Foodies Guide to Austin, Texas

Outdoors

Barton Springs: There isn't anything more Austin than spending the day soaking in the Austin heat at Barton Springs. This is a natural swimming pool that everyone must check out.

Zilker Park/Lady Bird Lake trail: After/before you are done at Barton Springs, walk the trail to get a great view of Lady Bird Lake and the city of Austin.

Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard: Join the masses in Lady Bird Lake with a paddleboard on a hot day. Drink a few drinks, meet some new people, and enjoy the water on a sunny day.

Rent a Boat - Hang out on the water, drinking and eating snacks, while you are driven up to Lake Austin and enjoying the weather.

Austin Food Truck Parks

These parks are located all over the city. It would be impossible to eat at all of them. If you want to try something new, stop at a random one and check out what they are offering.

Shopping

South Congress: South Congress is on every list of what to do in Austin, for good reason. It is a fun atmosphere with great shops and multiple places to grab a drink and a bite to eat.

Weekend Farmers Market: Come out to a farmers market and see what makes Austin such a special place. From all the local farmers to the delicious snacks. These farmers markets have the best BBQ in Austin, shhh. The Mum Foods stall at the Mueller Farmers Market is the best pastrami and brisket in the city.

Nightlife

Rainey Street: This is where everyone goes out in Austin to really party. This is not lowkey. This is where you go to be as close to the "club scene" as Austin has to offer.

East 6th: This is another street of bars and restaurants that I prefer when going out for drinks. It is much more lowkey than Rainey and is full of Austin locals.

Day trips

Round Rock: Strictly for Round Rock Donuts, the best donuts on planet earth.

Dripping Springs: Strictly for Crimson Creek Smokehouse for an incredible steak.

Coffee

Flat Track Coffee: This half coffee shop, half bike shop location serves the best coffee in Austin with the most Austin vibe. I frequent this place.

BBQ

Terry Blacks: Hands down the best BBQ in Austin. Austin is the BBQ capital of Texas, and this is the best place for my money. If you want something unique, go for the Beef Rib. Make sure you come hungry!

Franklin's: Franklin's is one of the most famous BBQ spots in the United States, and for good reason. The food is great, but the lines can be long. You can make a morning out of it, bring a chair, and try to meet some new people while waiting in line.

Tacos

If you come to Austin, you have to try breakfast tacos, as they are kind of Austin's claim to fame. For me, there are two locations that stand above the rest.

El Primo on South 1st is a truck that serves the best tacos in general in Austin, and their breakfast tacos are top of the line. Cash only.

Joe's Bakery on East 7th has the best tortillas in the city, and to me, that makes a great taco. You will not be disappointed with anything you order here.

Restaurants

1618 Asian Fusion: Without question, my favorite restaurant in Austin. They serve mainly Vietnamese food with some other Southeast Asian dishes mixed in. They have the best pho in Texas, dare I say in the United States. It is northern-style pho, so less sweet, and the flavor will blow your mind. They also have the best soup dumplings in the city.

Bird Bird Biscuit: This is a can't-miss biscuit sandwich place that is absolutely packed every time you go. You can't go wrong with anything you order here.

Home Slice PizzaL It isn't quite the NYC standard, but it is the best Austin has to offer when it comes to pizza. There are a few competitors, but for my money, Home Slice is the best.

Food Trucks

Saigon Le Vendeur: This is the best banh mi in Austin and a must-try place for all food lovers. The grilled pork Banh Mi will knock your socks off.

Phil & Viet: A Filipino and Vietnamese food truck that serves good banh mi, good mixed plates, and the best chicken wings in the state. That is a bold statement, but they really are that good.

Jewboy Sliders: Serves arguably the best burgers in Austin. This is a must-try if you are craving a cheeseburger.

Dee Dee: This Thai truck is out of this world good. It is spicy, flavorful and a can't-miss spot if you want something that packs a punch.