The Absolute Best Gumbo in Austin [Updated 2024]

Are you ready to embark on a delicious adventure through the flavorful world of gumbo? Look no further, because I have personally reviewed not just one, but eight incredible gumbo spots in Austin.

From the rich and hearty roux to the tantalizing blend of spices, each establishment has its own unique take on this beloved Cajun dish. So put on your bib and get ready to dive into bowls of steaming goodness.

Whether you're a gumbo connoisseur or just looking to satisfy your cravings, I've got you covered. Let's find the best gumbo in Austin together!

Turf N' Surf Po Boy

Highlights
Superb seafood
Fresh and balanced
Generous portion size
Best hush pups
Friendly staff

Let me start by saying that if you're a seafood lover, this place is an absolute must-visit. The gumbo at Turf N' Surf Po Boy is on another level! As soon as I took my first spoonful, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

The gumbo here is nothing short of superb. Packed with a variety of fresh seafood, including shrimp, crab, and fish, every bite is a flavorful delight. The balance of flavors is truly impressive, with just the right amount of spices and a rich, hearty broth that is simply irresistible.

One thing that really stands out about Turf N' Surf Po Boy's gumbo is the generous portion size. You definitely won't leave this place hungry! They don't skimp on the ingredients, ensuring that every bowl is filled to the brim with goodness.

But the gumbo isn't the only star of the show here; the hush puppies are simply to die for. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they are the perfect accompaniment to the gumbo. Be sure to save room for them, as they are truly the best I've had in Austin.

Lastly, I must mention the friendly staff. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warmth and enthusiasm. They were more than willing to answer any questions I had and provided excellent recommendations.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best gumbo in Austin, look no further than Turf N' Surf Po Boy. With its superb seafood, fresh and balanced flavors, generous portions, and delightful hush puppies, this place is a winner. The friendly staff is just the cherry on top. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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Cypress Grill

Highlights
Great Louisiana cuisine
Hidden gem in a small shopping center
Excellent bartender and welcoming atmosphere
Delicious seafood platter with crispy catfish
Reasonable prices and great atmosphere

Let me just start by saying that Cypress Grill is a hidden gem that Austin gourmands absolutely cannot miss. Tucked away in a small shopping center, this restaurant serves up some of the best Louisiana cuisine I've had the pleasure to taste.

Upon entering, I was immediately welcomed by the friendly staff and was seated in a cozy corner booth. The bartender was excellent, mixing up some refreshing cocktails that perfectly complemented the Cajun flavors I was about to indulge in.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the gumbo. The gumbo at Cypress Grill is simply sublime. It's rich, flavorful, and packed with all the traditional ingredients that make this dish a Southern favorite. The seafood platter was an absolute standout, with plump shrimp, tender crab, and crispy catfish that added a delightful crunch to each bite. Every spoonful of gumbo was a burst of warmth and comfort, transporting me straight to the bayous of Louisiana.

What impressed me even more was the reasonable prices for the quality and quantity of food served. It's evident that Cypress Grill is committed to providing an authentic Louisiana experience without breaking the bank.

The atmosphere at Cypress Grill is welcoming and laid-back, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch with friends or a cozy dinner with a loved one. If you're looking for the best gumbo in Austin, look no further than Cypress Grill. Trust me, this place is a culinary treasure that will leave you craving for more.

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French Quarter Grille

Highlights
Authentic
Spicy
Romantic Vibe
Cozy
Jazz

Upon stepping into the restaurant, I was immediately transported to the vibrant streets of New Orleans. The authentic atmosphere, complete with Mardi Gras decorations and a lively jazz band, set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. As a gumbo enthusiast, I was thrilled to see that it was prominently featured on the menu.

With heightened anticipation, I eagerly ordered a bowl of their spicy gumbo. The aroma alone was enough to make my taste buds tingle in excitement. The first spoonful confirmed that this was no ordinary gumbo. The rich and flavorful broth coated my palate, while the tender chunks of chicken and succulent shrimp added a delightful texture to each bite. I savored the delicate balance of spices, their heat building up gracefully with each spoonful.

