Whether you’re headed to Austin’s SXSW for music, film, comedy, conferences, art, tech or all of the above and more, you’ll need to fuel up to power through one of the largest festivals in America. Below the Red Fan Communications team has compiled a list of some of our favorite places to eat in Austin so you can get a jumpstart on planning your trip to the Lone Star State.
Quick Bites
P. Terry’s – Austin’s version of In-N-Out
“I’m on team P. Terry’s for the best fast burger in town. There are a ton of locations throughout the city and they’ve got something for everyone—including my personal favorites, an unreal veggie burger and oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.” – Brigitte Pentecost, senior associate
Iconic
Terry Black’s BBQ – Legendary Texas barbecue
“You can’t come to Texas without getting barbecue. Terry Black’s is an authentic Texas barbecue experience, complete with an on-site smoker and cafeteria-style buffet service. Grab some brisket, jalapeno cheese sausage, baked potato salad, pickles and a piece of white bread.” – Brian Tosti, associate
Matt’s El Rancho – The ultimate Tex-Mex
“Texas is famous for its Tejano culture and unique take on Mexican food called Tex-Mex. Matt’s El Rancho has been around since the 50s and is an absolute Austin establishment. It’s busy for dinner and doesn’t take reservations, but the wait is totally worth it. Grab a frozen margarita from the bar while you wait to be seated and a Bob Armstrong dip and mix of beef and chicken fajitas with a side of grilled garlic once you’ve got a table.” – Brigitte Pentecost, senior associate
Chili’s (at 45th and Lamar) – A nationwide favorite, but Austin style
“The Chili’s on 45th and Lamar is a signature dining experience for anyone in Austin—whether you’re visiting or a resident. With over 2,000 combined Google and Yelp reviews, you just have to visit the restaurant to understand why it’s so special.” – Zach Price, associate
Close to Downtown, But Away from the Fest
Uchiko – Nontraditional Japanese and sushi from James Beard Award-winner, Chef Tyson Cole
“Coming from California, sushi was something I ate almost every week. Now that we are farther from the ocean, I was worried good sushi would be expensive and hard to find, but Uchiko—the junior restaurant version of Uchi—has an absolutely incredible menu and atmosphere. 10/10 recommend!” – Haley Cressler, marketing and operations manager
Perla’s – A place to see and be seen with a great wine list
“Whenever I am in Austin I make it a point to visit Perla’s at least once during my stay. It’s situated right in the heart of South Congress so the overall vibe is just as amazing as the oysters they fly in daily. Hot tip: ask for patio seating and enjoy a glass of rosé and SoCo’s people watching during happy hour.” – Callie Neatherlin, senior media relations manager
Summer House on Music Lane – Think escalated picnic food in a mod lake house vibe
“Summer House on Music Lane is located in Hotel Magdalena, one of Austin iconic Bunkhouse Group properties. The hotel and restaurant pay homage to the easy, eclectic atmosphere of Texas lake houses and sit on the original property of Willie Nelson’s 1970s music venue Austin Opry House. Grab coffee and the cinnamon roll french toast here before heading downtown for SXSW!” – Mikaela Cannizzo, senior associate
Prestigious Food
Lenoir – Upscale, seasonal farm-to-table with an intimate ambiance
“Lenoir is a beautiful old home that’s been converted into a small dining room. The food is equally as beautiful, with a seasonal menu that celebrates locally-sourced ingredients. Lenoir also has a spectacular wine program!” – Dawn Weston, vice president of client success
