Austin is a city known for its live music, outdoor adventures, and—of course—its food. While hotspots like Franklin Barbecue and Uchi get plenty of well-deserved attention, there’s a whole world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor eager to go beyond the usual recommendations, these lesser-known Austin restaurants deserve a spot on your must-try list.
1. Nixta Taqueria – A New Take on Tradition
If you think you’ve had every kind of taco Austin has to offer, think again. Nixta Taqueria is doing something completely different, blending traditional Mexican flavors with creative, chef-driven techniques. Their heirloom corn tortillas are made in-house, and the toppings are anything but ordinary—think beet tartare, duck carnitas, and crispy chicharrón dusted with lime zest. It’s casual, colorful, and packed with bold flavors that will keep you coming back.
📍 Where? 2512 E 12th St, Austin, TX
⭐ Must-Try Dish: The Smoked Fish Tostada—a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and crunchy goodness.
2. Distant Relatives – Next-Level BBQ
Yes, Austin is packed with incredible barbecue joints, but Distant Relatives takes it up a notch by infusing African and Caribbean flavors into traditional Texas-style smoked meats. Their food truck, located at Meanwhile Brewing Co., serves up slow-cooked brisket, ribs, and sausages with unique spice rubs and house-made sauces that set them apart from the rest.
📍 Where? 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX
⭐ Must-Try Dish: The Pork Shoulder with Tamarind BBQ Sauce—sweet, tangy, and ridiculously tender.
3. Birdie’s – A Cozy Wine & Comfort Food Spot
Birdie’s is the kind of place you might walk past without realizing what you’re missing. This laid-back neighborhood eatery blends upscale flavors with a casual, counter-service atmosphere. The menu changes frequently, based on what’s in season, but you can always count on fresh pasta, expertly cooked meats, and a killer natural wine selection.
📍 Where? 2944 E 12th St, Austin, TX
⭐ Must-Try Dish: The Cavatelli with Seasonal Pesto—simple, fresh, and packed with flavor.
4. Chapulín Cantina – Mexican Cuisine with an Oaxacan Twist
If you love authentic Mexican food but want something a little different, Chapulín Cantina is a must-visit. Inspired by Oaxacan flavors, their dishes feature ingredients like mole, huitlacoche, and even chapulines (yes, the crunchy grasshoppers!). The cocktails are also a standout, with a strong focus on mezcal and fresh-squeezed juices.
📍 Where? 1610 San Antonio St, Austin, TX
⭐ Must-Try Dish: The Tlayuda—Oaxaca’s take on a Mexican pizza, loaded with refried beans, chorizo, and fresh cheese.
5. Tsuke Edomae – Sushi Like You’ve Never Had Before
For sushi lovers, Tsuke Edomae is a true hidden treasure. This small, reservation-only spot specializes in Edomae-style sushi, meaning the fish is carefully aged and prepared using traditional Japanese techniques. It’s a bit of a splurge, but if you want an unforgettable sushi experience, this is the place to go.
📍 Where? 4600 Mueller Blvd Suite 1035, Austin, TX
⭐ Must-Try Dish: The Omakase Tasting Menu—let the chef guide you through the freshest and most perfectly balanced bites of the day.
6. 1618 Asian Fusion – A Flavor Explosion
When you can’t decide between Thai, Vietnamese, or Chinese food, 1618 Asian Fusion has you covered. Their menu is a melting pot of bold flavors, offering everything from spicy curries to crispy duck with plum sauce. The cozy, modern atmosphere makes it perfect for date night or a relaxed dinner with friends.
📍 Where? 1618 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX
⭐ Must-Try Dish: The Wagyu Pho—a rich, deeply flavored broth with melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef.
7. Llama Kid – Peruvian Cuisine Done Right
Peruvian food might not be the first thing you think of in Austin, but Llama Kid is changing that. This modern Peruvian restaurant brings vibrant ceviches, slow-cooked meats, and tangy aji sauces to the heart of Texas. The atmosphere is fun and colorful, with a great selection of cocktails to match.
📍 Where? 4620 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX
⭐ Must-Try Dish: The Ceviche Clasico—fresh fish marinated in citrus with sweet potato, corn, and aji pepper for the perfect balance of flavors.