Austin’s dining scene has evolved into one of the most dynamic and influential in the country. It is no longer just about barbecue and Tex-Mex—although both remain essential—but about a broader culinary identity shaped by innovation, local sourcing, and cultural diversity. From East Austin’s creative kitchens to downtown’s polished dining rooms, the city offers a remarkable range of experiences for every kind of eater.
The best restaurants in Austin reflect the city’s independent spirit. Chefs here are not simply replicating trends from the coasts; they are interpreting Texas ingredients, global techniques, and neighborhood character in ways that feel distinctly local. That means you will find wood-fired Gulf seafood next to hand-pulled noodles, and natural wine bars beside legendary taco trucks.
What makes Austin’s food culture especially compelling is its accessibility. Even the most celebrated tables tend to favor a relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere over stiff formality. Whether you are planning a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable weekday meal, you can expect serious cooking without pretension.
This guide is built for locals and visitors who want to eat well and eat smart. It prioritizes restaurants that consistently deliver excellent food, strong hospitality, and a true sense of place. The focus is on quality, originality, and value rather than hype or fleeting social media fame.
Understanding Austin’s neighborhoods is key to navigating its food scene. South Congress, East Sixth, Clarksville, and the Domain each offer different energy and dining styles. Knowing where to go for a romantic dinner versus a lively group brunch can make or break your experience.
Below is a curated list of 15 essential Austin restaurants, selected for their consistency, culinary influence, and ability to satisfy a range of cravings and budgets.
Ember Kitchen
| Address | 800 W Cesar Chavez St Ste PP110, Austin, TX 78701 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 291-6846 |
The service was probably the best service we had received in a very long time anywhere. Several members of the staff other than our waiter, stopped by our Table to check on us and wish us a happy anniversary. They also all signed a card which was really nice and gave us complementary shots and complementary dessert! Truly amazing service.
We had the market fresh crudo and crabcake for appetizers. Both were very good and the crabcake was full of jumbo lump crab. My husband had the bone and ribeye and it was cooked too perfection. I had the Josper half chicken and it was super tasty. I would order all of the items we had again.
The ambience is good and I’m sure it can be a lively place if that’s what you’re looking for. Since it was our 20 year anniversary we were seated upstairs away from the bar area. We could still see what was happening without it being as loud. Everything was perfect & we will definitely go back.
Loved the live music and dining in the balcony area! Food was amazing! We ordered the braised short ribs, which was a special not on the menu. The morita shrimp appetizer was sooo delicious!! The have masa tortillas to dip instead of the bread if you are gluten free. The broccolini was also a great pairing with the short ribs! Megan was super helpful and knowledgeable serving us! My husband loved his drink as well!
Ember absolutely blew me away. The short rib with polenta was hands-down the best meal I’ve ever had — melt-off-the-bone tender, rich, and perfectly balanced. Every bite was incredible.
The food is on the pricier side, but it is 100% worth it for the quality and experience. My friend ordered a fish dish that was equally delicious and beautifully prepared.
The staff was extremely attentive without being overbearing, and the atmosphere had such a great lounge vibe with music that made the whole evening feel special. The wine list is small but thoughtfully curated — we had the Malbec and it paired perfectly with dinner.
I also really appreciated how gluten-free friendly the menu is — so refreshing to have so many options without feeling limited.
We’ll absolutely be back. Ember is a gem.
I thought it was good but the quality of the dishes was not always as great as they sounded on the menu. We started with four small plates. First was the caviar bites, which might have been the most disappointing. I found the masa overpowered the caviar, did not taste nearly as great as it looked. The octopus carpaccio was as good as advertised, lots of great and interesting flavors, and I am not normally a fan of octopus. I really enjoyed the morita shrimp, especially being able to use the flatbread to dip. We had two specials as our mains. The real highlight of the meal was the pork chop mole. The mole was good and the pork was great, perfect char from the Josper grill. I really like the whole red snapper, my friend not as much as he got frustrated with the bones and scales. Overall a lot of good dishes, a few great, but could use more consistency.
We love to eat, and love food. Simply put, our anniversary dinner at Ember was absolutely a Top 3 dining experience in our 26 years of marriage! The only thing that topped it was a one-off dinner at The James Beard House we were lucky enough to be a part of...and that is saying a LOT to just barely be runner-up to that!
Not only was the food simply incredible (we had filet skewers, the seafood plate, and the mole pork chop...with roasted carrots and the potatoes as sides, and the flan for dessert) but it was the best service we've ever received. Not only from our server but the entire staff from chefs to managers to bartenders. You do not just get an incredibly attentive server, the entire restaurant staff seems attentive to your needs.
To go deeper on what makes Ember so special, they cook nearly everything in a Mesquite coal Josper oven which is unique to ATX. It gives a distinct smoke to everything, but in no way overpowering. The culinary team at Ember then highlights the Josper with both incredibly complex dishes (pork chop with handmade mole that is deep, rich, complex, and delicious paired with sweetness via a sweet potato with honey drizzle and brightness of fresh citrus and absolute umami bombs via picked / brined tomatoes) and the most "simple" of dishes (crispy roasted yukon and red bliss potatoes with garlic, shallot, tossed in tallow...simply amazing and a must have) everything is constructed and executed perfectly.
Whether a special occasion or just a random Wednesday, this is one of the best restaurant experiences anywhere. Huge thanks to the staff at Ember for making our special night super memorable.
Corinne Austin
| Address | 304 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (737) 787-7018 |
We had an amazing dinner at Corinne Austin while visiting Austin! The atmosphere was elegant, cozy, and made for a perfect date night. We highly recommend the Crab Croquettes, Braised Wagyu, Wild Mushroom Bolognese, and don’t skip the Key Lime Pie for dessert—it was the perfect ending to the meal. Everything was flavorful and beautifully prepared, and the service was excellent. Reservations are definitely recommended, especially during peak hours. We spent a little over $100 for two people, and it was absolutely worth it. We’ll definitely be back the next time we’re in Austin!
Beautiful restaurant located inside the Marriott hotel. We had great drinks from the bar. The food is incredible! I had the half chicken with pommes puree and broccolini. So flavorful! My husband had the Braised wagyu and it was delicious! He ate every last bit of that plate! Lol. For desert we had the caramel bread pudding. It was thinner than expected but the flavor was out of this world! We thoroughly enjoyed our romantic evening. The restaurant is beautiful.
I feel Corinne’s is an underrated restaurant and should be one to visit the next time you’re downtown.
Chris took care of us and walked us through the entire menu, letting us know bestsellers but also his personal favorites. He did not stray us wrong, as we took his suggestions and ended up loving each and every dish!
