9 Best Steak Houses in Austin for a Memorable Meal
Top Picks for Quality Dining
Finding the perfect steakhouse in Austin can be a delightful culinary adventure. This city, known for its vibrant food scene, offers a range of steakhouses that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you are looking for a classic ribeye or a sophisticated filet mignon, Austin’s steakhouses promise an unforgettable dining experience.
This article will guide you through nine of the best steakhouses in Austin, ensuring that your next meal is nothing short of spectacular. From established favorites to hidden gems, each restaurant on this list has been selected for its exceptional quality and unique offerings. Prepare to explore some of the finest dining options that Austin has to offer.
1) Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue in Austin is renowned for its exceptional BBQ offerings. Known for tender brisket that almost melts in your mouth, Franklin Barbecue attracts both locals and tourists. The flavors are rich and smoky, showcasing the best of Central Texas BBQ traditions.
Waiting in line at Franklin Barbecue is almost a rite of passage. Guests often queue up early in the morning to get a taste of their famous meats. It's recommended to arrive as early as possible to avoid long wait times or even preorder for larger quantities.
The menu features a variety of choices including ribs, pork, turkey, and sausage. Alongside these main star attractions, they offer tasty sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and beans. Each bite promises a delectable experience, making it worth the wait.
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: 512-653-1187
Website: Franklin Barbecue
2) Vince Young Steakhouse
Situated in the heart of Austin, Vince Young Steakhouse offers a refined dining experience. The restaurant is known for its USDA prime steaks and elegantly composed entrees. Diners can expect dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients, highlighted by the culinary expertise of the kitchen.
The menu includes mouth-watering starters like deep-fried Texas quail and shrimp gratin. Steaks are served a la carte, ensuring guests can tailor their meal to their preferences. The ambiance combines Austin's rich cultural heritage with contemporary tastes.
The Vince Young Steakhouse also features house-made desserts to complement your meal. Located at 301 San Jacinto Blvd, it's a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.
Contact Details:
Address: 301 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701-4029
Phone: +1 512-457-8325
Website: Vince Young Steakhouse
3) Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille is an acclaimed dining spot in Austin, blending a vibrant urban feel with elegance. The restaurant is housed in the historic Norwood Tower in downtown Austin, providing a convenient location for visitors. Just a short walk from the Capital Complex and other notable landmarks, it's easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Their menu boasts prime steaks, seafood, and a variety of wines, ensuring a delight for any palate. Guests can enjoy award-winning dishes on the patio or sip cocktails at the bar in a stylish setting. The ambiance carries a hint of sophistication, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
In addition to regular dining, Perry's offers exclusive private dining options. With accommodations for eight to eighty-eight people, it is perfect for business gatherings or personal celebrations in an intimate atmosphere. Personalized menus tailored to specific tastes enhance the private dining experience.
Contact Details:
Address: Downtown Austin Perry's Steakhouse & Grille, Norwood Tower, Austin, TX
Phone: (512) 474-6300
Website: Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
4) Bob's Steak & Chop House
Bob's Steak & Chop House in Austin is renowned for its superior cuts of meat and exceptional dining experiences. Located at 301 Lavaca Street, the restaurant stands out for its luxurious atmosphere and attentive service.
One of the highlights is the Filet Mignon, a tender and juicy cut that never disappoints. Bob's also features an extensive wine list, perfect for pairing with any meal.
The restaurant offers dining on a rooftop bar, providing stunning city views. This unique setting makes it a top choice for special occasions and business dinners.
Guests can select from various side dishes, including smashed potatoes and skillet-fried potatoes with peppercorn gravy. Toppings like Oscar Style or Bleu Cheese Fondue add an extra layer of indulgence.
Bob’s attention to detail ensures a memorable dining experience, whether for a private event or a casual dinner. The experienced staff members are committed to meeting every customer's needs.
Contact Details:
Address: 301 Lavaca Street, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 222-2627
Website: Bob's Steak & Chop House
5) Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers a fine dining experience with premium steaks, lobster, and an extensive wine selection. Known for its elegant atmosphere, it is a go-to spot for both special occasions and business dinners.
Located at 320 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701, and another venue at 11600 Century Oaks Terrace, Suite 140, Austin, TX 78758, Fleming's provides a refined setting with consistent quality. The attentive service and expertly prepared dishes enhance the dining experience.
The menu features a variety of cuts, including prime ribeye and filet mignon, and a selection of seafood options. The chocolate gooey cake is a popular dessert choice among patrons.
For those interested in visiting, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar operates from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm Monday through Saturday, and from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Sundays.
Contact details:
Phone: +1 512-457-1500
Website: Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
6) Jeffrey's
Jeffrey's has secured a spot on the World's Best Steaks 2024 list, ranking number 25 globally. This is a significant accolade, considering it is one of only 23 American restaurants to make the list.
Located at 1204 W Lynn St., Jeffrey's offers a sophisticated dining experience. The restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance and meticulous attention to detail.
Jeffrey's menu features prime cuts, aged to perfection, and a variety of other delectable dishes. Highlights include their renowned ribeye and filet mignon.
To complement the excellent food, Jeffrey's has an extensive wine list. The staff is well-versed in pairing the perfect wine with a meal.
