This guide to the Best of East Austin Restaurants is part of the Austin Food Blogger Alliance’s 2018 City Guide. #atxbesteats

February 28, 2018 

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

 

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.

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.

Chicon

We dine at Chicon almost once a week. It’s craveable, you’ll want to order the same things over and over again, but on occasion you’ll try something new and you’ll want it again the next time!

My Recommendations: Snacks — Charred Avocado, Smoked Trout Dip, Blistered Shishitos

Salad — Fried Brussels Sprouts

Mains — Burger & Fries, Fried Chicken Sandwich

Parking: Parking lot and street parking

Takes reservations: Yes

Website: https://www.chiconaustin.com/

Address: 1914 E. 6th St., Suite C

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.

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

 

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: 1149 1/2 Airport Blvd. and 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

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

 

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: 2207 E. Cesar Chavez

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.

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.

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 2018 City Guide. Check out more of the best eats in Austin, curated by Austin food bloggers, on the full list of guides.