Guide to Dining in Austin TX — Escape The Routine

Our Guide to Dining in downtown, Austin.

While Austin may be known for its legendary Tex-Mex, tasty breakfast tacos and juicy barbecue, there's so much more to the capital city's food history to explore. The eclectic mix of eateries in the city includes some of the best down-home and chef-driven comfort food in the country.

Here are some of our favorite lunch and dinner options best for large groups!

full team Lunch recommendations

La Condesa located in 2nd Street District

Contemporary Mexican dishes, a vast tequila selection & happy-hour deals in a sophisticated setting.

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Fixe Southern House located on Fifth Street

Upscale Southern eatery for grits, biscuits & creative seafood & steak options in chic dining rooms.

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full team Dinner recommendations

Emmer & Rye located in the Historic Rainey Street District

Emmer & Rye serves super-seasonal/local small plates, but they also offer a second menu that comes in the form of a dim sum cart. This cart will stop by your table several times throughout the evening making it impossible to walk out of this place unsatisfied.

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Red Ash located on Colorado Street in downtown, Austin

Influenced by the culinary traditions of Northern and Southern Italy, Red Ash features craft Italian cuisine expertly prepared by Owner and Executive Chef John Carver. The star of the Red Ash kitchen is the custom-built wood-burning grill, oven and plancha. Red ash is released from the live wood fires, which is the inspiration for the restaurant’s name.

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III Forks Restaurant is located on Lavaca Street at Cesar Chavez, in downtown Austin, considered the Crown Jewel of American Dining.

III Forks Steakhouse brings a sophisticated club-like ambiance with an elegant bar and piano lounge with a patio views of Town Lake reflecting the rich heritage of Austin making it the perfect choice for any social or business occasion.

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Geraldine’s located in the Historic Rainey Street District

Executive Chef Chris Schaefer’s menu of contemporary Austin fare invites you to a communal dining experience located in historic Rainey District. Shared plates and communal seating brings the whole room into harmony with live music nightly. Geraldine’s celebrates all things Austin with local brews, food-friendly wines, and a library sized of American whiskeys and agave spirits.