In the “Where to Eat: 25 Best” series, the focus is on highlighting the best restaurants in cities across the United States. The lists are updated regularly to reflect new openings, closures, and hidden gems that have been discovered. All meals are paid for by the authors, and they do not accept free items. The series features a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences, showcasing the culinary diversity of America.
In East Austin, Birdie’s stands out as more than just a wine bar, thanks to the talented chef Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and her husband, Arjav Ezekiel. The food is simple yet elevated, with dishes like roasted carrots with pesto and a creamy vegetable soup. Canje, another East Austin gem, offers a menu inspired by Guyanese and Caribbean flavors, with dishes like tamarind and rum butter-soaked tilefish and buttery Guyanese-style roti. Comadre Panadería offers a unique twist on traditional pastries, with creations like Barbie-pink strawberry conchas and a sheet cake topped with prickly-pear buttercream.
In South Lamar, El Naranjo serves up authentic Oaxacan cuisine in a chic setting, with dishes like mole negro and mole blanco that showcase the complex flavors of Mexico. Deedee, a Thai restaurant in the same area, offers farm-fresh northeastern Thai dishes with a twist, thanks to chef Lakana Sopajan-Trubiana’s green thumb and unique flavor combinations. Kemuri, an izakaya-style barbecue spot, combines Japanese and Texan flavors in dishes like brisket and smoked eel, creating a truly memorable dining experience.
Other noteworthy spots in Austin include Micklethwait Craft Meats, known for their Central Texas-style barbecue and delicious sides, and Mum Foods, a Jewish deli with a barbecue twist. Nixta offers Mexican-inspired dishes that showcase chef Fermín Núñez’s creativity and skill, while Uchi is a must-visit for Japanese fusion cuisine. Wee’s Cozy Kitchen, located in a gas station turned corner store, offers comforting dishes like curry laksa and a warm atmosphere reminiscent of home cooking. Overall, Austin’s food scene is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of options to satisfy every palate.
