Best of East Austin Restaurants – 2020 City Guide

This guide to the Best of East Austin Restaurants is part of the Austin Food Blogger Alliance’s 2020 City Guide. #atxbesteats

Updated January, 2020 

If you like looking at maps to find the locations and plan a walk, bike ride, rideshare, etc. then you’re going to love the map I’ve embedded into this post! If you expand it to full screen, you can click on a restaurant in the listing and it’ll show you the pin on the map as well as some vertical videos and food or drink pics of mine (or others’ photos with credit given in the blog post) to get you drooling! Call or check out a restaurant’s website simply by clicking in the map. Go ahead, take a look, play a bit, and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

*All pictures in the map are the same as those you see in this post. See captions of pictures for appropriate credit if they aren’t mine.

The Guide:

I’ve been living and dining in East Austin for 5 years now, and boy has the food scene expanded over time! We’ve seen some really great places come and go ;( And tons of spots have stuck around through all the East Austin revitalization going on.

Nonetheless, I’m sure you’ve dined on the EastSide at least once even if you don’t live in this part of town! It’s become quite the mecca for unique culinary experiences and here are some of the spots I recommend. Again, this is not meant to be an all-inclusive list since there are probably more restaurants than meals 🙂 I also haven’t made my way out to every East Austin restaurant quite yet.

Hill Country Cuisine

Pitchfork Pretty

If you’ve asked me any time since August, “what’s your favorite restaurant right now?” my response has been, “Pitchfork Pretty.” I love the A-frame design, bright chalet feel and everything I’ve ever eaten or sipped on there.

My recommendations: To name a few for dinner — Yuca Dumplings, Fried Chicken, Buckwheat Cornbread, Oysters

Brunch — All of the bagel sandwiches! They make their own bagels, y’all.

Parking: Private lot

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: http://pitchforkpretty.com/

Address: 2708 E. Cesar Chavez St.

---

Coastal Mexican

Grizzelda’s

So I dine here a lot. Brunch on Sundays, dinner on a weeknight, oh and a super dope Happy Hour (all night on Thursdays)! Alot of the staff have been there since they opened and I like to feel like it’s my home away from home.

If you want high quality seafood and Jacoby’s Ranch beef mixed in with a Mexican/ATX-Mex feel, this is your place!

My recommendations: Just a few of my faves — Tostaditas, Tuna Tostadas, Ceviche Mixto, Queso, Street Sprouts, Picadillo Tacos. For drank — FroMo, 50/50, Grizz Mizz, Bad Girl Ri Ri.

Can’t pass up their Sunday Brunch Buffet!

Parking: Parking on the street on Tillery or 2nd. Also, valet.

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: https://grizzeldas.com/

Address: 105 Tillery St.

---

Interior Mexican

Licha’s Cantina

TexMex is fine and all and usually is what you’ll find more of around town, but the Eastside is blessed with Licha’s and if you love sopecitos, tinga de pollo and cochinita pibil as much as we do, this is your spot for authentic Interior Mexican fare! They’ve got an incredible happy hour – probably one of the best in town, IMO!

My Recommendations: Ceviche, Arroz con Huitlachoche, Tinga de Pollo, Cochinita Pibil Tlacoyos

Parking: Paid street parking

Takes reservations: Yes for parties of 10 or more

Website: http://lichascantina.com/

Address: 1306 E. 6th Street

Discada

When this spot popped up on Rosewood and Angelina, Instagram was flooded with pictures of their tacos. We stopped in to see what all the hype was about and totally get why they’re some of the most loved tacos in Austin. They only serve one kind of taco, the Discada, with the best mix of beef and pork cooked in a wok and topped with onions, pineapples, cilantro, etc.! It’s a technique found in Northern Mexico and the owner, Jose, shared with me that his family cooked this way and he wanted to serve it in Austin. The tacos aren’t huge, so order alot – mostly because you aren’t going to want to share and you’re going to keep craving them!

My Recommendations: I get 3 Discada tacos for myself and 8 if sharing with the hubs. And definitely try the elotes.

Parking: Street parking

Takes reservations: No, it’s a food truck

Website: http://www.discadatx.com/

Address: 1319 Rosewood Ave.

