The Absolute Best Appetizers in Austin [Updated 2025]

Having scoured the vibrant food scene of this incredible city, I have handpicked and reviewed eight scrumptious appetizers that will surely tantalize your taste buds. From sizzling shrimp to finger-licking sliders, this mouthwatering list covers a wide array of flavors and cuisines.

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, get ready to embark on a delightful journey through Austin's culinary haven. So, loosen your belts, grab a napkin, and let's dig in to discover the most delectable and lip-smacking appetizers that Austin has to offer!

Punch Bowl Social Austin

Highlights
Fun atmosphere
Delicious bread
Knowledgeable staff
Great food options
Excellent service

From the moment I stepped foot into Punch Bowl Social Austin, I knew I was in for a treat. The vibrant and lively atmosphere instantly put me in a playful mood. With each step I took, my excitement grew, and I couldn't wait to indulge in their appetizer offerings.

As I perused the menu, my eyes were immediately drawn to the mention of delicious bread. I decided to start my appetizer journey with their renowned bread basket. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The bread was warm, soft, and perfectly baked. I couldn't resist tearing off a piece and savoring each bite.

One thing I loved about Punch Bowl Social Austin was their knowledgeable staff. They took the time to explain each appetizer in detail, helping me make the best choices for my palate. Their recommendations were spot-on, and I was grateful for their expertise.

The menu at Punch Bowl Social Austin offered a variety of great food options, making it difficult to choose just one appetizer. But no matter what you order, you can expect exceptional flavors and quality ingredients. Each appetizer I tried was beautifully presented and packed with taste.

To top it all off, the service at Punch Bowl Social Austin was excellent. The staff was attentive, friendly, and genuinely seemed to enjoy their work, which added an extra touch of warmth to my dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're in search of a playful yet elegant atmosphere with delightful appetizers, look no further than Punch Bowl Social Austin. With a delectable menu, knowledgeable staff, and excellent service, this place is a must-visit for any appetizer enthusiast in Austin.

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Upstairs at Caroline

Highlights
Great happy hour drinks
TASTY fresh food
Large outside patio area
Excellent service
Fun and hospitable atmosphere

Upon entering Upstairs at Caroline, I was immediately drawn in by the lively ambiance and hospitable atmosphere. The large outside patio area was the perfect spot to enjoy some fantastic appetizers while soaking up the Austin sunshine.

I started off my culinary adventure with their happy hour drinks and was not disappointed. The refreshing cocktails were expertly crafted and made for great accompaniments to the appetizers.

When it came to the food, freshness was the name of the game at Upstairs at Caroline. Each bite was bursting with flavor, indicating the use of high-quality ingredients. The menu featured a variety of options, from classic favorites to innovative creations, catering to every palate.

The service was top-notch as well. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. They provided helpful recommendations that enhanced my dining experience.

One appetizer that stood out was their avocado fries. These crispy yet creamy delicacies were a perfect combination of textures. The avocado was perfectly ripened, and the accompanying dipping sauce added a delightful tanginess.

Overall, my time at Upstairs at Caroline was a delightful journey through a delicious world of appetizers. The combination of great drinks, fresh food, and excellent service made it a standout in Austin's appetizer scene. Whether you're looking for a spot to unwind after work or a place to enjoy a leisurely weekend meal, Upstairs at Caroline is definitely worth a visit.

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Swift's Attic

Highlights
Amazing food and service
Friendly server with good recommendations
Favorite drink was a hit
Divine halibut and excellent risotto
Amazing drinks with modern speakeasy vibe

Walking into Swift's Attic, I was immediately captivated by its modern speakeasy vibe. The dim lighting and eclectic decor set the stage for what turned out to be a truly amazing dining experience.

From the moment I was seated, the friendly server made me feel right at home. He was extremely knowledgeable about the menu and provided excellent recommendations for appetizers. I must say, the food did not disappoint.

