Top 10 Iconic Dishes You Must Try in Austin
A Culinary Delight
Austin, a city known for its vibrant culinary scene, offers a diverse array of dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. From traditional Texas barbecue to cutting-edge fusion cuisine, the city’s food landscape is as dynamic as its population.
Discovering the top iconic dishes in Austin provides not only a taste of the city’s best offerings but also a deeper appreciation of its culinary traditions. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these must-try meals represent the heart and soul of Austin's gastronomic identity.
1) Franklin Barbecue Brisket
Franklin Barbecue Brisket stands as a beacon for barbecue enthusiasts visiting Austin. The renowned brisket is celebrated for its perfectly smoked, tender, and flavorful meat. The meat starts off by reaching room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
The rub comprises a simple yet effective mix of kosher salt and 16-mesh black pepper, applied to achieve an even coat. This minimalistic approach brings out the rich flavors of the brisket without overpowering it.
Cooking at a steady temperature of 250-275°F allows the brisket to develop that signature smoke ring. Patience is key, as the brisket smokes for several hours until it reaches the desired tenderness.
For those seeking a true taste of Texas smoked brisket, Franklin Barbecue remains a must-visit destination in Austin. The place often attracts long lines, a testament to its legendary status in the barbecue world.
Contact Details:
Franklin Barbecue
900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 653-1187
2) Torchy's Tacos Trailer Park
Torchy's Tacos is a beloved fixture in Austin, known for its inventive take on traditional Tex-Mex cuisine. The "Trailer Park" taco is one of their standout offerings, featuring fried chicken, green chilies, lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheddar cheese.
For added indulgence, customers can order their taco "trashy," which replaces the lettuce with queso.
This mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures makes the Trailer Park taco a must-try for both locals and visitors. Its unique blend of ingredients captures the essence of Austin's bold and eclectic food scene.
Torchy's Tacos started as a humble food truck on South First Street and has grown into a local institution. Founder Mike Rypka's vision and creativity are evident in each bite of their iconic tacos.
Contact:
Address: Various locations across Austin, with the original at 1311 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Torchy's Tacos
3) Kerbey Lane Cafe Pancakes
Kerbey Lane Cafe has been serving Austin's favorite pancakes since 1980. These award-winning, big, and fluffy pancakes have become a staple of their menu. They offer customizable options like blueberries, chocolate chips, or a cinnamon swirl to cater to a variety of tastes.
The pancakes are known for their hearty size and satisfying texture, making them a perfect breakfast option at any time of the day. The recipe has remained unchanged over the decades, preserving the beloved taste that patrons have grown to love.
Opened originally at 3704 Kerbey Lane in north-central Austin, the cafe has expanded across Central Texas with multiple locations. Despite this growth, the quality and consistency of the pancakes have remained steady, contributing to their reputation as a must-try dish in Austin.
Kerbey Lane Cafe also stands out for its use of fresh ingredients, emphasizing quality in every bite. It's a go-to spot for comfort food lovers seeking a reliable breakfast experience.
Contact Details:
Address: 3704 Kerbey Lane, Austin, TX
Phone: +1 (512) 451-1436
Website: kerbeylanecafe.com
4) Uchi's Sake Toro
Uchi's Sake Toro, or salmon belly nigiri, is a delicacy that stands out in Austin's vibrant culinary scene. This dish, crafted by the renowned Chef Tyson Cole, emphasizes the rich, buttery texture of the salmon belly, making it a must-try for sushi enthusiasts.
This dish is celebrated for its simplicity and quality. A thin slice of high-grade salmon belly is placed over vinegared rice, with a touch of wasabi between the fish and the rice. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Diners often highlight the melt-in-your-mouth sensation of the Sake Toro, complemented by its delicate and slightly sweet flavor profile. It’s a popular choice at Uchi and frequently recommended by both staff and regular patrons.
Uchi Austin is an institution in the city's dining landscape, attracting both locals and visitors. The restaurant's commitment to fresh, innovative Japanese cuisine makes it a top dining destination.
Contact Details:
Address: 801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: (512) 916-4808
Website: Uchi Austin
5) Matt's El Rancho Bob Armstrong Dip
Matt's El Rancho's Bob Armstrong Dip is a must-try when visiting Austin. This iconic dish combines queso, taco meat, guacamole, and sour cream in one irresistible dip.
The creation of this dip dates back over 40 years. Robert "Bob" Armstrong, the Texas Land Commissioner at the time, requested something unique at Matt's El Rancho restaurant.
