The best restaurants in Austin right now

What is it? A Michelin-starred omakase restaurant with a seasonal 22-course menu featuring seafood sourced from Japan. 

Why we love it: “Omakase” translates to “I’ll leave it up to you” in Japanese, and at Craft Omakase, that trust in the chef pays off. In just a short amount of time since its 2023 opening, the restaurant has managed to rack up an impressive number of accolades, including a coveted Michelin star and a spot on Texas Monthly’s Best New Restaurants list. There’s good reason for this: Chefs Charlie Wang and Nguyen Nguyen have a knack for sourcing some of the finest cuts of seafood, from lean fatty tuna to sea urchin, while harmonizing texture and flavor to deliver the perfect bite. Chefs reiterate this sentiment through reminders to eat the nigiri as soon as it hits the plate to ensure peak freshness and flavor. The menu changes seasonally, but previous standout bites include the ginger mint mignonette oyster, medium fatty tuna and cold smoked kanpachi. A spacious omakase counter that seats 12 serves as the perfect intimate backdrop for any special occasion, be it birthdays, wedding anniversaries or date nights.

Time Out tip: Since receiving its Michelin star, reservations have been hard to come by. Luckily, Craft Omakase releases reservations each Sunday at 12pm CT for the next 35 days, giving you a chance to secure your spot. 

Address: 4400 N Lamar Blvd Suite 102, Austin, TX 78756

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 5:30-11pm; Fri-Sat 4:30-11:30pm; Sun 3:30-11pm

Expect to pay: $175 per person. 

What is it? A vegan restaurant offering a seven-course tasting menu of plant-based and locally sourced ingredients. 

Why we love it: Fabrik is the vegan answer to those praying for something original in multi-course dining in a city overrun with omakase and meaty-tasting menus. As a seven-course celebration of the Earth's bounty, plants take center stage on each plate. Diners can exhale and know their preferences are not delegated to one or two menu items, but rather take their fork to each dish, knowing there's only a master class in the depth of flavor a chef can make with sustainable, locally sourced vegan ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, but there’s always one thing that remains: the housemade focaccia and brioche, which is accompanied by herbed cream and shiitake butter. Fabrik is hopefully the first of many fine dining experiences whose only cruelty is that it ends.

Time Out tip: If it’s your first time at Fabrik, opt for the wine pairing. Each glass is carefully selected, so it’s not to be missed.

Address: 101 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

Opening hours: Thurs-Sat 5-10pm; Tues-Wed 5-9pm

Expect to pay: $95 per person with an optional wine pairing for $65.

What is it? A garden-inspired restaurant inside the Commodore Perry Estate in North Austin, celebrating Texas’ bounty through responsibly sourced ingredients. 

Why we love it: Named after the estate’s matriarch, Lutie’s is where restaurant meets garden club, and it’s worth visiting for the interior alone. Between bites, soak in views of dangling foliage in sphere pots, floral scalloped banquettes and the oak bar, which illuminates under twin Murano glass chandeliers. 

The dinner menu is filled with stunners, but you mustn't miss the fish in creole curry and the estate bread, english muffin-shaped loaves fermented in corn grits and given a light sear. Spread the cultured butter while warm, or dip it in the creamy sauce for additional flavor. It’s easy to stuff yourself on starters and entrees alone, but trust us when we say “save room for dessert.” The Kouign Amann ice cream synergizes the richness of beeswax caramel cream and opulent chocolate cremeux to end your night on a sweet note. 

Time Out tip: While there’s no parking garage, Lutie’s will do you one better with complimentary valet parking. Don’t forget to have some cash on hand to tip the valet. 

Address: 4100 Red River St, Austin, TX 78751

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 5-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-2pm

Expect to pay: $50-$100 per person.

What is it? Mexican gastronomy unfolds at this stylish yet casual restaurant tucked inside the Littlefield Building in downtown Austin. 