We ordered
the watermelon feta salad
Parker house rolls
Burrata with rustic bread
Tuna bruschetta
Texas redfish
Pork ribeye with roasted corn, agave
Gooey butter cake with vanilla ice cream
For drinks we tried their universal sound margarita (watermelon margarita) since it’s Margarita May the margs were 1/2 off! $8 was a steal and it was delicious and strong.
Portions are great here, food is super fresh, and entire staff is personable. Would come back based on the service alone—Chris made the experience extra special.
Highly recommend for dinner for date night, friends, or a special occasion.
5/5 would come back again!
I went to Corinne yesterday for my birthday and had the most amazing time! The manager, Kyle, was incredible and made the experience feel so special from the moment we arrived. Our waiter, Alexander, was also amazing, he was attentive the entire night and always made sure we were taken care of.
Everything was perfect, and I truly felt celebrated. Thank you so much for making my birthday so memorable.
This dining experience was fantastic. Ellie is such an incredibly lady! She is sweet and kind and a gracious host at her job! The Filet Mignon with roasted mushrooms, asparagus, and mashed potatoes was delicious! The Parker hand rolls were to die for. So decadent and absolutely yummy. The Old Fashioned was seasonal with pumpkin, very smooth with a touch of sweetness. Finale had to be the Ooey Gooey cake with vanilla ice cream that was so good! I recommend anyone to come here and ask for Ellie to be your server. She is great! Thank you Austin for embracing me on my first time visiting the city.
Hestia
| Address | 607 W 3rd St #105, Austin, TX 78701 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:30 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:30 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 333-0737 |
My wife and I made a visit to Hestia during our trip to Austin. We primarily chose this restaurant because it was part of the Chase Sapphaire Open Tables. We made a reservation for the bar as we like to sit at the bar to enjoy conversations with the bar tenders.
When we arrived, we were promptly greeted and sat at the bar. The service at the bar was really good, and we given a complementary champange when we arrived. Our reservations were later, and the place was mostly empty.
We really enjoyed the entrance of the restaruant and the overall vibe, it felt very industrial and seemed to fit the area well. My wife started with a dirty martini which she is very particular about and really enjoyed it.
We started with the charred corn and scallops, both were very good and presented and plated nicely. We were also served bread and butter. The bread was very good, and the butter was perfectly salted. For mains, we opted for the Red Ranger Chicken and Halibut, both mains were also very nicely presented and had good flavor.
Our only complaint is that we had planned on sharing the mains, but the Halibut arrived much sooner than the chicken and we had to wait some time for the chicken to arrive.
For a Michelin star resturant, we felt the value was worth it and we will definetly visit again when we are in Austin.
Great fine dining restaurant in the heart of Austin. The presentation of dishes is very good and their service is top notch. Every dish was carefully crafted with great attention to detail and was served really well by their staff. The vibe/atmosphere is very pleasant and not too loud.
Halibut is a must try - the taste is really balanced and the sauce that accompanies the fish is really good.
Crab tostadas were also good but you only get one piece per order so make sure to order generous amount.
The sourdough ice cream is very different and had a great mix of sweetness, saltiness and sourness - something you’d not get at a lot of places.
Review: Heatia Cozy Luxury with Hits and Misses
Visited Heatia last Saturday. The overall ambiance is cozy yet luxurious, making it a perfect spot for dinner. Even though it was a busy Saturday night, the staff managed everything quite well, and the food was served surprisingly fast.
Here’s a breakdown of the dishes I tried:
🤍 The Highlights (Must-Orders!)
• Caviar Tart: Absolute perfection! This was incredibly delicious. The chef did an amazing job balancing all the flavors beautifully. Highly recommended!
• Scallops: Perfectly executed. The scallops were beautifully tender and cooked just right.
• Yuzu Orange Shaved Ice: A fantastic dessert to end the meal. It was delicious, refreshing, and the perfect palate cleanser.
💬 The Average / Not For Me
• Tuna Crudo: This was alright, but the tuna was very lean. I personally prefer fattier fish, so this particular dish didn't really hit the spot for me. (If you prefer lean fish, you might like it!)
• Wagyu Tartare: I found the beef aroma/gamey scent to be a bit too strong for my liking.
• Halibut: The fish itself was cooked beautifully—not overcooked at all and still juicy. However, the sauce was unfortunately a bit too salty.
Overall:
A great restaurant with a lovely atmosphere and solid service, even during the weekend rush. The Caviar Tart and the dessert were the stars of the night. For the mains, it really comes down to personal preference regarding texture and flavor profiles. Definitely worth a visit!
We love love love Hestia. What an incredible meal. You cannot go wrong here. Order a bite for sure. Corn or crab tostada are delicious. Then head over to the Tuna Crudo and Wagyu Tartar and Scallop and for the mouth watering entree is the halibut. You will be craving the flavors till the next time. Enjoy every morsel of flavor in every bite!
The staff always spoils me when I come through. They offer a phenomenal tasting menu, but you can also order à la carte.
The wine menu is my favorite aspect - I can find some real old-world wines in the cellar that are decently priced and pair beautifully with their dishes. They also have excellent by-the-glass options and well-crafted cocktails. My wife’s favorite is a drink they serve on fire tableside - it’s quite an experience if you’ve never seen it done.
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had at Hestia speaks to their attention to detail: on my first visit, I mentioned I only drink bottled water. They didn’t have any available, so I just drank my Sauvignon Blanc to quench my thirst. The next time I returned, they had taken notes and specifically bought Mountain Valley bottled water for me. They remembered and made sure they had some on hand when I came through. That kind of thoughtful, personalized service is what sets exceptional restaurants apart.
If you’re looking for a tasting menu experience in Austin, this is it. Great ambiance, upscale atmosphere - dress up and come have a wonderful time. Hestia delivers on every level.
Aba Austin
| Address | 1011 S Congress Ave Bldg 2 Suite 180, Austin, TX 78704 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (737) 273-0199 |
Aba Austin made for such a great date night. We got on the list for the main restaurant but after visiting the outdoor bar, directly across the walkway, we decided to post up there. Reason, my wife and I weren’t exactly met with warmth by the three hostesses, but we were eager to try the restaurant and discovered that adjacent to it, the same establishment has an outdoor bar, beautifully decked out in plants and romantic lighting.
