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20 Best Lunch Spots in Austin

A photo of Red logo
by The OpenTable Team
Updated January 27, 2020

With a slogan like "Keep Austin Weird", this Texas town has a unique flair that sets it apart from the rest of the region. Perhaps that has to do with the college culture, the annual South by Southwest film festival, the thriving live music scene or even the huge number of bats. When it comes to food, Austin has a surprising mix of Tex-Mex and barbeque, of course. But you can also enjoy oysters with work colleagues in classy surroundings. Grab a friend for a French-style lunch date, in a bistro-style setting or head south of the river to buzzy spots like South Congress. But where do the smartest, savviest diners go for the best lunch Austin style? Find out in the Tastemaker 20 Lists. We’ve found 20 of the best lunch Austin can offer. Book today for some of the best lunch Austin diners have found so far.

A photo of June's All Day restaurant
4.8
4.8 (1056)
$30 and under
Contemporary American
South Austin
About the restaurant
It’s in the name: June’s serves up a range of dishes and grab-and-go coffee and pastries all day long. Lunch can be anything like a light Boston Lettuce Salad- with a luxurious black truffle vinaigrette- to hearty fare like the fried chicken sandwich with kohlrabi ranch slaw. Sit out on the patio and soak up the sun at this cheerful spot on the corner of South Congress Avenue.
Top review
ArthurVIP
Dined 5 days ago
Great food, service was outstanding. Seating was a little cramped for the 5 of us, but we still had a good time 😬
A photo of Clark's Oyster Bar - Austin restaurant
4.9
4.9 (1813)
$50 and over
Seafood
Downtown
About the restaurant
A favorite spot for business lunches, Clark’s is the Downtown destination for the best in East and West Coast oysters. There’s always a buzzing atmosphere here, whether diners drop in during work for a couple of oysters or sit down for a leisurely lunch of the house burger with Black Angus beef and gooey Gruyere. Queues form quickly at lunchtime so reservations are always recommended.
Top review
ChristineVIP
Dined on Jan 2, 2025
Outstanding service, food and ambience. The server was friendly, professional and helped to customize the dining experience with great suggestions. The octopus, oysters, crab cake, desserts… five stars
A photo of Joann's Fine Foods restaurant
4.7
4.7 (500)
$30 and under
Tex-Mex
Downtown
About the restaurant
A dreamy diner destination on the edge of Bouldin Creek, Joann’s Fine Foods boasts an outdoor dining area to soak up the vibrant South Congress Avenue vibes plus a real retro feel. The classic diner elements are all here, but it’s had a modern makeover. Nowhere is that better seen than on the menu. Lunch runs right through until 4 pm, allowing guests to relax with avocado smoothies, grilled chicken tortas, or tacos and caldo de rez. The most fun Tex-Mex in town.
Top review
Robin
Dined on Dec 29, 2024
We dined with out of town guests two of whom are vegan. There were plenty of yummy vegan options for them and everything we ordered was tasty. Our server was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. We sat on the patio which allowed to heat each other and people watch. We’ll definitely be back.
A photo of Colleen's Kitchen restaurant
4.8
4.8 (974)
$30 and under
Southern
Central Austin
About the restaurant
Colleen’s Kitchen invites diners to “Be Our Guest”, and join them for some of the best lunch Austin has to offer. Arrive any time between 11 and 4, and either relax in the bright and airy dining area or sit right out by the sidewalk. Catfish bites with pickles, fried green tomatoes, and a house burger with a blend of two cuts of beef are just some of the lunchtime home-style dishes on offer. Kids are welcome here, which is great as Colleen’s is just moments from the famous children’s museum, The Thinkery.
Top review
MarciaVIP
Dined 6 days ago
We visited for the first time tonight and it was a fantastic meal. We had a large party and they were able to accommodate us during the busy dinner hour. Large portions. Everything tasted great. Highly recommend this restaurant!
A photo of Josephine House restaurant
4.8
4.8 (1330)
$31 to $50
American
Central Austin
About the restaurant
When it comes to finding the best lunch Austin locals know that relaxation and beautiful surroundings are often as important (or nearly as important) as great food. Josephine House, set in a traditional Clarksville cottage, is so pretty and so chilled. Plus, it has an all-day menu showcasing the absolute best of Texan produce. Marinated cucumbers with green pea hummus, rice bowls with chimichurri, and chipotle shrimp all provide filling and flavorful lunchtime treats. Hours vary day to day so check before booking.
