As a big restaurant goer and longtime resident of Austin, I've watched this city grow SO much over the past 10 years. Coming from NYC, I wasn’t WOWED by the food scene like others were…it was pretty good but I just compared everything to NYC when we first got here in 2014. While the skyline has certainly changed since then, so has the restaurant landscape. We have gotten some amazing local gems over the past several years and continue to add more every time I go to book a table for date night!
Among the multitude of dining options that grace the streets of Austin, there are five establishments that I’d recommend you check out if you’re ever visiting our vibrant city.
1. Clark's Oyster Bar:
Nestled in the heart of downtown Austin, Clark's Oyster Bar holds a special place in my heart for its fresh seafood, relaxed ambiance, and impeccable service. It definitely gives off Hamptons vibes. This tiny and cozy restaurant actually was one of the first restaurants I ever came to when we moved to Austin and it’s still my #1. I love the fresh fish selection (halibut is usually on the menu and my favorite) and the roasted cauliflower is TO DIE FOR. Also don’t sleep on the french fries - they are those tiny shoestring fries and I could eat a whole plate. Bill and I love sitting at the bar for a date night and they make a mean skinny marg.
2. Qi:
Qi has become my new go-to pan-Asian destination whenever I'm in the mood for bold flavors and inventive dishes. Located in downtown Austin, Qi offers a modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine, showcasing the culinary talents of Chef Ling Qi Wu. The best part is their extensive gluten free selection - they even have GF dim sum!! If you have a large group they have a great long table that can seat at least 12 people!
3. Uchiko:
Uchiko is my top sushi choice in Austin. Helmed by renowned chef Tyson Cole, and sister restaurant of the OG Uchi and the brand new Uchiba, Uchiko offers a menu even novice Sushi fans will love. It’s a little deceiving when you pull up and it’s in a strip shopping center, but you walk in and feel like you’re in NYC. They have a delish off-menu veggie roll that I ALWAYS get and my other fave is the P-38 which has the perfect balance of sweet and savory. I also always have to snag the Hama chili yellowtail which is balanced with fresh orange. This is one of my favorite places for a girls dinner or a fun date night. With its sophisticated ambiance and impeccable attention to detail, Uchiko never fails to impress.
4. Aba:
Located in the bustling South Congress Avenue district, Aba offers a taste of the Middle East in the heart of Austin. Whenever I'm in the mood for falafel, hummus and chicken skewers, I CRAVE Aba. You literally feel like you’re in LA or Miami with the amazing indoor/outdoor vibe and the food is some of the best Middle Eastern food I’ve had. I love coming here for a fun girls lunch or dinner, and Bill and I usually skip the long reservations list and just show up and eat at the bar. With its lively atmosphere and welcoming vibe, Aba is always a feast for the senses.
5. Sammie's:
Located amidst the lively ambiance of West 6th Street, Sammie's is an Austin play on a NY Italian eatery. While it can be very noisy, the food continues to get better and the cozy charm, black and white photographs, long beautiful bar and tight quarters does make you feel like you’re somewhere else other than Austin, Texas. They just added GF pasta to the menu and last time I was there for one of my “Sex and the City” girlfriend lunches, I had the pasta with Italian sausage but subbed the GF pasta and I thought my friends were gonna have to roll me home. It was a home run! Also, don’t miss out on the crispy potatoes! They are DELISH.
In conclusion, Austin's culinary scene has become a reflection of the city's diverse and vibrant spirit, with a wealth of dining options to explore and enjoy. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, bold flavors from around the world, or classic comfort food, Austin has something to offer for every palate. So, the next time you find yourself in the heart of Texas, be sure to give one of my favorites a try! Your taste buds will thank you!