The drinks were creative and delicious, and every small plate we tried was packed with flavor. The Mediterranean-inspired menu felt fresh, vibrant, and perfect for sharing. The atmosphere was warm, stylish, and relaxed without feeling too formal. Definitely one of those places where you want to slow down, enjoy the conversation, and try a little bit of everything. The bartender was inclusive, friendly and informative, and we honestly felt a little more welcome on that side of the restaurant. Looking forward to coming back again.
Visiting from SF and came here for a friend's birthday lunch!! We were lucky and got seated immediately outside, which was shaded and still very comfortable, even on a hot day. This place was SPECTACULAR; I'm always a little skeptical of places with a lot of hype, but Aba truly delivered on every expectation. We ordered the whipped feta, brussel sprouts, heirloom chicken thighs, and the pistachio crusted halibut. They were all so delicious!!!! Zero misses. Every dish was bursting with flavor and thoughtfully put together. We reached literal flow state as we alternated taking bites from each dish. I'm very taken by the whipped feta; super fluffy and came with very well seasoned pita bread!!
Major shoutout to our amazing waiter, David, for being an absolute joy and so incredibly kind to us. He was super helpful and attentive!!! For my friend's birthday, we chose a date cake to take to go (which tasted DIVINE), and we nearly left without it -- but David ran after us to make sure we didn't forget it 🥹💖 #RaiseForDavid #BonusForDavid
My wife and I had come here to celebrate me completing chemo. I was going to rate it 5 stars for great food ambience and service. It was an amazing experience.
Then the bill came... I guess my wife had put in the reservation the reason for the visit because they added an extra dessert to our order... Then they comped the entire meal... Over 100 dollars fully covered. Such a nice gesture that will not be forgotten... Thank you Jennifer A.
I recommend making a reservation. A friend and I went on a whim but were lucky enough to get bar seats but we had to wait and watch closely. The drinks were really good, great options and variety. The food was really good. I’m excited to go back for some items I was too full to try this time. We got the salmon kebabs— delish. Idk what they put in that rice but omg that was one of my fave parts of the meal. The crab cakes were really good, the salad garnish was surprisingly good too haha. I will say the potato’s and brussel sprouts were just okay to me.
Very nice place for dinner. Portions of the appetizers are on the smaller side, but extremely tasty and fresh. We go the truffle salmon. Also ordered the pot roast which was very tender. I personally would’ve wanted a little more vegetables on the side, as the sweet potato was really good, but still enjoyed the meal. Great ambiance and can be a nice place for anniversaries, date nights, or a place to drink wine in the evening. Still family friendly though!
Caroline
| Address | 621 Congress Ave Suite 101, Austin, TX 78701 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 982-6766 |
Hanna was AMAZING! We did a couples trip to Austin and I have to say -the people that live in Austin are the nicest people in any big city I’ve ever visited but Hanna stood out as one of the best. We went to Caroline for dinner and had an amazing dining experience. The atmosphere is fun but also elevated. Hanna took it upon herself to go and find us votes from all of her coworkers and who had the best tacos in town since we were on a “self guided taco tour”. She recommended great food off the Caroline menu and wonderful shops and bars to visit for late night hours after they closed, while we were there. She wasn’t just a server, she was like a friend we were visiting and was telling us what to check out. I recommend going to this restaurant and I recommend asking her as a server!
Amazing experience! The food was really good as well as the drinks. I would say the proportions are very good for one person. Our server, Victoria, was exceptional and attentive. She made sure our food was right and that we were very well accommodated.
We had a pretty good first experience at Caroline! From start to finish, our server Madison was attentive, warm, and personable. We really enjoyed having her take care of our family.
We started with the Crab & Artichoke Dip, which was quite good, followed by the Caroline Salad, which was flavorful and fresh.
For entrées, my husband ordered the Faroe Island Salmon with wild rice, citrus butter, arugula, and golden beet. Unfortunately, he wasn't a fan of the salmon's appearance or texture. He felt it reminded him of the texture you might find in a frozen supermarket meal, which was disappointing. Especially since it was around 34.00 and not like the salmon he is accustomed to being served. He ate it because he didn’t want to ruin our evening by sending it back.
On on the other hand, my son and I both ordered the Lobster Bucatini, and we absolutely loved it! Creamy, delicious, and definitely a favorite at our table.
A special shout-out to Wes, the manager, who was very personable and social. And the two young hostesses were incredibly sweet! I wish I could remember their names because they deserve a mention, too. ❤️
Overall, we appreciated the warm hospitality and enjoyed being welcomed by the Caroline team.
Happy exploring!
Josephine Local
A Girl on Google Maps 📍
My friend and I drove to Austin for brunch and absolutely loved the ambiance. The restaurant felt very welcoming, and we were seated right away by the window, which made the experience even better.
Our server was very friendly, offered helpful feedback on our selections, and gave great recommendations. We started with drinks—an OJ mimosa and coffee/matcha. It took a little while to receive our drinks, and our coffee and matcha arrived after our appetizer was served.
For our appetizer, we ordered the Burrata plate. It was paired beautifully, and everything on the platter complemented the delicious, creamy burrata perfectly.
There was a short wait before placing our main orders, but once we did, the food came out pretty quickly. We ordered the Huevos Rancheros and the Sweet Corn Cake Benedict. Both dishes were flavorful and well-balanced.
Overall, it was a great brunch experience. I would definitely recommend this spot and look forward to coming back again.
Casual atmosphere. Our server Aaron was wonderful. Looking forward to coming again. The huevos rancheros was delicious and a unique spin on a classic breakfast. The sweet corn cake Benedict was surprisingly light but satisfying! Sorry we didn’t take a picture before. You can see tho - we loved it.
Corner Restaurant
| Address | 110 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:30 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 6:30 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 6:30 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 6:30 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 6:30 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (512) 608-4488 |
I 100% see how this restaurant has such high reviews. Our food was very good. The service was also great. Management were very active in service. They both came to our table to check up on us which I was impressed by. The restaurant was also very nice ...music just right ... temperature just right and I liked how classy the decor was.
The food we had were burnt ends, reddish, baja tacos, coconut sorbet and bananas foster. My husband absolutely loved the dessert
TT brought me here and I’m so glad I followed through! Came in town a little late and wanted some good comfort food but didn’t think I would get it from Mariott! Made reservations but realized I didn’t need it for patio seating. The weather was too nice not to sit out and I’m so glad I did!
The bartenders Quincey and J. Woods were phenomenal with service and the vibes! Great convo, very attentive but not overbearing!
I ordered:
- Skillet Jalapeño Cornbread
- Wagyu Short Ribs
- Brussels Sprouts
- Bananas Foster’s Bread Pudding
Flavor combinations, presentation, textures and balance of every item was spot on!!
