Austin’s food scene is every bit as wild, weird, and creative as you’d expect. From iconic BBQ joints to fresh food trucks and trendy eateries, you’ll find something new on every street corner.
This is a city where breakfast tacos are a rite of passage, and local produce ends up on every table. Whether you’re grabbing brisket at a market or sipping third-wave coffee downtown, you’re covered.
Honestly, Austin’s kept its independent spirit alive—most top spots are run by passionate locals and have unique twists you won’t find anywhere else.
What to Eat in Austin
Breakfast Tacos
You can’t visit Austin without devouring a few breakfast tacos. Filled with eggs, cheese, and plenty of Tex-Mex options, these are a morning staple. You’ll find killer versions all over—you seriously can’t go wrong.
Texas Brisket
Brisket is king here. Pitmasters spend all night smoking it low-and-slow, resulting in juicy, melt-in-your-mouth meat. Franklin Barbecue and Interstellar BBQ are must-hits for incredible brisket.
Queso
This creamy, cheesy dip is a main event at Austin hangouts. Some places spice it up with green chiles or brisket on top. It’s perfect fuel for a night out or just because.
Pastrami Sandwich
Austin’s not just about Tex-Mex—Mum Foods is famous for its pastrami on rye, often called one of the city’s best sandwiches. Don’t miss it if you want something a little different.
Breakfast Kolaches
These soft, slightly sweet buns stuffed with sausage, cheese, or fruit come from the city’s Czech heritage. You’ll find them in bakeries and coffee spots all over town.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Austin
East Austin
East Austin is the city’s most vibrant food hub. You’ve got everything from BBQ joints to Caribbean hot spots and food trucks galore. Don’t skip Canje for modern Caribbean, or check out coffee shops and laid-back bars up and down East Sixth Street. Basically, if you’re hungry and adventurous, start here.
South Congress (SoCo)
Famous for its funky vibe and great eats, SoCo is packed with bistros, taco windows, and buzzy brunch spots. Grab a coffee and people-watch, and you’ll never run out of stellar dining choices. Expect everything from Texas-style breakfasts to upscale dinners.
Downtown
Downtown Austin has glitzy steakhouses alongside food trucks and legendary bars. It’s the perfect spot to hit before a show or to catch local music. Some of the best upscale and casual meals in town are found right here.
Rainey Street
What started as a row of historic bungalows is now a buzzing strip of outdoor patios, creative eats, and funky bars. You’ll find spots like Emmer & Rye serving up incredible, chef-driven dishes, alongside easygoing trailers for a quick bite.
North Loop
This neighborhood is low-key, local, and packed with indie coffee shops and cool hangouts. Expect cozy vibes and everything from killer kolaches to vegan treats and classic comfort fare.
Budget Restaurants in Austin
Corinne
Corinne is an affordable, stylish spot downtown where you can get quality brunch, lunch, or dinner without draining your wallet.
The menu is heavy on comfort: crispy chicken, juicy burgers, and killer cocktails.
Great for casual group meals or even solo eats if you don’t want anything fancy.
Mum Foods
Known for their incredible pastrami, Mum Foods is a farmers market success story now slinging sandwiches from their own shop on the East Side.
If you’re into smoky meats and Jewish deli classics, this is your spot for a unique lunch without the tourist trap vibe.
The brisket chili is a winner if you spot it on the specials board!
Mid-Range Restaurants in Austin
Interstellar BBQ
Interstellar BBQ is new-school barbecue but with some serious credentials—they recently nabbed a Michelin star. Expect creative sides and a relaxed vibe, but a line out the door on weekends. The brisket and rib specials are pure comfort.
Dai Due
Farm-to-table is not just a buzzword here. Dai Due takes pride in sourcing local, sustainable meat and produce. The menu changes with the seasons, but anything from their wood-fired grill is always a good idea, and you’ll find house-made sausages that are Texas through and through.
Emmer & Rye
This Rainey Street star focuses on heirloom grains and small plates, plus an ever-rotating menu. You’ll want a group to try all the little dishes. Don’t sleep on dessert!
