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A Foodie's Guide to Tacos, Coffee & More in Austin, TX

Austin is a bustling city that gets a lot of attention for being a new hot spot for young professionals. In addition to its music and culture scenes, Austin has an incredible food and dining scene, making it a must-see destination for foodies. Whether you are looking for a place for a casual sip or the best taco in town, Austin has it all. 

Where to Stay

  • The LINE Austin: Once home to a jazz club in the late 1960s, the LINE is part of Downtown Austin history and holds a cultural legacy within its chic accommodations and welcoming lounge areas.

  • Austin Proper Hotel: Close to Ladybird Lake, this style standout has spectacular views across the city and a locals vibe in its four bards and restaurants, including the hotspot rooftop pool.

  • Hotel Saint Cecilia: Hotel Cecilia is a secluded property with lush greenery offering a unique sense of privacy, while situated steps away from the heart of South Austin.

  • South Congress Hotel: Everything you need under one stylish, mid-century roof: three restaurants, two bars, a rooftop pool and more.

Tacos

  • Taco Joint: Located right over the Congress Bridge. The tacos here are huge but delicious. You can always expect a line on a Saturday morning! 

  • Veracruz: There are two locations - the original East Side location or downtown at the Line Hotel. The Migas and La Renja are my favorites, but you can’t go wrong with any choice. 

  • Asador: A taco food truck tucked away in downtown, Austin, Asador puts a unique spin on tacos making it a must for those wanting a burst of flavor.

Coffee

  • Jo’s Coffee, South Congress: An outdoor coffee stand located on SoCo, a prime spot for afternoon people watching. 

  • Mañana: Located in the South Congress Hotel with a relaxing back patio that has round picnic tables, umbrellas, and ample amounts of plants. 

  • Greater Goods: Specialty coffee roasting company located in East Austin and is a great place to work from.

Quick Bites

  • Lou’s: Owned by MML Hospitality, you can’t go wrong with visiting this outdoor lunch spot. The Rotisserie Pulled Chicken sandwich and Eastside Crunch salad are menu highlights.

  • Pool Burger: Located off of the Deep Eddy Pool, this burger bar is filled with tiki and tropical vibes. The Pool Burger, Crinkle Cut Fries, and a Mai Tai are musts.

  • Cenote: An East Austin neighborhood patio cafe great for a quick breakfast or lunch. Visit Paper Route Bakery next door for some sweet treats.

Happy Hour

  • Hotel San Jose: Located right off of SoCo and has a quaint outdoor patio perfect for enjoying a frose.

  • Half Step: Cocktail bar located on the famous Rainey Street - a street of renovated houses converted into bars. 

  • Central Machine Works: Beer hall in East Austin great for a large group gathering. 

  • Lolo Wine Bar: A new natural wine bar in East Austin with large patio and picnic tables. 

  • Broken Spoke: Great place to learn how to two-step!

Fine Dining

  • Aba: A newer restaurant tucked away on SoCo. Known for their Mediterranean share plates and the beautiful multi-level outdoor terrace. 

  • ATX Cocina: A modern Mexican restaurant in downtown Austin, with a sunny indoor atmosphere and another great patio. In my opinion, they have one of the best margaritas in ATX.

  • Launderette: One of my favorite restaurants in East Austin. Get the birthday cake ice cream sandwich for dessert - you won’t regret it.

  • Perla’s: A classy Seafood restaurant in the heart of SoCo. They have a great patio - perfect for a spring day.

  • Suerte: An upscale traditional Mexican cuisine restaurant located in East Austin. The wagyu brisket tacos are 10/10.

Want curated travel advice for off-the-beaten-path activities and a full travel itinerary with detailed recommendations? Get additional hotel perks by booking through me, including upgrade on arrive, daily breakfast, $100 food & beverage credit and more. Send me a note!

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