Top review
Carol
Dined 1 day ago
Unfortunately steaks were overcooked. Salad was excellent
A photo of ATX Cocina restaurant
4.8
4.8 (2660)
$50 and over
Contemporary Mexican
Downtown
About the restaurant
Sleek and contemporary with a plush waterside setting, ATX already has plenty to tempt hungry diners in with. Not only does it serve some of the best modern Mexican food in town, but it’s a completely gluten-free restaurant. So, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular foodie destination. Head down every Friday for their lunch menu. Seafood offerings like campechana, bone-in ribeye with smoked chile butter, and hibiscus falafel are just some of the outstanding dishes in this accessible eatery. Perfect for big groups.
Top review
Lindsay
Dined 1 day ago
We had a great time, house spicy margs are amazing!! They made my birthday guest feel special :)
A photo of Wu Chow-Downtown restaurant
4.5
4.5 (2190)
$31 to $50
Chinese
Downtown
About the restaurant
Right in the heart of busy Downtown Austin, Wu Chow is a popular spot for lunch both for the working folks and those enjoying a leisurely stroll around town. Wu Chow’s partnerships with local farms and producers mean their menu is as sustainable as possible. Combine this with traditional Chinese flavors and it’s an exciting and satisfying lunch experience. Try their hot and sour soup for a pick-me-up, or Gong Bao Chicken for something more substantial. Need to keep a clear head for the rest of the day? Browse their menu of exotic teas.
Top review
Jason
Dined 5 days ago
Food was delicious! Great atmosphere. Service was not at all great, however.
A photo of North Italia - Austin 2nd Street restaurant
4.6
4.6 (1717)
$30 and under
Italian
Downtown
About the restaurant
Satisfy all those cravings for proper Italian food at North Italia. This Downtown venue maintains the North Italia ethos of the freshest ingredients- including house-made pasta- and big flavors. Share a few small plates of bruschetta or arancini, or even a chef’s board with parma ham, cheese, peppers, and pesto. Stay focused with a cup of some of the best cappuccino in town- perfectly frothy. Austin’s love letter to Italy.
Top review
Carmelo
Dined 6 days ago
Perfect spot for a daddy-daughter date! Warm ambiance, exceptional service, and delicious Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the desserts were a sweet ending to a memorable evening. Highly recommend!
A photo of La Condesa restaurant
4.6
4.6 (2254)
$30 and under
Mexican
Downtown
About the restaurant
When it comes to finding the best lunch Austin has so many types of food on offer. This includes Mexican food which keeps the spirit of Central America alive and kicking. La Condesa is a prime example of this, blending the best of Austin with flavors straight from Mexico City. Lunch offerings include tuna tostadas, roasted mushroom quesadillas, and a range of traditionally filled tacos. Go beyond the traditional Tex-Mex and discover what real contemporary Mexican cuisine is all about.
Top review
Christiana
Dined 5 days ago
Our evening was wonderful from the service to the food. You could tell how much the staff cared about each detail and connecting with us too. The menu is beautifully crafted and you really cannot go wrong! I don’t think there was a single thing we ordered that everyone didn’t love! Fantastic!
A photo of Ranch 616 restaurant
4.6
4.6 (1556)
$31 to $50
Southwest
Downtown
About the restaurant
Ranch 616, started by a chef who has cooked all over America before returning to his Austin roots. This South Texas-style icehouse blends Gulf Coast ingredients with the flavors of Texas. What does this mean for those looking for lunch Downtown? Daily enchiladas, fish tacos with just the right amount of spice, fried quail, or award-winning frogs’ legs fried to perfection. All served in surroundings dotted with memorabilia of Texan culture.
Top review
Hannah
Dined 6 days ago
My favorite place to go when we’re in town! Great food, great service!
A photo of Swift's Attic restaurant
4.4
4.4 (1269)
$31 to $50
Tapas / Small Plates
Downtown
About the restaurant
There’s no shortage of lunch options Downtown. Some simply can’t help but stand out from the rest, though. Swift’s in one of those places that looks like it might be overly classy for a lunch date, but it manages to avoid being intimidating by combining a relaxing atmosphere with stylish surroundings. The food is a mix of global flavors. This could be vegan salads with sharp Granny Smith apples, fish and chips with the catch of the day, or the Koreuben: A Korean take on the classic pastrami sandwich. Booking recommended.
