe

American | $11-30 | South Congress: 1600 S Congress Ave Austin, TX 78704

Cute, busy brunch spot in the center of SOCO district. Offers a useful “call ahead” list for shorter wait times, great for a Sunday brunch and shopping down South Congress street. Also offers complimentary corn muffin basket at the beginning of your meal!

 

Magnolia’s

American | $11-30 | South Congress: 1920 S. Congress Ave Austin, TX 78704

Retro, artsy, eclectic vibe with wide range of menu options. Diner-esque ambience with late night hours, perfect place to appease late night breakfast cravings. Friendly staff that are dedicated to bringing back the traditions of the good ol’ days. You’ll definitely feel at home here!

 

Snooze

Breakfast & Brunch | $11-30 | Campus: 3800 N Lamar Blvd Ste 120 Austin, TX 78756

Hip, modern restaurant known for being the prime breakfast and brunch spot, famous for gluten-free pancakes with a wide range of wacky, delicious flavors. Watch out for a long wait!

 

Texas French Bread

Breakfast & Bakery | $11-30 | Campus: 2900 Rio Grande St Austin, TX 78705

Located at the edge of UT Campus, a cute, aesthetic, Instagram-worthy bakery and cafe. Perfect spot for those “treat yourself” mornings, lots of natural light, quality food.

 

Jack Allen’s

Southern | $11-30 | 3600 North Capital Of Texas Hwy Bldg D Austin, TX 78746

Large, spacious restaurant with outdoor patio space and bar, great place for fancy/casual group meetings and lunch, large, delicious portions, notable for their Sunday brunch buffet. P.S. we heard this was Matthew Mcconaughey’s fav spot! (Also an HMG personal favorite!).

 

Hillside Farmacy

Breakfast & Brunch | $11-30 | East Austin: 1209 E 11th St Austin, TX 78702

Described as an Instagrammer’s dream, a savvy, vintage restaurant with cute, aesthetic ambience and detailed decor at every turn. Great indoor/outdoor seating with lots of plants. Delicious, fresh food makes for the perfect breakfast/brunch spot!

 

Arturo’s Underground Cafe

Mexican | Under $10 | Downtown: 314 W 17th St Austin, TX 78701

A truly hidden gem tucked underground to reveal a retro, hip, spacious, Austin spot. Perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, friendly staff that makes you feel like part of the family. May even have some fresh baked cookies!

 

Holy Roller

American | $11-30 | Market District Downtown: 509 Rio Grande Austin, TX 78701

Edgy, rock decor make up a cheat day’s paradise. Home of the greasiest, heaviest, yet most delicious American comfort food, Holy Roller is sure to leave you with a full and happy stomach!

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Coffee

 

Bennu Coffee

24/7 Coffee | Under $10 | South Congress: 515 S Congress Ave Austin, TX 78704

Owned and operated by an Austin family, notable for being open 24/7, great place to study or work at all hours of the day. Famous for their cold brew awarded as being one of the best in town.

 

Epoch Coffee

24/7 Coffee | Under $10 | 221 W North Loop Blvd Austin, TX 78751

Funky, trendy, artsy coffee shop that captures Austin’s vibe. 24/7 study spot for those that like a dimly lit work environment with an abundance of outlets. We heard they also got the best playlist in town!

 

Houndstooth Coffee

Coffee | Under $10 | Downtown: 4200 N Lamar Blvd Ste 120 Austin, TX 78756

A more upscale coffee shop, not the ideal place for a long stay (not many outlets or seating) but perfect if you’re looking for a meeting or reading spot. Great, aesthetic vibe with tasty signature coffee drinks.

 

Austin Go-To’s:

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Iconic Austin

 

Franklin Barbecue

Barbecue | $11-30 | East Austin: 900 E. 11th, Austin, TX 78702 

Local vibes started by Aaron Franklin in Austin, TX from a small food truck, now renowned as Texas Monthly’s “best barbecue in the known universe.” Get there early (8am) before they run out!

 

The Oasis on Lake Travis

Tex-Mex | $11-30 | Lake Travis: 6550 Comanche Trl Austin, TX 78732 

Known as the “Sunset Capital of Texas,” enjoy spectacular views of Lake Travis while dining on traditional American Tex-Mex dishes, great for special events and large party reservations. Visit at sunset for breathtaking sights!

