Austin, Texas, is renowned for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene, blending traditional Southern fare with innovative and international influences. Here’s a guide to the top 10 foods that are a must-try in Austin, along with suggestions on where to find them.
Introduction
Austin’s food scene is a delightful mix of flavors and traditions, offering an array of dishes that range from classic Texan barbecue to inventive Tex-Mex creations. This article will guide you through the city’s culinary highlights, ensuring a truly delicious experience.
1. Austin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue
Austin’s barbecue, especially brisket, is celebrated for its slow-cooked, smoky flavors. Franklin Barbecue, known for its Texas’ most famous brisket, is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts.
2. Tamales
Mexican influences are strong in Austin, as seen in the popularity of tamales. These are available in traditional and innovative styles across various eateries in the city.
3. Migas
For a Tex-Mex breakfast, migas are a staple in Austin. This dish, combining scrambled eggs with crispy tortilla strips and various other ingredients, is a local favorite.
4. Breakfast Tacos
Veracruz All Natural
Breakfast tacos are another morning delight in Austin, with places like Veracruz All Natural offering fresh ingredients in their famous Migas taco.
5. Queso
Queso, a creamy and indulgent melted cheese dip, is a beloved add-on to Tex-Mex dishes in Austin. It’s typically served with warm tortilla chips for dipping.
6. Kolaches
Kolaches, a pastry with Czech origins, are popular in Austin. They come in sweet and savory varieties and are a delightful snack or breakfast option.
7. Gourmet Doughnuts
Innovative and artisanal, gourmet doughnuts in Austin feature unique flavors and toppings, reflecting local tastes and high-quality craftsmanship.
8. Artisanal Ice Cream
Austin’s artisanal ice cream scene offers creative flavors and caters to various dietary preferences. The use of high-quality, local ingredients makes it a delightful treat.
9. Chicken-Fried Steak
Chicken-fried steak, a Southern classic, is a must-try in Austin. This dish features a crispy, fried steak served with white gravy and is often accompanied by traditional sides like mashed potatoes.
10. Texas Chili
Texas-style chili, known for its deep, smoky flavors and meat-centric recipe, is a signature dish in Austin. It’s a hearty and flavorful representation of Texan cuisine.
Additional Restaurants in Austin
For a broader culinary exploration in Austin, here are additional restaurant recommendations:
1. Daiboku
A Japanese restaurant serving shoyu and miso-style ramen, bone-in wings, and a variety of sake and Japanese whiskies.
2. Garrison
An upscale grill house offering steaks, fish, and poultry, cooked with Texas Post Oak flame and served with dishes like Tater Tots with aerated gruyere cheese.
3. La Barbecue
A Central Texas-style barbecue joint known for its brisket, pork ribs, and house-made sausage, along with sandwiches like La Frito Loco.
4. Yamas Greek Kitchen + Bar
A family-owned restaurant serving Greek dishes like chicken souvlaki, keftedakia, and fried feta, along with a Mediterranean seafood selection.
5. Picnik
Focusing on healthy dining, Picnik offers a menu of seasonal produce, ethically sourced meats, and plant-based options, as well as a better-for-you bar.
6. Old Thousand
A hipster Chinese restaurant serving both American-Chinese classics and creative dishes like Kung Pao Brussels and brisket fried rice.
7. Salt & Time
An Eastside Butcher Shop and Salumeria known for its acclaimed Signature Burger and a variety of natural wines and specialty snacks.
8. Honey Moon Spirit Lounge
A French-inspired house offering dishes like steak tartare, whipped cheeses, charcuterie, and an oyster tower for Sunday brunch.
9. El Alma
A Mexican restaurant known for its duck Relleno, pork tamales, vast selection of tacos, and frozen margaritas.
10. Jjim BBQ
Specializing in Korean cuisine, this restaurant offers dishes like Beef Short Rib Jjim, spicy beef silken tofu soup, and a variety of Korean pancakes.
11. June’s All Day
A retro-style diner offering dishes like matzo ball caldo, bone marrow Bolognese, and Indian food during Pub Nights.
12. Olamaie
A Southern American restaurant with seasonal dishes like Hoppin’ John and rye-brined pork chop, and famous biscuits to go.
13. Clark’s Oyster Bar
Known for its seafood, especially oysters, crab cakes, and lobster rolls, along with a careful selection of cocktails and martinis.
14. Via 313 Pizza
Specializes in Detroit-style pizza with options like “The Detroiter,” featuring smoked pepperoni and natural casing pepperoni.
15. Comedor
A modern Mexican restaurant offering dishes like huauzontle fritters, bone marrow tacos, and masa spaetzle.
16. El Naranjo
An upscale South Lamar restaurant serving Oaxacan cuisine like mole, seasonal ceviche, and tostadas.
17. Justine’s Brasserie
A French restaurant offering classic dishes like escargot Bourguignonne, salade de crabe, steak frites, and a variety of cocktails.
18. Suerte
An upscale Mexican restaurant using local heirloom corn for dishes like goat barbacoa with handmade tortillas.
19. Barley Swine
An American restaurant offering seasonally varying dishes like Black Cod with pecan dashi and sunchoke flan.
Each of these restaurants adds to the rich tapestry of Austin’s food scene, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Conclusion
Austin’s culinary landscape offers an exciting mix of traditional and innovative dishes. From smoky barbecues to inventive breakfast options, the city’s food scene is a paradise for food lovers.
