Introduction
Ever been stuck in that culinary conundrum? You’re craving a delicious meal, but you *also* want a fantastic drink to go with it. It’s a common dilemma. Finding a restaurant that excels in both the food *and* the beverage department can feel like searching for a unicorn. Too often, you find a place with incredible entrees but a disappointing drink menu (think watery soda and weak cocktails). Or maybe you stumble upon a bar with amazing mixologists but the food is, well, an afterthought. But why should you have to compromise? Why can’t you have a truly exceptional dining experience that tantalizes both your taste buds and your thirst?
The best dining experiences aren’t just about the food. They’re about the whole package: the ambiance, the company, *and* the drinks. A perfectly paired beverage can elevate a meal from good to unforgettable. A crisp white wine with fresh seafood, a robust stout with a juicy burger, a refreshing iced tea on a hot summer day – these are the moments that make dining out a true pleasure.
Fortunately, in Austin, Texas, you *can* have it all. This vibrant city is brimming with restaurants that understand the importance of both food and drink. We’ve scoured the city to bring you a curated list of some of the best food places with good drinks in Austin. These establishments were selected based on a few key criteria: quality of food, diversity and creativity of the drink menu, overall atmosphere, and value for money. So, ditch the compromise and get ready to discover some new favorite food places with good drinks right here in Austin!
Restaurants with Craft Cocktails
Elevating Your Dining Experience with Exquisite Cocktails
The craft cocktail movement has revolutionized the way we think about drinks. No longer are cocktails just sugary, pre-mixed concoctions. Craft cocktails are about fresh ingredients, expertly balanced flavors, and artistic presentation. They’re about creating a drink that’s as thoughtful and delicious as the food it accompanies. Austin has a thriving craft cocktail scene, with many restaurants embracing this trend.
The Golden Spoon
Tucked away on South Congress, The Golden Spoon is a modern American restaurant known for its innovative dishes and chic ambiance. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients, transforming into beautifully presented dishes. But it’s their craft cocktail program that truly sets them apart.
One of their signature cocktails is the “Spicy Paloma.” This drink takes the classic Paloma and gives it a unique twist with the addition of jalapeño-infused tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, lime, agave, and a splash of soda water. The result is a refreshing, slightly spicy, and incredibly flavorful cocktail. It’s the perfect accompaniment to their grilled fish tacos or their spicy shrimp pasta. Another popular choice is the “Lavender Lemon Drop” – a floral and tart cocktail that pairs beautifully with their lighter appetizers like the burrata salad.
The bartenders at The Golden Spoon are true mixologists, passionate about their craft and always willing to create a custom cocktail based on your preferences. They also boast a happy hour with discounted cocktails, making it an affordable way to sample their creations. The cocktail menu is also seasonal, changing to reflect the best ingredients available at any given time.
The Iron Cactus
This upscale Mexican restaurant in the heart of downtown Austin has some of the best food places with good drinks. It offers a sophisticated take on traditional Mexican cuisine, with dishes like lobster enchiladas and slow-roasted pork shoulder. Of course, no Mexican meal is complete without a fantastic margarita, and The Iron Cactus delivers.
Their margarita menu is extensive, featuring everything from classic lime margaritas to more adventurous options like the “Blood Orange Margarita,” made with fresh blood orange juice, tequila reposado, and a hint of agave. The drink is tart, sweet, and slightly bitter – a complex and refreshing experience. For those who prefer something a bit different, they also offer a variety of mezcal cocktails, showcasing the smoky and earthy flavors of this traditional Mexican spirit. They even infuse their own tequilas, making each sip unique.
The Iron Cactus’s margaritas are the perfect complement to their spicy and flavorful dishes. The “Blood Orange Margarita” pairs perfectly with their carnitas tacos, while the “Spicy Jalapeno Margarita” cuts through the richness of the queso fundido. The restaurant also features a large patio, perfect for enjoying a drink and a meal on a warm Austin evening.
Blue Dahlia Bistro
Blue Dahlia Bistro offers a cozy and charming atmosphere with rustic decor and a menu of European-inspired dishes. They’re known for their delicious flatbreads, salads, and small plates. While the food is definitely a draw, their selection of craft cocktails is equally impressive.
