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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Austin

Lunch spots and dinner spots

You want a place that handles both lunch and dinner with the same level of consistency.

Based on 887 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.

Lunch offers a delicious menu with great suggestions. Sitting at the oyster bar adds a nice touch to the experience. The vibe fits well for both lunch and happy hour.

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 dinner spots here have attentive service and great suggestions."

"Our server Yndira offered great suggestions for our lunch spot."

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
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.

Lunch features excellent food with delicious biscuits at Stella San Jac. Service stands out with attentive staff like Britney and Bri enhancing the experience.

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."

"Our server Yndira provided friendly and patient service at this lunch spot."

"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.

03
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.

Quick, authentic Indian street food makes this a solid lunch spot. Dishes like pav bhaji and misal pav serve well for both lunch and leftovers.

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."

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

"The vada pav here is a must-try Lunch Spot."

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.

04
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.

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."

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

"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.

05
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.

Lunch offers fresh tacos in a clean, casual space. The spot feels unassuming but fun, fitting for a quick, no-fuss meal.

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."

"This lunch spot's tacos are fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

"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.

06
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.

Polite and accommodating service stands out during lunch. The setting suits business lunches well with a professional vibe.

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."

"Carlos was so polite during my lunch."

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.

07
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.

Dinner features murder mystery events with a zany cast from Esther's Follies. The vibe stays fun and lively, especially after outdoor activities like skiing.

People are saying

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

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

"I was happy with our outstanding dinners here."

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.

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.

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."

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

"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.

09
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.

Quick service delivers fresh-made-to-order burgers ideal for lunch. Friendly staff like Ana and Richard ensure orders are accurate even during the lunch rush.

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."

"This lunch spot's staff always greeted me with smiles."

"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.

10
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.

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."

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

"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.

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.

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

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

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
Micheladas Cafe y Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers beautiful decor with authentic music and framed folk art creating a chilled vibe. Patio seating is dog friendly and relaxing, with big screens showing games. Atmosphere balances upbeat energy for groups and cozy comfort for dates.

Offers great lunch deals with food good enough to visit twice. Serves a nice lunch that stands out for quality and value.

Dinner features an excellent wait staff and dishes like the Pollo Frito that stand out. The food quality impresses even during busy weekend nights, making it a solid spot for group dinners.

People are saying

"I thought the food was even better than expected."

"The dinner food here is delicious and served quickly."

"This lunch spot's Mexican food is bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

The cafe can get packed during events with the convention center.

2

Expect longer wait times during major sporting events like the Texas v. Oklahoma game.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during busy events.

13
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.

Wienerschnitzel stands out as a delicious German pub-style dinner option. Service comes quickly around dinner time, making it a solid spot for a casual dinner or private events.

People are saying

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

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

"The German food and giant pretzel here are delicious."

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.

14
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.

People are saying

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

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

"The food at these dinner spots was delicious."

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.

15
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.

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 bar's drinks are perfectly crafted and mesmerizing."

"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.

16
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.

Lunch happens by the poolside at a Mexican restaurant with a lively atmosphere. The Mediterranean lobby bar and catered conference meals also offer solid options.

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."

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

"I enjoyed an incredible lunch at this spot."

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.

17
Maiko Sushi Lounge image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant combines Asian and Texas influences in its decor with an elegant atmosphere that feels calm and refreshing. The space features a nice sushi bar and offers affordable, fresh sushi alongside Japanese BBQ. Drinks include great sake and creative cocktails, enhancing a relaxed dining experience.

Lunch offers unbeatable deals with options like a nigiri set and sashimi combo. The atmosphere stays clean and lively during weekday lunch hours.

Late and early dinners happen here, fitting well for post-conference meals or family gatherings. The spot suits after work dinners and celebrations with groups.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really delicious and great."

"The staff here makes dinner spots feel so welcoming and engaging."

"The sushi here is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM until close with discounted rolls and drinks.

2

The happy hour menu features rolls priced between $7 and $15.

3

Lychee martinis are available for $8 during happy hour.

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