Why we love it: Chefs Jonatan Gómez Luna Torres and Mikel Alonso whip out flavors inspired by Torres’ upbring and Alonso’s culinary training in Mexico City to create a flavor-forward menu. Divided into sections inspired by the bounty of the land and sea, the seafood here steals the show. Start with the Pacific red snapper—brightened by lemon and garnished with fresh cilantro and serrano peppers—for a vibrant, zesty bite. Should you want something heavier, you can’t go wrong with the red snapper entrée, bathing in poblano cream sauce and crusted with pistachios. One sleeper hit is the piquillo peppers stuffed with huitlacoche (aka corn mushrooms); the rich, creamy texture and toothsome bite might have you mistaking it for ravioli. Signature cocktails and margaritas round out the experience, along with a curated selection of wines by the glass. As you sip and savor, take some time to soak in the modern space, which features warm lighting, clay pots and wooden ceilings. 

Time Out tip: Mexta offers valet parking, but no on-site parking lot. Should you wish to park streetside, consider arriving ahead of your reservation time to locate a spot. 

Address: 106 E 6th St Suite #110, Austin, TX 78701

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 5-10pm; Thurs-Fri 5-10:30pm; Sat 11am-3pm, 5-10:30pm

Expect to pay: $10-15 for a glass of wine, roughly $40-50 for most mains, $25-27 for raw items.

What is it? A small but mighty neighborhood bistro whipping out dishes inspired by Spain, France and Mexico. 

Why we love it: Stepping into Bar Toti feels like walking into a friend’s dinner party. The intimate 40-seat restaurant features mosaic tiled floors, a long communal table and fringe pendant lamps that exude warmth and charm. The space works for date nights or small group dinners, and the staff is eager to step in as tie-breakers when you’re torn between dishes. Even as a meat eater, I was blown away by the plant-based options, many of the ingredients are sourced from the on-site half-acre Este Garden. The muhammara—a smoky pepper and pecan dip served with grilled bread—makes a strong first impression, while the hongos a la placha, a mushroom medley with aged manchego and egg yolk, is rich and indulgent. The wine list is small but curated, and the cocktail menu offers ample variety. Either way, you’re in good hands.

Time Out tip: There’s free valet parking; however, the lot fills up quickly during peak hours, and traffic can back up on the main road. If it’s full, loop around and try again. 

Address: 2113 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Opening hours: Daily 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $16-40 for main plates and $17 for cocktails.

What is it? Nestled inside the South Congress Hotel, this Michelin-recommended steakhouse serves top-tier cuts in an easy and playful setting. 

Why we love it: Maie Day doesn’t take itself too seriously when it comes to décor—think curved dining chairs, groovy wall art and an open kitchen—but it’s dead serious about steak. Executive chef Michael Fojtasek sources only the best prime cuts, whether you go for the marbled ribeye or the tender prime rib in au jus and horseradish cream. They're best paired with a hearty side of creamy mashed potatoes with plugra butter and chives, and a glass of red—the glass of California Oberon Cabernet is excellent. Don’t fill up on protein, though, because the desserts are worth saving space for, especially the caramel cheesecake balanced with spiced apple compote and sticky toffee pecans for a decadent finish. 

Time Out tip: During my visit, the dining room ran warm, even with the AC on. Consider dressing in layers, or opt for outdoor seating. 

Address: 1603 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 5-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-9pm

Expect to pay: $70-85 for steak (can be shared between two people) and $16 wine by the glass. 

What is it? One of Austin’s first omakase spots, led by head chef Yoshi Okai, whose energetic presence sets the tone for a one-of-a-kind experience. 

