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 in 2024, 2025 and 2026, as well as 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. The chefs reinforce this sentiment by reminding diners 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-Thu 5:30-10pm; Fri, Sat 4:45-11:00pm; Sun 3:45-10:30pm

Expect to pay: $222 per person.

What is it? A vegan restaurant offering an eight-course tasting menu made with plant-based, 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 an eight-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, accompanied by cream and butter in rotating flavors. 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: 3108 Windsor Road, Austin, TX 78703

Opening hours: Mon, Tues, Thu, Fri 5:45-10:30pm

Expect to pay: $105 per person, with an optional wine pairing for an additional $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 is illuminated under twin Murano glass chandeliers. 

The dinner menu is filled with stunners, but you mustn't miss the estate bread, english muffin-shaped loaves fermented in corn grits and given a light sear. Spread the cultured butter while warm. 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 4:30-10pm; Brunch Sat-Sun 10am-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’ upbringing 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 chili—for a vibrant, zesty bite. 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: Tue-Wed 5-9pm; Thu-Sat 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $4-$14 for a glass of wine, roughly $39-$55 for most mains, $28-$31 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 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-$42 for main plates and $17 for cocktails.

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

Why we love it: A 2024 and 2025 Michelin-recommended restaurant, Garrison’s has 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 the grilled Texas swordfish and grilled porterhouse. You won’t regret it. 

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: Tue-Wed 5-9pm; Thu-Sat 5-10pm

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

What is it? A 17-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 17-course meal—one of which is a dessert—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: Wed-Sat 4:30-10pm; Sun-Mon 4-9:30pm

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. They hand-shape each tortilla and fill it 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 paletas. 

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: Tue-Thu 5-9pm; Fri, Sat 11am-2pm, 5-10pm; Sun 11am-3pm

Expect to pay: $6-$12 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 seasonal pastas to wood-fired pizza, every bite showcases the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Be sure to order the arrabbiata pizza, topped with 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 off all pizzas, small plates, craft cocktails and wine by the glass. 

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

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

Expect to pay: $10-$24 for small plates, $18-$24 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 Josper chicken marinated in an orange and guajillo brine and finished with an herbaceous achiote chimichurri. Another 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. Room for more? Don’t miss out on the chocoflan: silky vanilla flan and fresh berries atop a layer of moist chocolate cake. Savor every bite while soaking in the modern industrial space, accented with biophilic design elements. 

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

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

Opening hours: Daily 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $100 per person

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, Wed, Thu, Sun 6–11pm; Fri, Sat 6pm–midnight

Expect to pay: $18+ for appetizers, $20+ for entrees and $15-$18 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. 

The menu is constantly changing based on seasonal ingredients, but past 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 make them perfect for sharing, especially when slathered with the accompanying charred onion butter. Order a dessert and pair it 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: Tue-Sun 5-9pm

Expect to pay: $30-$80.

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 Pink Sands (vodka, watermelon, cranberry lime) and vibrant, flavor-packed dishes. Start with the ceviche (sour orange, peanuts, sweet peppers and taro chips) and jerk beef patties. For the main dishes, aka “suppa,” you can’t go wrong with West Indian curry 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-Thu 5-10pm; Fri, Sat 5-11pm

Expect to pay: Entrees starting at $20, appetizers $12 and cocktails $14.

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 jalapeño 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 number 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: Tue-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 ceviche, 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, smashed avocado, onion and cilantro. 

Extra hungry? Try the carnitas 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 on-site 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-Fri 5-10pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-10pm

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

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-Thu 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: Thu-Sat 11am-8pm; Sun 11am-5pm

Expect to pay: Meats starting at $15 per half pound.

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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 house-made 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: Tue-Thu 11am-2:30pm, 5-9pm; Fri 11am-2:30pm, 5-10pm; Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-9pm

Expect to pay: Entrees start at $16.

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-Thu 5-10pm; Fri-Sat 5-11pm

Expect to pay: $8+ for tapas and entrees start at $20.

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, Uptown Sports Club brings it 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-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri 11am–midnight; Sat 10–midnight; Sun 10am-10pm

Expect to pay: $15+ for sandwiches, $20+ for main plates and $14-$18 for cocktails.

What is it? A laid-back gastropub dishing out slow-cooked Southern dishes with chef Harold Marmulstein at the helm. 

Why we love it: This picnic-table spot pairs Southern comfort with farm-fresh ingredients. The rotating specials keep things exciting—though, fair warning, you might fall in love with a dish that vanishes from the menu on your next visit. One staple worth clinging to: the crispy chicken thighs, drenched in neck bone gravy and served over fried smashed potatoes. It’s equal parts crunchy and juicy. Prefer something creamier? Swap the smashed potatoes for mash. Oh, and a side of biscuits is non-negotiable. If chicken isn’t your thing, the wagyu cheeseburger, slow-cooked beef shoulder and Texas redfish will do the trick. The wine list leans generous, with glasses of red and white that pair perfectly with whatever you order. Save room for dessert (or box up your leftovers), because the bananas foster beignets—crispy dough laced with banana, topped with vanilla ice cream and local honey—are the finale you don’t want to skip. 

Time Out tip: Indoor seating is limited, so you’ll likely be outside. Bring bug spray—mosquitoes love it here as much as the locals do. 

Address: 1917 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Opening hours: Sun-Thu 4-9pm; Fri-Sat 4-10pm 

Expect to pay: Appetizers start at $7.50, entrees start at $19 and wine $12+ per glass.

What is it? A laid-back Japanese spot in North Austin from chef Elvin Jin, a former aspiring doctor turned sushi master. 

Why we love it: Artistry and sashimi don’t always go hand in hand—usually it’s just fish on a plate. Tatsumi is the rare exception. The vibe is casual, but the food is anything but. Case in point: the Nama Hotate Crudo, marinated in truffle ponzu and lime, topped with smoked trout roe, kaluga caviar and silky uni. It’s vibrant, indulgent and almost too pretty to eat. The sashimi gets the same thoughtful treatment—think chu toro, madai and hamachi, arranged on ice with seashells, microgreens and fresh foliage. A flight to Tokyo might be out of reach, but Tatsumi makes Austin feel a little closer to Japan. 

Time Out tip: The menu layout can be confusing, but chef Jin is more than happy to steer you toward the good stuff. 

Address: 2700 W Anderson Ln #212, Austin, TX 78757

Opening hours: Tue-Wed 11:30am-2:30pm, 5-9:30pm; Thu-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, 5-10pm; Sat 4-10pm

Expect to pay: Nigiri from $8+ (two pieces), sashimi from $18+ (six pieces).

What is it: An upscale Japanese-French restaurant serving an omakase tasting menu with sake, wine and beer pairings.

Why we love it: Tucked inside the Austin Proper Hotel, Kappo Kappo is a newcomer to Austin’s omakase food scene, but it has already made big splashes. It opened in 2025 and quickly earned a Michelin Star in Texas’ 2026 guide. At the counter, brothers Haru and Gohei Kishi present the fish, held by the tail, before it’s prepared and plated. The 11-course meal arrives one dish at a time, spotlighting A5 wagyu, top-tier seafood, and warm dishes, all beautifully presented. Dishes pair nicely with the wine and sake pairings, and a small beer menu is also available. The menu shifts with the seasons, so there’s always a reason to come back. Counter and table seating are both offered.

Time Out tip: Valet parking is available for a discounted rate. 

Address: 600 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 

Opening hours: Tue-Thu 6-9pm; Fri-Sat 5-11pm

Expect to pay: $195 per person.