Not only did the gumbo surpass my expectations, but the cozy ambiance of the restaurant added to the overall experience. Dimly lit, with candles flickering on each table, French Quarter Grille exuded a romantic vibe that made the meal even more enjoyable. The staff were attentive and friendly, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In my quest for the best gumbo in Austin, French Quarter Grille has definitely stood out. Their gumbo has all the qualities I look for in a perfect bowl - it's authentic, spicy, and flavorful. Whether you're craving a taste of New Orleans or simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a meal, this restaurant is a must-visit for gumbo enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

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Perla's

Highlights
Fantastic meal
Good service
Fun location
Top notch food
Phenomenal atmosphere

Walking into Perla's, I immediately felt drawn by its playful and lively atmosphere. The restaurant is beautifully decorated, with a mix of vibrant colors and coastal-inspired accents that transport you to a beachside seafood shack. But let's get down to business – the gumbo.

Let me just say, the gumbo at Perla's is a fantastic meal in itself. It's evident that the chefs take pride in their craft, as every spoonful bursts with flavors that dance on your taste buds. The combination of tender shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and perfectly cooked rice is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. Plus, the rich and savory roux base had me scraping the bowl clean.

Not only was the gumbo top notch, but the service was also excellent. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu, making recommendations with a genuine enthusiasm that made the experience even more enjoyable. They truly made me feel like a valued guest, and it's always a pleasure to be served by a team that knows how to create a memorable dining experience.

Perla's also scores high points for its fun location on South Congress Avenue. The outdoor patio buzzes with activity, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying your gumbo inside or out, you're guaranteed a fantastic time in a place that feels more like a lively gathering of friends than a restaurant.

When it comes to finding the best gumbo in Austin, Perla's holds its own. With its phenomenal atmosphere, good service, and dishes that make your taste buds do a happy dance, it's definitely a contender for gumbo glory. So, if you're in the mood for a gumbo experience that not only satisfies your taste buds but also delights your senses, make your way to Perla's. You won't be disappointed.

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New Orleans Gumbeaux 2 Geaux

Highlights
Delicious Cajun
Welcoming staff
Worth the wait
Home cooking

As soon as I walked into New Orleans Gumbeaux 2 Geaux, the aroma of delicious Cajun flavors hit me like a musical note from a jazz saxophone. The atmosphere instantly transported me to the vibrant streets of the Big Easy. The walls were adorned with colorful Mardi Gras masks, giving the place an authentic and lively feel.

The moment I sat down, the welcoming staff made me feel right at home. They were friendly and knowledgeable about their gumbo varieties, patiently explaining the different ingredients and cooking techniques. They clearly have a passion for bringing a slice of Louisiana to Austin.

Now, let's talk about the gumbo itself. Oh boy, was it worth the wait! The rich, smoky aroma teased my taste buds, and every spoonful felt like a celebration in my mouth. The combination of tender seafood, succulent sausage, and perfectly seasoned broth was nothing short of a culinary experience. I could taste the love and effort that went into this home-cooked pot of perfection.

At New Orleans Gumbeaux 2 Geaux, they take gumbo seriously. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors, with just the right level of heat and a depth of spices that made my palate dance. The gumbo was served with a side of freshly baked cornbread, which was a wonderful accompaniment to soak up all that goodness.

In my quest to find the best gumbo in Austin, I can confidently say that New Orleans Gumbeaux 2 Geaux stands out as a top contender. The authentic Cajun flavors, welcoming staff, and the undeniable taste of home cooking make this place a gem in the city. Don't miss the opportunity to try their gumbo—it's a true taste of New Orleans right here in Austin.

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Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar

Highlights
Generous portions
Excellent seafood
Friendly service
Southern hospitality
Must try boudin BALLZ

Let me start by saying that I was blown away by the generous portions of gumbo at this cozy little shack. As soon as the bowl was placed in front of me, I couldn't help but smile in anticipation. And boy, did it deliver!

