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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Central Austin

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144 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Honey Moon Spirit Lounge restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(278)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Central Austin
Booked 36 times today
Honey Moon Spirit Lounge in Central Austin is a beacon for cocktail enthusiasts, celebrated for its "exquisite" craft cocktails that blend classic ingredients with a modern twist. This vintage-chic speakeasy doesn't just serve drinks; it crafts an intoxicating atmosphere that makes every sip feel special. Patrons rave about the cocktail quality, noting that they "can't stop thinking about" the memorable mixes. The lounge consistently impresses with its warm, welcoming staff and a vibe that's perfect for everything from "a romantic date" to "happy hour with the girls." Whether it's the balanced West Texas cocktail or the best margaritas some have ever had, Honey Moon Spirit Lounge stands out as a must-visit spot for authentic cocktail experiences in Austin.
A photo of Hopfields restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(291)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Midtown
Booked 20 times today
Hopfields in Midtown, Austin, is a beacon of American culinary excellence, redefining the essence of American cuisine with a delightful French twist. Esteemed for its authentic American offerings, the restaurant has been lauded for its iconic Pascal Burger, heralded as the "Best Burger in Austin" for six consecutive years. Diners frequently rave about the quality and innovation of the menu, with one patron exclaiming, "The Pascal Hamburger was the best burger I have tasted in years." The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in their use of scratch-made, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring each dish is both unique and satisfying. Hopfields not only offers a fantastic dining experience with its cozy nooks and vibrant ambiance but also an extensive selection of craft beers and fine wines that complement the American palate exquisitely.
A photo of Josephine House restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1307)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Central Austin
Booked 37 times today
Josephine House, nestled in the heart of Central Austin, offers a truly authentic farm-to-table dining experience, consistently delighting patrons with its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. As a sister restaurant to the renowned Jeffrey’s, it upholds a commitment to quality that shines through in its eclectic daily menu. Diners rave about the freshness and creativity of dishes, with one customer exclaiming, “The food was really good and decent size portions. We had the eggplant dip, beets, and Brussels sprouts to start” and another praising, “Best pancakes I’ve ever had.” The charming setting, from the cozy indoor spaces to the lush outdoor seating, enhances every meal, making Josephine House a must-visit for those seeking a top-notch farm-to-table experience in Austin.
A photo of Perry's Steakhouse & Grille - Downtown Austin restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(9501)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Downtown
Booked 152 times today
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille, nestled in the urban heart of downtown Austin, epitomizes the essence of American cuisine with an upscale flair. Located in the historic Norwood Tower, Perry's is renowned for creating unforgettable dining experiences. As a beacon of culinary excellence, it offers a menu highlighted by its signature dish, the "Friday Pork Chop," which has garnered glowing reviews for its taste and presentation. Guests rave about the "excellent and very fairly priced" food, with the steak options, including the "traditional Japanese Wagyu," earning particular praise. The atmosphere at Perry's is vibrant and energetic, matching the top-notch service provided by their attentive staff. Whether you're there for a special occasion or a casual outing, Perry's Steakhouse & Grille ensures a top-tier American dining experience that is both memorable and authentically Austin.
A photo of VERDAD True Modern Mexican restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(558)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Austin
Booked 61 times today
At VERDAD True Modern Mexican in Austin, the seafood cuisine is an unforgettable experience, blending traditional Mexican flavors with innovative culinary techniques. Diners rave about the "fork tender" grilled octopus and the freshness of dishes like the lobster quesadillas, which are a must-try according to patrons. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, as guests mention the seafood is "extremely fresh, delicious and quite innovative.” VERDAD not only offers a visually stunning dining environment but also excels in delivering an authentic and high-quality seafood experience, making every dish a delightful surprise. Whether it's the praised Fiesta Board or the perfectly chargrilled octopus, VERDAD is a gem for seafood lovers in Austin.
A photo of CARVE American Grille – Central Austin restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(685)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Austin
Booked 79 times today