 

Jo’s Coffee

Coffee, Tacos | Under $10 | South Congress: 1300 South Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78704

Home of the famous “I love you so much” wall, an iconic Austin outdoor-only spot located on South Congress strip, go-to spot for information on local Austin events/causes (especially those involving animals!), always serving hot ‘n ready breakfast tacos and specialty coffee drinks. Don’t forget to bring your dog!

 

Kerbey Lane

Breakfast & Brunch | $11-30 | Various Locations: 2606 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

Old school, cozy, diner-esque ambiance, 100% family-owned started from small house located on Kerbey Lane, now an Austin-classic serving home-style breakfast food 24/7 from 8 locations.

 

Home Slice

Pizza | $11-30 | South Congress: 1415 S Congress St Austin, TX 78704

Casual, dive-like atmosphere for Austin’s neighborhood NY-style pizza joint, known for oversized pizza and a rockin’ back patio. They say the margherita pizza is the way to go!

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Visitors in Town

 

Gus’s Fried Chicken

Southern Comfort Food | Under $10 | Downtown: 117 San Jacinto Blvd Austin, TX 78701

Based on a family recipe from 1953, a famous casual dining spot specializing in hot and spicy fried chicken. Perfect for those craving some good ol’ fashioned comfort food.

 

Veracruz Tacos

Breakfast Tacos | Under $10 | East Austin: 1704 E Cesar Chavez St Austin, TX 78702

Located within steps of Radio Coffee bar, the essence of Austin food truck culture in the form of natural breakfast tacos. A great outdoor spot that caters towards meat-friendly and vegetarian Austinites. Stop by on Monday nights for live bluegrass.

 

Kemuri Tatsuya

Japanese Smokehouse | $11-30 | East Austin: 2713 E 2nd St Austin, TX 78702

Unique, Japanese pub-style dining experience featuring an array of unique dishes. Innovative fusion of Japanese food, BBQ and Tex-Mex perfect for casual dining with friends and family.

 

Loro

Asian Fusion | $11-30 | South Lamar: 2115 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Asian smokehouse, brainchild of Uchi and Franklin Barbecue chefs. Busy, energetic atmosphere in a swanky indoor mess-hall or outdoor barn-like patio. Austin-worthy chill vibes for date night, office happy hour, birthdays, or famous Franklin brisket without the wait.

 

Salt Lick

Barbecue | $11-30 | Driftwood: 18300 Fm 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619

World-renowned barbecue in the scenic Texas Hill country, smoked on open-fire pit using family recipes from the 1800s and served on casual picnic benches. Prep for long waits, big crowds, and the ultimate Texas BBQ feasting experience.

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Live Music

 

Guero’s Taco Bar

Mexican | $11-30 | South Congress: 1412 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Old cantina style taco bar with over 30 years of Austin history bringing locals and visitors together. Serving hand-shaken margaritas, authentic Tacos Al Pastor, and Mexican beer of every kind in an outdoor Oak Garden featuring live jams Wed-Sun.

 

Geraldine’s

Breakfast & Brunch | $31-60 | Rainey St: 605 Davis St Austin, TX 78701

Towering over Rainey with sophistication from the 4th floor of Hotel Van Zandt, with shareable plates highlighting Austin’s finest Southern-contemporary cuisine. Catch skyline views from the rooftop lounge at swanky Sunday jazz brunch or nightly concert.

 

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q

Barbecue | $11-30 | Downtown: 801 Red River St Austin, TX 78701

BBQ + Music for Austin’s best, all in one. Legendary local hickory pit at the heart of Austin’s music scene, with outdoor amphitheater known for world-class live shows including B.B. King and Willie Nelson. Don’t miss the weekly Sunday Gospel brunch!

 

Botticelli’s

Italian | $11-30 | South Congress: 1321 S Congress Ave Austin, TX 78704

Neighborhood Italian kitchen tucked away on South Congress Ave with two diverse atmospheres: an intimate inside trattoria inside and lively, shimmering beer garden. Sip hand-selected Italian wines, savor family recipes with modern innovations, and enjoy live music in the garden, Thurs-Sat.

