Best Restaurants Near Austin-Bergstrom International Airport — Eat Like a Local

Austin guide: real food walking/short-cab from airport. Real, specific, no fluff.

Welcome to Austin: A Foodie's Paradise

Austin, the vibrant capital of Texas, is a city that seamlessly blends its southern roots with a thriving food scene. As you step out of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, you'll know that you're in for a treat. Located just 5 miles southeast of downtown Austin, the airport is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it simple for you to get to your destination and start exploring.

From Airport to Downtown: Your First Bites

One of the best ways to experience Austin's culinary delights is by walking or taking a short cab ride from the airport to some of the city's most iconic neighborhoods. You can grab a quick bite at Home Slice Pizza, a popular spot for New York-style pizza, just a 5-minute drive from the airport. If you're looking for something a little more unique, head to Veracruz All Natural, a food truck turned restaurant serving up delicious and authentic Mexican street food.

Neighborhoods to Explore

• Downtown: This is the heart of Austin's food scene, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from.
• South Congress: This eclectic neighborhood is home to many of Austin's most popular eateries, including Uchi, a renowned sushi restaurant.
• East Austin: This up-and-coming neighborhood is a hub for food trucks and some of the city's best barbecue joints.

Austin's Best Kept Secrets

While many visitors flock to Austin's more popular neighborhoods, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. In the South Congress neighborhood, be sure to check out Contigo, a farm-to-table restaurant serving up seasonal small plates. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, head to Olamaie, a cozy restaurant in the Clarksville neighborhood that offers a seasonal tasting menu.

What to Avoid

While Austin is a city that's all about experimentation and trying new things, there are a few areas that you might want to avoid. The area around 6th Street, while popular with tourists, can be a bit overwhelming and overpriced. Additionally, the traffic in Austin can be notorious, so be sure to plan your transportation in advance and avoid driving during rush hour.

Barbecue and Beyond: Exploring Austin's Food Scene

Barbecue and Beyond

Austin is famous for its barbecue, and for good reason. You can't miss the iconic Franklin Barbecue, which has been named one of the best barbecue joints in the country. If you're looking for something a little different, try La Barbecue, a female-owned barbecue joint that offers a unique take on traditional barbecue.

Other Must-Try Foods

• Tacos: Austin is home to some of the best tacos in the country. Be sure to try Tacodeli for a delicious breakfast taco or Veracruz All Natural for a more authentic Mexican experience.
• Food Trucks: Austin's food truck scene is thriving, with everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Korean BBQ. Be sure to check out Hey Cupcake! for a sweet treat.
• Seafood: If you're craving something fresh and seafood, head to The Oyster Bar for a variety of oysters and other seafood delicacies.

Exploring Austin's Neighborhoods on Foot

Austin is a city that's best explored on foot, and there are plenty of neighborhoods to discover. The South Congress neighborhood is home to many of Austin's most popular shops and restaurants, and is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing and eating. The East Austin neighborhood is also a great place to explore on foot, with its vibrant street art and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants.

Walking Tours

There are plenty of walking tours available to help you explore Austin's neighborhoods. The Austin Food Tour is a great way to experience the city's culinary delights, while the Austin Street Art Tour will give you a glimpse into the city's vibrant street art scene.

Getting Around Austin

Austin can be a bit overwhelming to navigate, especially if you're not familiar with the city. The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and a light rail system. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or rent a car to get around the city.

Final Tips and Recommendations

Before you head to Austin, be sure to plan ahead and book your accommodations and restaurants in advance. The city can get crowded quickly, especially during peak season. Also, be sure to try some of the city's unique drinks, like the Free State beer or the Elote cocktail. And don't forget to exchange your currency when it is necessary, you can use the Portability App for a convenient and secure way to do so.