The Absolute Best Casual Restaurants in Austin [Updated 2024]

With a tone that's as lighthearted as a quirky food truck, I have personally reviewed not one, not two, but a grand total of eight fantastic establishments. From mouthwatering tacos to finger-licking barbeque, these casual spots are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and make your taste buds do a happy dance.

So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant food scene of Austin. Let's dive in!

Swift's Attic

Highlights
Amazing food
Excellent service
Friendly atmosphere
Unique drink options

Located in the heart of Austin, Swift's Attic is a hidden gem that offers a dining experience like no other. As soon as I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the friendly and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant has a modern and rustic feel, with exposed brick walls adorned with quirky artwork and vintage trinkets. It's a place that effortlessly combines casual dining with a touch of sophistication.

Let's talk about the amazing food. The menu at Swift's Attic is a fusion of various culinary influences, resulting in an exquisite array of flavors. From the crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with tangy balsamic reduction to the tender and flavorful short rib empanadas, every dish was a delightful surprise for my taste buds. But what truly set Swift's Attic apart was their ability to take familiar ingredients and elevate them to an entirely new level. The truffle mac and cheese, for example, was creamy, rich, and decadent, with a distinct earthy flavor that had me coming back for more.

The excellent service was another standout aspect of my visit. The staff at Swift's Attic were both attentive and knowledgeable, making sure that every detail of my dining experience was taken care of. They were more than happy to provide recommendations and answer any questions I had about the menu – a true testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction.

To complement the fantastic food and service, Swift's Attic also boasts a unique drink selection. The artisanal cocktails were expertly crafted and presented with flair. I indulged in the Smokey Negroni, a smoky twist on a classic favorite that left me pleasantly surprised and fully satisfied.

In conclusion, Swift's Attic is a prime example of the best casual restaurants that Austin has to offer. With amazing food, excellent service, a friendly atmosphere, and unique drink options, it's no wonder why this place is beloved by locals and visitors alike. So do yourself a favor and grab a reservation – your taste buds will thank you!

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Stella San Jac

Highlights
Smoked salmon Benedict
Exceptional customer service
Biscuits with Honey Butter
Fantastic coffee

Stepping into Stella San Jac was like entering a modern Texas retreat where comfort and style meet. The first highlight is their signature dish - Smoked salmon Benedict. Being a lover of all things brunch, this dish surpassed my expectations. The perfectly poached eggs were nestled on top of a fluffy biscuit and topped with delicate slices of smoked salmon. It was a symphony of flavors that danced in my mouth.

What truly sets Stella San Jac apart is their exceptional customer service. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and promptly seated. The staff was knowledgeable about the menu and offered helpful suggestions. Their attentiveness throughout my dining experience was incomparable.

One cannot visit Stella San Jac without trying their Biscuits with Honey Butter. The biscuits were irresistibly flaky and the honey butter was a silky sweet indulgence. I found myself savoring every bite, not wanting the experience to end.

To complete my meal, I enjoyed a cup of their fantastic coffee. The aroma itself was enough to wake up my taste buds. With each sip, I could taste the robust, smooth flavor that only a masterfully brewed cup of coffee can deliver.

Overall, Stella San Jac offers a delightful dining experience with their exquisite dishes, exceptional customer service, and an ambiance that effortlessly combines elegance with a laid-back Texas charm. It's no wonder it deserves a place among the best casual restaurants in Austin.

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Corner Restaurant

Highlights
Delicious dinner
Great dining experience
Outstanding food
On-point service
Picture-perfect drinks

Let me start by saying, wow! This place exceeded my expectations and left me with a big smile on my face. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat.

The atmosphere at Corner Restaurant is delightful - a perfect blend of cozy and modern. The staff welcomed me with open arms, and their on-point service made me feel like a valued guest.

Now, let's get to the highlight of the evening - the food! The menu offered a variety of options, and I must admit, I had a tough time deciding what to order. Thankfully, the friendly server guided me through their delicious offerings. From the very first bite, my taste buds danced with joy. The flavors were outstanding and perfectly balanced. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented on the plate.

To complement my meal, I indulged in one of their picture-perfect drinks. Their mixologists are truly talented and have a knack for creating unique and flavorful concoctions. Sipping on my cocktail, I marveled at the creativity and attention to detail that went into every aspect of my dining experience.

Overall, my experience at Corner Restaurant was a great dining experience. The delicious dinner, the outstanding food, and the exceptional service made this casual restaurant stand out from the rest. If you're looking for an unforgettable culinary experience in Austin, make sure Corner Restaurant is at the top of your list.

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Roaring Fork

Highlights
Excellent combination of flavors
Fantastic food and great ambiance
Super tasty and moist meatballs
Tender and tasty short ribs
Best tasting grits

Walking into Roaring Fork, I was immediately drawn in by the warm and inviting ambiance. The dimly-lit, rustic decor and cozy seating made me feel right at home. As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the excellent combination of flavors featured in their dishes.

Starting with the appetizers, the meatballs were a true delight. They were super tasty and moist, perfectly seasoned and served with a tangy marinara sauce. Moving on to the main course, the short ribs were a standout. Tender and packed with flavor, they practically melted in my mouth.

But what truly stole the show were the grits. Yes, the grits! They were hands down the best tasting grits I've had in Austin. Creamy, rich, and topped with a savory sauce, they were the perfect complement to the hearty dishes.

The service at Roaring Fork was also commendable. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, making sure I had a pleasant dining experience from start to finish.

Overall, Roaring Fork has definitely earned its spot as one of the best casual restaurants in Austin. With its fantastic food, great ambiance, and attention to detail, it's a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience. So, if you're in town, do yourself a favor and head over to Roaring Fork for a truly satisfying meal.