Jeffrey's is a must-visit for steak lovers in Austin, offering both quality and a memorable dining experience.
Address: 1204 W Lynn St., Austin, TX 78703
Phone: N/A
Website: jeffreysofaustin.com
7) Abeja's House Cafe
Abeja's House Cafe offers a unique dining experience in Austin with its vibrant and cozy setting. Known for its warm ambiance, this steakhouse provides excellent hospitality and a diverse menu that caters to different palates.
Abeja's House Cafe prides itself on serving high-quality steaks, prepared using the freshest ingredients. The chefs ensure each dish is cooked to perfection, bringing out rich flavors and tender textures.
In addition to steaks, the cafe offers a selection of complementary dishes, including fresh salads and exquisite desserts. The pleasant décor and friendly service make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Abeja's House Cafe
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8) Steiner Ranch Steakhouse
Steiner Ranch Steakhouse stands out with its grand three-story structure overlooking the scenic Lake Travis. Guests can enjoy breathtaking sunset views from the expansive patio. A unique feature of this Texas-sized steakhouse is its live music, offered every night, weather permitting.
The menu at Steiner Ranch Steakhouse is both impressive and diverse. Their 36oz Tomahawk Steak, carved tableside, is a showstopper. Another favorite is the shrimp brochette, adding a touch of seafood to the hearty steak offerings.
Steiner Ranch also prides itself on providing an exceptional dining experience, enhanced by the restaurant's rustic and inviting ambiance. Whether for a romantic date or a family celebration, this steakhouse promises a memorable meal in an unforgettable setting.
Contact Details:
Address: 5424 Steiner Ranch Blvd, Austin, TX 78732
Phone: +1 512-381-0800
Website: steinerranchsteakhouse.com
9) Roaring Fork
Roaring Fork in Austin is a must-visit steakhouse known for its bold American wood-fire cooking. With two locations, one downtown and one in North Austin, it offers a rustic yet refined dining atmosphere.
The downtown location on Congress Avenue is perfect for those looking to enjoy a memorable meal before exploring the nightlife. It operates from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on weekdays and varies slightly on weekends.
The North Austin location at Stonelake also garners high praise. Known for its excellent service and standout dishes like the 20oz ribeye steak, it provides a consistent and enjoyable dining experience.
Roaring Fork serves dinner nightly and offers a Happy Hour from 4pm to 6pm, making it a good spot for both early and late diners.
Downtown Location: 701 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Website
Phone: (512) 583-0000
North Austin Location: 10850 Stonelake Blvd, Austin, TX 78759
Website
Phone: (512) 342-2700
History of Steakhouses in Austin
Austin's steakhouse culture has grown significantly over the years. From the initial establishments catering to local tastes to the fusion of diverse culinary influences, the history of steakhouses in this Texan city is rich and varied.
Early Establishments
In the beginning, Austin's steakhouses were simple and straightforward. Early establishments like Cattleman's Drive-In, which opened in the 1950s, laid the groundwork. These places often focused on providing hearty meals for ranchers and locals. Steaks were prepared using traditional methods, reflecting the no-frills lifestyle of the time.
The emphasis was on quality cuts and generous portions. As the city expanded, so did the demand for reliable, delicious steaks. Many early steak joints became city landmarks, remembered for their role in shaping local culinary traditions.
Modern Influences
In recent years, Austin's steakhouse scene has evolved significantly. Influences from diverse culinary traditions have merged with the classic steakhouse format. Restaurants like Vince Young Steakhouse and Bob's Steak & Chop House bring modern twists to classic steak dishes, incorporating innovative techniques and ingredients.
The use of high-quality, locally sourced produce has become a hallmark. Diners can now enjoy steaks seasoned with unique blends and paired with inventive sides. Additionally, the rise of farm-to-table practices has significantly impacted how steakhouses operate, offering guests an unparalleled dining experience.
What Makes a Great Steakhouse?
The essence of a great steakhouse lies in the quality of its meat and the expertise of its chefs, creating a memorable dining experience through exceptional flavors and precise cooking techniques.
Quality of Meat
A top-tier steakhouse sources high-grade beef, ensuring rich marbling and tenderness. Prime cuts, often from USDA Prime or equivalent, offer superior flavor. Steakhouses like Bartlett's in Austin carefully select their meat, knowing that the foundation of a great steak is excellent-quality beef.
Dry-aging or wet-aging processes also enhance flavor and texture. Dry-aged steaks develop a unique taste profile due to natural enzymes breaking down the muscle tissue. Consistency in delivering well-marbled, aged meat defines the steaks served at renowned venues such as LongHorn Steakhouse.
Chef Expertise
A skilled chef can transform a quality cut into an unforgettable dish. Mastery of cooking techniques, from seasoning to searing, ensures each steak is cooked to perfection. Chefs at places like Steiner Ranch Steakhouse or Bob's Steak and Chop House bring years of experience and a deep understanding of meat science to the kitchen.
Temperature precision is critical. Achieving the correct level of doneness requires attentiveness and practice. Additionally, chefs need to balance accompanying flavors, choosing sides and sauces that complement without overshadowing the steak. This meticulous attention to detail distinguishes an average steakhouse from an exceptional one.
By focusing on both the sourcing of meat and the skill in its preparation, a steakhouse ensures that each bite is a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship.
