This guide to the Best of East Austin Restaurants is part of the Austin Food Blogger Alliance’s 2018 City Guide. #atxbesteats
Updated July 2018 (original February 28, 2018)
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! I’d love your feedback on the map – 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 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!
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*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 3 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.
Buckwheat Cornbread – that’s honey miso butter with the prettiest edible flowers on top
Yuca Dumplings – come here my pretty! These tasty yuca pillows with queso oaxaca, escabeche and wild oregano had me singing!
The Lox – housemade bagels! And Caldo De Pollo Frito!
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.
I die everytime I have the Ceviche Mixto – it’s too good!
FroMo
Tostaditas with Jacoby Ranch Beef!
Tuna Tostadas
Grizz Mizz
Italian
Unit D Pizzeria
Another spot where the owners and staff know me due to my frequent visits 🙂 Something about the space is just so cozy and welcoming.
My recommendations: Charcuteria Board, Kale Salad, Mushroom Pizza, Peppers Pizza, Cesar Salad, and save room for dessert!
They have lunch on the weekends from 11:30-2:30 and their sandwiches are to die for!
Parking: They have shared parking with Dai Due. Don’t park in the Haymaker lot or you’ll be towed.
Takes reservations: Yes, for parties of 5 or more
Website: http://www.unitdpizzeria.com/
Address: 2406 Manor Rd.
Best dang kale salad ever! And shhh, it’s vegan!
The Italian and Turkey Sandwiches
The Pepperoni Pizza – drooling yet? Photo Credit: Monique Sandhu aka @atxeatsandtreats
Stella Public House
Fairly new to the Mueller development, Stella Public House focuses on “farm to pizza.” If you dine there, be sure to get one of their Texas-sourced artisan wood-fired pizzas! They have way more than that, from fresh salads, to a wonderful brunch menu (with things other than pizza)!
Stop on by for happy hour daily from 4-6:30PM and try out tons of incredible dishes at happy hour pricing. Their Margherita pizza is only $5 during happy hour!
My recommendations: Dinner — Wild mushroom mac & cheese, Bee Sting pizza, Proscuitto Arugula pizza
Brunch –Root Hash, Egg Panino
Parking: Street parking and validated parking in the garage next to the Alamo Drafthouse
Takes reservations: No
Website: http://stellapublichouse.com/location/austin
Address: 1905 Aldrich St., #110
Egg Panino and Root Hash – both excellent and on the brunch menu
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.
Proscuitto, Mozzarella and Arugula Panini Photo Credit: Shayda Torabi aka @dinewithshayda
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.
Chickory Salad and Mushroom Toast
American
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.
Truffled Deviled Eggs
Photo Credit: Patty Suarez
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.
Chili Fries with avocado – I could eat this everyday!
Wings + Waffles – heyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy, those chicken lollipops aren’t your average wings! The honey-maple bourbon syrum and pandan sauce will have you singing for more!
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.
The best jalapeno hushpuppies in all of the land!
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
The perfect way to brunch with Jacoby’s beef, the benedict will have you swooning! Photo Credit: Monique Sandhu aka @atxeatsandtreats
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.
Jalapeno Cheese Grits are a must! Photo Credit: Jimmy Ho aka @thesmokingho
A brisket sandwich and Brisket Frito Pie!
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.
Only the best! Photo Credit: Jimmy Ho aka @thesmokingho
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
Mmmmm ribs, brisket and sausage! Photo Credit: Jimmy Ho aka @thesmokingho
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
Turkey Avocado Toast – even better than you can imagine!
Frito Pie – yassssss
Pickled Deviled Eggs
Brisket + Cheddar Tater Tots
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.
All the meat! Don’t miss out on the banana pudding! Photo Credit: Jimmy Ho aka @thesmokingho
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.
The prettiest banh mi. And so fresh and SPICY! Mmmmmm
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.
Meat Board
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
Brisket Fried Rice
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
One of my favorites when I need something filling is the Yakitori Bowl
On those days you want something satisfying but you’re not too hungry – Potato Wedges & Cold Chicken Katsu
Chicken Katsu Plate
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.
Kolaches always pair well with a beer or glass of vino!
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: 2207 E. Cesar Chavez
Spirulina Pesto Bowls and Kitchari Bowl
Thai
DeeDee
If you love Northern Thai street food, then DeeDee is your jam! Their new location off Pedernales and E. 6th is a great spot to order at the truck, grab a spot in the “yard” and chill (cool down from the spicy yummy thai dishes).
My Recommendations: Larb Moo (this is SPICY), Om Gai, Som Tum, Mango & Sticky Rice
Parking: Street nearby
Takes reservations: Order at the trailer or call ahead
Website: http://deedeeatx.com/
Address: 2500 E. 6th St.
Mango Sticky Rice
Photo Credit: Amy Drohen aka @sushigirl_atx
Larb Moo
Photo Credit: Jessica Fradono aka @thedishstance
Hawaiian – Poke
Poke Me Long Time
Not only do I chuckle everytime I say the name of this place, but I LOL when I order an Ahi Tuna Missionary Style bowl! And the couple that owns it are the sweetest!
My Recommendations: Ahi Tuna Missionary Style – I usually get greens instead of rice, but I love that they serve their rice warm
Parking: Street parking
Takes reservations: Order at the window or call ahead
Website: http://poke-me-long-time.business.site/
Address: 1606 E. 6th St.
Missionary Style and Man’s Best Friend Style bowls
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
Poke Box and a side of miso soup!
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.
Texas Brasa with BBQ Plantain Chips
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.
This Lima Gin & Tonic has pink peppercorns in it and I’m in love
Loved this cebiche dish – Tiradito Divorciado
Happy Hour from 4:30-6:30 daily!
Yuqitas – yuca croquettes – so good!
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 2018 City Guide. Check out more of the best eats in Austin, curated by Austin food bloggers, on the full list of guides.
