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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown Austin

Dinner spots

A dinner spot that prioritizes the quality of the meal over the high-volume turnover of the downtown rush.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Skipjack Oyster image 1
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Restaurant

Nautical and chic interior creates an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere with live DJ music enhancing the vibe. The space features an oyster bar where shucking happens with flair, adding a lively touch. Guests enjoy fresh seafood and creative cocktails in a beautiful setting inside a hotel.

Food stands out with outstanding quality and perfectly prepared oysters. Cocktails complement the dishes well, and the overall service enhances the dining experience.

Dinner features excellent food and a fun atmosphere with attentive service. It suits special occasions like birthdays and Thanksgiving, offering a great spot after a downtown walk.

People are saying

"The oysters here are delicious and a great value at $1."

"The food here is spectacular, especially the oysters."

"The dinner spots here have attentive service and great suggestions."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted oysters and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant has a raw bar stocked with fresh oysters daily.

02
Garrison image 1
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.

French style dishes come in small portions with excellent quality. The food often impresses deeply, matching top-notch service.

Dinner features exquisite dishes served in a setting suited for special occasions like anniversaries. The atmosphere supports a memorable dining experience.

People are saying

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

"The steak here is amazing, and the service is outstanding."

"The service during dinner was outstanding and attentive."

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.

03
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.

Exceptional quality and flawless dining experience stand out here. Food and service consistently impress from start to finish.

Dinner here features fantastic food and great service that suits special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. The spot handles large groups well, making it a solid choice for celebrations.

People are saying

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

"The steak here is served with amazing, friendly service."

"Our server made our dinner unforgettable and amazing."

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.

04
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.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and top-tier service. The dining experience feels special and memorable, with attention to detail in every dish.

Dinner offers a great ambiance with each dish serving as a culinary surprise. Steaks and seafood stand out, making it a solid choice for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.

People are saying

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

"The food here is incredible, especially the crab cake."

"The service at these dinner spots is fantastic and attentive and personable."

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.

05
Austhentico image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish food truck offers authentic dishes like paella and chorizo sandwiches with generous portions. Picnic tables create a chill, friendly vibe complemented by great music and a lively bar next door for wine and beer pairing.

Spanish food shines with top-notch paellas and excellent flavor. Portions balance well with price, served from a food truck next to a European beer bar offering great beer pairings.

Luis creates a special birthday dinner experience. Food truck options offer every last crumb of flavor, whether for a full meal or a small bite.

People are saying

"The seafood paella here is amazing and cooked to perfection."

"I found the Spanish food here to be authentically delicious."

"The food here is out of this world delicious, especially the paella."

Good to know

1

Austhentico is located behind a German style bar.

2

The food truck offers a menu with lots of authentic Spanish food.

3

Expect generous portions suitable for sharing among a group.

06
Malverde image 1
Event venue

Event venue offers a beautiful and private space with a sophisticated yet warm atmosphere highlighted by soft lighting and a thoughtfully designed interior. Live music on the outdoor patio balances volume and entertainment, creating an inviting vibe perfect for conversation and celebration.

Food features fresh ingredients and attention to detail in every dish. Cocktails and meals come out delicious and well-crafted.

Events include wedding rehearsals and special dinners with drinks. The setting supports memorable gatherings and smooth execution.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and crafted with attention to detail."

"The space is unique and perfect for large events."

"The food and drinks here are awesome."

Good to know

1

Malverde offers ample garage parking in the building for easy access.

2

The venue is ideal for hosting weddings and social events.

3

Expect great service and quality food and drinks during events.

07
BOA Steakhouse image 1
Restaurant

Elegant, modern space offers a lively, upscale vibe with great lighting and a gorgeous design. Music stays at a comfortable level, enhancing a relaxing atmosphere suited for date nights. Cocktails and steaks stand out as highlights, complementing the luxurious setting.

Excellent dining experience with great service and food free of seed oil. Steak stands out as a key highlight in this fine dining setting.

Upscale dinners feature great ambiance, attentive service, and a menu that impresses. The manager often checks in to ensure a memorable meal and atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the desserts were to die for."

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"The steaks here are perfectly seared, tender, and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 4 pm on weekdays with a special Smash Burger offer.

