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Guide to Downtown Austin

Chocolate wine spots

A glass of wine and a piece of chocolate are the only companions needed for a slow evening. It is a quiet ritual that settles the nerves.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Restaurant

Interior resembles a TV sound stage with a fake colonial façade and unique upper wall lighting. Atmosphere blends sophistication and warmth with an elevated yet approachable vibe. Dining features French-style cuisine and carefully crafted cocktails, creating a standout fine dining experience.

Rich chocolate appears in desserts paired with fresh orange segments and edible flowers for a vibrant finish. Small dishes include smoked dark chocolate filled with salted caramel and peach orange jelly candy dusted in sugar.

An amazing wine list offers a variety of options. The red Burgundy pairings stand out and enhance the dining experience, though wines come at an extra cost.

People are saying

"The food here is Michelin star quality and beautifully plated."

"The dessert featured rich chocolate, a vibrant and artistic finish."

"The wine selections here are exceptional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is available in the Fairmont hotel’s garage for guests.

3

Credit card information is required to hold a reservation.

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.

Chocolate desserts include a layered chocolate crepe and a bitter dark chocolate lava cake. The lava cake pairs well with ice cream and whipped cream for a rich finish.

Waitstaff show expert knowledge and carefully time wine service to match dishes like steak. White wine pairs well with lighter meals such as salads and fries.

People are saying

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

"The servers' wine knowledge really elevated the experience."

"The chocolate lava cake was a great finish."

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
III Forks image 1
Steak house

Steak house offers classy decor with cozy lighting and comfortable seating that suits dress-up occasions. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and elegant in main areas to loud in back rooms when busy. Valet parking and unique touches like choosing knives and on-site photo printing add to the experience.

Extensive wine selection offers options that pair perfectly with meals. Staff like Rama and Micaela provide knowledgeable recommendations and answer questions about wines and food.

People are saying

"The steak here is the best I've ever had, cooked to perfection."

"The wine sommelier was so knowledgeable and attentive."

"The chocolate here is so well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited and requires reservations.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on spirits.

3

Expect a premium dining experience with high prices.

04
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.

Chocolate appears in several desserts, including a peanut butter sheet cake and a million layer cake with crunchy chocolate pieces. A sundae features chocolate syrup alongside toasted marshmallows and brownie bites.

Sommelier pairs wines precisely with dishes. Staff offers knowledgeable recommendations for each order. Service features friendly and professional wine guidance.

People are saying

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

"The wine knowledge and recommendations here are impeccable."

"The espresso martini's creamy foam paired perfectly with chocolate desserts."

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.

05
Fairmont Austin image 1

Hotel offers stunning views and elegant decor with a rooftop pool and spacious gym. Atmosphere feels welcoming and relaxing, with quiet, cozy rooms and attentive service. Bar and lounge provide a sophisticated vibe with quality drinks and thoughtful touches.

Rooms often come with chocolate-covered strawberries as a welcome treat. Staff frequently arrange complimentary chocolates alongside drinks like prosecco or wine. These sweet touches add a personalized feel to the stay.

Champagne and wine come with surprises like cookies and cheese. The concierge lounge offers wine and beer four times daily plus all-day espresso. The Garrison features a beautiful wine list and mocktails for non-drinkers.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff were so kind and always willing to help."

"The staff made my daughter feel so special, it was world-class."

"Jose's wine recommendations perfectly complemented our meals."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at the rooftop bar runs from 5PM to 6PM on Thursdays and Fridays.

2

Parking costs $50 per night for self-parking at the hotel.

3

WiFi is not included in the room rate and costs $15 per day.

06
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.

Chocolate desserts shine here with a dark, dense mousse that feels light and a legit soufflé served with crème anglaise. The mousse is so rich it invites licking the bowl.

Expertly crafted wine list offers excellent value and encourages new discoveries. The Wine Director, Gabriela, provides expert-level recommendations tailored to flavor profiles.

People are saying

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

"The chocolate soufflé was legit with crème anglaise."

"The wine recommendations here are super helpful and charming."

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.

07
Ruth's Chris Steak House image 1

Steak house offers an elegant, cozy atmosphere with upscale dining and private seating options. The space includes large windows providing open views, though some areas feel like expanded banquet rooms. Cocktails feature engraved ice cubes, enhancing the sophisticated vibe.

Rich chocolate desserts stand out here, especially the chocolate sin cake and the dark chocolate flourless pie. The chocolate cake and creme brulee also offer a divine finish to meals.

A great wine list pairs well with steak and dessert combos. Staff like Faith, Katie, Mike, and Shelby offer knowledgeable service about wine and food.

People are saying

"I've never had a steak that tasted this good."

"Our server was so knowledgeable about the wine list."

"The chocolate sin cake is the best dessert they offer."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

3

Expect to pay around $150 for a meal for two, excluding drinks.

08
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.

Chocolate desserts focus on a flourless chocolate torte that is not too sweet or filling. The torte pairs well with wine and offers a delicious, rich flavor.

Fine wine selections complement the menu well. Staff offer great pairing suggestions, especially with desserts like flourless chocolate cake.

People are saying

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

"I thought the wine selection here was spot on."

"The flourless chocolate torte was delicious and not too sweet."

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.

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