Best Restaurants in Downtown Austin: Top Local Picks

Jump to: Upscale & Fine Dining | Casual & Trendy | International & Fusion | 6th Street Favorites

Austin’s downtown is the heartbeat of the city’s dining scene—where skyline views, lively patios, and chef-driven kitchens meet local flavor. Whether you’re heading to 6th Street for a night out or planning a romantic dinner near the river, this list rounds up the best restaurants in downtown Austin to fit every mood.

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Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information. However, all details are subject to change. Please verify information before heading out.

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Curious about how we choose our content? Here’s our process.

Also, check out our articles on the Meal Delivery Austin, Best Tacos in Austin, Austin Desserts, Late Night Food in Austin, Cheap Eats Austin, and Pizza in Austin.

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Upscale & Fine Dining Restaurants in Downtown Austin

Red Ash

Red Ash Italia is widely considered one of the premier dining destinations in the city, famous for its wood-fired Italian specialties and energetic atmosphere. The open kitchen crafts incredible handmade pastas and prime steaks that pair perfectly with their extensive wine list.

Localite Tip: Reservations are strictly required here, so plan weeks to secure a table.

Operating Hours: Daily 5 pm – 10 pm
Where: 303 Colorado St #200, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $50 – $100 per person

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Fixe Southern House

Experience authentic Southern charm with a sophisticated twist at Fixe, where upscale comfort food takes center stage. It is a versatile spot, equally suited for a high-stakes business dinner or a relaxed weekend brunch.

Localite Tip: You absolutely cannot leave without trying their signature biscuits.

Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 4 pm – 9 pm | Friday 4 pm – 10 pm | Saturday 10 am – 10 pm | Sunday 10 am – 9 pm
Where: 500 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $40 – $80 per person

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Eddie V’s

For those seeking a classic, high-end seafood experience, Eddie V’s delivers with fresh catches and prime steaks in an elegant setting. Their Chilean sea bass and crab fried rice are legendary among local foodies.

Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday 4 pm – 10 pm | Sunday 4 pm – 9 pm
Where: 301 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $60 – $120 per person

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Casual & Trendy Downtown Austin Restaurants

Devil May Care

This moody underground lounge offers a sophisticated Mediterranean menu and a high-energy vibe perfect for a night out. From whipped feta to grilled octopus, the small plates are designed for sharing alongside creative cocktails.

Localite Tip: Note that this is a 21+ establishment, and they do enforce a dress code.

Operating Hours: Tuesday – Wednesday 5 pm – 12 am | Thursday – Saturday 5 pm – 2 am
Where: 500 W 6th St, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $30 – $60 per person

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Wu Chow

Wu Chow brings authentic, modern Chinese cuisine to the heart of downtown, focusing on farm-to-table ingredients and traditional flavors. The atmosphere is casual yet sleek, making it a great spot for both lunch and dinner.

Localite Tip: Their Sunday Dim Sum brunch is a local favorite and fills up fast.

Operating Hours: Lunch: Monday – Friday 11 am – 2 pm | Dinner: Monday – Thursday 5 pm – 10 pm & Friday – Saturday 5 pm -11 pm | Dim Sum Brunch: Sunday 11 am – 3 pm
Where: 500 W 5th St #168, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $25 – $50 per person

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Sammie’s Italian

Step back in time at Sammie’s, an old-school Italian joint with vintage red-sauce vibes and massive portions. It’s the kind of place where you come for the chicken parm and stay for the nostalgic atmosphere.

Operating Hours: Sunday – Monday 5 pm – 10 pm | Tuesday – Wednesday 5 pm – 11 pm | Thursday & Saturday 5 pm – 12 am | Friday 12 pm – 12 am
Where: 807 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703
How Much: $35 – $70 per person

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International & Fusion Favorites

Comedor

Comedor is an architectural marvel serving modern Mexican cuisine that is as beautiful as the building it’s housed in. Expect bold flavors like bone marrow tacos and fresh ceviche paired with expertly crafted mezcal drinks.

Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 5 pm – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 5 pm – 11 pm
Where: 501 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $45 – $90 per person

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BarChi Sushi

This sleek sushi bar is the go-to spot for fresh rolls and Japanese favorites in the downtown core. It offers a vibrant setting that transitions perfectly from a quick lunch to a lively night out.

Localite Tip: Visit during their daily happy hour for some of the best sushi deals in the city.

Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 2 pm & 4 pm – 10 pm | Friday 11 am – 2 pm & 4 pm – 12 am | Saturday 4 pm – 12 am | Sunday 3 pm – 10 pm
Where: 206 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $20 – $50 per person

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Best Spots Near 6th Street Austin

Licha’s Cantina

Located just off the main drag, Licha’s serves up incredible Mexican comfort food in a renovated bungalow with a huge, vibrant patio. It’s the perfect spot for a group hang with cochinita tacos and plenty of mezcal.

Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 4 pm – 10 pm | Friday 4 pm – 11 pm | Saturday 12 pm – 11 pm
Where: 1306 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: $20 – $40 per person

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Aba

Aba is a stunning Mediterranean oasis featuring a lush outdoor patio that feels miles away from the city hustle. Their short rib hummus and lamb kebabs are must-order items for any visit.

Operating Hours: Lunch: Monday – Friday 11 am – 4 pm | Dinner: Monday – Thursday 4 pm – 10 pm; Friday 4 pm – 11 pm | Saturday 3 pm – 11 pm | Sunday 3 pm – 9 pm | Brunch: Saturday & Sunday 10 am – 3 pm
Where: 1011 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $30 – $65 per person

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Know Before You Go

While the majority of these top restaurants are located in the immediate downtown Austin core near landmarks like the Colorado Tower and 6th Street, they are easily accessible for residents in surrounding areas like West Lake Hills, Tarrytown, and Mueller. Most spots are within a 15-20 minute drive or a short rideshare for those living just outside the central business district.

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Common Questions about Restaurants in Downtown Austin

What’s the name of Sandra Bullock’s restaurant in Austin?

The famous actress owns Walton’s Fancy and Staple, a beloved deli and bakery located on West 6th Street.

What’s Austin’s best-kept food secret?

While downtown is full of big names, many locals consider the hidden sushi happy hours and late-night taco trucks tucked behind 6th Street bars to be the city’s best-kept secrets.

Where to go to dinner in Austin for a special occasion?

For a celebratory night, upscale spots like Red Ash or Eddie V’s offer the perfect combination of high-end service and top-tier cuisine.

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