Austin, Texas, is renowned for its vibrant food scene, offering an array of culinary delights for visitors and locals alike.
Located in the heart of the city, downtown Austin boasts a diverse range of top-notch restaurants that cater to all tastes.
Whether you’re in the mood for Tex-Mex, barbecue, or innovative fusion cuisine, these ten best restaurants in Austin Downtown are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you with a memorable dining experience.
Table of Contents
1. True Food Kitchen
Address: 11410 Century Oaks Terrace Ste 100, Austin, TX 78758, United States
Working Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Cuisine: Healthy, Vegetarian, Vegan
Ambiance: Modern, Casual
Reservations: Available online
Specials: Extensive gluten-free & organic options
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
Located on bustling West Ave, True Food Kitchen stands out with its focus on health-conscious, natural ingredients.
This restaurant effortlessly combines delicious flavors with nutritional integrity.
This downtown gem offers a wide variety of plant-based and gluten-free options alongside crowd-pleasing dishes such as their Teriyaki Quinoa Bowl.
2. Hestia
Address: 607 W 3rd St #105, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Tue-Sat: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cuisine: Modern, American, Wood-Fired
Ambiance: Sleek, Sophisticated
Reservations: Highly recommended
Specials: Seasonal tasting menus
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
Hestia, nestled on West 3rd Street, is a culinary powerhouse known for its exquisite wood-fired dishes.
The restaurant’s commitment to locally sourced ingredients shines through in every delectable creation.
The innovative menu presents dishes like their Signature Wagyu Short Rib and Grilled Prawns, showcasing the skillful craftsmanship of the chefs.
With a warm and intimate atmosphere, Hestia promises an unforgettable dining experience.
3. Peche
Address: 208 W 4th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Sun-Thu: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Fri-Sat: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cuisine: French, New Orleans-inspired
Ambiance: Cozy, Dimly lit
Reservations: Recommended for larger groups
Specials: Expertly crafted cocktails
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
Transporting diners to the streets of New Orleans, Peche offers a taste of Louisiana in the heart of Austin.
Located on West 4th Street, this charming French-inspired brasserie impresses with its decadent menu and meticulously crafted cocktails.
The Seafood Gumbo and Duck Confit are standout dishes, embodying the rich flavors of traditional Cajun cuisine.
4. ATX Cocina
Address: 110 San Antonio St #170, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Mon-Thu: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Fri-Sun: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cuisine: Mexican, Modern
Ambiance: Stylish, Trendy
Reservations: Available online
Specials: Seasonal dishes highlighting local ingredients
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
ATX Cocina showcases the best of contemporary Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.
Located on San Antonio Street, this culinary gem boasts a chic and vibrant atmosphere.
The dishes served here celebrate traditional Mexican flavors while utilizing innovative cooking techniques.
5. III Forks
Address: 111 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Mon-Fri: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Sat-Sun: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cuisine: Steakhouse, American
Ambiance: Elegant, Upscale
Reservations: Recommended
Specials: Prime steaks & seafood
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
When it comes to savoring the finest cuts of steak, III Forks is a downtown Austin institution that never disappoints.
Located on Lavaca Street, this upscale steakhouse exudes sophistication and delivers an unparalleled dining experience.
From their expertly seared USDA Prime steaks to the indulgent Lobster Bisque, expect nothing short of exceptional quality and service at III Forks.
6. Swift’s Attic
Address: 315 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Wed-Thu: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Fri-Sun: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cuisine: Eclectic, Global
Ambiance: Quirky, Hip
Reservations: Walk-ins welcome
Specials: Inventive small plates
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
For a unique culinary adventure, Swift’s Attic on Congress Avenue will take your taste buds on a journey around the globe.
This eclectic eatery combines flavors from various cuisines to create innovative dishes bursting with creativity.
7. Olamaie
Address: 1610 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Tue-Sat: 5:00 PM – 9:45 PM
Cuisine: Southern, Contemporary
Ambiance: Elegant, Sophisticated
Reservations: Highly recommended
Specials: Seasonal Southern fare
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
Nestled on San Antonio Street, Olamaie takes Southern cuisine to a whole new level.
