The self-proclaimed “weird” capital of Texas is famous for some of the most delicious foods in the state.
Ever since my brother made the move from Boston to Austin back in 2014, I have consistently looked forward to my roughly semi-annual trips down to the southern state. Warm(er) weather, flat plains, and some of the best cuisines I have ever had to (cowboy) boot; there is nothing not to love about Texas.
Due to the fact that I only make the journey from the top of the U.S. to the bottom every so often, I have fully immersed myself in the southern hospitality of Texan restaurants. After more than a dozen trips under my belt, I consider myself to be a somewhat seasoned Austin tourist and have put together a comprehensive list of the city’s most famous foods and the best places to find them.
BBQ
FACEBOOK la BarbecueAs far as Texans are concerned, you’ve never had barbecue, if you haven’t had Texan barbecue. In 2018, this was the only food I was willing to break my strict vegetarian diet for and I stand by that decision. Texan barbecue is on a whole other level. The wide variety of meat, usually brisket, sausage, and ribs – tender and smoked to perfection – in combination with tangy and creamy flavors of potato salad and coleslaw, there’s just nothing else like it. Some of the best barbecue joints in Austin are Terry Black’s Barbeque, la Barbeque, Sam’s BBQ, Kerlin BBQ, and Brown’s BBQ.
Tex-Mex
Photo by Thomas Park on UnsplashThe cuisine Texas is best known for, Tex-Mex, mixes the flavors and cooking techniques of Mexicans and Tejanos. If you’re in the mood for something spicy and cheesy, check out Vamonos, Juan in a Million, Pueblo Viejo, Habanero Cafe, or Matt’s El Rancho. Don’t forget to order a margarita alongside any dish you end up choosing.
Breakfast Tacos
Photo by Salt & WindThis is the most socially acceptable way to eat Mexican food in the morning. Breakfast tacos are to Austinites what bacon, egg, and cheeses are to New Yorkers. This balanced breakfast includes proteins, veggies, and carbs make a great way to start your day in Austin. Check out the best spots for breakfast tacos in the city, Granny’s Tacos, Tacos yo soy, Taqueria Anyeli, El Primo, and Tacodeli.
Chicken-Fried Steak
Photo by pointnshoot on FlickrIf you’re unsure about what chicken-fried steak is, essentially it’s steak prepared in the same way as fried chicken. Take your beef, dip it in egg, then seasoned flour, and deep fry that thing. The name is a bit confusing, as there is no actual chicken involved in the process. Although not the healthiest dish, chicken-fried steak is the epitome of southern soul food and perfect for a once-in-awhile indulgence. For the best chicken-fried steak in Austin, try Jack Allen’s Kitchen, Hyde Park Bar & Grill, Lucy’s Fried Chicken, Moonshine Grill, or Country Boyz Fixins LLC.
Chili
Photo by American Heritage Chocolate on UnsplashAlthough the true origin story of chili is not known, it is generally believed to be a product of the working class Tejana and Mexican women of southern Texas. Perfect for feeding mass quantities, keeping you full, and cheap to make; chili has become a staple food in the everyday lives of most Americans. To get the best authentic Texas chili, check out Texas Chili Parlor, Dirty Martin’s Place, Billy’s On Burnet, or COVER 2.
Food Trucks
Photo by Visual Stories || Micheile on UnsplashNot technically a food variety itself, food trucks are a must-do eating experience when in Austin. The aesthetic design of the trucks combined with the laid-back outdoor experience perfectly encapsulate Austin’s unique energy as a city. There is a truck for just about every kind of food in the area, however, some of Austin’s favorites include Rosita’s Food Truck, The Picnic Food Truck Park, Top Taco, Gourdough’s Big Fat Doughnuts, Al-Demashqi Food Truck, Rainey Street Food Truck Lot, and The Smoking Carrot Food Truck.