Their cocktail menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and classic techniques. The “Rosemary Greyhound,” for example, is a refreshing and aromatic cocktail made with grapefruit juice, vodka, and a sprig of fresh rosemary. The rosemary adds a subtle herbal note that complements the tartness of the grapefruit, making it a perfect drink for a hot day. They also offer a selection of European wines and beers, carefully chosen to complement their food.
The cocktails at Blue Dahlia Bistro are light, flavorful, and perfect for sipping while enjoying a leisurely meal. The “Lavender French 75” is a delightful sparkling cocktail that enhances any food offering. Their relaxed atmosphere and delicious drinks make it an ideal spot for a casual dinner or a romantic date.
These restaurants with craft cocktails show Austin’s commitment to elevating the dining experience. The variety is expansive, so no matter what you’re craving, you are sure to find something to wet your whistle and provide a perfect experience.
Gastropubs with Impressive Beer Selections
Hearty Food and Hoppy Brews: The Perfect Gastropub Combination
Gastropubs have redefined pub fare by pairing it with high-quality ingredients and chef-driven menus with an emphasis on the beers they offer. They’re about creating a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy a delicious meal and a great beer without any pretension. Austin is home to many fantastic gastropubs, each with its own unique personality and beer selection.
The ABGB
The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co., or The ABGB, is a beloved Austin institution known for its award-winning pizzas and its extensive selection of house-brewed beers. Their menu focuses on simple, delicious food made with fresh ingredients, including their hand-tossed pizzas, salads, and sandwiches. But the real star of the show is their beer.
The ABGB brews a variety of beers in-house, from classic lagers and IPAs to more experimental styles. They also offer a rotating selection of seasonal beers, so there’s always something new to try. Their Hell Yes Helles is a popular choice, known for its crisp, clean flavor and perfect balance. Their Rocket 100 also receives accolades and pairs with the entire menu.
The ABGB’s beers are the perfect complement to their pizzas. The Hell Yes Helles goes well with their Margherita pizza, while the Rocket 100 IPA pairs perfectly with their spicy pepperoni pizza. The ABGB also features a large outdoor beer garden, making it a perfect spot for enjoying a beer and a meal on a sunny day. They feature live music and community events that help build the Austin community around great food and drinks.
Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden
Located on Rainey Street, Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden is a true Austin original. They specialize in handcrafted sausages made with locally sourced meats and a massive selection of beers on tap. Their menu features a variety of sausages, from classic bratwurst to more adventurous options like their spicy “El Diablo” sausage.
Banger’s boasts over 200 beers on tap, including a wide selection of local craft brews, imported beers, and rare finds. They offer everything from light lagers to dark stouts, so there’s something for every beer lover. They offer many Texas breweries for you to support while you are enjoying good food and drinks.
Banger’s sausages and beers are a match made in heaven. The classic bratwurst pairs perfectly with a crisp German pilsner, while the “El Diablo” sausage goes well with a hoppy IPA. Banger’s also features a large outdoor beer garden with live music, making it a perfect spot for a fun and festive night out.
Easy Tiger
Easy Tiger is a bakery, beer garden, and restaurant all rolled into one. Their menu features a variety of artisanal breads, sandwiches, pastries, and charcuterie boards. They also have an impressive selection of beers on tap, featuring both local and international brews.
Easy Tiger has a selection of beers chosen to compliment the food. Their charcuterie boards are the perfect accompaniment to their beers. Their relaxed atmosphere and delicious food and drinks make it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or a weekend brunch. Their happy hour attracts many, so make sure to get there early.
Gastropubs in Austin offer something for everyone. They bring together food, community, and drinks into a perfect pairing.
Cafes with Unique Coffee and Tea Drinks
Beyond the Basic Brew: Exploring Coffee and Tea Creations
Cafes are no longer just places to grab a quick cup of coffee. They’ve evolved into community hubs where people can connect, work, and enjoy creative and flavorful beverages. Austin’s cafe scene is thriving, with many establishments pushing the boundaries of what coffee and tea can be.
Jo’s Coffee
Jo’s Coffee has been an Austin institution for years. They’re known for their “I love you so much” mural, their strong coffee, and their friendly atmosphere. Their menu features a variety of classic coffee drinks, as well as some unique creations.