Why we love it: Hidden behind an unmarked door lies a 20-course culinary journey, featuring sushi, sashimi, warm bites and dessert. Ingredients are sourced globally, like Lubina from the Canary Islands, and prepared with precision. With just 12 seats, every guest gets front-row access to the chefs, who slice, season and plate each course with finesse. Watch as glistening pieces of kanpachi, sayori and Japanese horse mackerel are elevated with lemon, ginger and shisho, black sesame and more. The  “composed sashimi” section adds an artistic flair, making each plate as visually stunning as it is delicious. The dessert is a highlight: a fish-shaped pastry filled and topped with red bean, banana, condensed soy milk, pecan and miso for a sweet and umami finish. Before dinner, enjoy a welcome drink at the bar 30 minutes ahead of your reservation. I also recommend the Slow Luck-y Sour, a frothy, citrusy mocktail with yuzu, lemon and a touch of Szechuan peppercorn. 

Time Out tip: Your reservation at OTOKO includes free valet parking at the South Congress Hotel, an absolute win given the area’s notoriously tight parking. 

Address: 1603 S Congress Ave, Austin TX 78704 

Opening hours: Tues-Sat 5-11pm

Expect to pay: $250 for sushi omakase.

What is it? A downtown restaurant serving elevated New American cuisine cooked over post oak live fire. 

Why we love it: Recommended by Michelin's new Texas guide, Garrison’s long been on every Austinite’s bucket list, and it never fails to live up to sky-high expectations. The upscale grill house fuses big-city glamor with small-town southern hospitality, and the food is as tasty as the Texan fare should be. That’s thanks to the expert culinary team, who grills with Texas post oak flame and uses all fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The result is the juiciest selection of steaks, fish and poultry. Don’t miss their famed caviar and housemade brioche with cultured cream and egg yolk, the grilled Texas redfish and crispy octopus. Save room for dessert: the fluffy Mexican chocolate soufflé and chocolate passion fruit meringue are worth making space for.

Time Out tip: Validate your parking ticket with the host to get four hours of parking for $10. 

Address: 101 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

Opening hours: Thurs-Sat 5-10pm; Tues-Wed 5-9pm.

Expect to pay: $40+ for entrees and $16+ for cocktails.

What is it? A recently-opened 18-course omakase tasting experience in the heart of Downtown Austin. 

Why we love it: Sushi by Scratch isn’t your ordinary omakase spot. Each piece of nigiri is finessed with unique touches, like hand-grated wasabi, house-fermented soy sauce and even bone marrow juice. The menu highlights a range of textures from land and sea, featuring unique bites like hardened jellyfish and torched premium wagyu. Enjoy your 18-course meal—two of which are desserts—at an intimate, 10-seat omakase counter. The close quarters mean you’ll be sitting arm-to-arm, but that only adds to the experience, creating space for conversation with fellow sushi lovers. 

Time Out tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to enjoy the welcome cocktail and canapé service. You’ll also want to allot time to find parking, as there is no dedicated parking. 

Address: 603 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 4:30-10pm

Expect to pay: $195 per person.

What is it? A Michelin Bib Gourmand Mexican spot serving veggie-forward dishes, with some meat in the mix from chef Edgar Rico and Sara Mardanbigi. 

Why we love it: This colorful counter-serve eatery transforms heirloom corn from Mexico into fresh tortillas through the ancient process of nixtamalization, soaking kernels overnight before grinding them into dough 12 hours later. Each tortilla is hand-shaped and filled with creative ingredients like duck confit and roasted cauliflower. For Rico and Mardanbigi, this is more than just food—it’s a tribute to sacred Mesoamerican techniques. Pair your meal with a freshly made agua fresca, and don’t skip the seasonal, sprinkle-covered paleta. 

Time Out tip: Seating is outdoors, so the best time to visit is fall, winter and spring. 

Address: 2512 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 4:30-9pm; Fri-Sat 11am-2pm, 5-10pm; Sun 11am-3pm

Expect to pay: $6-$10 per taco.

What is it? A rotating menu of Italian dishes crafted from regionally available Texas ingredients, plus housemade artisanal chocolates, brought to you by chef duo Krystal Craig and Ian Thurwachter. 

