Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Austin

34 restaurants available nearby

1. The Well

4.7

Exceptional(520)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 29 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Austin, The Well is a culinary jewel renowned for its exceptional American cuisine. With a commitment to sustainability, this restaurant sources its ingredients from local farms, ensuring that each dish not only tastes authentic but also supports local agriculture. The menu is a celebration of American flavors, with guests raving about options like the "best chicken ever" and "outstanding" ceviche. Diners consistently praise the "amazing and healthy" food, highlighting the restaurant's ability to cater to a variety of dietary needs without compromising on taste. The Well's dedication to quality is reflected in its glowing reviews, with one patron noting, "It’s amazing what you can serve gluten-free!" Whether you're a local or just passing through, The Well promises a dining experience that's both delicious and wholesome, making it a must-visit destination in Austin.

2. Hestia

4.8

Exceptional(1903)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 32 times today

Hestia, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Austin, is a haven for Grill cuisine enthusiasts. Named after the Greek goddess of the hearth, Hestia truly celebrates the primal beauty of fire-cooked food. The restaurant's centerpiece, a majestic 20-ft hearth, isn't just visually stunning; it's the heart from which every dish pulses with authenticity and flavor. Diners consistently rave about the "amazing flavors" and "best tasting menu," highlighting specialties like the halibut, which has been described as "from another planet." The meticulously prepared grill items, such as the dry-aged wagyu and succulent pork chop, leave guests enthralled by the "incredible food" and "exceptional service." Hestia stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone craving a top-tier Grill experience in Austin.

3. Group Therapy

4.4

Awesome(592)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 21 times today

Nestled in the heart of downtown Austin, Group Therapy at Hotel ZaZa is a culinary gem that offers an exceptional Bistro experience. With its cozy supper club ambiance and stylish decor, the restaurant provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying top-notch Bistro cuisine. Patrons rave about the "spectacular" linguini with crab and the "delicious" blue crab linguini, highlighting both the quality of the food and the generous portion sizes. The ambiance is described as "infectious and fun," making it a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. As one diner put it, Group Therapy is where you find "great food and experience," ensuring that every visit is memorable and satisfying. Whether you're there for a casual meal or a special occasion, Group Therapy delivers an authentic Bistro flair that’s not to be missed.

A photo of Serenade American Brasserie restaurant

4. Serenade American Brasserie

4.1

Excellent(27)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 16 times today

Serenade American Brasserie reimagines a classic brasserie through a Lone Star lens, creating one of Austin’s most central and relaxed dining destinations. Welcome to a place where the allure of French oak meets the draw of Texas smoke.Featuring locally-sourced dishes for all day dining, Serenade offers elevated comfort food in a setting that is both approachable and tranquil. The cocktails are bespoke and inventive, the wine list is globally curated, and the beer selection ranges from European specialties to local Austin brews. Serenade is led by Chef Johnny Ray Stinebaugh, with menu development overseen by W Austin’s Executive Chef Manuel Rodriguez.Located on the ground floor of W Austin, Serenade spans an inviting indoor-outdoor and day-to-evening space. In the dining room and at the large focal point bar, double-height ceilings enhance the soft, golden light, while avian motifs appear throughout.Reserve your table at Serenade, today.

A photo of The Guest House Austin restaurant

5. The Guest House Austin

4.6

Exceptional(188)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 17 times today

Welcome to The Guest House Austin, a vibrant gem in downtown Austin that offers a fresh take on Contemporary American cuisine. With its chic, energetic ambiance, this restaurant is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Diners rave about the "stunningly creative specialty drinks" and dishes with "unique slants and presentations." The theatrical cocktails and superior service, with shoutouts to staff like Regan and Sarah, highlight the restaurant's commitment to excellence. The Guest House Austin delivers an "extraordinary" dining experience that is both innovative and authentically American, making it a must-visit destination. As one diner put it, it's "amaIng food and spectacular service! overall 10/10 dinning experience" – truly a testament to its standout offerings in the heart of Austin.

A photo of Roaring Fork - Downtown, Congress restaurant

6. Roaring Fork - Downtown, Congress

4.7

Exceptional(3490)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 32 times today

Roaring Fork in Downtown Austin is a gem for those seeking authentic Southwest cuisine with a modern twist. Diners rave about the bold flavors achieved through their signature wood-fire cooking technique. Favorites like the "best tortilla soup" and "poblano cheese grits" highlight the menu, with guests often noting these dishes as "marvelous" and a "meal in themselves." The restaurant's ambiance complements the fine dining experience, making it a top choice not only for locals but also for visitors looking to savor true Southwest delights. Regulars and newcomers alike praise the "excellent service" and the "immaculate" food presentation, ensuring an outstanding dining experience every time. Whether you're catching a show nearby or looking for a memorable meal, Roaring Fork promises an exceptional taste of the Southwest.

