While Austin may be known for its legendary Tex-Mex, tasty breakfast tacos and juicy barbecue, there's so much more to the capital city's food history to explore. Austin's celebrated dining scene has evolved with lightning speed over the last few decades, but don't forget to pay homage to the greats during your visit. Here are 20 of the most iconic and historic restaurants in Austin.

1. Cisco’s Restaurant Bakery & Bar

Since 1943, Cisco’s has been the East Austin spot for hearty breakfasts and political chatter. Its migas, huevos rancheros, and famously fluffy biscuits have fueled generations (and was a favorite of President LBJ).

2. Dan's Hamburgers

Family-owned since 1973, Dan’s is known for classic griddled burgers and crinkle-cut fries. 

3. Mrs. Johnson’s Bakery

This late-night donut shop has been an Austin constant since the 1940s. Fresh glazed donuts straight from the conveyor belt keep the crowds coming, long after midnight.

4. Kerbey Lane Cafe

Founded in 1980, Kerbey Lane is a quirky diner known for queso, seasonal pancakes, and late-night hours. It’s long been a student and family favorite.

Courtesy Scholz Garten.

5. Scholz Garten

Founded in 1866, Scholz is the oldest business in Texas. With shaded picnic tables, schnitzel, and pitchers of beer, it remains a cornerstone of Austin gatherings.

6. Top Notch

Open since 1971, Top Notch is an old-school drive-in with charcoal-grilled burgers and fried chicken. Movie buffs know it from the 1993 film "Dazed and Confused."

7. The Tavern

This Tudor-style pub has been a Lamar landmark since 1933. Beloved for its nachos and sports-watching atmosphere, it’s where generations of Longhorn fans have gathered.

Fonda San Miguel. Credit Paul Bardagjy.

8. Fonda San Miguel

Since 1975, Fonda San Miguel has elevated interior Mexican cuisine with artful dishes like mole poblano. Its colorful dining room feels like a gallery.

9. Birdie's

This counter-service wine bar opened in 2021 and became an instant classic. Handmade pastas, natural wines, and a community-driven ethos define its charm.

10. Juan in a Million

Since 1980, this East Austin Tex-Mex spot has been famous for the “Don Juan” breakfast taco and the warm welcome of owner Juan Meza.

Matt's El Rancho. Credit Jody Horton.

11. Matt's El Rancho

Matt’s has been serving Tex-Mex classics since 1952. The Bob Armstrong Dip, a layered queso, is perhaps Austin’s most famous appetizer.

12. Avenue B Grocery

Austin’s oldest grocery, dating back to 1909, is best known today for its deli sandwiches. Locals line up in Hyde Park for the “Texas Cuban” and other stacked creations, making this century-old shop a lunchtime favorite.

13. Texas Chili Parlor

Since 1976, this downtown dive has been dishing out bowls of fiery chili in varying heat levels, from mild to the infamous habanero-spiked XXX. The no-frills barroom vibe, Lone Star beers, and legendary chili make it a longtime Austin institution.

14. Quality Seafood

Part market, part grill, Quality Seafood has connected Austin to the Gulf since 1938. Blackened fish, fried shrimp, and fresh oysters are staples.

15. Joe's Bakery

An East Side staple since 1962, Joe’s is known for its breakfast tacos and house-made tortillas. Crispy bacon and chorizo tacos are legendary.

Jeffrey's Dining Room. Credit to Matt Harrington. 

16. Jeffrey's

Opened in 1975, Jeffrey’s redefined Austin fine dining. Today it’s still a destination for dry-aged steaks, French-inspired plates, and polished service.

17. Franklin Barbecue

Lines form before dawn for Aaron Franklin’s brisket, often hailed as the best in the world. It’s the barbecue that put Austin on the map.

18. Driskill Grill

Inside the historic Driskill Hotel, this elegant dining room pairs regional flavors with old-world grandeur. It’s as much about history as the menu.

19. Dirty Martin’s Kum-Bak

Since 1926, Dirty Martin’s has been a campus favorite for burgers, onion rings, and milkshakes. The griddle has barely cooled in nearly 100 years.

20. Hoover's Cooking

Serving soul food since 1998, Hoover’s plates up chicken-fried steak, smothered pork chops, and sides like candied yams with a dose of hospitality.

Discover more Austin restaurants and plan your perfect weekend today!