Austin Food and Beverage Guide
Travel
Austin Food & Beverage Guide
June 13, 2013
My favorite restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and can't-miss spots around Austin.
Austin is always changing, which means there's always something new worth checking out. I've lived in Austin for over seven years, and even after all this time, I'm still discovering places that have been on my list since my first visit. Consider this a curated starting point for some of my favorite restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and things to do, whether you're visiting for the first time or just looking for somewhere new to try.
Where to Kickstart
Your Morning
There’s no shortage of great coffee in Austin. These are the spots I find myself returning to again and again.
Wright Bros. Brew and Brew - A coffee shop, beer bar, and café all in one. I happily go out of my way for their bagels and schmear. – 500 San Marcos St #105
Flat Track Coffee - Another "slashy": coffee shop/bike shop. One of Austin's more unique cafés, with great coffee and a laid-back atmosphere. – 1619 E Cesar Chavez St
Jo’s Coffee - With several locations around the city, I usually end up at the South Congress shop when showing visitors around SoCo. It's also home to the iconic "I love you so much" mural. – 1300 South Congress Avenue
Flitch Coffee - It’s not Austin if you’re not getting your coffee out the side of a vintage camper trailer. A coffee trailer tucked into East Austin next to a lumber yard. It's a quintessential Austin stop with a relaxed neighborhood feel. – 641 Tillery St
Breakfast Worth Waking up For
Austin knows how to do brunch, and these are the spots I keep coming back to. Whether you're catching up with friends, showing visitors around town, or just looking for an excuse to linger over coffee and mimosas, you can't go wrong with any of these.
Joann’s Fine Foods - One of my favorite breakfast spots in the city. Order the huevos rancheros or the loaded hash browns, and don't skip the pineapple-orange mimosa. – 1224 S Congress Ave
Mattie’s Austin - When it comes to hosting out-of-towners, this place is always at the top of my list. Picture-perfect in every way. The historic property is beautiful, the grounds are filled with roaming peacocks, and the whole experience feels quintessentially Austin. – 901 W Live Oak St
Sawyer & Co - A stylish mid-century-inspired diner serving Southern Louisiana comfort food. Come for the retro atmosphere, stay for the biscuits and brunch classics. – 4827 E Cesar Chavez St
My Personal Favorite:
Mattie’s Austin– 901 W Live Oak St
When it comes to hosting out-of-towners, this place is always at the top of my list. Picture-perfect in every way. The historic property is beautiful, the grounds are filled with roaming peacocks, and the whole experience feels quintessentially Austin.
Unique Spots for The Cocktail Connoisseur
From hidden speakeasies with a dark past tucked away in corners to rooftop lounges with panoramic city views, Austin's cocktail and bar landscape is brimming with stylish spots. From meticulously crafted concoctions that push the boundaries of creativity to classic cocktails served with a modern twist, Austin is filled with true alchemists. Get ready to immerse yourself in the intoxicating ambiance, the infectious energy, and the unrivaled flair that defines Austin's bar scene.
Midnight Cowboy - Reservations are a must for this intimate speakeasy on Dirty Sixth. Once a brothel (in operation until 2011), it's now one of my cocktail bars, with bartenders who often prepare drinks table side. – 313 E 6th St
Garage Bar - Hidden inside an unassuming downtown parking garage, this sleek cocktail bar is worth seeking out. It's one of those places that feels like you've stumbled onto a secret. – 503 Colorado St
Here Nor There - Another speakeasy, and probably the city's most exclusive. Reservations are made through the app well in advance, and there's a strict no-photo policy, making the experience feel even more mysterious. –Download the app for details
Top Bar Pick:
Tiki Tatsu-ya - I can't help but rave about this place. The immersive interior is full of thoughtful details, and the tiki cocktails are some of the best in town. If you're with a group, order one of the large-format drinks—they come with a fun theatrical presentation that's part of the experience. – 1300 S Lamar Blvd
Dinners Worth The Splurge
It's a rare sight to catch me reserving a table for a lavish, sit-down affair, because the city has such an amazing selection of affordable spots. However, on those special occasions when I decide to go all out, I ensure that I get the biggest bang for my buck.
dipdipdip Tatsu-ya - You can't talk about Austin's food scene without mentioning the Tatsu-ya family of restaurants. This modern take on Japanese shabu-shabu lets you customize your own hot pot experience with a variety of broths, meats, vegetables, and sauces. – 7301 Burnet Rd Ste 101
Launderette - Housed in a former laundromat, this neighborhood favorite serves seasonal New American dishes in a bright, stylish space. It's just as good for brunch as it is for dinner. – 2115 Holly St
Barley Swine - A tasting menu built around seasonal ingredients that changes regularly, making every visit a little different. It's one of Austin's best spots for a special occasion. – 6555 Burnet Rd #400
And there you have it, my friends—a curated glimpse into the enchanting world of Austin. This city has captured my heart, and I hope it will capture yours too. From the vibrant food scene to the eclectic shops and hidden gems, Austin is a haven of creativity, culture, and limitless possibilities. Whether you're a visitor or a resident, I encourage you to continue exploring this captivating city, immersing yourself in its rich tapestry of art, music, and culinary delights. So, go forth, my friends, and let Austin's charm guide you on an unforgettable journey. Until next time, keep Austin weird and always stay curious.
