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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown Austin's best

Cool lunch spots

A midday meal in a cool environment offers a necessary escape from the heat.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Tapville Social - Austin image 1
Tapville Social - Austin image 2
Tapville Social - Austin image 3
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Self-serve beer wall offers a modern, high-tech experience with multiple TVs showing sports. Spacious outdoor patio creates a laid-back, friendly atmosphere where people mingle easily. Food features unique cocktail flights and standout items like savory chicken wings and street tacos.

Lunch visits happen during work hours and before museum trips. The spot offers a certain experience but prompts trying other lunch options for price and value.

A tap wall lets you pour your own beer and wine, creating a unique concept. The vibe stays fun and relaxed with cool staff around.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing, especially the wings."

"I loved the cool concept of being able to pour my own beer."

"The Lunch Spot has a very cool tap wall with an extensive beer selection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $5 bites and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

3

Wednesdays are trivia night with a $5 entry fee.

02
Scholz Garten image 1
German restaurant

Historic German beer garden offers outdoor beer garden with live music and woodwork details inside. Atmosphere shifts from high energy during game days to a pleasant, shaded oasis for gatherings. Crowds gather for traditional German vibe and local beer selections.

Lunch here features quick service and good flavor. The spot handles large groups well and offers an awesome atmosphere during midday meals.

Historical vibe blends with a cool beer garden atmosphere featuring live outdoor music. Plenty of shade and mist fans keep the space comfortable without soaking you.

People are saying

"I had the best giant pretzel I've ever had, it was fantastic."

"The outdoor seating area is wonderful and lovely."

"The German food at this lunch spot is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during UT home games and events.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events, especially during busy game days.

3

A limited menu is available during concerts at Moody.

03
Casino El Camino image 1
Bar & grill

Dive bar with punk rock and metal vibe combines pre-colonial Mexica decor and lucha Libre elements for a unique atmosphere. Loud music upstairs and a classic jukebox set a buzzing, wild tone. Functional pool tables and a smoking patio add to the laid-back, alternative energy.

Massive burgers come with lunch, often enough to eat over two meals. Lunches cost about $20 and offer generous portions for the price.

Energetic atmosphere with punk rock tunes sets a lively mood. Cool staff, killer burger, and cheap pints add to the good vibes.

People are saying

"I thought this place had one of the best burgers I ever had."

"I thought the burgers here were the best in Austin."

"I stopped in for a burger; these are Texan portions."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Expect long wait times after 5pm due to high crowd volume.

3

Take-out orders are available if you prefer to avoid the crowd.

04
Arturo's Underground Cafe image 1

Underground dining space features low ceilings, warm light, and eclectic decor with walls adorned by local art. Atmosphere feels authentic and cozy, often filled with students, professionals, and locals. Music plays softly while patrons order at a counter before heading downstairs to their tables.

Lines form even after lunch on cold days, showing its popularity. The menu features solid lunch options and pastries made with care, making it a great spot to meet a friend or enjoy a quiet meal.

Atmosphere feels cozy and cool with a distinct Austin vibe. The overall ambience stays consistently laid-back and inviting.

People are saying

"You've got to try their creative Eggs Benedict variations."

"The Diablo brunch is a perfect blend of flavors."

"This lunch spot feels warm, cozy, and full of character."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 30-40 minutes during peak breakfast hours.

2

Indoor dining is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs.

3

The bathroom is located upstairs and separate from the dining area.

05
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken image 1

Old school diner with checkered tablecloths and paper plates creates a homey, no-frills vibe. The atmosphere is lively and warm, often crowded and buzzing with positive energy. Tight seating and casual decor keep focus on the famous fried chicken and friendly interactions.

Lunch offers delicious fried chicken served fresh with no wait during late hours. Seating options include the counter for solo diners and tables, making it easy to beat the lunch crowd.

Juicy chicken with a slow heat seasoning stands out here. The place has a cool atmosphere and a clean interior that adds to the vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken had great flavor and crispy, juicy breading."

"This lunch spot's chicken is juicy with super crispy skin."

"The chicken here is so juicy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $25 for a couple of hours in nearby lots.

2

Street parking is available but can be difficult during busy times.

3

The restaurant gets very busy during lunch hours.

06
The Tavern image 1
Sports bar

Rambling wood-paneled building with historic architecture and faux Fachwerk design creates an intimate yet vast space. Multiple floors and patios feature tons of TVs showing almost every game, fostering a fun, old-school sports bar vibe with a mix of German charm and modern energy.

Lunch features burgers and casual fare in a classic Austin setting. Servers like Ricky provide attentive service during midday visits.

Old charm mixes with a cool atmosphere here. The spot feels like a classic bar with a convenient location for grabbing a burger or lunch.

People are saying

"The bar has a great atmosphere and laid-back vibe."

"You have to try the burger here, it's really good."

"It's a cool old spot with a lot of history."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Tavern is across the street and free.

2

Happy hour appetizers are available during specific hours.

3

The Tavern hosts a Dinner Mystery event with a zany cast.

07
Texas Chili Parlor image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Dive bar with classic rock music and glowing red lights creates a cozy, authentic Texan vibe. Strong Mad Dog Margaritas and chunky beef chili draw a steady crowd. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back to loud on game days with sports on big screens.

Lunch features hearty chili, solid enchiladas, and queso. The 3 choice platter includes a ground beef taco, cheese enchilada with Ranchero sauce, and chalupa.

Neon lights create a vibrant atmosphere that feels like stepping into a 70s Austin time machine. The lunchtime crowd mixes bikers, tourists, and State workers all enjoying the cool vibe together.

People are saying

"I thought the chili was next level, some of the best I ever had."