Gabriela’s Downtown

This family owned and operated Mexican restaurant has epic views of downtown Austin, fantastic food and some strong bevs!

My recommendations: Queso Flameado to start, carnitas, gorditas, tipsy french toast, Cerveza Preparada con Aguachiles, Pineapple Mimosa, Gaby’s Margarita

Parking: There is a lot on the side where you can park but it’s paid

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: https://gabrielasdowntown.com/

Address: 900 E. 7th Street

---

Italian

Intero

It took me ages to get to Intero but I’m so glad I did. They focus on the whole animal in their Italian creations and save room for some of the tastiest chocolates I’ve gotten my hands on. Chef Ian and Chocolatier Krystal are a power couple in the restaurant and out and about. They’re married and the sweetest. With Brunch service as a new addition to their offering, you really need to dine there asap and enjoy their culinary creations. The restaurant is absolutely gorgeous as well!

My recommendations: Gnocchi, Spaghettini, Burrata, Risotto

Parking: They have a parking lot and there is also street parking in the area

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: https://www.interorestaurant.com/

Address: 2612 E. Cesar Chavez

La Matta

When Native Italian bring Italian Sandwiches to the Eastside, you run! This low-key, casual, cafe vibes spot at The Arnold, should be on your line up for amazing paninis (the real kind, not the panini maker kind), mozzarella boards, boards, and vibrant fresh salads. Oh and if you’re a Soccer fan, they’ve got several TV’s broadcasting games!

My Recommendations: Hot Soppressata, Fontina, Roasted Peppers, Basil on Ciabatta – legit Italian sandwich, y’all!  Enjoy with a Kale, Burrata, Mango, Endive, Turnip, Radish, Hazelnut, Mint and Lime.

They’re known for their mozzarella boards and boards with meat and cheese in general. I’ll be going back for these!

If you’re needing a libation, they have Italian wines, beer, and coffee of course.

Since they’re open daily from 11-9PM, you have plenty of opportunities to try out the entire menu.

Parking: Street parking and validated parking in the garage (bring your ticket in)

Takes reservations: No

Website: https://lamattaaustin.com/

Address: 501 Comal St.

L’Oca d’Oro

Another wonderful spot in the Mueller Development, they focus on an Italian inspired celebration of family, community, and sustainability.

They pay One Fair Wage for their employees and hospitality is included in the form of a 20% pre-tax service charge.

My Recommendations: Brunch — Chickory Salad, Full Italian, Creamy Polenta

Parking: Street parking and validated parking in the AMLI Mueller garage

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: https://www.locadoroaustin.com/

Address: 1900 Simond Ave.

Patrizi’s

Truly an East Austin gem, Patrizi’shttps://www.patrizis.com/ has been around, originally in Beaumont, since the 1950’s!

Situated outside of the Butterfly Bar and The Vortex, Patrizi’s has a legit operation going serving up super fancy and uber satisfying Italian classics all from a food trailer! If you stop by any evening around 6:45 or so, you’ll almost guaranteed have to wait in line. Don’t worry though, staff pass around the tastiest zucchini salads to hold you over, and they’ll even talk you through the menu and what works best for your dining occasion that night!

My Recommendations: The Great Leopold or Karah’s Diavolo + the best and most affordable chicken in town! Patrizi’s salad for sure and NEVER PASS UP an order of garlic bread!

Parking: They’ve got a parking lot shared with Butterfly Bar and The Vortex and there is neighborhood parking nearby.

Takes reservations: It’s a truck – stand in line, yo!

Website: https://www.patrizis.com/

Address: 2307 Manor Rd.

---

American

Bird Bird Biscuit

Uh, if you love biscuits and fried chicken, a visit to Bird Bird Biscuit is an absolute must! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been. They’ve got sausage, bacon, and just little biscuit dough bites too – if you don’t like fried chicken. Their biscuits remind me of the ones I ate growing up in Southern Louisiana. Quite often, you’ll find a line at the joint – don’t let it scare you…it moves fast!

