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Best Authentic Restaurants in Downtown

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36 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of The Well restaurant
1. The Well
4.7
Exceptional(667)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Downtown
Booked 66 times today
Located in Austin's iconic 2ND Street District at 440 W. 2nd St., The Well blends top-tier nutrition, local and sustainable farming, and authentic flavors for a culinary experience that redefines healthy food in Downtown Austin.
A photo of La Condesa restaurant
2. La Condesa
4.7
Exceptional(2338)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Downtown
Booked 51 times today
La Condesa is a highly acclaimed Mexican restaurant in Austin, praised for its unique dishes and authentic Mexican flavors. Customers have mentioned 'true Mexico City flavors' and the 'farm-based twist' on traditional dishes. The restaurant also has a vast collection of tequila, mezcal, and other Mexican spirits, adding to the authenticity. The reviews consistently highlight the delicious food, great service, and vibrant ambiance.
A photo of Wu Chow-Downtown restaurant
3. Wu Chow-Downtown
4.6
Exceptional(2250)
Price: Expensive
• Chinese • Downtown
Booked 47 times today
We are now open for Dine-in, Patio Service, Curbside, and Delivery! Lunch Monday - Friday 11am - 2pm Dinner Monday – Thursday 5pm–10pm | Friday – Saturday 5pm–11pmSunday Dim Sum 11am–3pm Happy Hour | Monday -- Friday (Cocktail Area & Patio Only) 5pm–6pmWu Chow brings authentic, farm-fresh, modern Chinese food to the heart of downtown Austin, offering dishes representative of all eight styles of Chinese cuisine, as well as Dim Sum service on Sunday's -- dine-in or to go!
A photo of Comedor restaurant
4. Comedor
4.7
Exceptional(130)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Downtown
Booked 30 times today
Comedor and award-winning Chef Philip Speer serve Michelin recommended, modern Mexican cuisine with Texas influences and a focus on sourcing organic and sustainable ingredients through Austin area farmers. Comedor won Best New Restaurant in Texas by Texas Monthly, Best New Restaurants in the United States by Esquire and Robb Report, and has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Condé Naste Traveler. Comedor is also internationally recognized for its building architecture designed by world renowned architect Tom Kundig.
A photo of Dean's Italian Steakhouse restaurant
5. Dean's Italian Steakhouse
4.8
Exceptional(1494)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 45 times today
Dean’s Italian Steakhouse is a classic American steakhouse with Italian expression serving up prime cuts of beef including Texas and Japanese A5 Wagyu, as well as authentic house-made pasta, a raw bar and market-fresh seafood. Enjoy a generous weekday happy hour on The Veranda at Dean's - the distinct corner space with patio seating from 5 to 6:30pm. At Dean’s Austin, you'll experience an innovative passion for deep-rooted hospitality.
A photo of Taverna - Downtown Austin restaurant
6. Taverna - Downtown Austin
4.4
Awesome(1257)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 47 times today
Taverna is a restaurant utilizing authentic Italian flavors to create memorable dishes. This restaurant is designed from the ground up to be a neighborhood bistro. Taverna is meant to be the kind of restaurant that guests can bring their family for either a casual meal or to celebrate special occasions. While the inside of the restaurant is cozy, the best place to enjoy the great food is out on the wraparound patio.Taverna is open for lunch and dinner, as well as brunch on the weekends. During lunch and dinner service, guests will find a large variety of menu items available. Pasta, soups, salads and pizza are all popular choices. Taverna is also known for their risotto, as an entire section of the menu is devoted to the "risotteria". The signature risotto topped with a simple blend of parmesan cheese and black truffle cream sauce.
A photo of Lamberts Downtown Barbecue restaurant
7. Lamberts Downtown Barbecue
4.7
Exceptional(2357)
Price: Expensive
• Barbecue • Downtown
Booked 36 times today
Lamberts Downtown Barbecue is an authentic BBQ restaurant in downtown Austin. The reviews rave about the consistently excellent food, with special mentions of the brisket and ribs. The relaxing atmosphere, great service, and live music add to the authenticity. The modern Texas classics, including the expertly smoked barbecue, are a testament to the authentic BBQ experience.
A photo of Ruth's Chris Steak House - Austin restaurant
8. Ruth's Chris Steak House - Austin
4.4
Awesome(1705)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 22 times today
Now Open: We look forward to serving you soon.Ruth's Chris Austin is hands down the finest steak house in the capital city. Whether you would like to host a private gathering, relax in our lounge, or treat yourself to the best steak around - Ruth's Chris has it all. Come on down and see for yourself why the Austin American Statesman awarded us "Best Steak in Austin."
A photo of Sammie's Italian restaurant
9. Sammie's Italian
4.8
Exceptional(1610)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 57 times today
Sammie’s is a little taste of old Italy in downtown Austin. It celebrates the great ‘red sauce’ institution—inspired by old school, legendary Italian-American restaurants. The menu offers classic dishes in a casual but sophisticated, retro-designed space that is both lively and comfortable, capturing the essence of a night out at your favorite neighborhood joint. The space consists of a central dining room overlooking Shoal Creek and 6th Street, polished wood bar, Mildred’s Room (a private dining/wine room), and wraparound patio dining area. Please note that patio seating is weather contingent. The menu offers riffs on standards including Housemade Mozzarella Sticks, Clams Casino, and Caesar Salad a la Tommy; timeless pastas like Spaghetti with Meatballs, and Linguine Vongole; and Sammie’s Classics: big portions of iconic plates like Chicken and Eggplant Parmigiana, Veal Marsala, and Baked Manicotti.
A photo of Quattro Gatti Ristorante e Pizzeria restaurant
10. Quattro Gatti Ristorante e Pizzeria
4.8
Exceptional(1552)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 27 times today
A neighborhood gem! This family-run Italian restaurant offers a chic, rustic atmosphere in a downtown Austin landmark historic 1876 building. Enjoy outdoor sidewalk cafe dining just steps from the Texas State Capitol (dog friendly).We feature a wide variety of authentic Italian pastas, pizza, meats, seafood & unique daily specials. (GF and Veg options). Daily specials highlight the freshest and most seasonal offerings, such as Rigatoni Alla Norcina (sausage with truffle oil), house-made Gnocchi Sorrentina, and Whole Roasted Fish. Gelato, sorbets and desserts are delicious and made in-house. The cozy full-bar offers classic Italian cocktails and a sizable wine list representing Italy’s diverse regions.All breads and pizza are made daily using naturally leavened dough and an ancient fermentation process; this improves digestibility and creates a delicious flavor. Neapolitan pizzas are baked at 1000 degrees in a wood-fired brick oven. Your new Austin favorite.

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Discover best authentic restaurants in Downtown

Discover the heart of authentic dining in Downtown Austin, where the flavors of the city come alive through a diverse array of restaurants. Each venue offers a unique glimpse into the culinary traditions and innovative spirit of Austin, making it a prime destination for food lovers seeking a genuine taste experience. From the sophisticated ambiance of upscale steakhouses to the vibrant energy of contemporary American spots, there's something to satisfy every palate. The dining scene in Downtown Austin is characterized by its dedication to quality, with many restaurants highlighting locally sourced ingredients and expertly crafted dishes. Patrons consistently praise the high standards of food and service, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for a classic steak, exotic cocktails, or a modern twist on comfort food, Downtown Austin's restaurant scene promises authenticity at every turn. Perfect for both casual outings and special occasions, these eateries stand out for their commitment to providing a truly authentic Austin dining experience.

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