2

Half-priced bottles of wine are available on Monday nights.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

08
Taqueria Las Chismosas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, no-frills Mexican spot with authentic street taco vibes and comfortable outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels like sitting in a lively Mexican street cafe with four types of free salsas adding to the experience. Popular for late-night tacos and quick, flavorful meals in a chill setting.

Food here stands out for its freshness and authentic taste. Tacos and other Mexican dishes deliver flavorful and consistently excellent experiences.

Offers quick dinner options and stays open for late-night bites until 3am, making it convenient before or after events.

People are saying

"These tacos are legit, packed with flavor and really satisfying."

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"I enjoyed the Mexican food at this dinner spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open a few days a week.

2

Expect limited seating during busy hours.

3

The ordering process requires tipping upfront.

09
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.

Food includes excellent oysters, miso cod, and a perfectly cooked steak. Several salads are available to share. Staff provide detailed menu insights and help match drinks and dishes to preferences.

Dinner offers delicious and excellent meals that suit special occasions like birthdays and Valentine’s Day.

People are saying

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

"The food here was amazing and Jeremy offered great insights."

"The servers here give great suggestions for dinner."

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.

10
The Kimberly image 1
Restaurant

Elegant dining room features art deco bar, velvety walls, and intricate details like chandeliers and mirrors. Atmosphere feels intimate and warm, with a chic, romantic vibe suited for special occasions. Acoustic paneling keeps conversation clear despite a lively, fully-booked setting.

Food features bold flavors and perfect execution with dishes that are fresh, well-seasoned, and served at the right temperature. The menu balances rooted and forward-thinking elements for a high-end dining experience.

Dinner here feels like a full experience with an elegant, warm atmosphere. Staff show genuine attention that makes the meal unforgettable.

People are saying

"The coconut and vanilla crème cake was a masterpiece."

"The food here is outstanding, especially the steak and salads."

"The food at these dinner spots is outstanding and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating availability.

2

Dress code is business casual; avoid shorts and flip-flops.

3

Expect to spend around $150 per person for a full meal with drinks.

11
The Westin Austin Downtown image 1

Hotel offers a rooftop pool bar with spectacular city views and a relaxing vibe. Atmosphere feels inviting and cozy, with well-done gym and pool areas. Guests enjoy curated music and a warm, welcoming environment.

Food comes with phenomenal service and fresh juice options. The quality consistently impresses across visits.

Dinner features wonderful recommendations and a celebratory atmosphere. The experience includes amazing dishes that stand out for quality and enjoyment.

People are saying

"The brunch service was outstanding, with great recommendations."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

"The servers here give great recommendations for dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Mondays with a special food menu.

2

Bar service at the pool deck starts at 1 p.m. and food service at 3 p.m.

3

The hotel restaurant stops serving food at 10:30 p.m.

12
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.

Food here stands out for its exceptional taste and consistent quality. Service includes attentive accommodations for dietary restrictions.

Private rooms accommodate team dinners and special occasions. The atmosphere suits birthday celebrations, anniversary dinners, and casual girls night outs with drinks and late light meals.

People are saying

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

"The service at these dinner spots is so attentive and proactive."

"The steak here was flavorful and cooked perfectly."

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.

13
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.

Food features amazing flavors and excellent service that stands out even among fine dining. Dining experiences often feel wonderful and memorable.

Dinner here offers a memorable experience with consistently phenomenal meals. It suits special occasions like anniversaries and family gatherings well.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here serve phenomenal, delicious food."

"The food, especially the steak, is cooked to perfection."

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.

14
The Backspace image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza restaurant offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere with dim lighting and a romantic vibe. Space fills quickly, making reservations advisable. Known for fresh ingredients and perfectly cooked crusts, it pairs well with a selection of wines and Italian beers.

Food features fresh, delicious ingredients prepared in front of diners. The setting offers a super intimate dining experience with excellent food and prompt service.

Intimate setting suits special dinners well. Staff create a personalized experience that enhances celebrations.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I had in my life."

"The food here is delicious, with quality ingredients and a refined take on pizza."

"The pizza here is outstanding, with a perfectly cooked crust."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5 to 6:30 PM with great deals on drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

3

Parking in the area can be limited and hard to find.

15
Burger Bar Congress image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor seating with shaded benches invites casual dining while watching street activity. Lively music and an open kitchen window create an engaging atmosphere. Burgers receive strong praise for quality, making it a notable spot downtown.