My Recommendations: Queen Beak, Dough Dough Bites

Parking: A few spots up front and then street parking

Takes reservations: Not that kind of place. Order at the counter and grab a seat or take to-go

Website: https://www.birdbirdbiscuit.com/

Address: 2701 Manor Rd.

Brewer’s Table

The fact that we have restaurants that are zero waste is yet another reason Austin has one of the best culinary scenes in the country. Brewer’s Table brews their own beer and uses the malts, hops, grains from the brewing process in their culinary creations. How amazing is that?!

Check out their Lager Garden for an exclusive menu including sandwiches, sides and brews. Stop on by for brunch on the weekends and enjoy pancakes, breakfast hash, deviled eggs and other brunch staples! They’ve got mimosas, friends!

My Recommendations: Get The Feast! It easily serves 3 if you start with an app or two

Parking: Parking lot

Takes reservations: Yep!

Website: https://www.thebrewerstable.com/

Address: 4715 E. 5th St.

Salty Sow

Known as a “head to tail” restaurant, Salty Sow is an American Gastropub serving up some really delicious well-known yummies in a modern farmhouse atmosphere.

My Recommendations: Dinner — Triple Fried Duck Fat Fries, Truffled Deviled Eggs, Fresh & Smoked Salmon Rillette, Crispy Brussels Sprout Leaves, Slow-Cooked Beef Shoulder, Crisp Chicken Thighs, Candied Pork Belly

Dessert — Butterscotch Budino

Sips — Rosemary’s Piglet, Maple Glazed Old Fashion, Moscow Sow

Parking: Parking lot nearby

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: http://saltysow.com/austin/

Address: 1917 Manor Rd.

Yellow Jacket Social Club

Ok, so this is a bar with an impressive menu, so it deserves a spot on this list. My husband and I frequent it for a casual spot to grab a drink and enjoy a quick bite usually on our way to see a band at the Historic Scoot Inn.

My Recommendations: Cheese or Charcuterie boards, Meze (99% of the time, I order this), Frito Pie (life-changing), Roasted Beet Sandwich, Tuna Melt (my husband’s obsession). If you love a spiced saltine, order the Social Crackers – eat them alone or with the meze or cheese board.

Parking: They have a lot and there is street parking off of 5th

Takes reservations: It’s not that kind of place!

Website: http://www.yellowjacketsocialclub.com/

Address: 1704 E. 5th St.

Revelry Bar + Kitchen

I was lucky enough to be invited for Sunday Funday Brunch fairly soon after the opening of RKB, and I was blown away by the attention to detail on their food! They’ve been open on East 6th for over a year now, and Chef Dom always keeps the menu seasonal and fresh, Alana knocks it out of the park with amazing cocktail creations, and LisaMarie is the most amazing Operations Director I’ve ever encountered. Overall, quite the team!

My Recommendations: Dinner — Chicken Lollipops (asian garlic, dry rub, thai green curry), Chili Fries (add avocado), RKB Burger, Fries, Sweet Potato Tots,

Brunch — Wings & Waffles, Biscuit + Sausage Skillet

Parking: Street parking

Takes reservations: They’re counter-service, so no

Website: http://revelryatx.com/

Address: 1410 E. 6th St.

---

Also: See Best 5 East ATX Happy Hours

---

Austin Daily Press

I can’t remember my first time grabbing a brioche or torta from ADP, but it’s been a frequented spot for us the last 3 years. Grab a spot out front on a nice day, or order and get your food brought to you while sipping on a drink at The Wheel.

My Recommendations: Jalapeno Hushpuppies ALWAYS, The Lucy Tacos, Baby Buffalo, Mini Tuxedo, Pineapple Express Tacos, Thai Salad, Medi Salad, Lavender Lemonade

Parking: Parking lot

Takes reservations: None needed. Order at window.

