Where to Eat in Austin, Texas: My Must-Hit Spots from a Local Who Grew Up Here

As someone who grew up just outside of Austin and still spends plenty of time here, I’ve made it my personal mission to eat my way across the city—more than once. Whether I’m grabbing drinks with friends, meeting up for a low-key lunch, or planning a date night, these are the places I return to again and again. Some are nostalgic favorites, some are newer finds, but they all bring serious flavor to the table.

🌽 Salt Traders Coastal Kitchen 🌽

My go-to order? The corn and crab raviolis (sadly a seasonal item)—hands down one of the best pasta dishes I’ve ever had. They’re sweet, creamy, and packed with seafood flavor. But don’t sleep on the mussels either; they’re briny, buttery, and perfect with a slice of bread for soaking up every drop. I’m a sucker for mussels with bread to sop up whatever sauce they were cooked in!

🌯 The Peached Tortilla 🌯

Funky, fun, and full of bold flavor, this place nails the Asian-Southern fusion vibe. Their tacos are super craveable (try the pork belly!), and the vibe is perfect for a casual night out with a little flair. Especially worth it during the week for their ‘Steak & Frites Tuesday’, ‘Fried Chicken & Whiskey Wednesday’, and ‘Ramen Thursday’ deals.

🍸 Eberly 🍸

Eberly feels like a glamorous secret tucked into South Lamar—ideal for a cocktail-driven night out. Their drinks are thoughtful, creative, and always beautifully presented. Immaculate vibes are sure to be found with their rooftop bar, Cedar Tavern bar, and glass study that’s regularly hosting private events. The food leans modern and adventurous, so it might not be for every palate, but if you're feeling a little daring, it's a win. Their menu is rotating seasonally with fresh flavors, so you’re not likely to have the same thing twice!

🌿 Mattie’s 🌿

I’ve been coming here since it was Green Pastures many moons ago, and it’s only gotten better. Mattie’s is that Southern charmer that makes you want to stay all day—peacocks wandering the grounds, cocktails under the trees, and every single bite of food as good as the last. Truly, I’ve never had a bad dish here. They’re known for their brunch, so of course, their buttermilk biscuits are incredible, but my favorite is their fried green tomatoes. They’re also known for their milk punch (a must try), and have other wonderful cocktails to spice up any meal.

🍜 Ramen Tatsu-ya 🍜

I’m a hard-core ramen lover, but I struggle finding ramen that doesn’t have a soy milk taste. Ramen Tatsu-ya’s tonkotsu broth is rich and delicious, and with no soy-milky flavor! Give me pork tonkotsu ramen and a side of their signature bombs to make me sweat, and I’m a happy camper. This is comfort food on another level, and I love how customizable it is. Rich, flavorful broth with just the right kick—it hits the spot every time.

🍳 Summer House on Music Lane 🍳

This restaurant is part of one of my favorite hotels in Austin, Hotel Magdalena, and not only serves impeccable vibes, but a fresh take on food and cocktails. Their shakshuka was one of my all time favorite brunch orders that revived me after a super long night the day before. One street off of South Congress, this is just off the beaten path enough that you almost forget you’re in a major metroplex.

🦪 Perla’s 🦪

As an oyster obsessor, I had to try Perla’s and I was not disappointed. Their oyster selection was wonderful (my go to is asking for sweet and mild oysters and getting an assortment at the waiter’s discretion to get to try a wide variety), and I was pleasantly surprised to find Barbecue Shrimp on the menu. This New Orleans classic was one of my favorite guilty pleasures that my family made growing up, and it’s rare that I’m able to find it on a menu. Pearla’s is a seafood lover’s dream (which I definitely am!!)

🥙 MezzeMe Turkish Kitchen 🥙

This Turkish spot is such a gem. My parents took me here, and I’ve been obsessed ever since. The flavors are vibrant, comforting, and everything feels so fresh. Mediterranean food that spans from pitas, salad, and our favorite Lahmacun (basically Turkish pizza). This is the perfect place to swing in for a filling and inexpensive lunch - I haven’t had a single miss on the menu, which is saying something.

🌊 Este + Bar Toti 🌊

Delicious coastal Mexican food, and yummy cocktails. Think bright ceviches, wood-fired seafood, and cocktails that taste like vacation in a glass. Everything about this place—from the food to the design—feels intentional and elevated without being too precious. Also worth checking out their Bar Toti too (it’s right next door)! The Peche margarita I had was incredible, and I’ve been dying to go back to try more bites.

Austin’s food scene is constantly evolving, but these spots have earned their place on my list for a reason. Whether you’re a local looking to fall back in love with the city or a visitor wondering where to start, these are the places that capture what I love most about eating here: bold flavors, relaxed vibes, and menus that never let you down. Got a favorite I didn’t mention? I’m always looking for new reasons to come back hungry.