The only thing☝🏽 I wish I had was consistent hot food😩. The middle of my cornbread was cold. Quincy gladly sent it back and apologized and sent it back. It’s obviously wasn’t his fault but although the second cornbread was more warm than the first, that middle was still cooler than room temp.
⚠️Disclaimer: the presentation you see of the Bananas Foster Bread Pudding did not come presented to me that way. Ice cream slid off the banana right before I capturing🙃🫠
Oh - I always forget to take pics BEFORE digging in🥴
Nevertheless, I enjoyed my full dinner!
Now, I did see those Short Rib Taquitos on the late night menu and chile, I will be back for those!
Overall, great job Corner Restaurant👏🏽👏🏽
Arrived as a party of 3 with carry-on luggage at the busiest time of the day for lunch on a Tuesday. We were immediately greeted with a warm welcome and server was prompt. Food took a little longer than expected but it was worth the wait. The food was the best meal we had over 3 days in Austin and highly recommend. Please check your bill before paying, the server was extremely busy and dropped the wrong check - but was corrected as soon as I brought to his attention. I saved as a favorite spot in Austin and will definitely be back. Brisket Tacos, Green Chile Enchiladas, and Carnitas were the hits!
My first time in Austin, and the first dinner I wanted to take my wife had to be good… I looked at many places and this restaurant, Corner, popped up with 4.8 stars, but I think they were wrong; it deserves 5 stars… everything was delicious. We decided to start with the snapper ceviche, then the grilled flat iron steak, and the corn on the cob… amazing! And then a tres leches cake, which was delicious… I recommend it a thousand times over, and thanks to Brandon for his great service.
I stopped by Corner Restaurant during a short trip to Austin and ended up having a pretty relaxed, easygoing meal there. It’s right in a convenient downtown spot, so it was an easy choice after walking around the area for a while.
The place has a modern but comfortable feel—not too fancy, not too casual. I liked that it wasn’t overly loud, which made it easy to just sit and unwind. The staff were friendly and attentive without hovering, which I always appreciate.
Food-wise, everything was solid. I wouldn’t call it the most memorable meal I’ve ever had, but it was definitely enjoyable. The portions were decent, and the flavors were balanced—nothing too heavy or overwhelming. It felt like the kind of place you could come back to without overthinking it.
Overall, Corner Restaurant struck me as a dependable spot. Not a must-visit destination, but a good, reliable option if you’re nearby and want a comfortable meal in downtown Austin.
Odd Duck
| Address | 1201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:30 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:30 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:30 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:30 – 9:30 PM Friday: 4:30 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 4:30 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 4:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 433-6521 |
Odd Duck in Austin is a casual yet chic spot with upscale, modern dishes, and while it doesn’t have a formal Michelin star, it holds the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand.
The service is friendly, and they have a small parking lot with free valet, which is a nice convenience. Getting in during happy hour also makes the prices feel very reasonable.
The food was really good across the board. The aged wagyu burger, pork belly slider, and cast iron cheddar cornbread were all standouts. The fettuccine with shrimp, pork sausage, and kimchi alfredo was packed with flavor, and the spiced chips are a great side.
If you are looking for creative, high-quality dishes in a fun and stylish setting, Odd Duck is a fantastic spot to check out in Austin.
I loved this place! We came here to celebrate a friend’s birthday with the tasting menu, and it was such a great experience.
The service was amazing, the food was superb, and we genuinely had a wonderful time.
The patio was beautiful and had such a relaxed atmosphere—it was easy to have conversations and really enjoy the evening.
Everything felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared. You can tell they truly care about the quality of their ingredients and the intention behind each dish.
One of my fav Austin restaurants so far.
Incredible food, must try this place! The ceviche was an explosion of flavours, the pork belly slider was divine! The steak, perfect! Everything was absolutely amazing! The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable! Can’t wait to come back and bring my Canadian family here!
Odd Duck was one of my favorite dining experiences in Austin. The restaurant feels more European than American, with a strong focus on sharing plates, attention to detail, and genuine hospitality. The Fried Quail and Pork Belly Chalupa were the standout dishes, while the famous cornbread absolutely lived up to the hype. Cozy atmosphere, excellent service, convenient valet parking, and creative food made with local ingredients. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a relaxed but memorable meal in Austin.
Odd Duck had been on my list for a while since I’d gotten great feedback from friends that it was one of the best restaurants in Austin. Finally got to try it this weekend and it did not disappoint! Everything we ordered was delicious. Love that the menu changes every month based on what’s available locally. Portion size and prices were very fair and the service was great! Reservations are required. I will definitely be back!
Salty Sow
| Address | 1917 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 391-2337 |
This is an amazing restaurant. My wife and I recently went here to try their happy hour and had a great experience. First, the place has great ambiance and is huge. There’s two different indoor areas for seating and an outdoor patio. We enjoyed the atmosphere at the venue. Secondly, the service is fantastic and the staff is extremely friendly. Lastly, the food is delicious. We tried the truffle deviled eggs, duck fat fries, whipped cows milk ricotta, crispy brussel sprout leaves, and the catfish tacos. The truffle deviled eggs, whipped cows milk ricotta and crispy Brussel sprout leaves were my personal favorite. They took well known dishes and added a twist to them to make them unique. Not only were the dishes tasty, but the happy hour prices are fantastic. This is definitely a spot worth trying. We plan to return again soon and try more menu options.
Had another amazing girls' night out enjoying all the good food and drinks, this time at Salty Sow in Austin! The atmosphere is wonderfully comfortable, making it feel just like an old country home complete with charming tchotchkes and interesting rooms tucked away around every corner.
We decided to go the small bites route and shared everything so we could try a little bit of it all. We started off with a fantastic house-chicken liver mousse served in a glass jar with pickled red onions and toasted bread, followed by a roasted beet salad tossed with orange fillets, greens, goat cheese, and toasted hazelnuts. For heartier plates, we shared the melt-in-your-mouth pork belly served over creamy grits and a sizzling cast-iron skillet of smoked pork shoulder and cheesy goodness with warm tortillas. We even capped off the night with incredible fried desserts dusted in powdered sugar with a side of ice cream, paired with celebratory cheers and cocktails. Every single dish was packed with flavor, and the cozy, eclectic vibe made it the ultimate spot for a girls' night
My favorite spot in the neighborhood. The food is excellent across the board, with really rich flavors and great portions without feeling overdone. Everything tasted thoughtful and well-executed. Cool atmosphere too, laid back but still feels upscale enough for a nice dinner.