Why we love it: Intero seamlessly blends Italian cooking techniques with Texas-sourced ingredients, resulting in dishes that are as fresh as they are flavorful. From handmade smoked redfish ravioli to the bay scallop crudo, every bite showcases the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Be sure to order a wood-fired pizza; my favorite features an arrabbiata base, Texas olive oil, oregano and housemade mozzarella. It’s simple yet delicious. And, of course, no meal is complete without a drink, and you’ll find something to suit your palate, whether it’s a glass of 2021 Cabernet or a mezcal-aperol cocktail with orange and egg white. As tempting as it may be to skip dessert after a carb-filled feast, don’t. Krystal’s small-batch artisanal chocolates, crafted by hand each week, are worth making room for. Don’t worry if you can’t eat them all in one sitting, you can take them home to devour later. 

Time Out tip: For a small discount, look to the happy hour on Tuesday through Thursday between 5 and 6:30pm. Get $2 of all pizzas, small plates, craft cocktails and wine by the glass. 

Address: 2612 E Cesar Chavez St Suite 105, Austin, TX 78702

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs, Sun 5-9pm; Fri-Sat 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $10-$22 for small plates, $17-$22 for pizza, $24-$28 for handmade pasta.

What is it? A Latin-inspired menu featuring dishes cooked over live fire in Austin’s Seaholm District. 

Why we love it: Ember’s menu is centered around a coal-fueled Josper oven, infusing seafood, meats and vegetables with a signature smoky char. Standout dishes include the filet skewer and Josper chicken, marinated in an orange and guajillo brine and finished with an herbaceous achiote chimichurri. One of Ember’s signature dishes is salpicón de pulpo, marinated octopus balanced with charred salsa quemada, avocado mousse and blistered tomatoes. The deliciousness is extended to its dessert menu: the maíz y chocolate features Ecuadorian chocolate mousse encased in a masa and coca crumble, shaped like an ear of corn. Savor every bite while soaking in the modern industrial space, accented with biophilic design elements. 

Time Out tip: Bring a group, as dishes are meant to be enjoyed family style. 

Address: 800 W Cesar Chavez St Ste PP110, Austin, TX 78701

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 5-10pm; Fri 5-11pm; Sat 10:30am-2pm, 5-11pm; Sun 10:30am-2pm, 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $18-$28 for small plates and $36+ for entrees.

What is it? A French brasserie in East Austin serving steaks, escargot and cocktails in a cozy yet refined setting. 

Why we love it: There’s always a wait at Justine’s—and for good reason. The classics, from French onion soup and escargot to perfectly executed steak frites, are as delightful as the expertly crafted cocktails. But beyond the food, the vibe is what sets Justine’s apart. The dimly lit space hums with energy, featuring vinyl spinning in the background, deep red walls lined with European art and the warm glow of candlelight. If you’re stopping by for a drink, the outdoor patio is perfect anytime. But if you’re keen on dinner, arrive right before they open to snag a table. 

Time Out tip: Take advantage of the free parking lot across the street. 

Address: 4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

Opening hours: Mon 6-11pm; Sun-Sat 6pm-2am

Expect to pay: $17+ for appetizers, $20+ for entrees and $15 cocktails.

What is it? A lively neighborhood restaurant serving American-European fare alongside an impressive wine list.  

Why we love it: F&D has evolved since its founding in 2010, but the thing that’s never changed? Its commitment to the community. The restaurant partners with local farms and nonprofits to source ingredients and support young chefs, ensuring every dish is crafted with care. While you may not meet every farmer or driver behind the scenes, you can taste their impact in every bite. 

Standouts include the pillowy Parisian gnocchi, soaked in a Koji butter sauce with mustard greens and oyster mushrooms, and the duck leg confit served with white beans and garlic sausage. Of all the things you order, don’t forget the gruyere and black pepper popovers—their hollow interior and chewy texture makes them perfect for sharing, especially when slathered with the accompanying charred onion butter. If there’s any room left, the banoffee is a must. Made with milk jam, rum whipped cream, banana and chocolate, it pairs beautifully with a bright glass of tank-aged Malvasía Volcánica wine. With a menu divided into small and large plates, you can order to match your stomach’s appetite. 

