Austin’s dining scene is hot. Discover the art of intentional gastronomy with a focus on regional sourcing at these restaurants within the Lone Star State’s capital.
Eberly
Named for Angelina Eberly, an innkeeper who helped preserve Austin as Texas’ capital during the Archive Wars, this spot celebrates free spirits. Luxuriate in the velvet banquette-lined main dining room or the glass-enclosed “Study” inspired by London’s Cue Gardens while sampling inventive American dishes. Grab a nightcap at Cedar Tavern, the conjoining watering hole named for its Tiffany-paned mahogany bar inherited from the namesake New York City haunt. Keep the night going in Executive Chef Jo Chan’s private tasting room or Eberly’s speakeasy with dynamic artwork and a full bar.
Elementary
Elementary emerged on South Lamar in the summer of 2023, quickly garnering devoted diners. Awakening the inner child of its patrons, the culinary team combines skillful technique with playful execution. The uninhibited spirit is reflected in the menu, which changes on a near-daily basis, depending entirely on what can be sourced within 100 miles. The only permanent dish is the viral Ramen Risotto.
Intero
Farm-to-table concepts are not new, but they continue to reign supreme in Austin’s City Limits. This homey Italian restaurant on East César Chávez is no different. In keeping with its name––Italian for “whole”––seasonal and provenant ingredients are used in their entirety to create a delectable menu. Everything including the pasta and pizza is made on-site. Intero also specializes in artisanal Italian chocolates crafted from generations-old family recipes, so be sure to finish with something sweet.
Lutie’s
Nestled within Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection, Lutie’s is helmed by sweetheart chefs Bradley Nicholson and Susana Querejazu. After honing their craft in renowned restaurants across the globe, the duo returned to their home state of Texas to fulfill their culinary dreams. Lutie’s menu evolves at their whims, emphasizing fresh ingredients gathered from Austin and Central Texas farms. The verdant dining room leans into its location on the estate as a contemporary, convivial patio for a magnificent yet intimate destination.
Nixta Taqueria
Although this experimental East Austin taqueria opened in the fall of 2019, most Austinites would consider Nixta Taqueria a staple. Like the maiz made daily in-house, the team prides itself on fostering creativity, community, and reciprocity. Patrons are accommodated on a first-come-first-serve basis, and the picnic tables are highly coveted. Be prepared to wait, as the kitchen is only 100 square feet with one 8’ flat-top grill, but the artful tortillas and tacos are sure to make mouths water as they emerge one by one.
Suerte
Revered for their masa, Suerte’s menu is rooted in traditional Mexican cooking techniques with an Austin spin. Those who manage to secure a table at this East 6th mainstay will enjoy an inimitable evening. The kitchen team partners with neighborhood farms to serve the best produce and meats available. Plus, each Monday evening, choice agave spirits from Mexico are highlighted by flights at a palatable price point.
The Meteor Cafe
Two close friends and avid cyclists became accidental business partners in 2019 when their desire to combine food, wine, coffee, and bicycles took shape in the form of The Meteor Cafe. Situated along South Congress, the expansive space offers a thorough curation of natural wines, craft beers, specialty coffees, and delicious sourdough crust pizza. Enjoy their homemade baked goods and Mediterranean bites on the charming outdoor patio. Address all bike needs at the adjoining boutique.
Uchi Austin
James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Tyson Cole inaugurated Uchi within a modest bungalow on South Lamar in 2003. Since then, he’s opened numerous locations of his non-traditional, elevated-yet-approachable concept, even dabbling in a more casual offshoot, Uchibā (more on this next). Request the chef’s favorites––what ensues is an omakase and sake-fueled masterpiece of innovative takes on staple Japanese, ranging from “Cool & Hot Tastings” to sushi and sashimi to the Chocolate Candy Bar for dessert.
Uchibā Austin
Loosely translating from Japanese to “Uchi Bar”, this izakaya-influenced bar and restaurant breathes new life into the Downtown scene. Overseen by Hai Hospitality, the same group responsible for Uchi, this hotspot provides a vast selection of Japanese whiskies and ingenious cocktails. Come for their Happy Hour and stay for the yakitori grill items and even Uchi classics.
