Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Austin, Texas, United States
1. BBQ Brisket at Franklin Barbecue
Taste Texas-style slow-smoked brisket at this iconic barbecue joint. Line up early for a bite of tender, juicy meat.
- Famous Queue: Arrives as early as 5 am for a taste of Austin's best brisket
- Local Legend: Featured on Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown
- Quality Meat: Locally sourced beef and traditional smoking techniques
2. Tacos at Torchy's Tacos
Experience the Austin taco scene with creative fillings at this food truck turned restaurant chain.
- Creative Fillings: From fried avocado to carnitas, Torchy's offers unique taco options
- Food Truck Roots: Started as a food truck in 2006 and now has multiple locations
- Community Focus: Supports local farms, artisans, and musicians
3. Breakfast Tacos at Tamale House East
Start your day Austin-style with breakfast tacos filled with fresh ingredients at this beloved spot.
- Fresh Ingredients: Handmade corn tortillas and local produce
- Breakfast Specialties: A wide variety of breakfast taco options
- Longstanding Tradition: Serving Austin since 1970
4. Mexican Martini at Matt's El Rancho
Sip on this signature cocktail made with tequila, orange liqueur, and jalapeño at Matt's iconic Tex-Mex eatery.
- Signature Cocktail: Austin's famous Mexican Martini recipe since 1972
- Tex-Mex Fusion: Traditional Texan and Mexican flavors combined in one dish
- Iconic Austin Eatery: Serving up classic Tex-Mex dishes since the 70s
5. Fried Chicken at Odd Duck
Savor farm-to-table fried chicken with Southern flair at this New American restaurant.
- Locally Sourced: Chicken from local farms and seasonal ingredients
- Artisanal Approach: Creative, chef-driven dishes
- Casual yet Elegant: Relaxed atmosphere with upscale, innovative cuisine
6. Porchetta at Barley Swine
Treat yourself to a flavorful Italian-inspired roasted pork dish at this James Beard Award-winning restaurant.
- James Beard Award Winner: Recipient of the James Beard Best Chef: Southwest award in 2015
- Italian Inspiration: Chef-driven Italian-inspired dishes with locally sourced ingredients
- Tasting Menu Focus: Multiple course tasting menu showcasing the chef's creativity
7. Poboys at Cane Rosso
Indulge in New Orleans-style poboys with gourmet twists at this beloved pizza joint.
- Gourmet Twist: Poboy sandwiches featuring premium meats and seafood
- Pizza Pioneer: Known for its wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas
- Community Hub: Committed to supporting the local community and Austin's music scene
8. Texas Chili at Chiloso's
Savor the classic Texas chili made with beef, beans, and spices at this family-owned spot.
- Family-Owned: Run by three generations of the same family
- Classic Recipe: Traditional Texas chili recipe with a generous helping of spice
- Affordable and Filling: Large portions to satisfy your hunger at an affordable price
9. Fish Tacos at Barlata Tapas Bar
Enjoy fresh, flavorful fish tacos with Spanish and Mediterranean influences at this bustling tapas bar.
- Spanish Influence: Tapas-style dishes with a focus on Spanish cuisine
- Fresh Seafood: Daily seafood deliveries ensure freshness
- Buzzing Atmosphere: Lively ambiance and friendly service
10. Habanero Ice Cream at Amy's Ice Cream
Cool down with a scoop of habanero ice cream or try one of the many unique flavors at this Austin staple.
- Unique Flavors: Creative and often spicy flavor combinations
- Austin Icon: Established in Austin since 1984
- Crafted with Love: Handmade ice cream using high-quality ingredients
11. Gourmet Vegan Burger at Counter Cafe
Savor a delicious plant-based burger that rivals its meat counterparts at this popular vegan spot.
- Vegan Delight: Creative, flavorful, and filling vegan dishes
- Community Focus: Dedicated to fostering a supportive community for plant-based eaters
- Healthy Options: Health-conscious dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients
12. Tamales at Tamale House West
Savor traditional Mexican tamales stuffed with flavorful fillings at this beloved spot.
- Authentic Flavors: Traditional tamale recipes passed down for generations
- Two Locations: Located in North and South Austin
- Family-Owned: Run by three generations of the same family
13. Ramen at Ramen Tatsu-Ya
Experience authentic Japanese ramen with Austin flair at this trendy, modern noodle shop.
- Austin Flair: Texan twist on traditional Japanese flavors
- Modern Atmosphere: Minimalist, modern interior design
- Craft Ramen: Premium ingredients and expertly prepared noodles
14. Fried Pies at Little Lucy's
Indulge in flaky fried pies filled with savory or sweet fillings at this charming bakery.
- Sweet and Savory Options: Variety of sweet and savory pie options
- Homemade Recipes: Handmade pies using family recipes
- Charming Atmosphere: Cozy, vintage-inspired interior design
15. Gourmet Burgers at Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Savor a gourmet burger made with premium ingredients and creative toppings at this popular burger chain.
- Gourmet Ingredients: High-quality beef, artisanal cheese, and unique toppings
- Craft Beer Selection: Rotating selection of local and craft beers on tap
- Modern Ambiance: Industrial-chic interior design with a casual, hip atmosphere