Time Out tip: Popovers are best enjoyed with your hands—it’s part of the experience. Attempting to use utensils may earn you a raised eyebrow from the waitstaff (and possibly a popover intervention). 

Address: 306 E 53rd St, Austin, TX 78751

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 5-9:30pm; Fri-Sat 5-10:30pm; Sun 10:30am-2pm

Expect to pay: $100+ for two people.

What is it? Brought to you by James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph, this new age Caribbean restaurant highlights the flavors from mainland Guyana, Jamaica and all the islands in between.

Why we love it: From the menu to the decor, Canje is a celebration of Guyanese and Caribbean culture. Named after Guyana’s national bird, the Canje pheasant, the restaurant’s design makes you feel like you’ve landed in its natural habitat—think rattan chandeliers and chairs, bold prints and lush potted foliage. The menu is just as transportive, featuring spirit-forward and fruit-driven cocktails like Crushed Velvet (Santa Teresa, blackberry, raspberry and lemon) and vibrant, flavor-packed dishes. Start with the ceviche (sour orange, peanuts, sweet peppers and taro chips) and spiced Jamaican buns with the smoked cheddar cheese dip. For the main dishes, aka “suppa,” you can’t go wrong with West Indian curry, pepper fish or jerk chicken (fair warning: it’s spicy). Be sure to add a side of Guyanese roti—perfect for soaking up the curry. Whether it’s a birthday or major milestone, a meal at Canje feels like a celebration in itself.  

Time Out tip: Dishes lean smaller here, so if you’re hungry, I’d recommend ordering a few more dishes than the waiter's recommended amount. 

Address: 1914 E 6th St Ste C, Austin, TX 78702

Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 5-10pm; Fri-Sat 5-11pm

Expect to pay: Entrees starting at $20, appetizers $12 and cocktails $15.

What is it? An Austin barbecue institution since 2009, founded by pitmaster Aaron Franklin and his wife, Stacy.  

Why we love it: Lining the walls of Franklin’s BBQ is a plaque honoring diners who have visited at least 100 times—a small but dedicated club, considering the wait often stretches beyond three hours. But it’s a testament to just how good the barbecue is. The brisket is smoked to literal perfection; it’s juicy, tender and seasoned just right. Other notables include the house-special jalapeno cheddar sausage and beef ribs. Pro tip: Dip your meats into the in-house barbecue sauces for an extra kick of flavor. Meat is sold by the pound, but if you’re dining solo or with just one other person, you can request a smaller portion. When you make it inside the restaurant, consider snagging a branded t-shirt or one of Franklin’s iconic BBQ trays to remember the experience by. After all, you did wait several hours. 

Time Out tip: There’s never not a line outside, so arrive early and prepare to wait. The restaurant provides a limited amount of folding chairs. If you arrive right at opening or past opening time, there’s a chance Franklin’s might sell out of the meats you want to try. 

Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702

Opening hours: Tues-Sun 11am-3pm

Expect to pay: Meats start at $26 per pound. 

What is it? Helmed by executive chef Fermín Núñez, this masa-driven restaurant serves Mexican specialties in an unstuffy setting. 

Why we love it: Suerte’s is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Austin, and it has the accolades to prove it. But if you need physical evidence to back up these claims, dine in and allow Fermín Núñez—the executive chef and culinary mastermind behind the menu—to show you what Mexican flavors, technique and local ingredients can do. Start your meal off with the tuna tiradito, whose butteriness is complemented by the smokiness and slight sweetness from the burnt habanero and apple salsa. While here, you mustn't miss the restaurant’s signature suadero tacos, made of confit wagyu brisket, avocado crudo, onion and cilantro. 