 

Special Someone:

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Date Night

 

Launderette

Breakfast & Brunch | $11-30 | East Austin: 2115 Holly St Austin, TX 78702

Retro-chic ambiance in a converted laundromat, now bursting with Mediterranean flavor and acclaimed desserts. Tucked away on a quiet East Austin corner for an intimate dinner experience.

 

Dai Due

Breakfast & Brunch | $11-30 | Cherrywood: 2406 Manor Rd. Ste A, Austin, TX 78722

Farmer’s market stall to chic supper club, the perfect carnivore’s galore in a cozy setting. Features meaty options from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

 

Il Brutto

Italian | $11-30 | East Austin: 1601 E 6th St. Austin, TX 78702

Neighborhood spot with multi-regional hearty, Italian classics including homemade pasta, bread, and pizza. Crafted in an open-concept wood-fire brick oven bringing you the most authentic flavors of Italy.

 

Buenos Aires Cafe

Argentine | $11-30 | East Austin: 1201 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

Boutique family-owned restaurant celebrating Argentinian heritage with flavors and decor straight from the eclectic streets of Buenos Aires. Dine in dim lighting beneath muraled walls to enjoy Argentine specialities like chimichurri, empanadas, and organic meat de la parilla.

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Anniversary

Uchi

Sushi | Above $61 | South Lamar: 801 S Lamar Blvd. Austin, TX 78704

Culinary innovation brought to historic South Austin with non-traditional approach to Japanese. Classy dining with dynamite flavor using high-quality, fresh ingredients flown in daily from Japan.

 

Lenoir

New American | $31-60 | South Austin: 1807 S 1st St. Austin, TX 78704

Artesanal culinary delights made from local farm ingredients, offering a seasonally-focused fixed daily menu. Get swept away in the vintage-chic indoor space or magical backyard wine garden with lush creekside views.

 

Jeffrey’s

American | Above $61 | Clarksville: 1204 W Lynn St. Austin, TX 78703

New American flavors and locally sourced products providing an upscale fine-dining experience in a Clarksville neighborhood cottage. Popular for its lively bar and posh vibes.

 

Olamaie

Southern | $31-60 | Downtown: 1610 San Antonio St. Austin, TX 78701

Consistently among Austin’s best – traditional Southern charm in an elegant, polished home with upscale, farm-to-table comfort food. Don’t miss the biscuits!

 

Fonda San Miguel

Interior Mexican | $11-30 | Allandale: 2330 W North Loop Blvd. Austin, TX 78756

Authentic interior Mexican fare for high-end, sophisticated dining in a central Austin neighborhood, popular among locals. Recipes by abuela including Austin’s best mole, cochinita pibil, and sweet flan served in a colorful, elaborate hacienda showcasing original Mexican art.

 

Groups:

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Formal Business Meeting

 

Odd Duck

American | $31-60 | South Lamar: 1201 S Lamar Blvd. Austin, TX 78704

Food truck success launched into a hip, ethnic approach to Southern traditions. Now upscale casual in a contemporary setting with small plates that promote sharing. Try it for a killer happy hour with half off select entrees.

 

Roaring Fork

American | $11-30 | Downtown: 701 Congress Ave. Austin, TX 78701

Superb dining experience in downtown Intercontinental Hotel boasting bold American cuisine and wood-fired rugged flavors. An inviting and energetic escape, perfect for sophisticated business lunch or elegant dinner.

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Casual Business:

 

Chuy’s Tex-Mex

Tex-Mex | $11-30 | South Austin: 1728 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, TX 78704

Fun and funky Tex-Mex with South Texas flavors, fresh ingredients, and a colorful dining room. Now a nationally-known chain but started with humble roots on Barton Springs Road in 1982.

 

Fareground at One Eleven

Food Court | $11-30 | Downtown: 111 Congress Ave. Austin, TX 78701

Congress Ave. food hall in the heart of downtown, home to six local vendors featuring eclectic options from burgers to sushi. Eat + Drink any time of day for a relaxing picnic on the vast community lawn, after-work drinks at the indoor bar, or a casual lunch date.