Food features high quality ingredients and freshness with dishes that taste delicious and well-prepared. Fries stand out as cooked to perfection and the menu offers good value for the price.

Dinner features consistent quality with meals that invite repeat visits. Multiple nights of dining show reliable satisfaction and a solid menu.

People are saying

"These burgers are the best I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious, juicy, and amazing."

"The burgers here are face-melting great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not accept cash payments; only card payments are allowed.

2

There is no indoor seating; all orders are taken outside.

3

Everything is managed through an app for ordering and payment.

16
PAV BHAJI EXPRESS image 1
Indian restaurant

Food truck with covered patio seating and decorated outdoor area creates a family-friendly atmosphere filled with loud Indian songs. Large crowds gather after office hours to enjoy authentic Indian street food in a lively, social setting. Seating includes shaded areas with fans, making it comfortable even in warm weather.

Indian street food shines here with authentic Mumbai/Pune flavors. The dishes deliver amazing quality and rich taste consistently.

Dinner features family-style meals and late-night options. The misal pav stands out as a dish enjoyed for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is so tasty and authentic."

"I thought the masala chai was the best I've ever had."

"The pav bhaji and vada pav here are excellent Dinner Spots."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The food truck does not have restroom facilities available.

3

Expect generous portions, with bhaji typically served in 12oz containers.

17
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.

Great food stands out with phenomenal service complementing every meal. The dishes consistently deliver a fantastic flavor that makes dining here memorable.

Dinner features crispy chicken, paired with baked beans and greens. The meal stays consistent in quality from lunch to dinner.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"These dinner spots have amazing, juicy, and perfectly seasoned fried chicken."

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.

18
Ciclo image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Fine dining restaurant offers beautiful lakeside views and a welcoming atmosphere with spacious outdoor seating. The setting includes landscaped gardens and a calming river backdrop, creating a relaxed yet elegant vibe. Cocktails and champagne stand out as notable features alongside the overall experience.

Food features delicious flavors with all the right notes and a delectable sauce in dishes like MARISCO A LO MACHO. Service complements the food well, especially during vegan dinners and patio sunsets.

Dinner features great service and delicious signature bon bons. Special events include vegan dinners and surprise desserts from the pastry team.

People are saying

"The Wagyu tomahawk chop was a delicious dinner spot, seared table-side."

"The outdoor patio has a beautiful atmosphere, especially at sunset."

"I thought the food here was delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to ensure a table.

2

Expect a high price point, with dinner averaging around $90 per person.

3

Ciclo offers a dog and cat menu with various options for pets.

19
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.

Food quality stands out as excellent and amazing. The menu offers phenomenal dishes that pair well with the drinks, creating a solid dining experience.

Dinner features a great atmosphere for early meals or pre-show drinks. Ownership often joins for a quick fun conversation after dinner, adding a personal touch.

People are saying

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

"This food, especially the burger, is packed with flavor."

"The burgers at these dinner spots are simple but so well executed."

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.

20
OneTaco Taquería @ Frost Tower image 1

Small, no-frills taco spot with a Mexican Luchador theme and authentic atmosphere filled with loud Mexican music. The space feels like a street taco stand in Mexico, bustling and noisy, with a casual vibe ideal for quick meals. Guests add their own veggies and sauces, enhancing the made-to-order taco experience.

Great tacos arrive hot and delicious with fast service from friendly staff. Prices for food and drinks stay unbeatable while the team keeps the vibe pleasant.

Clean, casual space suits a quick, no-fuss dinner. Both dinner and breakfast offer excellent meals with consistent quality.

People are saying

"These tacos are delicious and satisfying."

"The food here is fresh, authentic, and absolutely delicious."

"The tacos at these dinner spots are fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special discounts on tacos every week.

2

Street tacos are available for under $2 each.

3

Vegetarian options are specifically available on the menu.

21
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.

Food features excellent flavors and consistently fantastic quality. Service complements the stylish setting well.

Dinner here features an omakase dinner that stands out, paired well with orange wine during happy hour. The setting suits special occasions like birthdays, making dinners memorable.

People are saying

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

"The bartenders here offer fantastic, knowledgeable service."

"The dinner spots here offer amazing, delicious dishes you can't go wrong trying."

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.

