Where to Eat in Austin, TX: Food, Coffee, Desserts
Hello loves! Since I went to college in Austin (hook ‘em!) I would always get questions from friends and family about where to eat when visiting. Now that I’ve graduated and been away from Austin for about 5 months, I finally have a solid list of food recommendations. Being away from Austin made me realize which places I truly miss. These restaurants, coffee shops, and dessert stops are all AMAZING and I can’t wait to go back and pig out the next time I’m in ATX.
Restaurants
If you love feeling like you’re dining in a friend’s perfectly decorated home, this is the spot for you. Things you need to order: the white wine mojito, charcuterie board, and a chocolate chip cookie. Also if you go for brunch, they have amazing croissants.
Come here for the French food, stay for the aesthetic. I love both the brunch and dinner here.
This spot is perfect for groups, has delicious food (for breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and great drinks. My favorite drink is the frozen paloma (only $5 during happy hour!) and the best appetizer is the baked rictotta.
Another spot that is great for large groups, The Grove has something for everyone. I definitely recommend a wine flight (they have mimosa flights during brunch!) and the bruschetta. There are three locations, but the one downtown has the cutest patio area.
Always good! Famous for their Bob Armstrong queso and margaritas, Matt’s is a Tex Mex staple. Beware, this place doesn’t take reservations and always has an incredibly long wait. i definitely recommend going for lunch if you can and are short on time.
This is the only seafood restaurant on my list. Located on South Congress, this place is AMAZING. I haven’t tried anything that I haven’t liked here. Definitely one of the nicest restaurants on my list, but one of my favorites for a special location.
Coffee Shops
Even though they got rid of their amazing avocado toast (still sad about it), this coffee shop is still one of my top picks. I love the ambience and I spent a lot of time studying here during my college years.
This is another spot that I spent plenty of time at throughout college. They have great iced lattes, baked goods, and plenty of natural light.
The best iced vanilla latte I’ve ever had … PERIOD. This place has lots of outdoor seating if the weather is nice.
Desserts
If you love sweets and are in the mood for something DENSE, this is the spot for you. Gourdough’s specializes in fluffy donuts with insane toppings. The Blackout is a chocolate lover’s dream and the Sin A Bomb is an essential for anyone who loves cinnamon sugar.
An Austin classic. Great ice cream with plenty of mix ins. My favorite is the Mexican vanilla with oreos.
Frozen bananas dipped in chocolate then rolled in toppings? Yes please. Keep in mind this food truck closes down in the winter time.
Happy Hour
The best aperol sprtiz and calamari in town (discounted during happy hour!)
Let me know if you’ve tried any of these spots when you’ve been in Austin. And don’t worry, I’ll be sure to add more NYC recommendations on the blog soon.
Slap on some lipstick and smile
Channing