Best Casual Restaurants in Central Austin

Everything was great except for parking. The open table website indicated that there was valet - but finding the valet stand - was challenging because it was not in front or behind the restaurant. When I finally figured out where the valet stand was - the stand was right in front of a stop sign, and you cant easily get out of your car to give to the valet w a bunch of cars behind you. I had to find a parking spot down the street. Parking in that area is a nightmare.

Arrived 30 minutes before my reservation so I hung out at the bar. The bartender gave me water and asked if I needed anything. She was lovely. The check in host helped me locate a restroom and was very helpful when my friend arrived and I was not where I told her I would be. Our waitress was FANTASTIC and even the professional he brought us our food was so jovial. I hope to eat again at caroline very soon!!

Great food great staff. Visiting from pittsburgh highly reccomend.

When you first enter Hopfields from Guadalupe street you’re in the bar / lounge. On the Friday night we were there it was bustling and I was a bit worried. But the space is much larger than just that first room, and after following the hall a bit we were seated in a room in the back where we could have a wonderful date night meal with just the right amount of separation from the other diners including those in the nearby large party seating areas. Anna was pleasant, knowledgeable, and just the right amount of attentive. The food was delicious. We thoroughly enjoyed the French onion soup, beet and ricotta salad, duck wings a l’orange, and lamb shank. Can’t wait to go back and try several other dishes.

Quince Lakehouse was the perfect escape! The waterfront views during sunset set such a dreamy atmosphere, and the coastal decor tied everything together beautifully. It truly felt like a mini getaway. The Rock Shrimp Tempura was absolutely delicious—crispy and flavorful—and paired perfectly with my Black Forest cocktail (Mezcal, Pineapple, Cucumber, Rosemary-Charcoal). The house DJ kept the vibe alive with great music, and the staff was so lovely and attentive, ensuring we had an incredible experience. Can’t wait to return for another unforgettable evening!