22
Residence Inn by Marriott Austin Downtown/Convention Center image 1

Hotel offers spacious rooms with full kitchens and beautiful city views. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, with a relaxed rooftop ambiance and a welcoming scent at entry. Location is convenient downtown, close to major attractions and the convention center.

Breakfast offers a fresh and delicious buffet with fruits, yogurts, eggs, home fried potatoes, bacon, sausage, waffles, cereals, and oatmeal with all the fixings. The buffet area stays spotless and well-stocked throughout.

Dinner features delicious food and spectacular service. The attentive host checks on diners multiple times, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff, especially Ladyfair, were so kind and helpful."

"The food here was marvelous and the service prompt."

"The dinner host was so attentive and kind."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located downtown, a quick walk to everything.

2

The rooms cost approximately $285 per night with $69 for valet parking.

3

There is no on-property parking available at the hotel.

23
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.

Food stands out with great bar dishes and a reputation for king of buffalo sauce. The menu consistently delivers amazing flavors that pair well with drinks.

Dinner happens in a lively spot with a steady crowd and occasional waits. It fits well for meals before shows, offering a casual vibe with beer options and a menu that draws repeat visits.

People are saying

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

"The food here, especially the burgers, is huge and delicious."

"I thought the burger was delicious and lived up to the hype."

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.

24
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.

Food features exceptional quality, flavors, and presentation. Service complements the dining with consistent excellence.

Dinner here offers an incredible experience with dishes that stand out. Service by Sam adds a special touch to the evening.

People are saying

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

"The duck confit and escargot at these dinner spots are heavenly."

"The food here is excellent and full of flavor."

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.

25
Austin Proper Hotel image 1

Hotel combines elegant design with a vibrant bar scene and luxury amenities like a rooftop pool and smart room controls. Atmosphere blends modern-meets-vintage décor with a laid-back vibe and stylish details throughout. Spaces attract guests seeking both relaxation and lively social settings.

Outstanding food pairs with fantastic cuisine and superb service. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the dining experience.

Downstairs offers a Mediterranean restaurant with delicious meals for dinner. The options are exquisite and satisfy a variety of tastes.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff's service was top-notch and genuinely friendly."

"The food here is excellent and high quality."

"Giulio made my dinner reservations effortless and even walked me there."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks are available at the hotel bar during weekdays.

2

The Quail Room features live music performances on weekends.

3

Cabanas for rent require a full four-hour payment with strict policies.

26
Edge Rooftop image 1

Rooftop bar offers panoramic city views and a spacious pool area with live music enhancing the atmosphere. The vibe is relaxed yet lively, suitable for both casual hangouts and special occasions. Guests enjoy seasonal cocktails and cozy touches like blankets during cooler evenings.

Food and drinks score 10 out of 10 with great taste. Service includes attentive check-ins for more orders, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Rooftop dining offers a mesmerising city view at night, creating a calm setting for dinners or celebrations. Service stands out with attentive and outgoing staff, making occasions feel special.

People are saying

"The servers at the Rooftop are so attentive and sweet."

"The food recommendations from Jae were amazing."

"Jae's attentive service made our dinner spots incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Sundays feature a special martini night with $10 drinks.

3

Tabs cannot be itemized and must be paid as one.

27
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.

Food features authentic Irish dishes paired with legitimate Irish whiskey. The menu brings a taste of Irish creativity and culture to the table.

Group dinners happen here with ease, offering a nice early dinner option. The spot suits gatherings and casual evening meals.

People are saying

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

"The food here, especially the lamb pie and fries, was great."

"The food and drinks for dinner were great."

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.

28
Geraldine's image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines rustic design with modern warmth, featuring exposed wood arches and Edison bulbs. Live jazz music and vinyl DJs create a pleasant, lively atmosphere during brunch and evenings. Outdoor seating by the pool and rooftop igloos add unique spaces for dining and cocktails.

Food stands out for being consistently fantastic and incredibly delicious. The combination of food and service creates a truly amazing dining experience.

Dinner here feels special with attentive service and a celebratory vibe. Staff make occasions like birthdays and anniversaries stand out.

People are saying

"Gray made our brunch a great and attentive experience."

"The food here is so tender and flavorful."

"The shrimp at these dinner spots was the best dish I had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for brunch, especially during busy holiday events.

2

Live music during brunch ends at 1 pm, so arrive early to enjoy it.

3

Valet parking is available, but street parking is limited due to construction.

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