Chow Down at The 10 Best Restaurants in Austin

 

Austin has a reputation for being unique, but what many don’t know is that it’s a real foodie city, with a culinary scene as diverse and exciting as they come. Yes there’s barbecue and tex-mex, but if you’re willing to look, there’s some of the best Asian, Italian, and Middle-Eastern restaurants around. Whether it’s fine dining, family style, or one of the city’s infamous food trucks, sit down for a meal at one of the Best Restaurants in Austin, Texas.

 

An elevated Japanese dining experience, Uchi is an eclectic mix of classic and contemporary Japanese cuisine, put together by James Beard Award winning Chef Tyson Cole. The signature tastings and seasonal omakase are only improved by a pairing from an extensive list of imported wines and sake. Don’t miss out on the hot-stone grilled Wagyu, or the four different cuts of fatty bluefin tuna.

 

The handmade tacos at Con Todo certainly live up to their name, and are piled high with seared meats, sharp onion, fresh cilantro, and salsa que pica. Taking inspiration from the flavors and cultures of Northern Mexico, their rich taco fillings and crispy tostadas are a must-try for any Austin diner.

 

Part buzzing bar, part savory smokehouse, Loro is a unique Austin restaurant that lovingly combines Asian cuisine with Texas BBQ classics, in ways that nobody else is doing. Dig into an oak smoked brisket sandwich, topped with papaya salad and a chili aioli that stays on your tongue, or split a bowl of the original wonton chips and dip. Tip for first time visitors, the boozy slushies are best enjoyed on the outdoor patio.

 

It can be difficult to stand out in a sea of barbecue restaurants, but one look at the shimmering peach-tea glazed pork belly is sure to hook even the most discerning of BBQ connoisseurs. Everything from the citrusy turkey breasts to the jalapeño popper sausage is cooked low and slow, guaranteeing sealed-in juices and maximum flavor.

 

This unassuming Middle Eastern restaurant is home to some of the most flavorful kebabs and shawarma in the Lone Star State. Heavily spiced and delicately grilled, the lamb, beef, chicken and falafel are delicious and addictive, especially when wrapped in the handmade flatbread.

 

Austin actually has a wealth of fantastic Korean eateries, and this mother-and-son restaurant is among the best. Bring some friends and split a couple plates of crispy fried chicken, sweet and spicy bulgogi, tender tteokbokki and hot scallion pancakes that demand ordering seconds.

 

For house-made pasta and tall glasses of red wine, this Mueller Italian restaurant has your back. Regulars are particularly fond of the vegetables, like the bucatini with charred beats or their signature smoked eggplant dip. Check out their wonderful pasta club subscription, for handmade pastas, sauces, and Italian pantry items, delivered right to your doorstep.

 

Healthy food might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Austin restaurants, but the fresh salads and meaty entrees are the real deal. The menu is seasonally focused with meats that are ethically sourced, so guests can have no reservations about wolfing down the heirloom tomato and watermelon salad, or a tender filet of sustainable salmon.

 

Austin’s hot weather might dissuade you from a bowl of hot soup, but the fatty, savory broth at Ramen Tatsu-Ya is worth it every time. The tonkotsu is a delicious way to enjoy their tender noodles, but for something even more decadent the chewy tsukemen dipping noodles are an excellent choice as well. Spice things up by tossing in a “bomb” of butter and spice pastes for a whole new ramen experience.

 

The menu at this warehouse-chic Austin eatery changes daily, but diners can always expect fresh roti bread, seasonal delights, and quality that’s consistently excellent. The restaurant works with local farmers to highlight the fresh flavors from every corner of central Texas. There’s usually a fresh pasta and a must-order meat dish, as the kitchen actually does whole animal butchery on site.