SXSW kicks off March 9th. If you’re going, I’m sure you’re planning which panels to attend, what movies to watch, what bands to listen to. Now, let’s not forget about where to eat. Sure there’s gonna be free food, but you’ve gotta dine at some of Austin’s great restaurants. Here’s a list of my favorites.
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| Spicy chopped beef platter at Ruby’s BBQ |
Barbecue
Ruby’s BBQ Located at 512 W 29th Street, Austin, TX Ruby’s BBQ serves up great barbecue for a reasonable price. Arrive early because they do not accept reservations.
Everyone recommends Stubb’s Bar-B-Q. Be prepared to wait. Though, if you must dine here, get here early, or late at night.
Iron Works is around the corner of the Austin Convention Center. The two story restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday (closed Sunday). A popular place, you’ll often find a line out the door, so try to come early to beat the crowd.
Salt Lick is located in Driftwood, Texas – about 35 minutes outside of Austin. It’s a nice setup. Shacks, picnic tables, and sometimes live music.
For a full review of these barbecue spots, check my post on Barbecue in Austin.
Tacos
Taco Shack serves great breakfast tacos with most items under $6. Try the El Niño Taco, a spicy taco filled with beans, chorizo, cheese and jalapeños.
Turf N Surf Po’ Boy on 2nd & Congress has great tacos and po’ boys.
Wahoo’s Fish Taco is a West Coast chain that serves great food. Cool atmosphere, but cramped seating. The menu offers pork, chicken, veggie, and fish tacos at reasonable prices.
Ice Cream
Stop by Amy’s Ice Creams for a nice treat on a warm day. They’ve got a lot of flavors to choose from. I’m a big fan of the Mexican Vanilla.
Cocktails
The Lobby Lounge at the Four Seasons is my favorite place in Austin to watch the sunset, kick back and enjoy live music Wednesdays to Saturdays. The cocktail menu is excellent. Unsure of what to get? Just tell the bartender what you’re in the mood for.
Fine dining with a view
Enjoy a wonderful meal at TRIO at the Four Seasons. If the weather’s right, dine al fresco and enjoy the views of Lady Bird Lake.
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| Crispy Pork Belly (Pickled Market Vegetables, Plum Sauce) at TRIO at the Four Seasons |
