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Austin food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Austin.
Photo by Jeremy Doddridge on Unsplash
What to eat in Austin
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Texas Barbecue Brisket
$20–$35
Slow-smoked beef brisket, often with a peppery bark, is the undisputed king of Texas BBQ. The rich, smoky flavor and tender texture are a testament to hours of careful preparation.
Where to try: Smokehouses and BBQ joints throughout the city, particularly along East Sixth Street and in South Austin.
Breakfast Tacos
$3–$6
A quintessential Austin breakfast, these are typically flour or corn tortillas filled with eggs, cheese, and a choice of meats like bacon, sausage, or chorizo. Many variations exist, often with potatoes and salsa.
Where to try: Countless taquerias and breakfast spots across the city, with many popular trucks found in the South Congress and East Austin areas.
Migas
$8–$14
A Tex-Mex scramble typically made with scrambled eggs, tortilla chips, onions, peppers, and cheese, often served with beans and tortillas. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for any meal.
Where to try: Diners and Tex-Mex restaurants, especially those in the Hyde Park and Travis Heights neighborhoods.
Frito Pie
$5–$9
A simple yet iconic dish consisting of a bag of Fritos corn chips, split open and topped with chili, cheese, and onions. It's a hearty, no-frills comfort food staple.
Where to try: Often found at casual eateries, sports venues, and some food trucks, particularly around Zilker Park and the University of Texas campus.
Tex-Mex Enchiladas
$10–$18
Corn tortillas rolled around a filling (such as cheese, chicken, or beef) and covered in chili con carne or a cheese sauce, then baked. The rich, savory sauce is key to this beloved dish.
Where to try: Tex-Mex restaurants and diners citywide, with concentrations of classic establishments in the North Loop and South Lamar districts.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
East Austin
Eclectic and vibrant, with a mix of historic dive bars, trendy eateries, and food trucks serving diverse cuisines.
Food trucksBBQTacosCraft cocktails
South Congress (SoCo)
Bohemian and bustling, known for its unique boutiques, live music venues, and a variety of casual to upscale dining options.
Casual diningPeople-watchingShoppingLive music
Downtown
The urban core, featuring a mix of established restaurants, modern steakhouses, and lively bars catering to business crowds and tourists.
Upscale diningBusiness lunchesNightlife
The Domain
A modern, upscale outdoor shopping and dining center with a concentration of national restaurant chains and trendy local spots.
ShoppingChain restaurantsModern ambiance
Dietary notes
While Austin offers increasing options for vegetarians and vegans, many traditional Texan and Tex-Mex dishes are meat-heavy. Look for dedicated vegan/vegetarian restaurants or places that clearly label plant-based options on their menus.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is customary in the US; aim for 15-20% for restaurant service.
- •Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash can be useful for smaller food trucks or market stalls.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- •Dress code is generally casual, even at many nicer establishments.
Plan the rest of your Austin trip
Food guides elsewhere