Just north of downtown in North Austin you’ll find a bevy of charming, family-owned eateries, chic cocktail bars and all the shopping you could ever hope for. Whether you plan to spend the afternoon or stay the whole weekend, North Austin is home to some amazing places to eat, shop and play.

food and beer at Thai Kun in austin texas
Thai Kun, Credit Mark Weatherford.

Restaurants

North Austin is a go-to for families and groups who are looking for bigger restaurants, more parking and options for all tastes. Heat things up with spicy, authentic Thai food from Thai Kun.  For Vietnamese specialties like banh xeo or bun cha Hanoi, head to family-owned Ng Cafe. Try a twist on banh mi at Smokin Beauty, with Vietnamese-inspired Texas barbecue. Authentic Chinese dishes starring handmade noodles are on the menu at Julie’s Noodles, as well as an assortment of dumplings. Asian market H Mart also has a food hall with sushi, Korean tofu and bulgogi, banh mi and so much more. 

Get comfortable at Second Bar + Kitchen Domain NORTHSIDE for unpretentious fine dining. Neighborhood spot Andiamo Ristorante serves authentic Italian with farmer’s market ingredients. While lobster rolls from Garbo’s are absolutely packed with buttery lobster tail. Sample dishes from all over India at New Sitara Indian Cuisine.

Al fresco dining beneath mushroom-shaped light sculptures at Domain
The Domain. Credit Alex Hayden, courtesy of Visit Austin.

Shopping

Don’t go home empty-handed. Shopping complex The Arboretum is home to the always-stylish Pottery Barn. Stop by whimsical Sugarboo & Co. for home decor, paper goods and conversation-starting housewares. At Con’ Olio, sample specialty olive oils and vinegars, and bring some home to upgrade your pantry. Visit Juliet Italian Kitchen’s new Arboretum location to carbo-load for more shopping!

At The Domain and Domain NORTHSIDE, shopping, dining and good living come together in Austin’s “second downtown.” Pick up some fresh kicks at Kicking It ATX and sip while you shop — they have a full bar. Handmade jewelry at Nina Berenato is both beautiful and sustainable. Luxe Apothetique has women’s apparel and a wide range of skin and beauty products. 

Spruce up your home office with Desk Plants, specially curated for an indoor environment. Get ultra-organized with the perfect planner from Erin Condren. At YETI, gear up for adventure with their line of heavy-duty coolers, tumblers and camping gear.

Evening patio at Austin Beerworks with string lights and people standing around the tables
Austin Beerworks. Credit Chase Daniel

Nightlife

Domain NORTHSIDE’s Rock Rose District is its own nightlife destination. Soccer fans will feel at home at Jack & Ginger’s, where they can get a full Irish breakfast any time and cheer for their favorite football club. At 77º Rooftop, sip refreshing cocktails in the open air or explore the hookah lounge. Head to the Instagram-worthy Wonder Bar, full of colorful whimsy and surprises around every corner. Outside of Rock Rose, The Water Trough is a converted barn featuring large garage doors for a breeze in the summer and a fireplace to warm things up in the winter. 

There are also breweries and cideries aplenty in North Austin, and they all have something different to offer. Check out Austin Beerworks, Circle Brewing Co., Hopsquad Brewing Co., Fairweather Cider Co. and Celis Brewery, just to name a few.

Two Austin FC players running the same direction while the sun shines bright on a cheering crowd in verde shirts.
Courtesy of Austin FC.

Entertainment

The whole family can participate at Pinballz with their extensive selection of classic arcade games. Rent a bay at multilevel TopGolf to test the length of your drive. Enjoy a ground-level skydiving experience at iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Roll a strike at Highland Lanes and get a stellar burger at Lebowski’s Grill.

INSIDER TIP: The 20,000-seat Q2 Stadium is home to Major League Soccer team Austin FC — the city’s first pro sports team. Plan your trip so you can catch a game!