 

Terry Black’s Barbecue

Barbecue | $11-30 | South Austin: 1003 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78704 Bouldin Creek, 78704

Casual spot for some good ol’ Texan barbecue. Be prepared for some long lines (don’t worry, they’re nowhere near Franklin’s!), the prime go-to barbecue place for Austin locals who are looking for quality barbecue.

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Family Friendly

 

Doc’s Backyard

American & Beer Bar | $11-30 | Sunset Valley: 5207 Brodie Ln. Ste 100, Sunset Valley, TX 78745

The ultimate Texas backyard experience – shuffle board, corn hole, TVs to catch the game, and a play area for the kids. Dotted with bright red umbrellas to relax under while enjoying a wide selection of Texas drafts along with burgers, tacos, and all-day breakfast.

 

Phil’s Icehouse

Burgers | Under $10 | Allandale: 5620 Burnet Rd. Austin, TX 78756

Best place to grab a good, simple burger for an uber-casual meal with the fam. Creative burgers with local inspiration and Austin flavors, plus a playscape to keep the kids busy, and shuffleboard, movies, and music for the rest. Grab some ice cream at Amy’s Ice Cream Shop after!
Allandale: 5620 Burnet Rd. Austin, TX 78756
Under $10, Burgers

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Friday Night with the Crew

 

Matt’s El Rancho

Tex-Mex | $11-30 | South Lamar: 2613 S Lamar Blvd. Austin, TX 78704

Made-from-scratch, family-owned Mexican cooking with fresh ingredients. In-house tortilla factory, seating for over 500, and limey Margs make the perfect equation for an animated spot for fun gatherings and special occasions.

 

Hopdoddy Burger Bar

Burgers | $11-30 | South Congress: 1400 S Congress Ave. Ste A190, Austin, TX 78704

Growing Austin-born chain with impossibly good handmade burgers and buns, ready to be devoured if you’re ready to commit to the line permanently wrapped around the building. Add a milkshake, seasoned fries, craft beer or house-made liqueur for the perfect weekend cheat meal.

 

Suerte

Mexican | $31-60 | East Austin: 1800 E 6th St. Austin, TX 78702

A taste of interior Mexico with succulent spirits, homemade masa, and mouth-watering brisket tacos, ready for any fiesta. Award-winning Oaxacan flavors served on small plates intended to share in a boisterous environment with subtle earthy surrounds.

 

Wu Chow

Chinese (Dim Sum) | $11-30 | Downtown: 500 W 5th St. Austin, TX 78701

Authentic Chinese representing 8 styles of regional cuisine, serving Sichuan flavors fresh from the farm with a modern appeal. Fun for a Friday night out downtown but don’t miss Dim Sum and tiki cocktails for Sunday brunch!

 

Ramen Tatsu-ya

Japanese Ramen & Curry | $11-30 | East Austin: 1600 E 6th St Austin, TX 78702

A modern, Japanese-inspired ramen shop dedicated to bringing Japanese soul food to Austin. As an Austin favorite, you can expect a packed house all hours of the day.

 

El Alma

Mexican | $11-30 | South Austin: 1025 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78704

Cozy, neighborhood restaurant serving up fresh Mexican food. Gluten-friendly with a great outdoor patio as well as indoor seating. Definitely a unique and adventurous menu selection!

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Birthday Party

 

Jester King Brewery

Brewery | $11-30 | 13187 Fitzhugh Rd Austin, TX 78736

165 acres of a pure, authentic brewery experience. Complete with wooden barns, multiple bars, and wood-fired pizza, the way a true brewery should be. Enjoy a farm tour (with goats!), games, and a brewery tour on a nice day out!

 

Grizzelda’s

Mexican | $11-30 | East Austin: 105 Tillery St Austin, TX 78702

Cozy, fun, hip interior perfect for a fun date or special occasion. Gorgeously decorated interior that makes for a great Tex-Mex experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera for this one!

 

Ranch 616

American | $11-30 | Downtown: 616 Nueces St Austin, TX 78701

Perfect blend of Texas, Mexican, and classic ranch food in a rustic-styled spacious venue. Fun, casual place to grab drinks, good food, and enjoy the nice weather near lively West 6th. Make sure you try out their famous Ranch Waters!