Website: https://www.austindailypress.com/

Address: 1900 E. MLK Jr. Blvd. and 4620 E. Cesar Chavez St. Bldg. 1

Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile

One of the first ranch-to-table restaurant in Austin, Jacoby’s always impresses with the tastiest beef and the most beautiful views of the Colorado River. Scoot on over to the Mercantile and buy yourself a little something while you’re there too. I always do 🙂

My Recommendations: Dinner — Deviled Eggs, Cheeseburger, Chicken Fried Steak, Mac & Cheese, Brussels Sprouts, Wood Roasted Chicken

Brunch — Smoked Salmon Board, Braised Beef Benedict, Chicken Fried Steak & Waffles, Buttermilk Biscuit & Gravy, Mac & Cheese

Parking: Complimentary Valet

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: http://www.jacobysaustin.com/

Address: 3235 E. Cesar Chavez

Sour Duck Market

Where my Odd Duck lovers at? Sour Duck is their fast-casual sister restaurant on the Eastside and it needs to be on your list asap.

Their dishes are so creative and rarely the same day-to-day. Focusing on smoked meats, they’ve got one of our favorite burgers in town! And if you enjoy craft beer and cocktails, they’ve got reasonably priced draft beers and cocktails on tap.

Their patio and outdoor area is one of my favorites in town and it’s kid-friendly too!

My Recommendations: Burger, Dirty Fried Rice. The menu changes regularly but the burger is always on and you’ve gotta order one (or else)

Parking: Parking lot and street parking

Takes reservations: No, not needed. You order at the counter/bar and grab a seat

Website: https://www.sourduckmarket.com/

Address: 1814 E. MLK Jr. Blvd

Contigo

A long time staple on the Eastside, Contigo has been serving up damn good ranch-style modern bar food for years! They recently enclosed their outdoor seating area and they have AC in there now – yay!

I recently went to Contigo for dinner again and it never ceases to impress me. Be sure to order those delicious fried green beans – you’ll be sorry if you don’t – and I never pass up their burger. Something about their patty the aioli and the bun makes for a perfect combo. I love a good basic burger and their burger is in my top 3 favorites in Austin.

My Recommendations: Burger, fried green beans, kale salad

Parking: You won’t have any problems finding parking. They have a huge lot.

Takes reservations: Yep!

Website: https://contigotexas.com/restaurant/

Address: 2027 Anchor Lane

---

World Diner

Sixth & Waller

Nestled in the East Austin Hotel, Sixth & Waller has some fantastic eats from all around the world! Take your pic of seating at the counter, diner tables, the “living room” space and the larger space – all have a different setup and vibe. Save room for a cookie or two – they have rotating cookies and lots of other pastries to satisfy any sweet tooth!

My Recommendations: Vegan Kale Caesar Salad, Lox and Bagel, Smoked Turkey Panini, Butternut Squash Rigatoni, Jackfruit Banh Mi, COOKIES!

Parking: Street Parking and they have a paid lot

Takes reservations: None needed

Website: https://eastaustinhotel.com/food-drink/6th-and-waller/

Address: 1108 E. 6th Street

---

BBQ

Micklethwait Craft Meats

Included on the Top 50 BBQ Joints in Texas and well-deserving of the list, Micklethwait has become one of our go-to spots when we want BBQ without a super long wait. I personally love their Brisket Frito Pie the most and will keep going back for it!

My Recommendations: Brisket Frito Pie, Smoked Chicken, Brisket, Sausage, Beef rib, Jalapeno-cheese grits, buttermilk pie (leave room for it)

Parking: Parking lot

Takes reservations: Order at the trailer

Website: https://craftmeatsaustin.com/

Address: 1309 Rosewood Ave.

Franklin BBQ

No “Best Of BBQ” or Top 50 BBQ Joints in Texas list could ever be complete without including Franklin! I think it’s worth standing in line at least once in your life. Don’t both even dreaming of cutting the line or joining a group of friends who have been waiting a while, as you’ll get a stare-down like no other and probably a talking-to! Pro Tip – if you know you’re going to eat at least $75 worth, you can pre-order and pick it up.

My Recommendations: Brisket, Ribs, Pulled Pork, Potato Salad, Bourbon Banana Pie

Parking: Parking nearby

Takes reservations: Pre-order at least $75 worth of BBQ and you can just pick it up; otherwise, you’re waiting in line as they don’t take reservations.

Website: https://franklinbbq.com/

Address: 900 E. 11th St.

