So you’re in Austin for SXSW and you want to do stuff that doesn’t suck. Well you’re in luck. Me and the lady wife have been here for about ten years mostly not sucking at all.
I know your schedule is tight and you’re gonna be cramming in movies, music, and meetings with a big lubed up shoehorn. So we’ll keep it simple. Here’s a boiled down list of awesome that is guaranteed to make anyone’s visit to this town at least 36% better.
Be warned though, not everything is two blocks from your hotel or that couch you’re crashing on. A few of the places require effort but if you want the best, sacrifices must be made.
So in no particular order here’s where we love to eat and drink in Austin.
G’raj Mahal (Downtown/South)- This little trailer is turning out the best naan I’ve had in a long time, not to mention all of the other delicious stuff on the menu. Check out the Goan specialties since the owner has roots from those parts. And don’t forget this place has the added bonus of being BYOB (and it's downtown and open until like 3 AM).
Vino Vino (Central)- My favorite wine bar in town. The walls are lined with interestingly chosen, well priced bottles that you often can’t find anywhere else. The chef, Esteban also turns out some pretty impressive snacks from the tiny kitchen. Read more...
Homeslice (South)- You’ve probably already heard about this little pizza and sandwich joint on South Congress. It’s insanely popular and for good reason. The pies are excellent and the Italian Assorted sub with hot cherry peppers heals all wounds. Luckily they’ve opened up an annex next door to help handle the often insane crowds.
Jeffrey's Braised Beef Short Ribs.
Jeffrey’s(Central)- specifically their bar at happy hour. Chef Deegan McClung has quietly transformed this old classic into a totally underhyped foodie pleasing powerhouse. At any price this is some of the best food in Austin. At half-price you really shouldn’t miss it. And don’t overlook that deceptively simple burger- it’ll set you straight.
La Canaria (North Central)- This bright yellow taqueria truck does magical things with masa. The sopes that appear through the tiny window-pass should probably be illegal. Don’t expect super fast service though, since they hand-form and griddle most items to order. Read more...
Smitty’s Market (Real South)- If you have the time I highly recommend a pilgrimage 40 minutes south to Lockhart. From the open fires and soot coated walls to the glistening sausage rings and smoky prime rib, bbq just doesn’t get much better than this. It’s an experience well worth the drive. Read more...
Eastside Show Room (East)- this interesting steampunky bar with bespoke cocktails, locally sourced ingredients, and housemade chaurcuterie is going to be extra popular during SXSW. It’s got buzz and the balls to back it up. They operate at their own speed though, so if you’re an antsy New Yorker, a preparatory valium may be in order. Read more...
Big Top Candy Store (South Congress)- This retro good-time sweets emporium is a great place to peruse for old childhood memories and strange (often hilarious) new confections. But don’t miss the malts. The soda jerks at this old school fountain mix up the meanest version I’ve had in ages. Think of it as Gatorade- for being awesome. The super traditional egg creams aren’t half bad either.
Baguette House (North/NW)- Austin has a small but lively Vietnamese population turning out some damn fine food. Baguette House is high on that list, putting together the tastiest banh mi you can fit your mouth around. Stick to the traditional side of the menu and you’ll be well served. I should also mention that these sandwiches make excellent hangover remedies. Read more...
Fino (Central)- If you get bored with the beer and shots scene, slip up to Fino and go see what a cocktail menu should look like. The drinks are interesting, seasonal, and most importantly, delicious. Sit at the bar to watch the guys work their liquid mojo (is that legal?) but feel free to order liberally from the food menu too, as the sharing-sized plates generally kick ass. Read more...
Eastside King (East)- This little half-trailer tucked behind the Liberty on E. 6th is a side project for a pack of talented chefs. With specials like sweetbread steambuns and fried brussel sprout salad, you won’t mistake this for your typical back alley fare. Order the entire menu and then make new friends over asian food and frothy cold beverages. Read more...
While by no means comprehensive, this'll definitely get you pointed in the right direction. Of course Austin has lots more fine eatin' and drinkin' to offer. Be sure to check out the rest of the Foodbloggers' Guide for other doing-stuff ideas.