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Large Groups

 

Emmer & Rye

Small Plates (Tapas) | $31-60 | Rainey: 51 Rainey St Austin, TX 78701

Cozy, modern interior with subtle decor accents the use of local ingredients, constantly-changing menu of small, delectable small plates appropriate for each season. Great for those who enjoy a variety of foods with their dining experience.

 

Fresa’s

Mexican | $11-30 | South Austin: 1703 S 1st St Austin, TX 78704

A spacious, beautiful, and fun outdoor patio perfect for any occasion. The go-to spot for delicious Mexican food and drinks with family, friends, or coworkers. Stop by and try their famous Yucatan spiced chicken, we hear it’s to die for!

 

Olive & June

Italian | $31-60 | Central: 3411 Glenview Ave. Austin, TX 78703

Formal yet friendly, sophisticated yet elegant Southern Italian cuisine and culture. Linger for a meal under a 200 year-old oak tree with 4 dining areas for special occasions from date night to weddings.

 

Outdoor Eats:

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Patio for Food

 

Juliet Italian Kitchen

Italian | $11-30 | Barton Springs: 1500 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, TX 78704

Traditional Italian-American cuisine and live jazz in a sophisticated modern ambiance suited for special family-style group outings, charming happy hours, or date night.

 

Bouldin Creek Cafe

Vegetarian & Vegan | $11-30 | South Austin: 1900 S 1st St. Austin, TX 78704

Bohemian vibes with a vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menu for a laid-back breakfast or lunch in a lively, dog-friendly atmosphere.

 

Elizabeth Street Cafe

Vietnamese & French | $11-30 | South Austin: 1501 S 1st St. Austin, TX 78704

Delectable bakery treats and flavorful Vietnamese dishes, perfect for a cozy indoor brunch spot or sunny afternoon on a quaint patio.

 

Taco Deli

Mexican | Under $10 | South Austin: 1500 Spyglass Dr Ste B Austin, TX 78746

Best place to stop by after a long hike on Green Belt, a hustle-bustle taco joint serving the famous tacos you see in every Austin coffee shop. Known as one of the best taco joints in Austin!

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For the Pups:

 

Yard Bar

American  & Bar | $11-30 | Allandale: 700 Burnet Rd. Austin, TX 78757

Dog park, bar, and restaurant in one for a chill after-work or weekend spot to bring the pups and mingle with friends. Relax under shady oaks while dogs run free in an off-leash backyard setting. Membership required for dog park but dining patio is open to the public.

 

Little Woodrow’s

Sports Bar | $11-30 | Downtown: 520 W 6th St. Austin, TX 78701

“Sports-watching HQ” and watering hole (aka patio bar) in downtown Austin, the perfect afternoon or late night spot to meet the gang for drinks, catch your favorite team and some sun, and make some furry friends. Dog-friendly patio, also home to One Taco truck, hosting events like “Dog Spa Day.”

 

Cane Rosso

Pizza | $11-30 | Sunset Valley: 4715 S Lamar Blvd. Ste 103, Sunset Valley, TX 78745

Creative pizzeria inspired by the owner’s epiphany tasting pizza in Italy, serving authentic Neapolitan-style Italian pizza made from imported ingredients and fired in a wood-fired oven. Partners with Cane Rosso Rescue to support dog rescue groups, foster, & adoption with seasonal “Pups on the Patio” events.

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For the View

 

Jacoby’s

Southern | $31-60 | East Austin: 3235 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702

Family operated ranch-to-table experience with farm-fresh ingredients and a vintage-y mercantile shop. Nestled up to the Colorado River in a versatile, indoor/outdoor setting with rustic-chic character.

 

County Line on the Lake

Barbecue | $11-30 | Lake Austin: 5204 Ranch Rd 2222, Austin, TX 78731

Good ol’ mouthwatering Texas barbecue, slow-roasted and served up in a lodge right on the edge of Lake Austin. Features a rustic redwood deck, views to impress tourists and a homey space for large events.

