The Local Dish – Top 5 Places to Eat in Austin, Texas

There are so many amazing restaurants in Austin, Texas that it is hard to choose just a handful.  But I narrowed the choices down to my top 5 restaurants in Austin.  There are still so many restaurants that I haven’t tried in the Austin area that are on my list.

I am be teaming up with other bloggers from all over the country sharing our favorite local restaurants.  Check back in a couple weeks to see them all.

Here’s a look at my favorite Austin spots:

Franklin Barbecue

Texas BBQ is not like any other BBQ you have ever tried.  In fact, I have never been a fan of BBQ until moving to Texas.  There are many choices in the area for BBQ, but one of the biggest is Franklin Barbecue.   It is so popular that they sell out before they are even open.  The reason it so popular is because of Aaron Franklin’s TV show.  If you want tips for visiting the restaurant, I shared 5 tips in this post.  If you do not want to stand in line for BBQ, Ruby’s BBQ is another great choice.

Torchy’s Tacos

Austin is the most taco obsessed city in the US.  I do not have enough words to tell you how much I love Torchy’s Tacos.  While the possibilities are endless, breakfast tacos rule them all!  However, my favorite taco is Trailer Park and I make it “trashy” which means instead of putting lettuce on the taco they put queso instead.  They also have delicious queso and guacamole!

Kerbey Lane

If you are looking for a place that serves comfort food, breakfast all day, and seasonal specialties then Kerbey Lane is for you.  Each week they also offer three feature pancakes that switch out on Tuesday.  Kerbey Lane is a great place for brunch or for late night eating since most locations are open 24 hours.

The Backspace 

Austin’s first Neapolitan pizzeria is a rustic, 30-seat intimate space that highlights the best of Italy.  The Backspace is located in downtown just off 6th street.  Their pizzas are cooked in a brick oven which is located in the dining room.  The restaurant’s attention to detail and wonderful customer service along with fresh ingredients makes The Backspace an amazing experience.

Fresa’s

Their wood-grilled meats, homemade tortillas, authentic salsas and traditional rice and beans makes Fresa’s a modern take on the classic Mexican Chicken al Carbón.  Fresa’s also offers grilled vegetables, inventive salads and ice cream.  Plus their building is funky, fun, and an amazing place to take a few pictures.

If you are headed to Austin, I hope you stop by a couple of these restaurants!  If you have visited Austin, what was your favorite restaurant?