Welcome to Austin, Texas! Known for its vibrant culture, live music, and eclectic food scene Austin has made a name for itself in recent years as one of America’s “it” cities! And while there’s much to love about this city, the food has to be one of the highlights! From mouthwatering BBQ and legendary tacos to innovative craft brews and Texas-sized donuts, these local favorites showcase the unique and diverse tastes that make Austin a gastronomic paradise. We recently had the pleasure of visiting Austin and have put together what we think is the perfect, flavor-filled journey through the heart of ATX, highlighting six must-try foods and drinks that capture the essence of this dynamic city. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply a curious traveler, these delectable dishes and beverages are sure to make your Austin experience unforgettable.
⬇️ Check out our “Austin, Texas Food Tour” travel vlog for a closer look at our exploration of Austin’s food scene! ⬇️
And if you're looking for more things to do in Austin, check out our "One Day in Austin" blog and "One Day in Austin" vlog for our top recommendations!
⬇️ For Tours, Tickets, & Experiences in Austin, check out GetYouGuide! ⬇️
⬇️ Looking for the perfect stay in Austin? Check out our recommendations! ⬇️
⭐⭐⭐⭐ ARRIVE Austin
Coffee
Austin’s coffee scene is a thriving hub of creativity and community, making it a must-visit for any coffee enthusiast. With a plethora of independent coffee shops and roasteries scattered throughout the city, each offering unique blends and artisanal brews, Austin's coffee culture is as diverse and eclectic as the city itself. From cozy, laid-back cafes perfect for enjoying a leisurely morning to trendy spots buzzing with energy, the coffee scene here not only serves exceptional beverages but also embodies the city's innovative spirit. Whether you're looking to savor a meticulously crafted espresso or explore unique coffee concoctions, Austin's coffee scene is sure to delight and inspire.
Where to get coffee:
~ Figure 8 Coffee Purveyors Cafe & Roastery (1111 Chicon St)
~ Radio Coffee & Beer (4204 Menchaca Rd)
~ Cosmic Pickle (121 Pickle Rd)
~ Fleet Coffee (2427 Webberville Rd)
~ Jo's Coffee (1300 S Congress Ave)
Breakfast Tacos
Breakfast tacos in Austin are practically their own religion and play an essential role in the city's culinary identity, offering a delicious and convenient way to start your day. These flavorful creations, typically made with fresh tortillas filled with eggs, cheese, and a variety of savory ingredients like bacon, chorizo, and avocado, are a staple at local eateries and food trucks alike. With countless variations and a deep-rooted tradition, breakfast tacos exemplify Austin's dynamic and inventive food culture. Whether you prefer a classic combination or a gourmet twist, indulging in breakfast tacos is an absolute must when visiting Austin, providing an authentic taste of the city's diverse and beloved cuisine.
Where to get breakfast tacos:
~ Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop (2305 E 7th St)
~ Veracruz All Natural (111 E Cesar Chavez St)
~ Marcelino’s (901 Tillery St)
~ Paco’s Tacos (1304 E 51st St)
~ Mi Madre's (2201 Manor Rd)
Barbecue
The Austin barbecue scene is a culinary legend, revered for its mouthwatering smoked meats and rich, smoky flavors that have become synonymous with the city’s identity. Renowned joints like Franklin Barbecue and la Barbecue attract locals and tourists alike, often with lines forming hours before opening. The dedication to the craft—evident in the slow-smoked brisket, tender ribs, and savory sausages—creates an unforgettable taste experience that is deeply rooted in Texan tradition. Visiting Austin without indulging in its barbecue is like missing out on a key piece of the city's cultural and gastronomic heritage, making it an absolute must for any food lover.
Where to get barbecue:
~ Franklin Barbecue (900 E 11th St)
~ Terry Black’s Barbecue (1003 Barton Springs Rd)
~ La Barbecue (2401 E Cesar Chavez St)
~ Interstellar BBQ (12233 Ranch Rd 620 N suite 105)
~ Micklethwait Craft Meats BBQ (1309 Rosewood Ave)
Donuts
Austin boasts a donut scene as creative and colorful as the city itself! From the iconic Gourdough's, known for its oversized, gourmet donuts loaded with creative toppings, to the beloved Round Rock Donuts with its larger-than-life, Texas-sized donuts, Austin's donut shops offer a delightful twist on the classic treat, and sampling these donuts provides a sweet taste of Austin's playful and indulgent food culture, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors.
Where to get donuts:
~ Round Rock Donuts (106 W Liberty Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664)
~ Gourdough's (1503 S 1st St)
~ SH Donuts (5313 Manor Rd)
~ The Salty (2000 S Congress Ave)
~ Combo Donuts (1509 S Lamar Blvd #200)
Beer
Boasting more than 55 breweries, the Austin beer scene plays an integral part of the city's cultural fabric. Renowned for its innovative craft breweries and a community that passionately supports local brews, Austin offers an impressive variety of beers ranging from hoppy IPAs and smooth stouts to unique seasonal and experimental brews. With iconic breweries like Jester King, Lazarus Brewing Company, and Zilker Brewing Company, visitors can explore a plethora of flavors and styles. The city's numerous beer gardens, taprooms, and brewery tours provide the perfect setting to savor these local creations while enjoying Austin's laid-back, friendly atmosphere.
Where to get beer:
~ Lazarus Brewing Co. (4803 Airport Blvd)
~ Jester King Brewery (13187 Fitzhugh Rd)
~ St. Elmo Brewing Company (440 E St Elmo Rd G-2)
~ Zilker Brewing Company and Taproom (1701 E 6th St)
~ Meanwhile Brewing (3901 Promontory Point Dr)
Tacos
You may be thinking "You already talked about tacos on this list", and you would be right... Kind of! See, in Austin, breakfast tacos and tacos are two totally different experiences, and for that reason, they each hold their own place on our must-eat list! Similar to the breakfast taco scene, the taco scene in Austin is a vibrant tapestry of flavors that reflects the city's rich cultural diversity and culinary creativity. From traditional street tacos filled with succulent, slow-cooked meats to innovative fusion creations that push the boundaries of flavor, Austin's taco offerings are both abundant and varied. Iconic spots like Torchy's Tacos and Veracruz All Natural have garnered national acclaim for their inventive take on the iconic handheld eats while establishments like Las Trancas Taco Stand and Cuantos Tacos stay true to the classics. Whether enjoyed from a bustling food truck or a trendy eatery, the tacos in Austin are a must-try.
Where to get tacos:
~ Las Trancas Taco Stand (1210 E Cesar Chavez St)
~ Taco Joint (134 E Riverside Dr)
~ Granny's Tacos (1401 E 7th St)
~ Cuantos Tacos (1108 E 12th St)
~ Torchys Tacos (multiple locations)
We hope that this guide has helped you make the most of your time in Austin, and if it has, we hope you’ll consider following us on Instagram and subscribing to our YouTube Channel for more travel content!
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