La Barbecue

Now you can get La Barbecue inside the Quickie Pickie off E. Cesar Chavez. Be sure to prepare to wait in line but at least part of the line is inside! And yes, it’s on the Top 50 BBQ Joints in Texas list!

My Recommendations: Brisket, Pork Ribs, Chipotle Sausage, El Sancho, La Frito Loco

Parking: Parking lot and street parking

Takes reservations: Nope, you gotta wait in line or call ahead 3 days in advance and pre-order

Website: https://www.labarbecue.com/

Address: 2027 E. Cesar Chavez

EastSide Tavern

While this might not be your typical BBQ spot, they pride themselves in their menu which features their own BBQ onsite. The space is absolutely beautiful with earth tones and there is a huge rooftop area with a bar and epic views of the sunset. Plan to happy hour, brunch and dine here!

My Recommendations: Dinner — Brisket + Cheddar Tater Tots, Frito Pie, Pickled Deviled Eggs, Smoked Chicken, Brisket Patty Melt, BBQ Burger, Smoked Turkey Wrap

Brunch — Turkey Avocado Toast, Brisket Hash

Drink — Frose

Parking: Parking lot and street parking

Takes reservations: Call ahead for large groups

Website: https://www.eastsidetavernaustin.com/

Address: 1510 E. Cesar Chavez

J. Leonardi’s Barbecue

Perhaps I love this place because it’s walking distance from my house or maybe because one of the owners is a fellow Texas Ex! Either way, you’ve gotta drop by either of their locations and try out some Texas BBQ!

My Recommendations: Brisket, Brisket Frito Pie, Pulled Pork, Banana Pudding

Parking: Nearby and street parking near the 11th St. location

Takes reservations: Nope, just show up and order

Website: http://www.texasbbqaustin.com/

Address: 1124 E. 11th St.

---

Vietnamese

Saigon Le Vendeur

I could eat a banh mi or vermicelli bowl any day of the year. And on a cold day, my body craves ramen.

Enter, Saigon Le Vendeur, who impresses on all levels and definitely fulfills all of my Vietnamese food needs.

My Recommendations: Spicy Chicken Banh Mi, Spicy Chicken Vermicelli Bowl, Curry Ramen, Jasmine Iced Tea

Parking: Street parking and a few spots right in front of the trailer

Takes reservations: Order at the trailer, call ahead and pick up

Website: http://saigon7th.com/

Address: 2404 E. 7th St.

---

European

Blue Dahlia

I always feel so comfortable and as if I’m on vacation when I dine at Blue Dahlia. If you love all things tartine, meat and cheese boards, salads, and entrees like meatloaf, Coq au Vin Blanc, then Blue Dahlia is your spot!

My Recommendations: Meat Board (50% off during happy hour), Egg Salad Tartine, Mesclun Greens Salad, Hummus Tartine, Smoked Salmon Tartine, Egg White Frittato, Macarons (get some to-go!)

Parking: Street parking

Takes reservations: For parties of 6 or more

Website: http://www.bluedahliabistro.com/

Address: 1115 E. 11th St.

---

Modern Chinese

Old Thousand

Old Thousand serves up some impressive Chinese classics with a modern twist – take for instance the Brisket Fried Rice! So satisfying with the addition of Micklethwait’s brisket, this is a craveable dish that stands alone or as a supplement to some Orange Chicken or Kung Pao Cauliflower!

My Recommendations:  Just a few — Brisket Fried Rice, Chongqing Chicken, Kung Pao Cauliflower, OT Dan Dan, and Cumin Beef. Stop in for Lucky Time Monday-Friday from 5-6:30PM for a $5 menu of select food and drinks.

Parking: Street parking and a free parking lot behind the building

Takes reservations: Yes, call for reservations

Website: https://www.oldthousandatx.com/

Address: 1000 E. 11th St., #150

---

Taiwanese

Sweet Chive

Why did it take us so long to to get a restaurant that serves dumplings and authentic Chinese dishes on the Eastside? When I put two and two together (a new building coming up with awesome art and an Eater Austin article announcing Sweet Chive’s upcoming soft opening), I scheduled a dinner date with a girlfriend and got there as soon as I could.