We went to Salty Sow on a Friday evening. We had a reservation and were promptly sat outside. They have huge fans, so in spite of the heat it was very pleasant.
We were excited to try the food, and were hungry. Our server appeared (I can't remember his name but he was a short guy with blond hair). I ordered a cocktail and my husband ordered beer to begin with. He went away and then came back asking my husband if he wanted some whiskey cocktail, and we corrected him that we had asked for a particular beer. No big deal.
We then ordered the deviled eggs and shishito peppers, and the red fish and short ribs for entree. A lady brought us the drinks, and the deviled eggs. Our server swung by and then disappeared. We thought the shishito peppers were on their way. We waited for what seemed like a really long time and still no shishito peppers. We also noticed that each table had a carafe of water except ours. We were just given water once, and then our server never bothered to fill the water up. Anyway, we kept waiting since there was no sign of the server. At this point, we felt he might have forgotten the second appetizer and we just did not want it, but he was nowhere to be found. A man (not our server) brought out our entrees. We then told him that we had been waiting for our second appetizer and would just want to cancel it. We asked if we could get the biscuits instead. He brought out the biscuits within a few minutes.
Now this is where it really annoyed us. Had our server just come over and said he had forgotten our shishito peppers, it would have been okay. Human. What he tried was act smart and dropped by saying the shishito peppers would be out to which we said that we didn't want an appetizer after an entree and had cancelled it. I almost felt like he was treating us as if he thought we don't really dine out or whatever and he could just make fools of us. This really didn't sit right with me. We asked him for water and he filled it up left.
The food was above average. The short ribs were good but my red fish had been hammered! The biscuits were good. The deviled eggs were good as well. Anyway, we finished our meal, and got the check, paid, and were waiting to finish our drinks. The receipt was on our table. Also, note, it was not a particularly busy day with several empty tables. What our server did next was absolutely unacceptable. I think he wanted to see if we had tipped him after his awful service. We did, but not 20% as we always do because of the soddy job he did, not to mention his attitude. We paid 15% which I think was more than what he deserved now. Out of nowhere, and mind you,after being absent for long periods before, he just came by, grabbed the paid up bill from our table to our shock, while we were still sitting and talking, looked at the bill, turned towards us, and muttered something angry under his breath and walked away. I have never seen this level of entitlement and bad behavior.
We left right away. We had been really looking forward to this meal but I would not want to go back. The food was good, but not great, and I would not want to put up with such obnoxious behavior as a paying customer.
Delicious food. I think the biscuits were the best biscuit I’ve ever had! Flaking and fabulous. All the food we tried was great! All the food came out hot.
Staff was Very accommodating. We came right before heading to the airport so we had luggage with us and the staff was able to accommodate us with our luggage.
The dining area was cute and comfortable temperature.
Zanzibar
| Address | 304 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (737) 787-6969 |
The vibe and visual aesthetic here are relaxing and satisfying. The food we ordered was yummy and full of flavor. Our server was Lexia and she was great! She was prompt, friendly, and had a lovely personality! We let her know we were coming off of a long, fun weekend visiting our cousin and that others might join us (and did, but awhile after we arrived), and yet she always made sure to check on us even when we were basically just enjoying the rooftop vibe and brain rotting to recharge.
This place is great for a date night, drink after work, GNO or even just a solo spot to read or people watch with a view. We will definitely stop in again on our next visit to Austin…and hopefully Lexia will be able to take care of us again! ☺️
Pretty cool spot.. they have a screen so you can watch the game too. Great sky view!!! Awesome drinking cups as well!!! Freaking love it.. I have yet to find my favorite drink. So I'll b back to try another 😆 the food was great.. I got a poke bowl 🥣 😋 so delicious. Definitely would recommend. FYI the spicy bowl is not spicy at all...
LOVE Zanzibar!!! We come here frequently and are never disappointed! Most recently, we celebrated a friend’s birthday here and the evening was perfect. The drinks come in cute cups, the food is flavorful, and the views are top notch. What really stands out here is the service. Every interaction we have is pleasant and everyone is so friendly. Our waitress even helped us get a table with a better view for our occasion! Highly recommend celebrating special occasions here, going for date night, we’ve even been on a Wednesday night… this place never misses!
Zanzibar offers a nice view of downtown Austin. The cozy atmosphere makes the place calm and enjoyable. My wife and I really enjoyed our time there. We had a bottle of wine, shrimp skewers, and jerk chicken wings, and everything was great. Our waitress did an excellent job—she checked on us often to make sure we were okay. Loved it! Sorry I forgot her name. Overall, I highly recommend this place.
Located on the seventh floor and accessible by the elevator from the side street. Place is very green with plants - live ones to be exact. Various seating areas that are mostly available to dine and drink. Some bar seating and few bar tables are available on a first come first serve basis. They offer a selection of specialty cocktails - some come in a specialty glass, others are lit to have a flame. Our server was happy and enthusiastic. This is a roof top bar with views of the area.
Upstairs at Caroline
| Address | 109 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78701 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (512) 982-6766 |
If you’re heading to Upstairs at Caroline, ask for Darnell — and thank me later.
We brought in a 15-man bachelor party, which let’s be honest, is not the easiest group to manage. From the moment we walked in, Darnell had an energy that set the tone for the entire night. He was upbeat, welcoming, and genuinely excited to make our experience special — and that enthusiasm never wavered, not even once.
Keeping up with a group our size is no small feat, but Darnell was on top of everything. Drinks were never empty for long, he remembered everyone’s orders, kept the vibe going, and somehow made each person in our crew feel like they were his only customer. That kind of attentiveness is rare, and it made a huge difference.
Beyond the service, his personality alone is worth the visit. He’s the type of bartender who adds to the fun without overstepping — cracking jokes, hyping up the groom, and keeping the energy high all night long. The whole group was raving about him by the end of the evening.
Darnell, you made an already great night truly unforgettable. We’ll absolutely be back, and we’ll be requesting you every time. Upstairs at Caroline is lucky to have someone like you behind the bar! 🙌
Absolutely loved it l! We came recommended and left ready to recommend to as many as we come across. The Texas air was treating us delightful with a lovely breeze accompanied by the fans they have all around the upstairs rooftop/patio. The food was quite delicious and Darnell took such great care of us. His recommendations were all a hit, no misses.
We came here because we saw such good reviews and the pictures look great, but seriously the food here is just awful. Like I wouldn’t wish this food on my worst enemy bad. The shrimp tacos are cold, the chicken on the nachos and tacos and salad was bbq sauce (who puts bbq sauce on Mexican food!?!) and the salad was something you’d get at the airport. Drinks were delicious and atmosphere was great. But dear god, do NOT come here for food!
