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DiningSights
1
Franklin Barbecue
Barbecue, Regional Cuisine · Bib
$$
This iconic barbecue oasis in the heart of Austin needs no introduction, even further evidenced by the lines snaking out the door. Inside is simple at best, with a corrugated metal ceiling and cement floors, but it's the board above the counter that has everyone's attention anyway. Pork ribs, sausage, turkey, and pulled pork, along with a handful of sandwiches and classic sides (think cole slaw salad and pinto beans) are what's on offer, but you won't ever go wrong with the brisket. Sliced to order, it's wrapped in butcher paper and weighed before being placed on the famous blue tray. Tender a
592m
2
Hestia
American, Contemporary · ★ Michelin
$$$$
Push past the glass door of this restaurant in the heart of downtown and you'll immediately get the drift—quite literally, as wood smoke perfumes the air. This hot spot is all about live fire cooking, as evidenced by the 20-foot hearth in the open kitchen. Contemporary cooking is on display in both the à la carte and chef's tasting menu, and Texas produce and proteins take center stage. From savory to sweet, nearly everything is kissed by the flames or scented with smoke. "Embered" cantaloupe with green tomato and shiso blossoms is an elegant opener; and hearth-dried and blistered tomatoes ove
1.7km
3
la Barbecue
Barbecue · ★ Michelin
$$
la Barbecue was founded by the late LeAnn Mueller and is now run by her wife, Ali Clem. The large, custom-built pit in the backyard anchors the operation, while the interior is a simple space brightened by bold colors and a country-leaning soundtrack. Lines can build during peak hours, as guests wait to order a range of smoked meats at the counter. Brisket remains a central offering, alongside house-made sausages and pork or beef ribs. Sides and accompaniments, including slaws and pickled items, add some spiciness and contrast to the richness of the meats.
1.8km
4
Olamaie
American, Southern · ★ Michelin
$$$
With its white clapboard and black shutters, Olamaie, named for the chef's grandmother, mother and daughter, is a charming spot north of downtown Austin. Consider a cocktail, as their list is interesting and includes a daily punch and fun drinks like the Spaghetti Western martini with Texas olive-oil-washed gin, vodka, cherry tomato-infused dry vermouth and basil eau de vie.Expect Southern cuisine that's been given a contemporary polish, and don't dare miss out on the buttermilk biscuit, served warm and accompanied by whipped honey butter sprinkled with sea salt. Roasted chicken tucked with sp
2.0km
5
Cuantos Tacos
Mexican, Regional Cuisine · Bib
$
Cuantos Tacos, from Chef/owner Luis “Beto” Robledo, is an East Austin food truck dedicated to Mexico City-style tacos. Guests order at the counter before settling into the shaded picnic area shared with neighboring vendors. The menu is concise, with a focus on a selection of meats served simply with onion and cilantro. Options may include well-balanced carnitas, flavorful longaniza and tender cachete, alongside quesadillas filled generously with melted cheese and meat. The tacos are built on thin, nixtamalized corn tortillas that are small, pliable and full of flavor, while the quesadillas are
972m
6
Emmer & Rye
American, Contemporary · Bib
$$$
Some of Austin's most popular bars and restaurants are here on Rainey Street, and Emmer & Rye is no exception. This place is always packed and humming with a crowd, both outside on the breezy patio and indoors in the contemporary, inviting dining room. The new American menu is well-designed and tightly focused. From the in-house fermentation program and freshly ground heirloom grains figuring prominently on the menu to strong ties with many of Texas's small farms, there's a commitment to sustainability here. Yellowfin tuna crudo tucked with strawberries and cucumber is a refreshing opener befo
1.2km
7
Nixta Taqueria
Mexican, Regional Cuisine · Bib
$$
Come as you are, and come early, to this East Austin taqueria from owners and partners Chef Edgar Rico and Sara Mardanbigi. It's a bit scrappy but rewards its visitors with spot-on Mexican-focused cooking. As the name suggests, the menu is all about nixtamalized corn of heirloom varietals, and they roast the corn the day before, then grind it each morning for that day's service. Everything is made in house, and the menu presents a great mix of contrasts, featuring dishes employing ancient methods alongside updated items like duck fat refried beans. The duck carnitas taco, served on a thick tor
2.1km
8
Kemuri Tatsu-ya
Izakaya, Barbecue · Bib
$$
What do you get when you blend a Japanese izakaya with a barbecue joint? It's not a punchline—it's Kemuri Tatsu-ya. From the decor (think cowboy boots and whiskey bottles with teapots and lanterns) to the menu (corn bread taiyaki, anyone?), this East Austin spot blends the two worlds in the very best way. It's casual but laser-focused on quality. Choose from skewers and snacks like asazuke-pickled turnip finished with chopped smoked pecans and a yuzu-miso emulsion. Smoked options, from brisket in a sesame-pecan rub to fish collar, can be made into a bento box which arrive with koshihikari rice
2.2km
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Click a row to locate it · distances are approximate. Data from Overture / Michelin / Wikidata.