One of their signature drinks is the “Mexican Vanilla Iced Coffee,” made with cold-brew coffee, Mexican vanilla syrup, and a touch of cinnamon. It’s sweet, spicy, and incredibly refreshing, the perfect drink to cool you off on a hot day. They also offer a variety of teas, smoothies, and pastries.
Jo’s Coffee is a great spot for a quick caffeine fix or a leisurely afternoon. Their outdoor patio is perfect for people-watching, and their friendly staff makes you feel right at home. Plus, you can grab a photo in front of the iconic mural!
Houndstooth Coffee
Houndstooth Coffee is a specialty coffee shop focused on serving high-quality coffee. Their menu features a variety of single-origin coffees, expertly brewed using different methods. They also offer a selection of teas, pastries, and light snacks.
Houndstooth prides itself on its commitment to quality. They source their beans from small, independent farms and roast them in-house. Their baristas are highly trained and passionate about coffee, and they’re always happy to help you find the perfect cup.
Houndstooth is a great spot for coffee lovers who appreciate the art and science of coffee brewing. Their minimalist decor and quiet atmosphere make it a perfect place to focus and get some work done.
Babu Ji
While primarily an Indian restaurant, Babu Ji also boasts an incredible tea selection. Stepping inside is like stepping into another world with authentic aromas and decor. They have many specialty teas that pair well with the food menu. The servers are knowledgeable and are always happy to provide suggestions.
The food also adds to the experience, and it’s hard to resist an authentic meal while enjoying their excellent teas. It’s a great place to gather with friends and enjoy a unique culinary experience.
Austin cafes are now destinations for flavor. They provide more than a basic caffeine fix.
Ethnic Restaurants with Authentic Beverages
Immerse Yourself in Culture with Food and Drink
Ethnic restaurants offer a unique opportunity to experience different cultures through food and drink. Authentic beverages can enhance the dining experience, providing a deeper understanding of a culture’s traditions and flavors. Austin is a melting pot of cultures, with many fantastic ethnic restaurants serving authentic beverages.
Uchi
Uchi is a world-renowned sushi restaurant that pushes the boundaries of Japanese cuisine. Their menu features a variety of creative and innovative sushi dishes, as well as a selection of sake, Japanese beer, and cocktails.
Sake is an integral part of Japanese culture, and Uchi takes its sake selection seriously. They offer a variety of sakes, from dry and crisp to sweet and fruity. Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect sake to pair with your meal. They can also prepare a wide range of Japanese cocktails.
The combination of Uchi’s innovative sushi and their authentic beverages creates a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Odd Duck
Odd Duck’s menu features a variety of small plates made with locally sourced ingredients. Their beverage menu features a selection of Texas wines, beers, and cocktails, all carefully chosen to complement their food. The restaurant features a rustic and charming atmosphere with a large patio perfect for enjoying a meal and a drink outdoors.
Odd Duck is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious dining experience.
Veracruz All Natural
Veracruz All Natural has been serving delicious tacos and aguas frescas for years, and has received several accolades. The company started out as a food truck, and now boasts several brick-and-mortar restaurants across Austin. The focus is on authentic, homemade foods and drinks made from natural ingredients.
Austin has a diverse range of cuisine, making food and drink pairing accessible to all. The culture and food scene in the city is a draw to locals and tourists alike.
Conclusion
From craft cocktails and impressive beer selections to unique coffee and tea creations and authentic ethnic beverages, Austin offers a wealth of food places with good drinks. Finding an establishment that excels in both food and drink is no longer a challenge. This article has highlighted some of the best options in the city, but there are many more to discover.
Remember, a truly exceptional dining experience is about more than just the food. It’s about the whole package: the ambiance, the company, and the drinks. So, next time you’re planning a night out, don’t settle for a place that only excels in one area. Choose a restaurant that understands the importance of both food and drink, and prepare to be amazed.
We encourage you to explore the food places with good drinks mentioned in this article and discover your own favorites. What are your favorite restaurants with amazing food and drink pairings in Austin? Share your recommendations in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you. Get out there and experience the best food places with good drinks that Austin has to offer!