As a result, Matt Martinez, Jr. crafted this delectable combination to satisfy his request. The result was a blend of flavors that quickly became a favorite.
The preparation involves boiling vegetables like celery, bell pepper, onion, poblano, and tomato briefly before adding American cheese. The cheese is gradually whisked in and heated until smooth and fully melted.
Each bite offers a perfect balance of creamy queso, savory taco meat, refreshing guacamole, and tangy sour cream. The dip's popularity continues to make it a standout dish.
For those wishing to experience this iconic dip, Matt's El Rancho is located at 2613 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704. You can contact them at (512) 462-9333 or visit their website at www.mattselrancho.com.
6) Home Slice Pizza's Margherita
Home Slice Pizza on South Congress Avenue stands out in Austin's vibrant food scene. Their Margherita pizza is a must-try for any pizza lover visiting the city.
This classic Neapolitan-style pizza features a tangy tomato sauce that perfectly complements the creamy mozzarella. Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant touch that ties all the flavors together.
Baked to perfection, the crust is crispy on the outside yet chewy on the inside. Each bite offers a satisfying balance of textures and tastes, making it an unforgettable experience.
For authentic taste and quality, Home Slice Pizza is a top choice. It's a beloved Austin institution that pays homage to traditional Italian pizza with every slice.
Contact:
Address: 1415 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Website: homeslicepizza.com
7) Salt Lick BBQ's Ribs
Salt Lick BBQ offers a standout experience with its legendary ribs that are worth the short scenic drive from Austin. Established in 1967, this institution has a long history of smoking meats to perfection over an open pit.
The ribs, whether beef or pork, present a splendid combination of smoky flavor and tender texture. The seasoning is balanced, emphasizing the natural taste without overwhelming it.
Each bite captures the essence of Texas barbecue, making it a must-try for any barbecue enthusiast. The picturesque setting in the Texas Hill Country enhances the dining experience.
Contact details:
Address: 18300 Farm to Market Rd 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
Phone: 512-858-4959 (Restaurant), 512-829-5295 (Mail Order)
Website: saltlickbbq.com
8) Patika's Avocado Toast
Patika is celebrated for its delicious and innovative avocado toast. This dish features warm, crispy toast topped with fresh avocado, providing a rich and creamy texture. The addition of lime zest brings a hint of citrus that enhances the natural flavors of the avocado.
Patika's version includes a perfectly fried egg on top, adding a satisfying protein boost. A dash of hot sauce gives the toast just the right amount of heat, making it a unique and mouth-watering option. This dish has earned rave reviews for its balance of flavors and appealing presentation.
Patika offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a relaxed atmosphere. Guests often appreciate the quick service and the ability to order via QR code, ensuring a smooth dining experience.
Address: 1600 W 38th St, Austin, TX 78731
Phone: (512) 535-3955
Website: Patika's Official Site
9) La Barbecue's Sausage
La Barbecue is known for its exceptional BBQ, and the sausage stands out as a must-try dish. The sausage blends unique flavors and is perfectly smoked, creating a delectable experience for BBQ enthusiasts.
Founded by the late LeAnn Mueller and Ali Clem, La Barbecue has become a trailblazer in the Austin BBQ scene. The sausage is a testament to their dedication to quality and flavor.
Whether you are a local or just visiting Austin, the sausage at La Barbecue is a culinary experience you shouldn’t miss. Its consistent quality keeps diners coming back for more.
Contact Details:
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
Website: La Barbecue
10) Gourdough's Flying Pig Doughnut
Gourdough's Big Fat Donuts has created an iconic delight with their Flying Pig Doughnut. Combining a sweet and savory profile, this treat features a massive doughnut topped with house-made maple icing and strips of crispy bacon. The unique flavor combination is both surprising and satisfying.
The Flying Pig Doughnut isn't just about taste; it's also about texture. The peak combination of creamy icing and crunchy bacon on a soft doughnut offers a delightful bite. This creation has earned rave reviews and has become a must-try for visitors to Austin.
Known for their innovative recipes, Gourdough's takes pride in frying their doughnuts to order, ensuring each one is fresh and warm. This commitment to quality has made them a beloved staple for both locals and tourists.
Gourdough's Flying Pig Doughnut is perfect for those wanting to explore beyond the typical sweet treats. The interplay of sweet maple and salty bacon creates a culinary experience that's hard to forget.