 

Lucy’s Fried Chicken

Comfort Food | $11-30 |South Congress: 2218 College Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Local homegrown favorite showcasing classic Southern comfort – oysters, fried pickles, and not-your-average fried chicken. Served in a casual, kid-friendly atmosphere ideal for the whole family.

 

Great for Drinks:

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Happy Hour

 

The Peached Tortilla

Asian Fusion | $11-30 | Allandale: 5520 Burnet Rd. Ste 100, Austin, TX 78756

Modern brick and mortar eatery with food truck roots, innovating southern comfort food with an Asian flair. Bright, clean aesthetic and welcoming space for any casual occasion. Happy vibes and deals for a truly happy hour.

 

Last Straw

Burger & Bar | $11-30 | East Austin: 1914 E 6th St. Austin, TX 78702

Vacation by the hour (or at least M-Th, 5-7pm) in a beachy oasis struck with vivid colors, tiki drinks, and creative Hawaiin-inspired dishes featuring house-made ingredients like apple butter and coconut cream. Happy hour escape includes $5 select drinks and $5-8 snacks.

 

La Condesa

Mexican | $11-30 | Downtown: 400A W 2nd St. Austin, TX 78701

Modern Mexican from locally sourced ingredients with downtown sophistication and energy. M-F happy hour from 5-7pm with half-off drink specials and discounted snacks, plus the largest blue agave tequila collection in Austin.

 

BarChi Sushi

Sushi & Bar | $11-30 | Downtown: 206 Colorado St. Austin, TX 78701

2nd Street District swanky sushi go-to for fresh sushi, Maki rolls, and Sashimi items, fun for after work or late nights out. M-F happy hour from 3-7pm, Th/F reverse HH 10pm-12am, and all day HH Sunday means delicious sushi at an unbeatable price.

 

Parkside

Seafood | $31-60 | Downtown: 301 E 6th St. Austin, TX 78701

Austin’s first gastropub dishing out high-quality, bold, farm-to-table American fare in a casual contemporary atmosphere, known for its raw oyster bar. Happy hour includes half off full menu food, beer, cocktails & wine everyday 5-6pm, and half price oysters & bubbles on Wednesdays.

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Patio for Drinks

 

Kitty Cohen’s

Patio Bar | $11-30 | East Austin: 2211 Webberville Rd. Austin, TX 78702

Relaxing Palm Springs patio bar with 1970s retro aesthetic, flaunting bright umbrellas and summery cocktails in an East Austin poolside haven. Bask under palm trees for culinary pop-ups and events that bring out your inner rebel.

 

Bar Peached

Asian Fusion | $11-30 | Downtown: 1315 W 6th St. Austin, TX 78703

Clarksville neighborhood bar in a quaint white house with daily “Social Hour” on its wraparound porch from 4-6:30 pm. Cocktails/drinks, tacos, and asian-inspired snacky comfort food for under $6.

 

Contigo

American & Bar | $11-30 | East Austin: 2027 Anchor Ln. Austin, TX 78723

Bringing the ranch to Austin with al-fresco dining where friends can hang out at picnic tables, drink beer and margs, and enjoy fresh, quality bar food. Dishes like rabbit and dumplings or okra introduce true ranch vibes under the open Texas sky.

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Outdoor Day Drinking

 

Scholz Garten

German Sports Bar | $11-30 | Downtown: 1607 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701

Historic beer garden adjacent to UT stadium and popular pre-game hub for football games. The oldest operating business in Texas (est. 1866), serving traditional German fare and a variety of local and imported beers. Outdoor garden and patio embracing live music shows, large gatherings, and meetups.

 

Live Oak Brewing Company

Brewery | Under $10 | 1615 Crozier Ln. Del Valle, TX 78617

Locally-owned microbrewery and haven for loyal beer drinkers, serving lagers and ales crafted in old-world brewing style and resulting in regional and national acclaim. Family-friendly taproom and biergarten with German food trucks, artisan markets, and local events/parties.

 

Lazarus Brewing Company

Tacos & Coffee | Under $10 | East Austin: 1902 E 6th St Austin, TX 78702

Hip, cool, industrial look makes for a very spacious spot perfect for the post-work drink with coworkers or by yourself. Enjoy a nice selection of beers (mostly focused on English/Belgian beers) with some of their delicious tacos!

