10. Tarka Indian Kitchen
Tarka Indian Kitchen is a contemporary take on classic Indian cuisine, offering everything from a traditional tikka masala to "naaninis" — panini-style hot sandwiches wrapped in naan. The casual ambience, quick service, and high number of vegetarian options make it an easy go-to for Indian cravings when in Austin.
9. Live Oak Brewery
This brand-new taproom has a spacious outdoor area with picnic tables nestled under oak trees, ideal for an afternoon enjoying a beer or three with friends. From the modern indoor bar area, you can see into the manufacturing area and the massive barrels where the beer is brewed. Live Oak makes a range of beers, but their most popular is a highly-ranked Hefeweisen.
8. Cafe No Sé
Bright and airy Cafe No Sé is best loved for its breakfast and brunch options, serving up trendy, pretty variations of egg and toast dishes along with tasty cocktails and juices. From bacon-filled burgers to quinoa porridge, it's sure to please many palates.
7. Geraldine's
This fourth-floor bar and restaurant is considered to be one of the hottest scenes in downtown Austin, serving up strip steaks and cocktails alongside city views from its wide windows. Friendly bartenders and a live music space add to the vibe. It was also just featured in the New York Times' "36 Hours in Austin" piece.
6. Summer Moon Wood-Fired Coffee
Summer Moon is known for a latte that runs on the sweet side, an exposed brick space, and a hip environment for a coffee topped off with their secret "moon milk". In true Texas style, the coffee is roasted on-site via wood-fire. As it's a popular spot, seating can sometimes be hard to come by, but the outdoor space is ideal for busy, sunny days.
5. Flyrite Chicken
2129 East 7th Street (Robert Martinez)
This hip fast-food joint specializes in a fried-chicken sandwich, making it a solid alternative to mainstream Chick-fil-A. From a tempura cauliflower veggie wrap to popular shakes, you'll leave satisfied, especially by the homemade sauces that will add extra flavor to your meal.
4. Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
217 Congress Avenue (2nd Street)
Cooper's is a traditional barbecue haven. The Austin outpost of a Llano, TX favorite, the concept is simple: choose your smoked meat and your sides, eat, repeat. Brisket, pork ribs, and homemade sausage all get the thumbs-up from customers.
3. Jack & Ginger's Irish Pub
11500 Rock Rose (Esperanza Crossing)
Jack & Ginger's, a traditional Irish pub, is a relaxed and unassuming spot to grab a beer, down some snacks, and take some time to watch a game. A weekly trivia night and outdoor patio add to the popularity.
2. Two Hands
Two Hands is a hip local hangout in an up-and-coming Austin area, known for solid coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. It's an unpretentious, useful spot: come to work or to fuel up. The freshly made juices get good reviews, too.
1. Torchy's Tacos
Torchy's is a mecca for taco lovers, with creative menu choices ranging from slow-roasted pork to fried avocado. The over-stuffed corn tortillas are as tasty as they are photogenic, with rave reviews for their breakfast options especially (think bacon and waffles inside a tortilla). The casual picnic vibe makes it an easy pit stop.
