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 Austin.
Bill's Oyster. Credit Jane Yun.
Steakhouses & Seafood
J-Prime Steakhouse
New in 2024, this upscale steakhouse delivers dry-aged beef, elegant sides, and top-tier service in a sleek setting.
BOA Steakhouse
A stylish newcomer offering bold steakhouse fare, seafood towers, and craft cocktails in a modern space.
Aris
Mediterranean steakhouse serving dry-aged meats, grilled octopus, and saffron risotto in a chic, minimal interior.
Vince Young Steakhouse
Locally owned and operated, Vince Young’s delivers big Texas flavors with a refined twist.
Bill’s Oyster
A stylish oyster bar serving up East Coast–style seafood towers, house martinis and a rotating raw bar selection.
TenTen. Credit Letitia Smith.
Sushi & Japanese Cuisine
Uchiba
From the team behind Uchi, this izakaya-style spot specializes in yakitori skewers, Japanese whisky and small plates.
Sushi Roku
This sleek sushi bar blends traditional techniques with modern flair, offering sashimi, specialty rolls and sake cocktails.
TenTen
A modern Japanese restaurant featuring robata-grilled dishes, creative sushi rolls, and a moody, date-night ambiance.
Courtesy of La Condesa.
Mexican & Latin-Inspired Cuisine
Ember Kitchen
Located in the Seaholm District, Ember fires up Latin-inspired dishes using live-fire techniques and bold, smoky flavors.
Mexta
High-end, chef-driven Mexican cuisine with elegant plating, mezcal pairings, and creative seasonal menus.
La Condesa
Colorful interior Mexican restaurant offering ceviches, mole and an award-winning margarita program.
Pelóns Tex-Mex
A no-fuss spot for sizzling fajitas, queso, and a sunny patio—perfect for casual Tex-Mex downtown.
Courtesy of Parkside.
Modern American & New American
Gina’s on Congress
From mimosas to seafood towers, this cozy, feminine bistro offers a refined experience with Capitol views.
Guest House
Seasonal small plates, warm hospitality, and a striking design make this a go-to for brunch or dinner downtown.
Swift’s Attic
Inventive American cuisine meets vintage flair in this upstairs hideaway known for its small plates and bold flavors.
Parkside
You'll find elevated yet casual service at downtown's first ever farm-to-table gastropub.
Courtesy of Backspace.
Italian & Pizza
Red Ash Italia
One of Austin’s most sought-after Italian restaurants for wood-fired steaks, handmade pasta and robust Tuscan flavors.
Taverna
Relaxed Italian trattoria serving brunch, risotto, Neapolitan-style pizza and an excellent weekday happy hour.
the backspace
Chow down on wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza in the "backspace" behind sister restaurant Parkside.
Lamberts. Credit Casey Dunn.
Casual Cafés, Brunch & BBQ
Revolución
More than just a coffee shop, this spot serves up fresh juices, breakfast tacos, bowls, tamales and more.
Fareground
Downtown’s first food hall offers counter-service meals from some of Austin’s top chefs, perfect for fast-casual lunches.
Lamberts Downtown Barbecue
Elevated Texas barbecue with upscale sides, cocktails and live music in a historic building.
Walton’s Fancy & Staple
A charming café and bakery known for its sandwiches, housemade desserts and floral arrangements.
Plan Your Downtown Austin Dining Adventure
Whether you're visiting Austin for a weekend getaway or exploring your own city block by block, downtown offers something unforgettable for every appetite. Bookmark this guide, and start planning your next reservation, rooftop drink or taco run.