The family behind Sweet Chive aren’t new to the restaurant business. Chef Pai has China Cafe, Dragon Gate and Peony Asian Cuisine under her belt.

My Recommendations: Beef Noodle Soup, BonBon Chicken, Pan Fried Dumplings, Scallion Pancakes

Parking: Parking lot and street parking

Takes reservations: No, this is a counter-service restaurant

Website:https://www.facebook.com/Sweet-Chive-197800861020016/

Address: 2515 E. Cesar Chavez St.

---

Japanese

Sa-Ten Coffee & Eats

Now you can nom on all things Sa-Ten at 2 locations! The original and the location I first devoured their yummy toasts, yakitori and katsu was at the Canopy off of Springdale Rd. If you enjoy their attention to the coffee ritual or traditional eats, Sa-Ten should be on your list.

My Recommendations: Yakitori Bowl, Chicken Katsu plate with kale salad and macaroni fuji salad, Potato Wedges with Cilantro Sauce, Cold Chicken Katsu, Chicken Katsu Curry, Yasai Toast, Nori Tama Toast, Egg Bacon and Sausage Toast

Parking: Shared lot with The Canopy

Takes reservations: Order at counter and grab a seat

Website: https://www.sa-ten.com/

Address: 916 Springdale Rd., Bldg 3 Suite 101 and 4917 Airport Blvd.

Uroko

Where my temaki (hand rolls) fans at? If you want some dang good hand rolls with some super fresh and a great variety of fish, then Uroko should be your place! And for those of you who love Nigiri, they’ve got an Omakase on Friday and Saturday nights – expedited over 45 minutes – and worth every single penny! It’s actually super affordable and such a fun, intimate experience. I highly recommend scheduling your omakase asap!

My recommendations: Temaki – any of them really – ask Chef to surprise you. Omakase – the 12 pieces change regularly but you won’t be disappointed!

Parking: Tons at Sprindale General

Takes reservations: Only needed for Omakase

Website: https://www.urokoaustin.com/

Address: 1023 Springdale Rd. Bldg. 1 Ste. C

Kemuri Tatsu-Ya

From the same family as Ramen Tatsu-Ya, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya joins East Austin’s restaurant scene as a Texas Izakaya. Think smoked brisket buns, BBQ ramen, smoked meat skewers! Lots of sake cocktails and a beautiful ambiance inside and out!

My Recommendations: Do not pass up the Smoked Brisket bun, karaage chicken and the BBQ Tsukamen

Parking: Street parking

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: http://kemuri-tatsuya.com/

Address: 2713 E. 2nd St.

Fukumoto

For exceptional sushi in East Austin, one must visit Fukumoto! If you like yakitori, maki, nigiri, sashimi, they’ve gotchu! It’s a little pricey but the quality and taste is outstanding so it’s perfect for a date night!

My Recommendations: Salmon yakitori, all the nigiri, Murasaki (special roll)

Parking: Metered street parking

Takes reservations: Yes, and I highly recommend you make one and not walk-in

Website: https://www.fukumotoaustin.com/

Address: 514 Medina St.

---

Kolaches

Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches

These aren’t your average kolaches! Imagine Micklethwait’s brisket and sausage inside a housemade kolache. Well, you don’t have to just dream about it because you can walk on in to Batch morning or night and get you some!

My Recommendations: Sausage Jalapeno & Cheese, Brisket Pickle & Swiss, Pepperoni Pizza, Jalapeno & Cheese, PB&J. They have an awesome selection of beer on draft and several cans to grab and go or enjoy on site (with a corkage fee).

Parking: Parking lot

Takes reservations: Just walk on in and order at the counter and grab a spot inside, out on the beautiful backyard or take it to-go

Website: http://batchatx.com/

Address: 3220 Manor Rd.