Not a good first experience. Went around 5pm and it wasn’t busy when we sat down. Were sitting for about 10 minutes before someone acknowledged us. Mind you the waiters made eye contact with me multiple times and I had served the table next to us food and drinks. When someone did acknowledge us they said they’d be right with us. Some other waiter finally served us follow another ten minutes. $5 for a taco that wasn’t too bad but not worth the $5. Chips and dip weren’t terrible. Below average. Atmosphere was nice. TVs and games for guest to play was awesome. Overall I’d say if you like you got money they will take care of you. Very pretentious vibe here
What a lovely afternoon at the best rooftop patio. Darnell is the man, drinks were delicious, food is great and our fireplace table was perfect. We’ll be back.
Dean's Italian Steakhouse
| Address | 110 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 608-4490 |
This restaurant is amazing. The atmosphere is great - although you are in a crowded restaurant, the tables and lighting are set up like you aren't. For example, it's dark in the restaurant but each table has overhead lighting that allows you to see and read the menu.
The waiter was elegantly dressed and very versed not only in the food with recommendations, but also with wine and cocktails.
The food was top-notch. From the complementary bread in a unique bundt pan/tear off design to the beautiful French onion soup - can that be beautiful? To perfectly cooked aged steak, scallops, pasta, risotto, caprese salad I couldn't quit eating. You get the pic. The only negative was a very ordinary tiramisu. Go figure.
Not cheap, but one of the best meals I've had in a very long time.
Highly recommend this restaurant! The menu is spectacular. Every item I ate from here over a week was made with the highest-quality, best-prepared ingredients. Presentation is top for artistry and appeal. Highly recommend the burrata app, lobster bisque, wedge salad, chicken entree, petit fillet, roasted asparagus and mac & cheese sides. Parker rolls are a delight as well. Brunch offers wonderful fresh juices and an optimal menu variety. The pictured exquisite salad was the beet tartare. Desserts are housemade gorgeous creations that are equally as tasty as beautiful. Service in the bar table area was a bit wonky but the bartender Kristen was fantastic. She whipped up a beautiful delicious cocktail for me that hit the perfect notes as requested. Bravo!
Absolutely exceptional experience. Jacob, our waiter, did an awesome job taking care of us and made some excellent recommendations. He even bought out a small ramekin of mints for our 6 year old. The bread pudding is among the best I’ve ever had!
My boyfriend brought me here for my birthday and it was phenomenal. We got the bone marrow, crab cake, bucatini, Texas wagyu NY strip, asparagus, and crème brûlée. Every single thing was cooked amazing. Asparagus was thick pieces but cooked perfectly. Steak was delicious and tender. Dessert was a lovely touch to finish the meal. Very light but so tasty. Jacob had fantastic recommendations and bright personality.
I trusted my instincts and Google reviews as my family ate at Dean's to celebrate my graduation and my parents anniversary. I give it a solid 5☆ and then some!!!! Everything we had was spectacular, and even my dad (who doesn't eat bread & cheese) tried/loved it all. We greatly appreciated the outstanding service, attention to details, and quality of the food. Highly recommend the oysters Rockefeller, capital filet with lobster, wagyu meatballs, gnocchi, macaroni & cheese, and the bread pudding for sure!
Oh, and as we were waiting on our car, we also met a celebrity and got to see his rare Ferrari. That was a neat bonus!
Fixe Southern House
| Address | 500 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 888-9133 |
Impeccable service from start to finish! From the moment we walked in, we were warmly greeted and immediately seated — they even selected a beautiful booth for our family birthday celebration, which was such a thoughtful touch.
Our waitress (Amanda or Ashley) was incredible. She had great recommendations, checked on our table frequently, and was so welcoming and warm that she made us feel right at home. She truly helped make our celebration special.
And the food — absolutely delicious! We ordered a little bit of everything. The biscuits were phenomenal, the deviled eggs were a hit, and as a seafood foodie, I absolutely loved the salmon. The chocolate cupcake for dessert was the perfect finish — my group inhaled it within seconds of it hitting the table.
Everything about the experience was five stars. We’ll definitely be back, and I highly recommend it!
The hot, fresh-baked biscuits were lovely. The cauliflower had a nice kick to it, slightly spicy for my taste, but I have almost zero spice tolerance, so others will probably find it just right.
We also tried two mocktails, and both were quite good. They didn’t pair particularly well with the food, but they worked nicely as pre-dinner drinks.
The service was wonderful throughout. Overall, a very enjoyable experience.
We celebrated our 30th anniversary at Fixe and couldn't have chosen better. The Southern comfort food was outstanding across the board: crispy fried chicken, flavorful deviled eggs, warm fluffy biscuits, smoky barbecue beans, and a hearty vegetarian bowl. Even the tea was perfect--nothing disappointed.
The ambience is charming and elegant yet relaxed, making it ideal for a special occasion. Service was phenomenal, with our server Ashlyn being attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely warm all evening.
Highly recommend Fixe for elevated Southern dining in Austin!
The food and drinks were great. The service was exemplary. Jon was an excellent server, he made wonderful recommendations and was extremely attentive. We had the Honey Badger drink, it was smooth, smokey and strong. The prosecco was the best I’ve had. I enjoyed it so much, I shipped a bottle to my home. We had the shrimps and grits, fried chicken, BBQ beans, brussels sprouts and biscuits. Every items was delicious. The chicken was crispy and juicy, completely cooked to perfection. The warm biscuits were outstanding. We finished our meal off with espresso. My only critique is the lack of crisp on the Brussels sprouts.
Amazing ambiance and atmosphere. Kind owner who cares about his customers! Ordered the Brussels sprouts and steak - wish I took pictures but was with a group of people and we were hungry. Everything was fresh and comforting.
Great spot
Honey Moon Spirit Lounge
| Address | 624 W 34th St, Austin, TX 78705 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Phone | (737) 209-0319 |
Beautiful spot which rich textures and fabrics everywhere! The color pallets, quirky art and architecture are top notch! Waitress didn't check on us often which was surprising due to it being slow while we were there so imagine service might be underwhelming if they are busy. We all ran out of water mid meal and never got a refill. 🫠
The Tomatoes and Burrata app was pretty but underseasoned. A little salt and acid could really help. My Crispy Eggplant wasn't even slightly crispy but it had a really great flavor with mint and Tahini. The No Shade Mocktail was the star of the night! Delicious and different 😋 👌 😍. I would come back again to try other menu items, have another No Shade & enjoy the vibes. A nice little Austin original.