"These enchiladas have such an old-school Austin vibe."

"This lunch spot has great enchiladas and tasty taco meat."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are offered every day.

2

Parking is available nearby but can be limited.

3

Chili prices are on the higher side.

08
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.

Lunch features lobster roll, crab BLT, and fresh oysters. Pair meals with rosé or an espresso martini for dessert. Options include clam chowder, frites, and a smash burger.

Bartenders are super cool and laidback. The place has a small, focused menu and a very cool aesthetic.

People are saying

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

"The oysters at this lunch spot are so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so good, it's like being in New York or New Orleans."

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.

09
5th Street Diner image 1
American restaurant

Classic diner design with a 1950s feel and trendy ambiance creates a fun and inviting atmosphere. Music plays a notable role, sometimes loud but adjustable, adding to the lively energy. Space is limited, especially at the counter, fostering a cozy, close-knit vibe.

Offers a good menu for lunch with solid options. Serves well for breakfast or lunch with consistent availability.

A 1950s feel shapes the atmosphere with a classic diner vibe. The theme and overall mood come across as cool and retro.

People are saying

"The diner's servers, like Ever and Zaleth, are really friendly and attentive."

"I thought the avocado toast was the best I have ever had."

"The avocado toast at this Lunch Spot is excellent."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash; only credit cards are accepted.

2

Expect to pay around $90 for breakfast for two with drinks.

3

Breakfast is served into the afternoon for late risers.

10
The Dead Rabbit, Austin image 1

Hybrid of cocktail bar and Irish pub with a classy yet grounded atmosphere. Frequent live Irish folk music creates a lively, festive vibe. Space feels crowded and loud with small tables close together.

Irish classics like Fish & Chips, scotch egg, and cumberland sausage roll define the lunch menu. The setting feels cozy with Christmas decorations adding a unique vibe.

Atmosphere feels super cool with a lively vibe throughout. Staff and bartenders add to the upbeat environment.

People are saying

"The cocktails are imaginative, creative, and beautifully balanced."

"The bar's drinks are perfectly crafted and mesmerizing."

"I found the atmosphere and vibe to be super cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers oysters for $2 each during specific hours.

2

Irish Sessions and Sunday Roast meal are recommended for a great experience.

3

The kitchen stops serving at 1am, but a late night menu is available.

11
Uchibā Austin image 1
Sushi restaurant

Mid-century modern meets contemporary lounge design creates a calm, elegant atmosphere with intentional decor and a large patio offering outdoor seating with heaters and blankets. The space feels more like a stylish bar downtown, combining quiet sophistication with occasional loud moments inside.

Lunch features a tapass style combo with a burger, sesame salad, handroll, and nigiri pieces. Drinks include a $5 lychee martini during lunch happy hour, making it a popular spot for affordable, flavorful midday meals.

Unique pairings and a chic atmosphere create a cool vibe. The design and service add to the great hangout spot feel for friends and couples.

People are saying

"The food here is beyond delicious and incredibly yummy."

"This lunch special is the best I’ve ever had."

"The food here is delicious and yummy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for the 9-course happy hour omakase.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 5:30 pm, featuring a 9-course menu for $90.

3

Expect a quick turn during happy hour, as it ends promptly at 5:30.

12
Traphouse Caribbean image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Neon lights and Kingston-inspired decor set a vibrant tone with Caribbean music and a DJ playing loud tunes. Energy shifts from a chill vibe during dining to a lively club scene on weekend nights. Space suits both intimate gatherings and larger groups, creating a dynamic atmosphere.

Lunch offers unreal prices and mouth watering lunch bowls. Tacos and patties stand out as quality food suitable for quick or relaxed breaks.

Music sets a cool vibe throughout the spot. Portions come in generous sizes, adding to the overall cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here was really excellent and delicious."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and full of flavor."

"The music and vibes here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Parking downtown costs $12 for 2 hours.

2

Happy hour offers half-price tacos and phattys on weekdays before 4:20 PM.

3

A DJ plays from Thursday to Saturday nights.

13
Iron Works Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Historic iron works building creates a rustic ambiance with vintage decor and outdoor creek views. Atmosphere feels authentic and old-timey, with moderate music and a hot, muggy environment. Seating is limited to picnic benches, blending casual comfort with a sense of history.

Lunch features a combo plate with generous portions and a good deal. The Big Tex sausage stands out, drawing repeat visits and praise from out-of-town coworkers.

The atmosphere feels old-timey rancher with lots of vintage decor and neon signs. Giant mister fans keep the space cool and add to the Texas vibe.

People are saying

"You have to try the beef ribs; they're huge and a perfect 10."

"It's got this cool, old-timey atmosphere with vintage decor."

"The brisket at this Lunch Spot is tender, smoky, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Iron Works Barbecue closes at 9 pm.

2

Parking is difficult; consider finding a lot nearby.

3

Get there early to avoid long lines.

14
Favorite Pizza image 1
Restaurant

Small space combines New York pizzeria look with 70s/80s retro vibe and bar seating facing the street. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, blending classic diner energy with a cool, quiet mood amid a lively area. Music and decor create an authentic East Coast slice shop experience.

Offers cheap food with no skimping on ingredients. Works well for lunch to go and small group hangouts during lunch hours.

Space feels inviting with a retro vibe and cool aesthetic. Service matches the atmosphere, keeping things relaxed and fun.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"The Italian sausage pizza slice was very spicy."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is amazing and super friendly."

Good to know

1

Slices cost about $4.25 for classic and $4.75 for specialty pizzas.

2

The restaurant does not offer delivery services.

3

There is a parking lot in the back for customers.

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