One highlight of the night was the divine halibut. It was perfectly cooked and paired beautifully with the accompanying risotto. The flavors were a delightful mix of richness and freshness, leaving me craving more.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. The drinks at Swift's Attic were equally outstanding. The favorite drink of the night was a hit. It was expertly crafted and complemented the appetizers perfectly.

I also have to mention the impeccable service. The staff at Swift's Attic went above and beyond to ensure that every detail was taken care of. They truly made me feel pampered and valued as a guest.

Overall, Swift's Attic is a gem in Austin's dining scene. The amazing food, friendly service, and modern speakeasy vibe make it a top contender for the best appetizers in the city. I highly recommend giving it a try, you won't be disappointed.

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Roaring Fork

Highlights
Excellent combination of flavors
Fantastic food and ambiance
Spicy and moist meatballs
Tender and tasty short ribs
Hands down the best tasting grits

From the moment I walked into Roaring Fork, I could feel the fantastic energy and inviting ambiance. The combination of rustic decor and warm lighting created a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for indulging in some delicious appetizers.

As a self-proclaimed appetizer connoisseur, I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent combination of flavors in each dish. The spicy and moist meatballs instantly won me over with a delightful kick, leaving my taste buds dancing with joy. The tender and tasty short ribs were equally impressive, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that left me yearning for more.

But the true star of the show was undoubtedly the grits. I've sampled countless renditions of this southern classic, but Roaring Fork's version was hands down the best tasting grits I've ever had the pleasure of devouring. Creamy, buttery, and with just the right amount of seasoning, these grits were downright addictive.

The chefs at Roaring Fork truly have a knack for creating appetizers that not only satisfy your cravings but also leave a lasting impression. Each dish was prepared with precision and presented beautifully.

Whether you're looking for a place to kick-start your evening or simply craving a mouthwatering prelude to your main course, Roaring Fork is an absolute must-visit. With their incredible combination of flavors and fantastic food and ambiance, this Austin gem is a top contender for the best appetizers in the city.

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June's

Highlights
Great cocktails and food
Fresh ingredients
Outdoor seating options
Excellent breakfast chalupa
Best steak tartare

The moment I stepped into June's, I knew I was in for a treat. The lively atmosphere and the smell of delicious food filled the air, setting the perfect stage for my appetizer journey. This place truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best appetizer spots in Austin.

June's expertly combines great cocktails and food. Sipping on their signature cocktail, I couldn't help but be impressed by the innovative and refreshing flavors. As for the appetizers, I was blown away by the fresh ingredients they used. Each bite burst with vibrant flavors, leaving me craving for more.

What sets June's apart is its selection of outdoor seating options. Eating their delectable appetizers under the stars was a delightful experience, and I felt like I was part of the vibrant Austin scene.

Now, let's talk about the stars of the show – the appetizers. The excellent breakfast chalupa was a revelation. The combination of crispy tortillas, savory eggs, and flavorful toppings was a breakfast dream come true. It was a perfect blend of comfort and creativity. And if you're a fan of steak, you absolutely cannot miss their best steak tartare. The perfectly seasoned meat melted in my mouth, leaving me in awe of its tenderness.

June's truly impressed me with their appetizers. From the vibrant cocktails to the use of fresh ingredients, this place knows how to tantalize taste buds. Whether you're a local or a visitor, June's is a must-visit destination for any appetizer enthusiast.

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Corner Restaurant

Highlights
Delicious dinner
Friendly and helpful server
Outstanding food
Picture perfect drinks
Clean and laid back atmosphere

Let me start off by saying that the appetizers I indulged in at Corner Restaurant were nothing short of delicious. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was welcomed by a friendly and helpful server, who made me feel right at home. The atmosphere was clean, laid back, and perfect for a relaxed dining experience.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show - the food. The appetizers offered at Corner Restaurant are in a league of their own. Each plate that made its way to my table was outstanding and left me craving more. Whether you're a fan of traditional favorites or looking to try something unique, Corner Restaurant has you covered.

