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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown Austin

French food bars

A glass of wine paired with a classic French meal.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Royale Room image 1
The Royale Room image 2
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Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers an intimate, upscale setting with luxurious yet comfortable decor and carefully crafted martinis. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy, encouraging conversation despite occasional loud music. Fresh oysters shucked at the bar add a distinctive touch to the experience.

Great dirty martinis stand out here, crafted by a bartender who stays on point all night. Fresh oysters get shucked right at the bar, paired with elevated bar snacks that go beyond the usual.

Steak frites stands out with perfect cooking and consistent quality. The menu keeps it simple with just three entrees, including a hamburger and salmon sandwich alongside the steak frites.

People are saying

"The oysters here are fresh and shucked right at the bar."

"The martinis here are some of the best in the city."

"The steak frites here are perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 martinis and fun food options from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Live music happens every Friday from 8 to 10 pm.

3

The menu includes only three entrees: a hamburger, a salmon sandwich, and steak frites.

02
VanHorn's image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse channels classic New York style with luxurious decor and a buzzy, lively atmosphere that fills up and gets noisy. The patio offers a well-designed, fun vibe distinct from the indoor space. Cocktails and steaks stand out as key features enhancing the overall experience.

Sitting at the bar offers a chance to get personalized guidance through the menu from Anthony. Service at the bar also comes from Brittany and Foster, ensuring attentive care.

Steak tartare stands out with its freshness, Parmesan topping, and solid seasoning. Desserts like the layered chocolate crepe and cheesecake offer unique, rich flavors.

People are saying

"Jeremy's service made my steak experience perfect."

"Anthony at the bar makes a perfectly balanced Turf Club martini."

"The steak tartare here is excellent and well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

2

Parking is limited; expect to pay around $18 for two hours.

3

Happy Hour offers steak tartare, prime rib sandwiches, and martinis for $10.

03
J Carver’s Oyster Bar & Chophouse image 1

Small space with classic steakhouse design and sexy, clean interior sets a cozy, high-end vibe. Lighting and furniture create a well-executed atmosphere that feels special for occasions. Comfortable seating and attentive service add to the refined dining experience.

Bar seating offers a variety of oysters and a chance to interact with knowledgeable bartenders. Service at the bar is consistently fantastic, with guidance on food, drinks, wine, and dessert.

People are saying

"The steak here is incredible, and the service is phenomenal."

"The bartenders here make you feel like you're reconnecting with old friends."

"The French food, especially the escargot, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and special occasions.

2

Proper attire is required; business casual is preferred.

3

Street parking is limited, so plan to arrive early.

04
Restaurant François image 1
Modern French restaurant

Open kitchen creates a warm, buzzing energy with visible chefs at work. Interior blends art deco style and 1930s Paris vibe using black, white, and gold tones. Atmosphere balances upscale and welcoming, encouraging relaxed, unhurried dining and conversation.

A gorgeous bar with plenty of seating and an open kitchen sets a stylish scene. Bar manager Jess crafts an exquisite cocktail menu while Ryan and Liz deliver stand out hospitality and great service.

Rich, buttery escargot starts the meal with perfect seasoning. Dishes like short rib bourguignon and creme brûlée showcase classic French flavors with solid execution.

People are saying

"The duck and red snapper at these dinner spots were so tender and flavorful."

"The French food's fries are thin, crispy, and cooked in beef tallow."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and engaging."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, as walk-ins may not be accepted.

2

Expect to pay over $100 for steak dishes, unless opting for the filet.

3

Desserts are complimentary for special occasions like anniversaries.

05
J-Prime Steakhouse image 1

Restaurant offers a modern aesthetic with romantic atmosphere and beautiful lighting at tables. Ambiance includes loud pop and EDM music, creating a club-like energy that contrasts with the decor. Space feels busy and close, with tables near each other and servers frequently passing by.

Wonderful bar offers a great scotch selection. Staff like Victoria provide attentive service at the bar.

Flavors stand out with escargot, foie gras, and truffle fries. Sides like crispy Brussels and au gratin potatoes complement dishes such as steak and lobster mac n cheese.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing, tasty, and fresh."

"You've got to try their happy hour bar deals with $9 cocktails."

"The French food here is great, and the service is impeccable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs all day on Mondays and Sundays with $10 specials.

3

The daily social hour from 4-7pm offers great value on drinks.

06
Bill's Oyster image 1
Restaurant

Small oyster bar with an intimate, cozy space featuring an open kitchen and a bar running the length of the restaurant. Atmosphere is warm and charming with quaint patio seating for outdoor dining and friendly service. Known for phenomenal drinks and a classic coastal vibe.

Offers a nice bar atmosphere with a focus on oysters. Known for being a solid spot among oyster bars.

Steak Tartare stands out with a rich, flavorful profile, though it sometimes comes covered in cheese. The Crab & Andouille Hush Puppies and Clams Michelada also offer bold, distinctive tastes.

People are saying

"The oysters here are insanely fresh and taste clean."

"The bar's burger was one of the best I've ever eaten."

"You have to try the steak tartare; it's one of the best."

Good to know

1

Parking near the restaurant can be difficult and expensive.

2

Bill's Oyster does not take reservations, allowing for walk-in dining.

3

Happy hour features $3 oysters and $8 beer and shot specials.

07
Péché image 1
French restaurant

Shotgun-style French restaurant with vintage charm and dim lighting creates an intimately festive atmosphere. High noise level fills the space, making it lively but challenging for quiet conversation. Known for an impressive absinthe selection and a cozy, cramped layout suited for small groups.

Offers a unique absinthe bar experience with a solid cocktail menu. Bar service is attentive, and the happy hour adds extra value.

Steak tartare stands out with a fresh, rich flavor. Foie gras and crème brûlée offer classic French richness, with the latter shining even during happy hour. Bouillabaisse, quail, and Bananas Foster add variety to the menu.

People are saying

"Happy Hour has fantastic cocktails and excellent food like mac and cheese."

"The duck confit here is absolutely delicious French food."

"The cocktails here are crafted with care, balanced, and creative."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers drinks for $6 and half-off appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during busy hours.

3

The bar area is not ideal for cocktails; consider dining instead.

08
The Guest House Austin image 1

Steak house offers an elegant setting with chandelier sparkle and private seating areas for intimacy. Music ranges from a live DJ to carefully curated playlists, creating a dynamic atmosphere. Signature cocktails feature theatrical presentations that complement the upscale vibe.

The bar features theatrical drinks that create memorable moments. Staff like Mads and Josh F. provide attentive and conversational service without being overbearing.

Steak tartare stands out with its amazing truffle flavor and is served on toast points topped with micro chives and aioli. Other notable dishes include spicy rigatoni and dry-aged steak.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, thanks to the super nice and proactive staff."

"The bar drinks were amazing, and I enjoyed the food."

"The French Food here is amazing, especially the steak tartare."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are required for private events and must be confirmed in advance.

3

A $25 cutting fee applies if you bring your own cake.

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