Extra hungry? Try carnitas and pollo al recado negro served with housemade tortillas, and be sure to leave room for the tres leches, a perfectly-balanced vanilla-lemongrass soaked sponge cake topped with Chantilly cream and crunchy chocolate pearls. As you indulge, take in the restaurant’s thoughtfully curated interior, featuring banquette-style seating upholstered in fabrics by artist Arturo Hernández, mezcal bottles repurposed as light fixtures and ceramics sourced from a pottery shop in Oaxaca. 

Time Out tip: Parking can be tough in this area, but Suerte offers limited onsite parking, as well as partial validation at the LAZ parking garage across the street. 

Address: 1800 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702.

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 5-10pm; Fri 5-11pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-10pm

Expect to pay: ~$150 for an appetizer, two dishes and a cocktail.

What is it? A recently opened bistro nestled in Austin’s Rosedale neighborhood offering Southwestern fare alongside house cocktails, beer and wines. 

Why we love it: Not to be confused with Teddy’s Bar, Teddy’s restaurant—outfitted with checkered tiling, floral wallpaper and wooden accents—is the brainchild of owner Daniel Berg, with former Este, Suerte and Uptown Sports Club chef Rene Garza at the culinary helm. Garza whips up Southwestern dishes influenced by the flavors of Mexico and Texas. It’s worth bringing friends and family to enjoy appetizers and Texas-sized plates, like the midland dip, shaved prime rib nestled between a jalapeno cheddar bun, and the smoked prime rib with horseradish cream. Be sure to try the rotating selection of fresh oysters: the pink moons offer a clean flavor with salty and sweet notes, while the delicate tuxedos finish with a subtle sweetness. Complement your meal with a solid selection of wines and fun cocktails, like the No More Mr. Nice Pie (Four Roses bourbon, brown butter, pecan syrup) and I’m Your Huckleberry (Ford’s gin, creme de mure, huckleberry syrup, lemon). 

Time Out tip: Teddy’s stays packed on weekends, so unless you have a reservation, we’d recommend walking in during the weekday when it’s less busy. 

Address: 1601 W 38th St Unit 1, Austin, TX 78731

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-10pm; Sat 10am-10pm; Sun 10am-9pm

Expect to pay: Cocktails start at $15 and entrees begin at $19.

What is it? A modern restaurant serving dim sum, well-balanced cocktails and Chinese delicacies.  

Why we love it: Great Chinese food is hard to come by in Austin, but Qi is the exception. Led by chef Ling Qi Wu, the restaurant blends Ling’s Fuzhou upbringing with global culinary training. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but the half Peking duck is a standout and my personal favorite. The dish is served with steamed bao, scallions and hoisin sauce. Other dishes worth ordering include the bird’s nest (yes, it’s actually an edible nest) with seasonal vegetables and the Shanghai soup dumplings. The drink menu is just as impressive, featuring craft cocktails and thoughtful non-alcoholic options, like a matcha and yuzu concoction. Qi sources its vegetables, fruits, herbs, honey and eggs from Wu Lanfang farm just 30 minutes outside Austin, ensuring every dish is made with the freshest ingredients. 

Time Out tip: Free parking is available behind the restaurant on the second floor of the parking lot. 

Address: 835 W 6th St #114, Austin, TX 78703

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-2pm, 4:30-10pm; Fri 11am-2pm, 4:30-11pm; Sat 10:30am-3pm, 4:30-11pm; Sun 10:30am-3pm, 4:30-10pm

Expect to pay: ~$150 for two people. 

What is it? A food truck known for its innovative fusion of Texan barbecue and Egyptian flavors located on Manor Road. 

