Austin, Texas, is a city known for its eclectic and diverse food scene. From farm-to-table dining experiences to innovative fusion cuisine, Austin offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a local foodie or visiting for the first time, these top restaurants in Austin will leave a lasting impression. In this blog, we’ll explore ten of the best dining spots in the city, each offering a unique culinary experience.
1. Uchi
Uchi is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. The menu at Uchi combines traditional Japanese flavors with innovative techniques, resulting in dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. From fresh sashimi to creative rolls, every dish is meticulously crafted to perfection.
Why Visit: Exceptional Japanese cuisine with a creative, modern edge in an elegant setting. Discover more about pairing Japanese cuisine with cocktails in our Top Gin Cocktails blog.
2. Odd Duck
Odd Duck began as a food truck and has since grown into one of Austin’s most beloved restaurants. This eatery is all about local, seasonal ingredients, with a menu that changes regularly to reflect what’s fresh and available. The dishes are small plates designed for sharing, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors.
Why Visit: A focus on local, seasonal ingredients with a creative, ever-changing menu. For more on the farm-to-table movement, check out our blog on Sustainable Spirits and Cocktails.
3. Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue is an Austin institution, known far and wide for its mouthwatering smoked meats. People line up for hours to get a taste of the legendary brisket, ribs, and sausages, and it’s well worth the wait. The no-frills setting lets the food speak for itself, making it a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts.
Why Visit: Legendary barbecue that’s worth the wait, offering some of the best smoked meats in the country. Dive into more on Texas flavors in our Signature Texas Cocktails blog.
4. Emmer & Rye
Emmer & Rye brings a unique approach to dining with its dim sum-style service, where dishes are brought around the restaurant on carts for guests to choose from. The menu focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, and the chefs are known for their creativity in crafting memorable dishes. As Skinny Spiritz expands into Austin, keep an eye out for our spirits making their way into the city’s innovative dining spots.
Why Visit: A one-of-a-kind dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients and creative small plates. Explore more about unique dining experiences in our Craft Cocktails in Unexpected Places blog.
5. Lenoir
Lenoir offers a truly intimate dining experience, with a cozy interior that feels like you’re dining in someone’s home. The menu is inspired by the flavors of Texas, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. The prix fixe menu changes regularly, offering a curated selection of dishes that showcase the best of what’s in season.
Why Visit: Intimate dining with a focus on Texas-inspired, seasonal cuisine. Read more about seasonal pairings in our Winter Cocktails blog.
6. Mattie’s
Set in a historic house, Mattie’s offers Southern comfort food with a modern twist. The restaurant’s beautiful setting, complete with peacocks roaming the grounds, makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or dinner. The menu features classics like fried chicken and biscuits, all made with high-quality ingredients and a touch of Austin flair.
Why Visit: Southern comfort food in a charming, historic setting with a modern twist. Pair your Southern favorites with ideas from our Southern-Inspired Cocktails blog.
7. Launderette
Launderette is a vibrant spot located in a converted laundromat, offering a menu that blends Mediterranean and American flavors. The dishes are playful and inventive, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is casual yet chic, making it a great place for both a casual meal and a special night out.
Why Visit: A playful, inventive menu in a stylish setting that offers a unique dining experience. For more on how to pair inventive dishes with creative drinks, check out our Art of Mixology blog.
8. Suerte
Suerte brings modern Mexican cuisine to Austin, with a focus on handmade masa and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a range of traditional dishes with a contemporary twist, including tacos, ceviche, and more. The vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes make it a standout in Austin’s dining scene.
Why Visit: Modern Mexican cuisine with a focus on handmade masa and locally sourced ingredients. Learn how to pair these flavors with unique drinks in our Mexican-Inspired Cocktails blog.
9. Olamaie
Olamaie offers a refined take on Southern cuisine, with a menu that reimagines classic dishes using local, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is housed in a charming Southern home, and the service is warm and welcoming. Olamaie’s biscuits are legendary, and the rest of the menu lives up to the high expectations.
Why Visit: Refined Southern cuisine in a charming, welcoming setting. Discover more about Southern cuisine and drink pairings in our Southern Cocktails blog.
10. Jeffrey’s
Jeffrey’s is an Austin institution, known for its upscale American cuisine and impeccable service. The menu features a range of dishes, from perfectly cooked steaks to fresh seafood, all made with the finest ingredients. The elegant setting and attention to detail make it a perfect spot for a special occasion. As Skinny Spiritz continues to expand, we look forward to seeing our spirits featured in top-tier establishments like Jeffrey’s.
Why Visit: Upscale American cuisine with a focus on high-quality ingredients and exceptional service.
Austin’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering everything from innovative fusion cuisine to classic Southern comfort food. As you explore these top restaurants, keep an eye out for Skinny Spiritz as we make our way into Austin’s vibrant food culture—bringing our portfolio of premium spirits to your favorite dining spots. For more insights on where to eat and drink, check out our blog. Cheers!