Austin’s North Loop neighborhood is a unique part of town located just northeast of the University of Texas. North Loop’s proximity to the university and mix of eclectic restaurants and shops makes it a popular local hangout among students and campus staff.
Courtesy of Home Slice Pizza.
NORTH LOOP RESTAURANTS
The North Loop has tons of local hot spots to grab a bite. From hip, casual coffee shops to high-end, unique American fare, there is something for everyone in this neighborhood. So, next time you’re in the area stop by and check out a few of these places:
Epoch Coffee: Start your day off right with a coffee from this popular student hangout.
Home Slice: Take a bite out of a piping hot slice of pie or your favorite Italian dish.
Tyson’s Tacos: Eat like a local and stop by Tyson’s Tacos for breakfast, lunch or dinner at this 24/7 spot.
Foreign & Domestic: Farm-to-table ingredients and inspired, Texas flavors make this new age American fare top-notch and a must try.
Nervous Charlie's. Credit to Chris Cunningham.
Nervous Charlie’s: Attention all bagel lovers, brace yourself for the delicious bagels and bagel sandwiches at the cafe that was voted Best Bagel in Texas in 2022.
Komé: A must-visit spot for homestyle Japanese meals including sushi and custom ramen.
East Side Pies: Thin crust lovers can get their fix with a variety of fresh and unique toppings.
The Omelettry: This healthy breakfast joint has stood the test of time serving up morning classics since 1978.
Courtesy of Breakaway Records.
SHOPPING
From vintage and book shops to record stores, North Loop is the perfect place to browse around in one-of-a-kind boutiques for unique finds. Find the perfect addition to your own home or closet, or a gift for a friend at one of these shops:
Blue Velvet: Stop by the “Best Little Vintage Store in Texas” and peruse the racks of vintage men and women’s clothing.
BookWoman: Find your next read at this locally owned feminist bookstore.
Room Service Vintage: This quirky shop has all kinds of furniture, art, decor and more from the 1950s-’70s. Insider tip: Ask for the key to the bunny bathroom before you leave.
Courtesy of Lammes Candies.
Lammes Candies: Get your sweet treat fix at Lammes Candies with a box of Texas themed sweets and chocolates.
Breakaway Records: Head home from Austin with a killer record to remember your trip to the Live Music Capital of the World™.
Ermine Vintage: Known for their selection of vintage cowboy boots and 80’s clothing, Ermine is the spot to find your next favorite piece.
Monkeywrench Books: Anyone passionate about economic and social justice has to stop by this volunteer-run bookshop.
MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE
Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World® and the North Loop is no exception. Whether you prefer craft cocktails at a trendy bar or a cold brew at a dive bar, there is plenty to get up to after the sun goes down in the North Loop.
Little Longhorn Saloon: Put your boots on and visit a true Texas honky-tonk for music, dancing and their famous Chicken Sh*t Bingo.
ColdTowne Theater: Stop by ColdTowne Theater and laugh the night away at a headlining comic, sketch comedy or improv set.
Workhorse Bar: Drink among the locals and try a drink from the huge selection of Texas beers on draft, with over 30 rotating options.
Barfly’s: This spot is the epitome of Austin dive bars, sip on cheap drinks and hundreds of tunes on the jukebox.
Tigress Pub: The women at Tigress Pub are serving up craft cocktails and local-Austin-only beers on tap to locals and visitors alike.
DrinkWell: Try a uniquely crafted cocktail made by a skilled mixologist at one of the best gastropubs in town.
Looking for more trip inspiration? Learn about the city with our free Austin Visitor Guide.
Contributed by Alyssa Jarae.
Alyssa Jarae is a native Austinite, and wedding and lifestyle photographer in the area. She enjoys exploring the multiple coffee shops around town and anything to do with Willie Nelson.