Honey Moon Spirit Lounge is a fantastic spot and absolutely worth a visit. The menu is thoughtfully crafted, with dishes that feel intentional and well-executed rather than just thrown together. The drinks are excellent too, with a bar program built around classic cocktails and fresh ingredients that really stand out. 
What really makes the place shine, though, is the staff. Everyone is friendly, welcoming, and clearly cares about making sure guests have a great experience. Combine that with the cozy, eclectic atmosphere and it’s an easy recommendation. Totally recommend checking it out.
A hidden gem with faults.
I rarely go near Austin UT area these days but I happened to be around there for a errand. Searched for brunch near me. This place was suggested. Ratings were good so I decided to give a try.
Mixed results:
Atmosphere: a beautiful bungalow surrounded by green areas to sit outside. Live swing music playing in the background. Charming.
Food: ok but nothing special. The French omelet with Boursin was well executed but had no flavor. Side Arugula salad was lacking dressing. The pickled red onions were a nice touch though.
Service: a disaster. The hostess was nice. My waiter (tall with short shorts) was standing about 10 feet away from my table chatting away with another customer for a few minutes before he noticed/paid attention to me. Not nice. He eventually came over to my table casually. Took my order (French omelet, cappuccino and sparkling water. I added a side of their fries later on), and walked away.
It took him about 10 min before he brought me my sparkling water (the place wasn't very busy).
About 20 min later, my cappuccino showed up but something was wrong, so the barman had to go back and redo it. I was not offered sugar or a teaspoon to stir. Had to ask for it. He brought me a teaspoon of sugar in a stainless steel cup, not in bags. A little shintzy.
Fries: a poor excuse for French fries (I am French myself). Plain, no flavor and the mouthful if cardboard. Obviously a commercial product. Adding chopped parley did not improve it.
A somewhat happy ending. As my waiter realized that I was upset about all the delays, he gracefully comped my the cappuccino and fries. Thanks for that.
In fine, if you're looking for a charming place to have a casual meal with friends, enjoy yourself. Not me. Too bad. I wanted to like this place.
Chef Alain Braux
Food is good. Salt shaker-has 1 hole! They have single serving tobasco only. No other pepper sauces. Won’t split a check if you have a party of 6 or more.
Patio is nice with heaters. Inside is dark but cute. On street parking. Quieter area.
Oh we had the best brunch here. Loved the atmosphere and the music. It’s one of those places that makes you want to stay longer, which we did. Jessie our server was so helpful and fun. Will be back next time we are in town.
Red Ash
| Address | Colorado Tower, 303 Colorado St #200, Austin, TX 78701 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 379-2906 |
Been trying to book this place for quite some time, and finally managed to snag a spot at the bar!
We started with their seasonal appetizer... roasted peaches with prosciutto, cheese, and pistachios. That was one tasty dish! 😀 And since they’re an Italian restaurant, I had to try the meatballs. They were so good. Perfectly cooked and paired beautifully with the creamy polenta.
For our mains, we went with something rich and something light. We had the bone marrow with mushroom risotto and the grilled snapper. They were so different but complemented each other really well. The mushroom risotto was delicious enough to eat on its own. Next time, I’ll probably try the bone marrow as an appetizer so I can enjoy it with some bread.
And finally… dessert! We were already pretty full, but heard they have one of the best tiramisus, so of course we had to try it. Great choice! 😋
Definitely worth the wait!
A hearty Italian American restaurant with handmade pasta and oven grilled meats.
Everything is pretty heavy so I would recommend going light on ordering.
Beet salad was refreshing compared to the bone marrows (must order though) and the octopus was also good. The pastas were extremely oily but overall unique and good.
Steak was unimpressive in my opinion btt it the chocolate cake for dessert was great!
Even with a reservation it took them 45 mins to seat us though. They were apologetic and nice about it but it was a long time to wait
After waiting 2.5 months for our reservation, our expectations were high, maybe unattainably so. But for me, this restaurant delivered. It’s not life changing, but I think it’s in the upper tier of Austin restaurants.
The service was the standout. Everyone we interacted with was very nice and personable. Our server was also a sommelier who taught me about some of the wines and helped me pick out a glass that I found interesting and tasty. This restaurant has the feel of a high class establishment, which goes a long way.
The next highlight was the cocktail list. My “smoke without fire” cocktail with rye and amaro and banana liquor was complex but balanced, well presented, and boozy. There were a bunch more I wanted to try, which is not something I can say for other expensive restaurants in Austin.
The burrata was good, but it’s burrata … it didn’t wow me. The beet salad was good, but it’s a beet salad … it didn’t wow me (my wife said it’s average for beet salads). The carrots did not do it for me - not soft enough and not enough punchy flavors. The rigatoni, however, was very good. A nice complex sauce and really good seasoning on the sausage. The GF pasta was 100% passable for the real thing. The chocolate peanut butter cake was amazing.
Our meal duration was 2:15 but I felt like 1:15. I think that’s a testament to the atmosphere and the good pacing of food.
Out the door for $195 after tip for 2 people (2 drinks and a mocktail). Valet parking was $15 plus a $10 tip, so $220 all in. It’s not cheap, and it’s not life changing, but if you’ve already had Wu Chow, ATX Cocina, and 3 Forks, this is your next stop. I’ll be coming back to try more cocktails and get a steak.
Red Ash was incredible from start to finish. The atmosphere hits you the second you walk in: warm, lively, upscale, and full of energy without ever feeling stuffy. It feels like the kind of place where every detail has been thought through, but nothing feels overdone.
The food was outstanding. The steak was beautifully cooked, rich, and packed with flavor, with the kind of char that makes you slow down after the first bite. The pasta was just as impressive, creamy, fresh, and loaded with crab, with a perfect balance of richness and brightness. Even the small details stood out, from the greens on the steak to the texture and seasoning on the pasta.
And then dessert absolutely finished the job. The cake with whipped cream and pistachios was fantastic, and the warm doughnuts with dipping sauces were ridiculous in the best way. One of those desserts where everyone says they are “just having one bite” and then suddenly the plate is gone.
Service was excellent the entire night. Attentive, polished, and genuinely welcoming without hovering. Red Ash has the full package: amazing food, great cocktails, sharp service, and an atmosphere that makes the whole dinner feel like an event. Easily one of the best meals I’ve had in Austin. Would absolutely go back.
I had my eye on Red Ash for a long time and promised myself this would be the first restaurant I’d visit on my first trip to Austin.
The ambiance here is everything you want for a great night out: upscale and lively, yet still relaxed and welcoming. The dim lighting sets a warm and intimate mood.