This stylish restaurant seamlessly blends contemporary techniques with traditional flavors, resulting in elevated dishes that pay homage to their Southern roots.
With standout creations like their Buttermilk Biscuits and Heirloom Tomatoes, Olamaie consistently demonstrates their commitment to culinary excellence.
8. Corner Restaurant
Address: 110 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Mon-Thu: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Fri-Sun: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Cuisine: Contemporary American
Ambiance: Casual, Lively
Reservations: Walk-ins welcome
Specials: Farm-fresh ingredients
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
Corner Restaurant, located on East 2nd Street, is a beloved spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
With a casual and lively atmosphere, this downtown eatery prides itself on serving contemporary American dishes made with locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients.
Whether you opt for their hearty Breakfast Burrito or their flavorful Baja Fish Tacos, Corner Restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience that embodies the vibrant spirit of Austin.
9. J Carver
Address: 509 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Wed-Sun: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cuisine: Southern, BBQ
Ambiance: Rustic, Relaxed
Reservations: Recommended on weekends
Specials: Slow-smoked meats
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
Located near Zilker Park, J Carver is a hidden gem for barbecue enthusiasts seeking a quintessential Texan experience.
This rustic and relaxed restaurant prides itself on slow-smoking their meats to perfection.
From their mouthwatering St. Louis-Style Ribs to their tender Brisket, J Carver serves up true Texas flavors that will have you savoring every succulent bite.
10. Moonshine Grill
Address: 303 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701, United States
Working Hours: Mon-Fri: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Sat-Sun: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Cuisine: American, Comfort food
Ambiance: Cosy, Rustic
Reservations: Recommended for larger groups
Specials: Classic American dishes with a twist
Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
Nestled on Red River Street, Moonshine Grill combines comfort food with a touch of culinary flair.
This cozy and rustic spot captures the essence of Texas hospitality with its warm atmosphere and hearty menu.
From their comforting Chicken-Fried Chicken to their famous Shiner Bock Beer Bread Pudding, Moonshine Grill offers classic American dishes with a delightful twist, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does True Food Kitchen offer gluten-free options?
Yes, True Food Kitchen has an extensive menu that includes a variety of gluten-free options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
2. Is Hestia suitable for special occasions or a romantic dinner?
Absolutely! Hestia’s sleek and sophisticated ambiance, along with its exquisite wood-fired dishes, creates the perfect setting for a special occasion or a romantic evening.
3. Can I make reservations at Peche?
While reservations are not required at Peche, they are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability and a seamless dining experience.
4. What payment options are accepted at ATX Cocina?
ATX Cocina accepts credit cards as the preferred payment option, ensuring convenient and hassle-free transactions.
5. Is III Forks exclusively a steakhouse or do they serve other cuisines as well?
III Forks is primarily known for its exceptional steaks, but their menu also includes a range of delectable seafood options for those who prefer alternative choices.
6. Are there vegetarian or vegan options available at Swift’s Attic?
Yes, Swift’s Attic offers vegetarian and vegan options on its menu, ensuring that every diner can find something to suit their dietary preferences.
7. Does Olamaie have any signature dishes?
Indeed, Olamaie is renowned for its Buttermilk Biscuits, which have gained a reputation as some of the best in Austin. It’s a must-try when visiting this Southern-inspired establishment.
8. Is Corner Restaurant open throughout the day and night?
Corner Restaurant operates from early morning until late at night, making it a convenient spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, as well as late-night cravings.
9. Can I visit J Carver during weekdays, or is it only open on weekends?
J Carver is open from Wednesday to Sunday, allowing visitors to enjoy their mouthwatering slow-smoked meats throughout the week.
10. Does Moonshine Grill have any vegetarian options on their menu?
Absolutely! Moonshine Grill offers a range of vegetarian dishes, ensuring that both meat-eaters and vegetarians can dine together and find something delicious to enjoy.