Address: 10700 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748
Phone: (512) 851-8425
Website: Gourdough's Big Fat Donuts
History of Austin's Culinary Scene
Austin's culinary scene has a rich history shaped by its Tex-Mex roots, diverse cultural influences, and evolving food trends. This diverse background has led to a vibrant dining landscape offering a wide array of iconic dishes.
Influences and Evolution
The roots of Austin's food culture can be traced back to Tex-Mex cuisine. Early establishments laid the groundwork with dishes like enchiladas and tamales. An emblematic creation from this era is the Bob Armstrong dip, which combines ground beef, queso, and guacamole.
As time progressed, Austin's culinary scene expanded beyond its Tex-Mex origins. Barbecue became a central feature, with joints offering slow-cooked meats infused with smoky flavors. The focus on barbecue highlighted the regional preference for beef, especially brisket, which is now synonymous with the city.
Food trucks also played a significant role in shaping Austin's food landscape. These mobile kitchens offered creative, accessible dining options that appealed to a wide audience. This trend led to a more eclectic dining scene, with chefs experimenting and introducing new flavors.
Cultural Diversity
Immigration and cultural exchange have enriched Austin's culinary offerings. Settlers brought with them recipes and cooking techniques that were integrated into the local cuisine. This melting pot effect is evident in the variety of dishes representing different global influences.
Asian cuisine has seen a significant rise, with restaurants like Ramen Tatsu-Ya gaining popularity for their flavorful ramen bowls. Similarly, the influx of Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean eateries reflects the city’s growing culinary diversity.
The rise of farm-to-table practices and sustainability has also influenced Austin's restaurants. Chefs emphasize locally-sourced ingredients, enhancing both the flavor and authenticity of their dishes. This movement underlines a broader trend towards quality and community-supported agriculture in the food industry.
Understanding Local Ingredients
Austin's culinary scene thrives on the abundant local ingredients unique to the region. From fresh, seasonal produce to the principles guiding the farm-to-table movement, these elements play a significant role in defining Austin’s distinctive flavors.
Seasonal Produce
Central Texas benefits from a diverse agricultural landscape, offering a variety of fresh produce year-round. Local farmers markets brim with goods such as plump tomatoes, zucchini, squash, and sweet peppers in the summer, while roots, greens, and citrus fruits dominate the winter months.
Notable examples include the Fredericksburg peaches in late summer, known for their sweetness and juiciness. The South Texas watermelon, with its refreshing and crisp texture, is another summertime favorite. These items not only highlight the changing seasons but also support sustainable agricultural practices.
Farm-to-Table Movement
The farm-to-table movement is crucial in Austin’s dining ethos, emphasizing the use of locally-sourced ingredients. Restaurants collaborate directly with local farms and ranches, ensuring fresh and seasonal offerings. This approach fosters a deeper connection between chefs and their ingredients, leading to innovative and authentic dishes.
For instance, renowned eateries like Barley Swine and Odd Duck source directly from local farmers, enhancing both flavor and community support. This practice reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and supports local economies. Consequently, diners experience meals that are fresh, flavorful, and rooted in the local terroir.
The Role of Food Festivals
Food festivals play an important part in promoting local cuisine and supporting the regional economy. These events provide a platform for showcasing local flavors, culinary talents, and food traditions.
Texas Food Festivals
Texas hosts numerous food festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich and diverse culinary heritage. One of the most notable is the Austin Food & Wine Festival, which brings together renowned chefs and food enthusiasts.
Visitors can sample a wide array of dishes, from Texas barbecue to innovative gastronomic creations. The festival also includes cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and interactive sessions, providing a holistic culinary experience.
Another significant event is the Texas Chili Cook-Off, highlighting various chili recipes and encouraging friendly competition among cooks. These festivals not only emphasize traditional Texan cuisine but also encourage culinary innovation and cultural exchange.
Impact on Local Cuisine
Food festivals have a profound impact on the local cuisine by driving demand for regional ingredients and sparking interest in traditional dishes. These events provide chefs and restaurant owners with a platform to introduce new and experimental dishes, often leading to trends that influence local menus.
For instance, the popularity of certain dishes at food festivals can lead to their inclusion in restaurant menus across the city. Additionally, food festivals attract tourists, boosting the local economy and creating opportunities for local farmers and artisanal producers.
By celebrating regional specialties and bringing together the community, food festivals play a crucial role in preserving and evolving the local culinary landscape.