7. Corner

4.6

Exceptional(991)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 42 times today

Corner Restaurant in downtown Austin is a haven for patrons seeking exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service. The venue shines with its modern Texas fare and a cocktail menu that dazzles with local twists on classic recipes. Visitors consistently rave about the ambiance and the quality of service, highlighting experiences such as having "great drinks" in a "very friendly" atmosphere. The standout reviews often mention the attentive and knowledgeable staff, making every visit memorable. Whether it's for a boozy brunch or a lively evening out, Corner's patio bar offers a perfect blend of delightful drinks and a vibrant setting, making it a must-visit destination for an authentic Austin experience.

A photo of W Austin Restaurant & Lounge restaurant

8. W Austin Restaurant & Lounge

4.2

Awesome(1440)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

W Austin Restaurant & Lounge is a sleek and sophisticated restaurant for hotel guests featuring the finest flavors of Central Texas sourced directly from the region's surrounding farms. Located on the Floor 2 of W Austin Hotel.

9. Ranch 616

4.6

Exceptional(1547)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 20 times today

Ranch 616, nestled in the heart of Downtown Austin, offers a delightful dive into authentic Southwest cuisine with a unique Texas twist that diners simply can't get enough of. From crispy oysters with chipotle chilies tartar sauce to succulent Gulf fish tacos adorned with chili lime aioli, the flavors are as bold and vibrant as the eclectic decor. Praised for creating a "fantastic and fun" dining experience, the restaurant has garnered glowing testimonials. One diner raved, "The food was AMAZING! Loved the wild boar appetizer and the venison frito pie to die for." Whether you're a local or just passing through, Ranch 616’s rich fusion of South Texas gourmet in an upbeat, kitschy setting epitomizes the best of Southwest culinary artistry, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

10. Swift's Attic

4.4

Awesome(1259)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 14 times today

Swift's Attic in downtown Austin is a beacon of global, international cuisine, offering an innovative twist on familiar favorites. Tucked away in a lively attic space, this restaurant is celebrated for transforming classic dishes into modern, whimsical creations that captivate the palate and the imagination. As diners suggest, the experience is "strangely familiar yet familiarly strange," ensuring a culinary journey like no other. Patrons rave about the "deliciously unique" menu and the exceptional service, highlighting the restaurant’s ability to cater to both intimate gatherings and large groups with equal finesse. The vibrant ambiance, coupled with a commitment to quality and creativity, makes Swift's Attic a must-visit destination for those seeking an outstanding global dining experience in Austin.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

T
Tatiana
San Antonio •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Great service and food. Enter through the hotel and take the elevator to through restaurant.
More info
Group TherapyPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
•
4.4
A
Amy
Austin •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Jason was our server. He took great care of us. He made nice suggestions. The cocktails were wonderful. Which each had a different entree and all outstanding. My only negative comment…. $12 for a basket of French Fries? That right there tells you that all prices are inflated. Bottom line, Roaring Forks is consistently delicious. The pork & green chili is NOT to be missed!
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Roaring Fork - Downtown, CongressPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
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4.7
C
Corey
Houston •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Every dish and every cocktail was outstanding. Flavor explosions with every bite, well balanced and unique cocktails. Gabby and Rudy took great care of us, George is a true hospitalitarian, and everyone who came to our table was so knowledgeable about the item they were serving. Great restaurant, great staff. Completely understandable why they earned a Michelin star. Run, don’t walk, to your reservation now!
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HestiaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
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4.8
J
JonVIP
Las Vegas •10 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Overall great dining experience including fantastic service and dishes that were both visually creative and delicious. Has a club lounge vibe, but not overpowering
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The Guest House AustinPrice: Moderate• American• Downtown
•
4.6
D
DominicVIP
West Palm Beach •7 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 15, 2024
The food was incredible and the service was fantastic. We were there for brunch and had the pancakes, breakfast tacos and steak and eggs along with the delicious Revive smoothie. They use all the healthiest ingredients. We ended up eating here several times over a long weekend. Every meal was flavorful and vibrant. We literally kept going back the Well.
More info
The WellPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown
•
4.7

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Austin

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34 restaurants available nearby

1. The Well

2. Hestia

3. Group Therapy

4. Serenade American Brasserie

5. The Guest House Austin

6. Roaring Fork - Downtown, Congress

7. Corner

8. W Austin Restaurant & Lounge

9. Ranch 616

10. Swift's Attic

See what locals rave about

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