Top review
Betg
Dined on Dec 28, 2024
Brenna was our waitress. She took great care of us! Everything was delicious from the small plates to the entrees. The ice cube drink was a unique twist. We thoroughly enjoyed our dining experience. My husband has a knee scooter so they allowed us to exit down the elevator which is located in the kitchen. We were able to thank the cooks as we left. Brenna escorted us all the way down the elevator which made us feel special
A photo of The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen - Downtown restaurant
4.7
4.7 (983)
$30 and under
American
Downtown
About the restaurant
When there’s a big group looking for the perfect Downtown lunch destination, The Grove is a choice that gets mentioned time after time. Inspirations for the menu range from Italian to Asian, meaning discerning guests can start with bruschetta then move onto sesame-crusted tuna or sticky pork belly sliders with sriracha aioli. Look out for lunch combo specials of soup and sandwiches- a great value way to enjoy this pretty Downtown spot.
Top review
WalterVIP
Dined on Dec 19, 2024
My w2ife and I go to the Grove often, and we always enjoy it. The food and the wine are both consistently excellent. I also appreciate that the folks who work there make us feel welcome-- almost a home away from home. It is a great place.
A photo of Caroline restaurant
4.3
4.3 (1159)
$30 and under
American
Downtown
About the restaurant
Caroline’s might be a date night favorite, but it’s also a hot spot for social and relaxed lunches. The restaurant opens at 6 in the morning, so by the time lunch comes around they are really into the swing of things. Any time after 10.30 and right through until 4, diners can dig into spicy devilled eggs, a house salad with blueberries and fennel, or a classic chicken schnitzel with green beans. Texan flavors with a little something extra.
Top review
JohnVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Amazing food, excellent presentation and friendly service. Every dish we had was great, from the charred short rib to the miso salmon, as well as all of the starters.
A photo of True Food Kitchen - Austin - The Domain restaurant
4.4
4.4 (1123)
$30 and under
American
North Central
About the restaurant
True Food Kitchen knows that diners want more than just a great meal. They want to know that it’s sustainably sourced, organic where possible, and that it’s doing them some real good. True Food has this covered, with a regularly rotating menu packed with seasonal fare, including many paleo and keto-friendly options. Their Winter Immunity Bowl, for example, is a feast of wild mushrooms, peas, watermelon radish, and miso. For healthier options, this is the best lunch Austin has on offer.
Top review
RenukaVIP
Dined on Dec 23, 2024
Very Yummy soup!! Always nice to dine here!! Great service!
A photo of Culinary Dropout - Austin restaurant
4.7
4.7 (2388)
$30 and under
American
Northwest
About the restaurant
The Domain is one of those huge, sprawling retail centers that can take hours to even see half of. Thankfully, there are some great spots to sit down and refuel. Culinary Dropout is one such place, with its gastropub stylings and menu full of comfort food classics. Mix up some helpings of meats and cheeses, or grab a few bar snacks to share. If olives and bacon cheddar pretzel bites aren’t quite substantial enough, a spicy vegan curry or bistro steak might do the trick. Plenty to choose from.
Top review
Andrew
Dined today
One of my new favorite spots in uptown Austin. Food, service, and ambiance were all spot on. The most notable dishes were the 36hr ribs, which were fall off the bone tender and absolutely delicious, and the pecking duck and shrimp fried rice which was a unique and complex dish. Our server, Cale, did a great job with both recommendations and general service. We sat outside, and despite it being freezing, their covered patio was very comfortable with plenty of fire pits and heaters to keep us warm. Overall, I highly recommend and will definitely be back!
A photo of Chez Zee restaurant
4.7
4.7 (4589)
$30 and under
American
Northwest
About the restaurant
Chez Zee has been a quirky part of Austin culture since 1989. Today, it’s recognized as one of the top restaurants in America, particularly for the brunch offerings. Board games and fairy lights await at this whimsical wonder, plus a lunch menu full of serious Southern flavor. Fried pickles get the mouth watering, then a choice of quiches, pasta, fish specials, and entrees like chicken fried steak are set to satisfy any appetite. Always a warm, fun experience.
Top review
Angel
Dined on Jan 1, 2025
We visit here about 1-2 times per year. Today was a good experience. My only challenge when going is that service can be slow. But today they had some game!
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