Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

The Best Tex-Mex Restaurants in Austin, TX

Austin is home to many global cuisines, but Tex-Mex takes the crown as the local favorite. This blend of Mexican and Texas-style comfort food can be found on just about any street, often in family-run restaurants that have operated for years. Here are some of the Tex-Mex restaurants worth visiting…

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Top Smoothie & Juice Bars in Austin

After spending a day at Zilker Park, swimming in Barton Springs or kayaking Lady Bird Lake, cool down with a refreshing snack at one of our many fresh juice bars around town. Remember, vacation doesn’t have to be all about greasy foods; hydrate and cleanse with a healthy juice or smoothie! Here are…

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James Beard Nominated & Award Winning Restaurants

While Austin still excels at barbecue and Tex-Mex, the city has a wide variety of cuisines and styles. From interior Mexican to regional Italian to farm-to-table New American, there is something for everyone, and the James Beard Foundation is taking note. Have a look at these eateries from recent…

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Where to Eat & Drink in Austin this Summer

Summer in Austin is best spent basking in the sun while indulging in the city’s renowned bar and restaurant scene. Post up on a patio with a frozen beverage in hand or sample bites at a food truck. Here are our favorite summer staples from raw bars to patios, and don’t forget the sweet treats! Have…

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Best Sushi Restaurants in Austin

Whether you're craving melt-in-your-mouth toro or a decked out hand roll, Austin’s sushi scene delivers something for every kind of diner. From MICHELIN Starred omakase counters to beloved neighborhood gems serving up Japanese comfort food, this city proves you don’t have to be on the coast to find…

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Where to Find Austin's Best BBQ

When it comes to dining in Austin, you can’t leave town without trying some true Texas barbecue. Whether you like your ribs and brisket done old-school-style or with a modern twist, you’re sure to find your new favorite among these sizzling barbecue hot spots. Looking for a barbecue near you? Jump…

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50 Cheap & Free Things to Do in Austin, TX

Experience the best of Austin—without putting a serious dent in your wallet—with our suggestions for 50 free and cheap things to do while you’re here. Stretch your travel dollars with everything from affordable food truck eats and outdoor adventures to free live music and fun activities for the…

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Best Restaurants in North Austin

When visiting Austin, many people head straight for downtown or East Austin. But locals know the secret—North Austin has decidedly delicious restaurants. It’s worth taking a little trip north to skip the wait for reservations or pricey parking. Here is our list of 15 must-try places to eat in North…

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The Ultimate Girls Weekend in Austin

Round up your best friends and plan a girls’ getaway in Austin! Here’s our guide to a memorable weekend filled with incredible shopping and dining, and plenty of ways to unwind. South Congress Hotel. Credit to Casey Dunn. Hotels for a Perfect Girls’ Weekend For an upscale stay in the heart of…

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Best Downtown Austin Restaurants

Downtown Austin is a food lover’s playground. From sizzling steakhouses and stylish sushi bars to crave-worthy tacos and modern bistros, you’ll find something delicious on every corner. Whether you’re visiting or a local planning your next meal, this guide showcases the best restaurants in downtown…

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