Why we love it: You might know of KG BBQ through Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown, but if you’ve been in Austin since the joint’s opening in 2022, you know Kareem El-Ghayesh is serving up juicy brisket, bowls and wraps. If it’s your first time, be sure to try signature dishes like the pork ribs, dry rubbed in za’atar and glazed with pomegranate barbecue sauce, and the brisket rice bowl, which comes with Mediterranean rice, smoked brisket, baladi salad, candied nuts and pomegranate seeds. Once your order is ready, grab a seat at one of the picnic tables or head inside Oddwood Brewing for a brewski to pair with your selections. 

Time Out tip: Don’t skip out on dessert; the cardamom pistachio rice pudding is made with pistachio butter, topped with mascarpone whipped cream and crushed pistachios. 

Address: 3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723

Opening hours: Thurs-Sat 11am-8pm; Sun 11am-5pm

Expect to pay: $30+ per pound for most meats; -$18 for bowls and wraps.

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What is it? A casual lunch and dinner spot on Airport Boulevard serving Thai street food. 

Why we love it: P Thai Khao Man Gai has one goal: to transport taste buds to the streets of Bangkok—no passport required. Helmed by chef Thai Changthong, this casual spot brings his mother’s recipes to life in every dish. The menu focuses on noodle and rice dishes, but the real star of the show is the khao man gai, tender poached chicken served with fragrant chicken-fat rice and a housemade fermented bean ginger chili sauce. Opt for the fried version if you’re craving something crispier, and pair it with a refreshing drink while grabbing a seat at one of the picnic-print tables lined with wooden royal blue chairs. 

Time Out tip: Dodge the lunch rush by stopping in after 1pm—just make sure to arrive before the 2:30 closure while they prep for dinner. 

Address: 4807 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751.

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 11am-2:30pm, 5-9pm; Fri 11am-2:30pm, 5-10pm; Sat 12-10pm; Sun 12-9pm

Expect to pay: Entrees start at $15.

What is it? A Spanish tapas and Basque-style restaurant and bar serving creative cocktails, beer and wine in a lively atmosphere fueled by DJ beats. 

Why we love it: If a tapas bar met a nightclub, it would be Kalimotxo. DJ mixes bring energy into the space, as do the creative cocktails and impressive wine list. No matter where you’re seated—whether it’s the leather banquette seating or a table in the back separated by chain curtains—you’re sure to have a great time. The menu might seem a little overwhelming at first glance if you’re unfamiliar with this style of ordering, but don’t fret; knowledgeable wait staff will make recommendations that do not disappoint. The Spanish ham plate, fried calamari and pan con tomate came highly recommended, as did entrees like the seared snapper and pork milanesa. Let’s just say, no plate was left full. After finishing up the meal, I indulged in a churro sundae with torrejas ice cream, caramelized apple and chocolate sauce atop a crispy churro. 

Time Out tip: Parking can be a challenge, so I’d recommend arriving early to find a spot. 

Address: 1813 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 3-10pm; Fri-Sat 3-11pm

Expect to pay: $4+ for individual bites and entrees start at $28.

What is it? Opened in 1949, this former sports club brings Louisiana-style fare to East Austin. 

Why we love it: You don’t have to fly to New Orleans for Louisiana-style fare when Uptown Sports Club brings it to you right here. As you step into the bistro-inspired space, a “Be a sport” tile engraving at the entrance hints at Uptown’s commitment to preserving its history. Food-wise, the cold bar really shines, especially the oysters and smoked trout dip, both must-orders. Other highlights include the shrimp po’boy, featuring fried Gulf shrimp, lettuce, mayo, tomato, pickles and Crystal vinaigrette on a Leidenheimer roll, and the juicy Uptown burger. Pair it with the Rosalite, a floral and citrusy gin cocktail, with Braulio, raspberry syrup, egg white and lemon. 

Time Out tip: Parking’s tough in this area, but thankfully, there’s a paid parking lot next door. 

Address: 1200 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 11-12am; Fri 11-2am; Sat 10-2am; Sun 10am-10pm

Expect to pay: $15+ for most sandwiches, $19+ for main plates and $15-$16 for cocktails.