Luxury Restaurants in Austin
Hestia
For a real splurge, Hestia is a modern grill house in Downtown with open-fire cooking and showstopper plates. It’s perfect for a special occasion, date night, or if you just want to see how creative Texas dining can get.
Best Coffee Shops in Austin
Summer Moon Coffee
This local favorite is famous for its oak-roasted coffee and proprietary “moon milk”—a sweet, creamy addition that makes every cup extra smooth. Chill, friendly, always good for a break from exploring.
Epoch Coffee
Open 24/7 at its North Loop location, Epoch is a cozy, artsy spot with great pastries and lots of nooks for hanging out or working. The crowd’s a true slice of Austin—students, freelancers, and regulars.
Flitch Coffee
Grab your latte from a vintage trailer on the East Side. It feels super Austin, and their specialty drinks are out of this world. The pastries (often from local bakers) are worth getting up early for.
Houndstooth Coffee
Minimal and modern, with excellent espresso and rotating local roasteries. It’s a favorite with coffee nerds and those looking for a prime spot to catch up with friends.
Markets in Austin
Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller
This Sunday market is packed with everything from fresh produce to award-winning local cheese and baked goods. It’s dog-friendly and popular with Austin locals who love supporting small producers.
Boggy Creek Farm
Visit one of Austin’s oldest urban farms midweek for organic vegetables, eggs, and even flowers. It’s a slice of the countryside right in the city, and the vibe is always chill and welcoming.
Budget Accommodation in Austin
Radisson Hotel Austin
Just north of central Austin, this budget-friendly hotel is clean and comfortable. Three-star amenities and a quick ride to downtown make it a solid pick for travelers who want to keep costs down but not skimp on convenience.
Drifter Jack’s Hostel
Perfect for solo travelers or anyone on a budget who likes a social vibe, Drifter Jack’s is colorful, super welcoming, and steps from the university and public transport. Offers free Wi-Fi and murals everywhere.
Firehouse Hostel
Located in a historic building downtown, this hostel is all about value, offering both dorms and private rooms. You also get quick access to music venues and late-night eats.
Motel 6 Central Austin
A classic no-frills option close to the action. Great for road-trippers or travelers who just need a place to crash, and parking’s simple too.
Austin Motel
Funky, famous, and found on South Congress, this motel is an Austin tradition. Affordable rates, a pool, and retro vibes just add to the fun.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Austin
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Right in the heart of downtown, this 4-star spot puts you super close to nightlife, food, and attractions. Rooms get great reviews for comfort and service, and you’re steps from Sixth Street.
Hotel Saint Cecilia
If you want style without breaking the bank, this boutique hotel in SoCo is known for its cool, creative design and serene pool area. Pricey for mid-range, but totally worth it for the vibe.
East Austin Hotel
Affordable, stylish, and right by some of the city’s best bars and restaurants, East Austin Hotel is all about location. There’s an outdoor pool and unique room decor—plus, you can walk everywhere.
Hotel San Jose
This South Congress favorite has chill garden courtyards and creative rooms. Mid-century style, a good pool, and lots of spots to lounge around make it a guest favorite.
The LINE Austin
Stay here for lakeside views and a central downtown spot. Great eats, a rooftop pool, and easy access to hiking trails are all part of the deal.
Luxury Accommodation in Austin
The Loren at Lady Bird Lake
This new hotel is gorgeously designed and has lake views, an amazing spa, and dining by acclaimed chefs. You’re steps from South Congress and the Lady Bird Lake trails.
Austin Proper Hotel
Central, striking, and filled with thoughtful details, Proper is a place to splash out. The rooftop pool, hip bar, and on-site restaurants get tons of love.
Four Seasons Hotel Austin
The classic luxury experience. Guests rave about the pool, rooms, and lakeside setting. You’re right downtown, but it always feels like a getaway.
South Congress Hotel
A stylish stay in the city’s most iconic neighborhood. Modern rooms, several restaurants, and the feeling you’re in the heart of it all.
Hotel Saint Cecilia
If you want splurge-worthy boutique, this creative hideaway mixes music history with comfort and amazing hospitality. It’s close to nightlife, shops, and great eats.