The gumbo at Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar is a seafood lover's dream come true. It was chock-full of tender shrimp, succulent crab meat, and perfectly cooked oysters. Every bite was a burst of flavor that left me wanting more. The combination of spices and seasoning was spot-on, striking the perfect balance between heat and depth.

What truly impressed me, though, was the outstanding service. The staff at Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar treated me like an old friend, offering warm smiles and Southern hospitality. They were incredibly attentive, making sure that I had everything I needed to enjoy my meal to the fullest.

To top it all off, I have to mention the boudin BALLZ – yes, you read that right! These delightful little morsels were packed with flavor and had a crispy, golden exterior. They were the perfect complement to the already fantastic gumbo.

Overall, my experience at Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar was nothing short of delightful. From the excellent seafood to the friendly service, this place truly stands out among the sea of gumbo options in Austin. If you're looking for an unforgettable gumbo experience, make sure to visit Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar.

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Hoover's Cooking

Highlights
Excellent food
Great staff
Huge portions
Reasonably priced

Let's start off with the fact that I was blown away by the gumbo at Hoover's Cooking. It was truly a masterpiece that elevated my taste buds to gumbo heaven. The bold and rich flavors of the roux combined with the perfectly cooked shrimp, sausage, and chicken made every bite an explosion of culinary delight.

Now, let's talk about the portions. Huge doesn't even begin to accurately describe the serving size at Hoover's Cooking. This establishment knows how to make sure their customers never leave hungry. Every bowl of gumbo was filled to the brim, leaving enough to take home for a second meal the next day. It's like they knew I would want to relive the gumbo experience all over again.

Beyond the gumbo, the overall dining experience at Hoover's Cooking was top-notch. The staff were friendly, attentive, and had a genuine passion for the food they served. They were more than willing to answer any questions I had and made great recommendations. Their expertise and enthusiasm only added to the enjoyment of the meal.

One of the highlights of my experience was the price. For the quality and quantity of food, Hoover's Cooking offers incredible value. The gumbo was reasonably priced, allowing me to indulge in this delectable dish without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, Hoover's Cooking is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking the best gumbo in Austin. The excellent food, great staff, huge portions, and reasonable prices make it a standout among other gumbo spots in the city. If you're in the mood for some soul-warming gumbo, make your way to Hoover's Cooking and let your taste buds embark on a savory journey.

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The Original New Orleans Po-Boy and Gumbo Shop

Highlights
Great tasting Gumbo
Off the charts Hush pups
Friendly and polite staff
Generously powdered Beignets

Let me tell you, folks, this place knows how to make a great tasting gumbo! As soon as I stepped into the restaurant, the aroma of simmering flavors filled the air, instantly making my mouth water in anticipation.

But first, let me talk about their hush pups. Oh my goodness, these little balls of heaven were off the charts! Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. Each bite was like a burst of savory goodness that left me wanting more.

The staff at The Original New Orleans Po-Boy and Gumbo Shop were not only friendly but also extremely knowledgeable. They were more than happy to answer my questions and recommend other menu items. Their polite and efficient service made my overall dining experience even more enjoyable.

Now, let's talk about the main event - the gumbo. Oh boy, was I in for a treat! The rich and hearty broth was packed with a medley of ingredients. From plump and juicy shrimp to succulent pieces of chicken and andouille sausage - each spoonful was a delight. The flavors were perfectly balanced, with a hint of spices that added a nice touch of heat without overpowering the dish.

And let's not forget to mention their beignets. These deep-fried pillows of dough, generously powdered with sugar, were simply irresistible. They were light, fluffy, and the perfect way to end a delicious meal.

I can confidently say that The Original New Orleans Po-Boy and Gumbo Shop in Austin is definitely a contender for the best gumbo in the city. Whether you're craving some authentic Cajun flavors or simply want to satisfy your culinary curiosity, make sure to pay them a visit. You won't be disappointed.

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