If there is something that everyone loves about Austin, it’s the abundance of great places to eat. A foodie paradise with a plethora of options of restaurants in downtown Austin, you can find all types of cuisines and flavors when browsing for food in this fun-loving, weird, and vibrant city.
What are the best restaurants in downtown Austin?
Whether you want to find Mexican restaurants downtown Austin or prefer southern cooking, the city of Austin doesn’t disappoint. From fine dining venues for a date night to more low-key spots for sushi with friends, there is plenty of variety to choose from. As you look for top places for a meal out, browse below to see what some of our friends deem the best restaurants in the city:
Fixe Southern House
For a fine dining experience that will leave you satisfied, visit this downtown favorite, owned by Keith House and chef James Robert. Famous for its biscuits and with plenty of southern comfort food options available on the menu, if you’re in the mood for old-fashioned cooking with a progressive twist, Fixe is a fantastic option for you.
Located At: 500 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
Hours of Operation: Sat, Sun Brunch 10:00 am–3:00 pm. Happy Hour Daily 4:00 pm–6:00 pm. Mon–Thu Dinner, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
BarChi Sushi
BarChi Sushi offers incredible sushi without a hefty price tag. Located on Colorado Street with both indoor and outdoor seating, you can enjoy your favorite sushi and Japanese cuisine, no matter the weather. This Austin gem is perfect for a low-key birthday celebration or night out with friends.
Localite Tip: If you want to enjoy a couple of sushi rolls on a budget, make sure to visit during BarChi happy hour from 4-7 p.m. Don’t forget to try my personal favorite: Lychee martinis!
Located At: 206 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701
Hours of Operation: Sun-Thurs 4:00 pm-10 pm. Fri, Sat 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
Red Ash
Red Ash lives up to any and every expectation you’d have for Italian cooking and it’s booked months in advance! With large portions, great service, and an ambiance that is perfect for any special event, Red Ash is truly one of the best restaurants in downtown Austin. Trust us; it will not disappoint.
Located At: Colorado Tower, 303 Colorado St #200, Austin, TX 78701
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sun 5:00 pm to 10 p.m
Comedor
Undoubtedly, one of the best Mexican restaurants downtown Austin, Comedor is a unique space providing modern vibes, as well as mouthwatering Mexican cuisine. In a world of Tex-Mex cuisine and taco joints, Comedor offers Mexican dishes with a unique spin for those who love the delectable flavors of authentic Mexican meals.
Located At: 501 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 5:00 pm-10 pm., Sun 11:00 am-3:00 pm.
Wu Chow
A high-end restaurant offering mouthwatering Chinese cuisine, this farm-to-table concept is a must-visit. With vegan and meat options available for any kind of diner, you can enjoy a delectable meal at Wu Chow, no matter your preference. With an inviting ambiance and top service, Wu Chow should be on your list of best restaurants downtown Austin for Chinese food.
Located At: IBC Bank Plaza, 500 W 5th St #168, Austin, TX 78701
Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri Lunch 11:00-2:00 pm. Mon-Thurs Dinner 5:00-10 pm. Fri-Sat 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Sunday 11:00 am-3:00 pm.
Licha’s Cantina
Located on the east side of downtown, Licha’s Cantina is truly a favorite for those looking for Mexican cuisine. Casual yet modern with fun vibes, Licha’s Cantina is a perfect place to go for any occasion, whether it’s hanging with friends or celebrating a birthday. If you’re looking for a break from Tex-Mex and want to try authentic Mexican cuisine, Licha’s is perfect for you.
Located At: 1306 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
Hours of Operation: Closed on Monday, Tue-Thurs 4:00 pm-10:00 pm, Friday 4:00 pm-11:00 pm., Saturday 11:00-11:00 pm.
Aba
Mediterranean-inspired food in a beautiful setting, Aba’s has been a popular place for Austinites since it opened its doors in 2020. Opening up in a pandemic hasn’t kept it from becoming a favorite location in the city. Located merely a block from the S. Congress bridge, Aba offers a captivating environment, as well as amazing dishes and a stellar wine menu.
Located At: 1011 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Hours of Operation: Mon-Thurs 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Friday 11:00 am-11:00 pm., Saturday 10:00 am.-11:00 pm. Sunday 10:00 am-9:00 pm.
Localite Tip: Because of its soaring popularity, make sure you reserve well in advance, as same-day reservations are impossible to come by.
Sammie’s Italian
We have to include one of our top favorite Italian restaurants in downtown Austin: Sammie’s Italian. Old-school vibes and amazing, classic Italian cuisine, this is a fun spot offering great eats. Sammie’s has a homey ambiance but more importantly, it offers the best Italian fare in the city.
Located At: 807 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703
Hours of Operation: Sun-Mon 5:00-10:00 pm, Tues-Wed 5:00-11:00 pm Thurs-Sat 5:00 p.m-Midnight, Saturday 12:00 p.m-Midnight
Eddie V’s
We have to highlight a favorite venue offering seafood and prime steaks. If you’re looking for a fine dining option for a dinner with colleagues or a private dining experience, Eddie V’s is an all-time favorite. Local Austinites and travelers alike have been visiting this establishment since it opened in 2000.
Located At: 301 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 4:00-10:00 pm, Sunday 4:00-9:00 pm.
Devil May Care
Well-known for its seductive, inviting vibes, Devil May Care is a unique setting for a night of cocktails and delectable dishes. Mediterranean cuisine with a modern taste and plated to perfection, if you’re looking for a social-media post-worthy restaurant/lounge that offers mouthwatering bites, Devil May Care is a top choice on any list of best restaurants downtown Austin.
Located At: 500 W 6th St Suite 100, Austin, TX 78701
Hours of Operation: Closed Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday 5:00-10:00 pm., Thursday 5:00 pm.-Midnight, Fri-Sat 5:00 pm-2:00 am., Sun 12:00 pm.-7:00 pm.
Looking for late night eats in Austin? Check out our recent post on 20 Restaurants Open Late in Austin
For happy hour options in the city, check out our post on half-price happy hours in Austin.