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Rooftop Bar

 

Upstairs at Caroline

Tacos & Bar | $11-30 | Downtown: 621 Congress Ave Austin, TX 78701

Covered rooftop makes for a spacious, gorgeous, hang out spot that combines outdoor scenery with a modern vibe. Perfect for hanging out with friends while getting some casual eats and playing oversized Jenga and other games.

 

Speakeasy

Rooftop Bar & Live Music | $11-30 | Downtown: 412 Congress Ave D, Austin, TX 78701

Old school vibe, live bands, and retro games. Complete with a small bowling alley, shuffleboard, darts. Huge place offering a variety of music for each room, great place to check out for a more chill night!

 

P6

Mediterranean | $31-60 | Downtown: 111 E Cesar Chavez St Austin, TX 78701

Beautiful, chic, fancy interior with plenty of space decorated with a soft color palette. Great view overlooking Towne Lake, known for serving Mediterranean small plates and cocktails.

 

Up Late:

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Late Night Eats

 

G’Raj Mahal

Indian | $11-30 | Rainey: 73 Rainey St. Austin, TX 78701

Eclectic, vibrant lounge serving authentic Indian cuisine, Austin-style. Intimate lounge setting with colorful and cozy indoor seating and a tented outdoor wooden deck, strategically planted on bustling Rainey Street for late night romping pre- or post- meal.

 

Justine’s Brasserie

French | $11-30 | East Austin: 4710 E 5th St. Austin, TX 78702

1937 bungalow-turned-restaurant with a nostalgic, rique aesthetic serving edgy French cuisine. Indulge in rich fare and a sense of joie de vivre during very late night dining.

 

Second Bar + Kitchen

American | $11-30 | Downtown: 3121 Palm Way, Austin, TX 78758

Refined experience in the Second Street District offering craft cocktails, small plates, and contemporary dishes featuring seasonal flavors and local ingredients. Classy but casual downtown spot, open till midnight for late night dining.

 

Gourdough’s Public House

American | $11-3o | South Lamar: 2700 S Lamar Blvd. Austin, TX 78704

Sinfully delectable donut treats and fried indulgences incorporated into every recipe, with punny dishes like Big Baller Burger and Mother Clucker chicken biscuit. Open late for a heavenly nightmare of fried options. Not for the faint of heart.

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Desserts

 

Amy’s Ice Creams

Ice Cream | Under $10 | 3500 Guadalupe St Austin, TX 78705

Fun, Funky, and just about as “Austin” as ice cream can get. Known for its funky flavors and fun workers, great place to take the family for a sweet treat. Workers will usually do tricks with your ice cream! What’s better than that?

 

Frost

Gelato | Under $10 | Domain: 11700 Rock Rose Ste 176 Austin, TX 78758

Awarded with being one of the “best gelatos in the U.S.,” hidden on the corner of Domain Northside, offers an assortment of flavors comparable to a real Italian Gelato shop, a go-to if you’re looking for quality, authentic gelato. (One of HMG’s personal favorites!)

 

Lick Honest Ice Creams

Ice Cream | Under $10 | South Austin: 1100 S Lamar Blvd Bouldin Creek

A truly “honest” ice cream shop notable for using pure ingredients from family-owned farms, acclaimed for making unique flavors such as “goat cheese and thyme,” taste good. A lighter ice cream with many options for dairy-free or vegan flavors. (Another HMG personal favorite!)

 

Steel City Pops

Ice Cream | Under $10 | Campus: 3001 Guadalupe St Austin, TX 78705

A twist on the typical popsicle, this pop shop turns the otherwise simple popsicle treat into a gourmet dessert. Lots of options for dipping syrups, toppings, and dust, cute patio for enjoying your dessert!

 

Gelateria Gemelli

Ice Cream | Under $10 | East Austin: 1009 E 6th St Austin, TX 78702

Cute, quiet, and quaint gelato shop that offers unique flavors such as Vietnamese coffee and earl grey. Dimly lit, romantic, and perfect for a romantic first date!