One thing that truly impressed me was the presentation of the dishes. The appetizers were picture perfect, making them perfect for sharing photos with friends or for your Instagram feed. But don't let the aesthetics fool you - the taste matches the presentation, if not surpasses it.

To accompany these delectable bites, the bar served up creative and refreshing drinks. The mixologists at Corner Restaurant know their craft well and are not afraid to experiment with flavors and combinations. I highly recommend trying one of their signature cocktails; you won't be disappointed.

In conclusion, Corner Restaurant is an ultimate destination for those seeking the best appetizers in Austin. With a combination of delicious dinner options, friendly service, outstanding food, picture-perfect drinks, and a clean and laid-back atmosphere, this place truly deserves to be on the top of any foodie’s list. Don't miss the chance to tantalize your taste buds at Corner Restaurant.

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Salty Sow

Highlights
Fantastic cocktails
Phenomenal service
Epic entrees
Candied pork belly
Truffled devil eggs

From the moment I walked into Salty Sow, I knew I was in for a treat. With its cozy yet modern ambiance, this place had the perfect mix of a playful and professional vibe. Let me just say, this place really knows how to make a lasting impression.

First, let's talk about the fantastic cocktails. Salty Sow boasts an impressive drink menu that will leave even the pickiest of cocktail connoisseurs satisfied. Their mixologists truly know their craft, as each drink was perfectly balanced and delightfully refreshing. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Now, onto the phenomenal service. The staff at Salty Sow were attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. They made us feel welcomed from the moment we stepped in and went above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.

But let's get to what you really came here for – the appetizers. And boy, did Salty Sow deliver! One standout dish was the candied pork belly. The combination of crispy and succulent pork belly with a sweet glaze was a flavor explosion in each bite. It was like nothing I've ever tasted before.

Another appetizer that stole the show was the truffled deviled eggs. Creamy, rich, and with just the right amount of truffle essence, these eggs were absolute perfection. The presentation alone was enough to make your mouth water.

Now, while Salty Sow is known for its epic entrees, I couldn't help but make a meal out of their exceptional appetizers. With a wide range of options that cater to all taste buds, this place truly knows how to start a meal off right.

All in all, if you're looking for a place with fantastic cocktails, phenomenal service, and appetizers that will leave you craving more, look no further than Salty Sow. This place has earned its spot on the list of the best appetizers in Austin. So go ahead, treat yourself – you won't be disappointed.

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Nightcap

Highlights
Great Happy Hour
Excellent Cocktails
Yummy Food Options

Nightcap was a delightful discovery during my quest to find the best appetizers in Austin. This charming establishment quickly won me over with its combination of playfulness and professionalism.

The first highlight that caught my attention was the Great Happy Hour at Nightcap. The atmosphere was buzzing with positive energy as patrons indulged in their after-work libations. The discounted drinks perfectly complemented the excellent appetizers on offer, making it an enticing option for those seeking a memorable pre-dinner experience.

Speaking of drinks, let's dive into the Excellent Cocktails that Nightcap offers. The bartenders displayed their mixology skills, crafting delightful concoctions that were a visual and gustatory treat. From classic favorites to creative innovations, there was something for everyone's taste buds. The beverage menu was dynamic and well-curated, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the appetizer experience.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the Yummy Food Options. Nightcap's appetizers were a blend of flavors that danced on my palate. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared, with attention to detail and presentation. The menu featured an impressive variety, catering to different dietary preferences. Whether you were a fan of vegetarian delights or indulged in meaty treats, Nightcap had you covered.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a memorable appetizer experience, Nightcap is a fantastic choice. The remarkable combination of Great Happy Hour, Excellent Cocktails, and Yummy Food Options sets the stage for an exceptional culinary adventure. Don't just take my word for it – go and experience the playful sophistication of Nightcap for yourself!

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