We started with the octopus a la plancha and the wood-roasted bone marrow, both of which were outstanding and set the tone for the rest of the meal. For mains, the tagliolini with fresh blue crab was delicate, rich, and perfectly balanced, while the sauteed North Pacific halibut was perfectly cooked and flavorful. The pork chop special was another standout. My friend described it as hearty, comforting, and expertly prepared.
From start to finish, the food and drinks were on point. A huge shoutout to Christina, our server, who was wonderful, super patient, kind, and attentive, making the entire experience feel effortless and enjoyable from the moment we sat down. I highly recommend Red Ash for dinner or date night. It’s an easy favorite and a place I’ll absolutely be coming back to!
Geraldine's
| Address | 605 Davis St, Austin, TX 78701 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 – 11:00 AM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 – 11:00 AM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 – 11:00 AM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 – 11:00 AM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 – 11:00 AM, 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 476-4755 |
Kevin E 🧔🏽is an awesome server! He was super friendly, checked on me often, and made sure i had everything i needed. He really made me feel welcomed and helped make the whole experience even better.
The food was amazing too. Everything came out fresh, tasted great, and you could tell a lot of care went into preparing it. This restaurant definitely goes above and beyond with both the food and the service. We’ll definitely be coming back and would recommend it to anyone looking for a great meal!
Went to Geraldine’s for brunch on our last full day in Austin after reading good reviews, we were not disappointed! The atmosphere was welcoming and service was noticeable from front house staff to our server. Matt O was great - very attentive, friendly, and gave us a few laughs. The food was great and came at a competitive price to other restaurants of Geraldine’s level. Extremely satisfying and would go back in a heartbeat!
My wife and I went here for dinner one night and breakfast another day the food is fantastic. Each item is very calculated and crafted particularly to make it the best it can be. We got the roasted beet dish, and I loved it. I typically can't stand beats I think they are terrible but these beats at this place I could eat everyday. The steak option with the foamed pepper thing was really good. They had smoked carrots that was like tasting brisket, I said it is brisket for vegetarians that's how good it was. The little baby corns were also delicious and the live music was really great but I don't know why they wait for it to start at 10:00 p.m. they should get bands up there earlier so you can enjoy your dinner and the entertainment. For breakfast I got the egg dish enchilada with mole sauce. It was super savory and cooked to perfection. The enchilada was awesome. I could just eat that by itself. And my wife got the quinoa salad with chicken which was also really good. Service was really good and they explained everything perfectly, super nice people. The atmosphere is really nice and the only downside was no live music until 10:00 p.m. why?
This was our first time trying this restaurant and I must say the jazz brunch was fantastic! Our server Matt O was welcoming, attentive, and very helpful when it came to selecting from the menu.
We ordered the omelette and chilaquiles and I must say that’s this is the best chilaquiles I ever had! Although the order did take a bit of time to come out, we really enjoyed the live jazz band that was playing.
I would definitely recommend if you’re looking for a romantic or elevated spot to celebrate.
* Located on the 4th floor and complementary valet parking up to 3 hours only.
We had a wonderful experience at Geraldine’s.
From the moment we arrived, the host team made us feel welcome. Our server, Justin, was attentive, friendly, and genuinely cared about making sure everything was perfect throughout our meal. The Subchef was incredibly kind, and Manager Blanca went above and beyond to make us feel valued as guests. Their hospitality truly made the evening special.
The food was absolutely spectacular—beautifully presented, full of flavor, and clearly prepared with great attention to detail.
If I could suggest one small improvement, it would be the music. I think the atmosphere would be even more memorable with traditional Mexican classical music, such as huapangos, which would add a unique cultural touch and create an even warmer dining experience.
Thank you to the entire team for such an outstanding evening. We will definitely be back.
Insider Tips for Dining Out in Austin
Austin’s dining culture has its own rhythms, and a little local knowledge goes a long way. From navigating peak hours to understanding how the city’s weather affects patio seating, these practical tips will help you eat like a regular and avoid common frustrations.
Book Ahead for Popular Weekend Slots
Austinites dine out early and often, especially Thursday through Saturday. The city’s most popular restaurants can book out days or even weeks in advance. If you have your heart set on a specific spot, make a reservation as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. Many restaurants also save a portion of tables for walk-ins, so arriving right at opening can sometimes score you a seat without a reservation.
Embrace the Patio—But Check the Weather
Outdoor dining is a way of life in Austin, and many of the city’s best restaurants feature expansive patios. Spring and fall are ideal, but summer heat can be intense. If you plan to sit outside between June and September, aim for dinner after sunset or choose a restaurant with shade and misters. Always confirm whether the patio is covered before booking during unpredictable weather months.
Don’t Skip the Lunch Menu
Some of Austin’s finest restaurants offer exceptional lunch menus at a fraction of dinner prices. This is a smart way to experience high-end cooking without the premium cost or the difficulty of securing a dinner reservation. Lunch service also tends to be quieter and more relaxed, giving you a better opportunity to chat with staff and learn about the menu.
Explore Beyond Downtown and South Congress
While downtown and South Congress receive the most attention, some of Austin’s most exciting food is being made in neighborhoods like Crestview, Allandale, and the St. Elmo district. These areas often have easier parking, shorter waits, and a more local feel. Venturing a few miles outside the tourist core almost always rewards you with a more authentic and unhurried meal.
Pay Attention to Seasonal Specials
Austin’s proximity to Central Texas farms and the Gulf Coast means menus change frequently. Many chefs build dishes around what is available at that very moment, from Hill Country peaches to Texas wagyu. Before ordering, ask your server what is currently in season or what the kitchen is most excited about. You will often find the best dish of the night is not the most famous one on the menu.
Understand the Tipping and Service Culture
Austin’s hospitality industry is built on warm, knowledgeable service, and tipping 20 percent is standard for good care. Many restaurants now include a service charge or offer equitable pay models, so check your bill carefully before adding extra. If you receive standout service, a kind word to the manager or a positive online review goes a long way in supporting the people who make Austin’s dining scene so special.
Austin’s restaurants are more than places to eat; they are community gathering spots, creative outlets, and a reflection of the city’s ever-changing identity. The best meals here tell a story about Texas ingredients, immigrant influences, and the chefs who call this city home.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or have lived in Austin for years, there is always something new to discover. Use this guide as a starting point, but do not be afraid to follow a recommendation from a bartender, wander into a neighborhood spot that smells incredible, or order the special you have never heard of. That sense of discovery is exactly what makes eating in Austin so rewarding.
