Content Produced in Partnership with Visit Austin
It's no secret that Austin is famous for barbecue, and rightly so as Franklin and Salt Lick are basically BBQ legends known throughout the country, but there is so much more to dining in Austin than that. The Austin food scene has blown up in the recent years, and it has become the ultimate city for foodies. Whether your preference is Asian, Italian, Seafood or French fare, we've got you covered with the best dining in Austin — that isn't barbecue.
If you love Asian:
You'll want to try:
H Mart, a massive Korean supermarket chain. The new Austin location is the first to feature a Market Eatery, including two food stalls from famed San Francisco chef, Deuki Hong. You can't go wrong here. We enjoyed the Korean fried chicken from Sunday Bird, the egg cream buns from Tous Les Jours, and the bulgogi hot dogs from Mix.
Other great spots:
- Be More Pacific: Filipino food truck turned brick and mortar with a great menu — and fun puns.
- Loro: An Asian smokehouse and bar created by James Beard Award-winning Chef Tyson Cole of Uchi and Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue.
- Mandala Kitchen: Contemporary spot serving Vietnamese and Thai dishes (be sure to try the mini pancakes!).
- Soto: Innovative Japanese dishes and hand crafted cocktails — heaven.
- Yoshi Ramen: A tribute to Chef Chen’s grandmother, who owned a ramen shop in Osaka in the 1980s, with whimsical Japanese and Star Wars decor found throughout.
If you love Italian:
You'll want to try:
Bufalina, where each delicate Neapolitan pizza bakes for just 90 seconds in the 900-degree wood burning oven. They've got all the classic flavors you know and love, as well as some experimental options. They also have a rotating menu, so there's bound to be something new each time you visit. You'll want to try the Marinara, a simple classic that lets the fresh ingredients shine. Rumor has it, it's the best pie outside of Italy you'll ever have.
Other great spots:
- Pinthouse Pizza: Great atmosphere, award winning beers, and delicious pizza.
- Vespaio: "Vespaio" means "wasps nest" in Italian and represents the buzzing atmosphere. Almost everything is homemade here from the pastas, stocks, bread, cheese and more!
If you love Seafood:
You'll want to try:
Perla's, a laid-back, beautiful space on South Congress Avenue. They offer fresh fish and oysters flown in daily from both coasts and an extensive coastal-inspired cocktail menu. Design lovers are going to want to bring their cameras because the inside of Perla’s is so beautifully curated and designed, it is an Instagram-worthy spot. If you go, be sure to try their oysters (of course), cooked-to-perfection grilled octopus and butterscotch pot de creme with coconut lace cookies.
Other great spots:
- Monger's: Part market, part raw bar, part kitchen where you can eat in or take home delicious, fresh seafood.
- Clark's Oyster Bar: The bright, airy space is absolutely gorgeous. They've got a great raw bar and house baked sourdough.
If you love French:
You'll want to try:
Chez Nous, a small causal bistro, perfect for a foodie rendezvous. From atmosphere to service to food, Chez Nous is perfection on all accounts, and the three-course prix-fixe dinner menu is magnificent. Bon appetit!
Other great spots:
Justine's: Enjoy steaks, snails, wine and cocktails at this late night dining spot.
Le Politique: A French brasserie, patisserie and coffee shop, giving a nod to Austin's roots as a capital city and an homage to Texan and French politicians — past and present.