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Corinne Austin

Highlights
Amazing service
Excellent food
Friendly staff
Wide menu selection

Walking into Corinne Austin, I was immediately greeted by a warm and friendly staff. The amazing service started right from the entrance and continued throughout my entire meal. The waitstaff was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely seemed to enjoy their job.

Now, let's talk about the most important aspect: the food. The menu at Corinne Austin is truly a feast for the eyes and taste buds. From delectable seafood dishes to mouthwatering steaks, the excellent food options are a testament to the chef's culinary prowess. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavors that left me wanting more.

What stood out to me even further was the wide selection of dishes on the menu. Corinne Austin offers something for everyone, from delicious vegetarian options to hearty meat-based meals. The wide menu selection ensures that no matter your dietary preferences, you will find something that tickles your taste buds.

Throughout my visit, the friendly staff at Corinne Austin made sure to make me feel welcome and comfortable. It's a place where you can enjoy a casual meal without feeling rushed or overlooked. The attentive staff is what truly sets this restaurant apart.

In conclusion, Corinne Austin is a gem among the best casual restaurants in Austin. With its amazing service, excellent food, friendly staff, and wide menu selection, it's a place that guarantees a memorable dining experience. So, if you're looking for a casual restaurant where you can enjoy a delectable meal in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, look no further than Corinne Austin.

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The Backspace

Highlights
Pizza and wine lovers
Fantastic happy hour
Exquisite pizza
Intimate setting
Friendly and helpful staff

The Backspace is a hidden gem for all you pizza and wine lovers out there. Tucked away in a cozy corner of Austin, this restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience that will leave you craving more.

The moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by the intimate setting. With a rustic charm and warm lighting, it felt like I had entered a secret pizza hideaway. The aroma of freshly baked bread and bubbling cheese filled the air, making it impossible to resist anticipation.

The star of the show, of course, was the pizza. And let me tell you, it was exquisite. Every bite was a burst of flavor, with a crust that was both crispy and chewy in all the right places. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita or something more adventurous, The Backspace has you covered with a diverse menu that caters to all tastes.

To top it all off, their fantastic happy hour is not to be missed. With great deals on both food and drinks, you can enjoy your favorite pizza accompanied by a glass of well-curated wine without breaking the bank.

But what truly sets The Backspace apart is the friendly and helpful staff. From the moment I walked in, they made me feel like a valued guest. Their knowledge of the menu and wine pairings was impressive, and they were always ready to offer suggestions or answer any questions I had.

So, if you find yourself in Austin and craving a delicious pizza in a relaxed setting, make sure to check out The Backspace. Trust me, it will be a dining experience that you won't soon forget.

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Salty Sow

Highlights
Fantastic cocktails
Phenomenal service (shout-out to Zach!)
Epic entrees
Consistency of food and service
Fried chicken is epic

From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with a playful yet professional atmosphere at Salty Sow. The dimly lit interior and warm ambience immediately set the stage for a memorable dining experience.

I started my evening with one of their fantastic cocktails. The mixologist's attention to detail was evident as they crafted a drink that balanced flavors in the most delightful way. Each sip was like a mini flavor explosion.

I couldn't help but notice the phenomenal service throughout the evening, with a special shout-out to my server, Zach. He effortlessly navigated the bustling restaurant, attending to each table with a warm smile and genuine enthusiasm. His knowledge of the menu was impressive, and he recommended the perfect dishes to match my taste buds.

Speaking of dishes, the entrees at Salty Sow were truly epic. The chefs have mastered the art of blending bold flavors and textures, resulting in a symphony of deliciousness on the plate. Every bite was a delightful journey, showcasing a harmonious balance of ingredients.

What impressed me the most about Salty Sow was the consistency of both the food and service. It's a place where you can return time and time again, knowing that you'll always be treated to an exceptional dining experience.

Now, let's talk about their fried chicken. I honestly cannot find the words to describe its epicness. Crispy, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying, this dish alone is worth a visit to Salty Sow.

In conclusion, Salty Sow is more than just a casual restaurant – it's a culinary experience. If you're looking for a place with fantastic cocktails, phenomenal service, epic entrees, and consistency in both food and service, then Salty Sow should be at the top of your list. Bon appétit!

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Austin Rotisserie

| Highlights |

| Delightful sandwich | | Flavourful chicken | | French baguette |

From the moment I entered Austin Rotisserie, the delightful aroma of flavourful chicken wafted through the air, instantly making my mouth water. It was clear that this place takes its rotisserie seriously.

I couldn't resist trying their renowned sandwich, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The chicken was tender and succulent, bursting with savory flavors that danced deliciously on my taste buds. The combination of the chicken and the French baguette was a match made in culinary heaven. The bread was crusty on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside, providing the perfect textural contrast to the juicy chicken.

The sandwich was dressed with a selection of fresh and crisp vegetables, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. The subtle tanginess of the condiments elevated the overall flavor profile, enhancing the already delectable experience.

What impressed me most about Austin Rotisserie was their commitment to quality. It was evident that they take pride in sourcing the finest ingredients to craft their mouthwatering offerings. The staff members were friendly and attentive, making sure every guest felt welcome and satisfied.

Overall, my visit to Austin Rotisserie was a true delight. The combination of a delightful sandwich, flavorful chicken, and the use of a French baguette created a culinary experience that will undoubtedly keep me coming back for more. If you're looking for a casual restaurant in Austin that serves tastefully crafted rotisserie dishes, Austin Rotisserie is the place to be.

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