---

Healthy

Curcuma

I am pretty familiar with Ayurveda as I grew up practicing some of it in my household when one of us experienced an illness. I also learned more about it a couple of years ago during my coursework as an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. And then, low and behold, Curcuma, an Ayurvedic focused food trailer joined the Austin scene! It’s a 100% plant-based menu. Go on in and meet the owner, Rachel. Try all of her yummy creations. You’ll feel good knowing your eating healthy and nourishing your body in the way that feels right for you. Take home a few jars of Golden Paste while you’re there for all your at-home golden latte, smoothie, oats needs!

My Recommendations: Noms — Sweet potato toasts, Spirulina Pesto Bowl, Raw Pecan Tacos, Kitchari Bowl

Drink — Reishi Mocha, Golden Mylk, Sexy Joe

Parking: It’s part of a Food Trailer Park so there is plenty of parking in the lot

Takes reservations: Order at the window or call ahead

Website: http://www.eatcurcuma.com/

Address: 2324 E. Cesar Chavez

---

Healthy Japanese

Bento Picnic

I quite literally could eat at Bento Picnic everyday. Bento = Japanese for lunchbox. If you’ve never tried a bento box, imagine a dish with compartments and different textures, colors and flavors all coming together for a delish meal. Bento Picnic focuses on 5 tastes, colors and elements to engage the senses!

They’ve got something for everyone with veggie, vegan, and gf options. They also travel nicely if you like your meals prepped for you ahead of time, like me!

My Recommendations: Mushroom garden bento, Japanese cauliflower curry bowl, salmon noodle bowl

Parking: There are a few spots in the back and plenty of street parking

Takes reservations: None needed. You can order ahead of time online as well.

Website: http://www.bentopicnic.com/

Address: 2600 E. Cesar Chavez St.

---

Korean

Oseyo

I don’t eat Korean food frequently, perhaps because there haven’t been many options nearby, so when Oseyo opened up on the east side, I had to try it! The space is beautiful, earthy, well-lit. The restaurant was packed by around 7PM on a Tuesday if that tells you much!

My Recommendations: Jjin Mandu (steamed dumplings) and the Jajangmyeon (udon noodles with black bean sauce and diced pork.

Parking: Parking lot and Street parking

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: https://www.oseyoaustin.com/

Address: 1628 E. Cesar Chavez

---

Poke

Pokeatery

This new addition to the Mueller area is a nice spot for some authentic poke boxes and the first ever pokecado toasts! They have a miso soup dispenser as well. Oh, and be sure to save room for some Dole Whip or a float.

My Recommendations: They’ve got generous portions and the poke box and pokecado toasts are fully customizable. You get 4 scoops of protein (make them all the same or try a scoop of each). Be sure to get a scoop of spicy crab salad!

Parking: Parking lot

Takes reservations: Order there or call ahead

Website: http://www.pokeatery.com/

Address: 1201 Barbara Jordan Blvd. #1410

---

Peruvian

Killa Wasi

Chef Kati Luedecke has the fusion of Peruvian flavors with Central Texas ingredients mastered!

My Recommendations: Texas Brasa, BBQ Plantain Chips

Parking: Right out front in the lot with the bus

Takes reservations: Just walk on in and order

Website: http://www.killawasiatx.com/

Address: 828 Airport Blvd.

Yuyo

When you have the best Peruvian Cebiche on a recent trip and then you hear a Peruvian restaurant with a Cebiche Bar shows up on the Eastside, you go! It’s such a beautiful space with a huge covered patio to enjoy some cocktails and apps!

My Recommendations: Happy Hour — Jalea De Calamari, Yuquitas

Drink — Rose Sangria, Pisco Punch, Lima Gin & Tonic

Dinner — Tiradito Divorciado, Vegetales a la Brasa

Parking: Private lot

Takes reservations: Don’t think so

Website: http://yuyoaustin.com/

Address: 1900 Manor Rd.

So, what do you think? So much food to start trying, haha! What are you waiting for?! But seriously, I hope you enjoy dining at some of my favorite restaurants on the Eastside. Feel free to comment below if you need more recommendations.

Thanks for reading!

Bon Appetite,

-Shveta

Don’t see your favorite on the list? Let me know in a comment below.

This guide is part of the Austin Food Blogger Alliance’s 2020 City Guide. Check out more of the best eats in Austin, curated by Austin food bloggers, on the full list of guides.