Austin, the vibrant and eclectic city in the heart of Texas, is a food lover’s paradise. With its rich cultural heritage and thriving culinary scene, Austin offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to every palate and preference. From traditional Tex-Mex to innovative fusion cuisine, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Austin has something for everyone. And when it comes to lunch, the options are endless. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, finding the perfect spot for lunch in Austin can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat lunch in Austin, covering everything from classic comfort food to international flavors and everything in between.
Classic Austin Eats
Austin is famous for its BBQ joints, and when it comes to lunch, there’s no better place to start than with some good ol’ fashioned ‘cue. Here are a few classic Austin eats that are sure to satisfy your cravings:
Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue is often cited as one of the best BBQ joints in the country, and for good reason. This no-frills spot in East Austin serves up tender, smoky meats that are cooked to perfection. Try the brisket, ribs, or sausage, and don’t forget to arrive early – lines can be long, especially on weekends.
La Barbecue
La Barbecue is another popular BBQ spot in Austin, with a focus on traditional Texas-style ‘cue. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always count on finding delicious meats like brisket, ribs, and sausage. And don’t miss the sides – the creamy coleslaw is a must-try.
Uchi
For a taste of Japan in Austin, head to Uchi, a critically-acclaimed sushi restaurant with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The lunch menu is a great value, with options like the “Lunch Omakase” – a selection of chef’s choice sushi and sashimi.
International Flavors
Austin is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene reflects that diversity. Here are a few international spots that serve up delicious lunch options:
Kerbey Lane Cafe
Kerbey Lane Cafe is a beloved Austin institution that serves up international comfort food with a focus on global flavors. Try the Korean BBQ tacos, the Moroccan chicken wrap, or the veggie quesadilla – all of which are delicious and satisfying. (See Also: Where to Eat in Bundaberg? Foodie Delights Await)
Thai Kun
For a taste of Thailand in Austin, head to Thai Kun, a casual eatery with a focus on street food-style dishes. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always count on finding spicy and sour flavors, like the popular “Khao Soi” noodle dish.
La Condesa
La Condesa is a stylish and modern Mexican restaurant with a focus on creative cocktails and delicious small plates. Try the “Tacos de lengua” – tender, braised beef tongue served with salsa and lime – or the “Chiles rellenos” – roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and battered.
Food Trucks and Markets
Austin is famous for its food trucks, and for good reason. These mobile eateries offer a wide range of cuisines and flavors, from traditional Tex-Mex to innovative fusion dishes. Here are a few popular food trucks and markets to check out:
Veracruz All Natural
Veracruz All Natural is a beloved food truck that serves up delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine. Try the “Tacos de carnitas” – tender, slow-cooked pork served with salsa and lime – or the “Tacos de chorizo” – spicy Mexican sausage served with onions and cilantro.
East Side King
East Side King is a popular food truck that serves up creative and delicious Asian-fusion cuisine. Try the “Korean BBQ tacos” – crispy tacos filled with marinated beef and kimchi – or the “Pork belly buns” – soft, fluffy buns filled with braised pork belly and pickled carrots.
SouthBites
SouthBites is a food truck park located in the heart of Austin, featuring a rotating selection of local vendors and cuisines. From traditional Tex-Mex to innovative fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone at SouthBites.
Upscale Eats
Austin is also home to a number of upscale eateries that offer a more refined dining experience. Here are a few options to consider: (See Also: Where to Eat in Yaletown Vancouver? Foodie Guide)
Uchi
Uchi is a critically-acclaimed sushi restaurant with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The lunch menu is a great value, with options like the “Lunch Omakase” – a selection of chef’s choice sushi and sashimi.
Olamaie
Olamaie is a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently, but you can always count on finding delicious and creative dishes like the “Roasted beet salad” or the “Grilled pork chop”.
Contigo
Contigo is a stylish and modern American bistro with a focus on creative cocktails and delicious small plates. Try the “Tacos de lengua” – tender, braised beef tongue served with salsa and lime – or the “Chiles rellenos” – roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and battered.
Recap and Recommendations
In conclusion, Austin has a thriving food scene that offers something for everyone. From classic comfort food to international flavors and everything in between, there’s no shortage of delicious options for lunch. Whether you’re in the mood for BBQ, sushi, or something new and innovative, Austin has got you covered. Here are a few recommendations to get you started:
- Try Franklin Barbecue for some of the best ‘cue in the country.
- Head to Uchi for a taste of Japan in Austin.
- Visit Kerbey Lane Cafe for international comfort food with a global twist.
- Check out SouthBites for a rotating selection of local vendors and cuisines.
- Try Olamaie for a farm-to-table dining experience.
FAQs
What is the best place to eat lunch in Austin?
Austin has a wide range of delicious lunch options, but some of the best places to eat include Franklin Barbecue, Uchi, Kerbey Lane Cafe, and SouthBites.
What is the most popular food truck in Austin?
Veracruz All Natural is a beloved food truck that serves up delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine. Try the “Tacos de carnitas” – tender, slow-cooked pork served with salsa and lime – or the “Tacos de chorizo” – spicy Mexican sausage served with onions and cilantro. (See Also: Where to Eat Pierogi in Warsaw? Top Local Favorites)
What is the best place to get BBQ in Austin?
Austin is famous for its BBQ joints, and Franklin Barbecue is often cited as one of the best in the country. Try the brisket, ribs, or sausage, and don’t forget to arrive early – lines can be long, especially on weekends.
What is the best place to get sushi in Austin?
Uchi is a critically-acclaimed sushi restaurant with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The lunch menu is a great value, with options like the “Lunch Omakase” – a selection of chef’s choice sushi and sashimi.
What is the best place to get international food in Austin?
Kerbey Lane Cafe is a beloved Austin institution that serves up international comfort food with a focus on global flavors. Try the Korean BBQ tacos, the Moroccan chicken wrap, or the veggie quesadilla – all of which are delicious and satisfying.