At CARVE American Grille in Central Austin, the essence of American cuisine is elevated through expertly crafted dishes that showcase the magic of live-fire cooking and smoky flavors. Nestled in the bustling mixed-use community at 45th and Bull Creek, this dining haven is a favorite for its "delicious and memorable" meals, as one glowing review puts it. Diners rave about the "best ever macaroni and cheese" and perfectly cooked steaks, which are just a taste of the diverse offerings that keep guests coming back. The restaurant's modern-rustic ambiance, combined with "exceptional service" and an expansive bar featuring hand-crafted mixology, creates a dining experience that's both innovative and deeply rooted in American tradition. Whether it's a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a celebratory brunch, CARVE American Grille promises an outstanding culinary journey that captures the heart of American flavor.
A photo of ATX Cocina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2630)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Downtown
Booked 67 times today
ATX Cocina in Downtown Austin is a gem for those seeking exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine. With a focus on elevating traditional Mexican dishes through modern techniques, ATX Cocina stands out for its use of heirloom corn varieties sourced from small family farms in Mexico. The in-house nixtamalization process of their masa highlights their dedication to authenticity and quality. Glowing reviews consistently praise the "outstanding flavors" and "creative" dishes, noting that "every bite is full of flavor." As one of Austin's culinary highlights, it's a must-visit for both locals and visitors wanting to experience innovative Mexican cuisine with a "fun vibe and great views."
A photo of Jeffrey's Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2178)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Central Austin
Booked 39 times today
Jeffrey's Restaurant in Central Austin stands out as a premier Steakhouse destination, renowned for its exceptional dry-aged prime steaks. Since its establishment in 1975 and reinvention in 2012, Jeffrey's has been celebrated for not just its steaks but also its atmosphere and service. Patrons consistently rave about the quality of the dishes, with one stating, "The dry aged ribeye is a must!" and another noting, "Best filet ever. Can’t wait to go back next trip!" The restaurant's attention to detail and old-world service contribute to its reputation, making every dining experience memorable. Bon Appetit magazine recognized Jeffrey’s as one of the “Top 10 Best New Restaurants” in 2013, a testament to its enduring excellence and commitment to the finest Steakhouse cuisine.
A photo of Este restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(52)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • East Austin
Booked 88 times today
Nestled between East Austin neighborhoods, Este celebrates fresh seafood, Mexican cuisine, and charcoal cooking. From the team behind the East 6th favorite, Suerte, Chef Fermin and restaurateur Sam Hellman-Mass are taking their love for masa coastal. In a location with a rich history, Este’s bright dining spaces, artisan decor and spacious outdoor deck bring the energy of seaside towns to East Austin. An extensive wine list and vibrant coastal-inspired cocktails are the perfect pairing for aguachiles, ceviches, oysters y otros mariscos!
A photo of Quince Lakehouse restaurant
4.3
Awesome(788)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Austin
Booked 35 times today
Quince Lakehouse in Austin stands out as a premier destination for authentic Peruvian cuisine, offering an upbeat, vibrant dining experience that captivates locals and visitors alike. Patrons rave about the "amazing views" and "astounding food presentation," highlighting the freshness of the seafood which is a staple in Peruvian cooking. Reviews consistently praise dishes like the Peruvian himachi, despite its unique marinated take, showing Quince's ability to innovate while respecting traditional flavors. The atmosphere, described as both "relaxing and upbeat," along with the "wonderfully welcoming" staff, ensures that every meal is memorable. This combination of delicious, authentic cuisine and a dynamic setting makes Quince Lakehouse a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Peruvian flavors in Austin.

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Discover best Mexican / Southwestern restaurants in Central Austin

Explore the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine in Central Austin, where a diverse array of eateries offers everything from traditional dishes to innovative fusion interpretations. Central Austin's Mexican restaurants are renowned for their authentic recipes, fresh ingredients, and festive atmospheres, making them a go-to destination for both locals and tourists seeking a genuine taste of Mexico. These establishments cater to a variety of preferences, featuring menus rich with options like enchiladas, tacos, and specialty margaritas, each prepared with a unique local twist. The dining scene in Central Austin is particularly lively, with Mexican cuisine playing a significant role in its culinary reputation. Here, food lovers can indulge in specialties such as molcajetes and chorizo flameado, often accompanied by traditional sides like bean dip, salsa, and chips. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a festive dining experience, Central Austin's Mexican restaurants promise an enjoyable and satisfying visit. Each location strives to offer not only delicious food but also a welcoming environment, ensuring a memorable dining experience that highlights the best of Mexican hospitality and culture.

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