South Austin's Best Lunch [Updated 2024]

Join me on this lighthearted culinary adventure as I share my top picks and unveil the hidden gems that South Austin has to offer. With a belly full of delicious meals, I have scoured the neighborhood, devoured numerous dishes, and personally reviewed eight outstanding lunch spots.

From food trucks to cozy cafes, this list has it all. So, grab your appetite and let's dive into the flavors, ambiance, and unique characteristics that make these eateries the crème de la crème.

Get ready to uncover the best lunch in South Austin, one bite at a time!

The Little Darlin'

Highlights
Chicken & Mac
Chicken Fried Steak
Huge outdoor space
Jalapeño popper dip
Delicious and creamy

Let me start by saying that The Little Darlin' has definitely earned its spot on my list of the best lunch spots in South Austin. As soon as I arrived, I was greeted by a charming and huge outdoor space, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal in the Texas sunshine.

I started my lunch with a bowl of Chicken & Mac, and boy, was it a delightful combination! The tender, juicy chicken paired perfectly with the creamy and cheesy macaroni. It was comfort food at its finest.

Next up, I couldn't resist trying their Chicken Fried Steak. The crispy breading gave way to a tender and flavorful steak that was simply mouthwatering. The accompanying sides were a perfect complement.

One standout dish that I highly recommend is their Jalapeño popper dip. The creamy, cheesy dip with just the right amount of jalapeño kick is perfect for sharing with friends over drinks, but be warned, it's addictive!

Throughout my dining experience, I couldn't help but notice the attention to detail in the flavors. Every bite was bursting with taste, and the creaminess of their dishes was absolutely divine.

In conclusion, The Little Darlin' is a must-visit for lunch in South Austin. With its delicious and creamy dishes, friendly atmosphere, and a fantastic outdoor space, it guarantees a delightful and satisfying dining experience. Don't miss out on this gem!

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Cafe Malta

Highlights
Neighborhood bistro
Seasonal menu
Fast and hot food
Friendly staff
Silky gnocchi

Walking into Cafe Malta feels like stepping into a charming neighborhood bistro. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with warm lighting and a relaxed vibe.

One of the highlights of Cafe Malta is their emphasis on a seasonal menu. This means that you can expect fresh, flavorful ingredients that are locally sourced. The menu changes regularly, giving you an opportunity to try new and exciting dishes with each visit.

When it comes to lunchtime, Cafe Malta really delivers on providing fast and hot food. The staff is efficient and friendly, ensuring you don't have to wait long for your meal. Speaking of the staff, they are always welcoming and ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions you may have.

During my visit, one dish that truly stood out was their silky gnocchi. The potato dumplings were perfectly cooked and swimming in a rich and indulgent sauce. The combination of flavors and textures was absolutely divine.

In a city filled with dining options, Cafe Malta offers a lunch experience that is unparalleled. From the cozy atmosphere to the friendly staff and the scrumptious meals, it's clear that they have truly mastered the art of providing a delightful lunch experience in South Austin. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to add Cafe Malta to your list of must-try lunch spots.

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Jalisco's Restaurant & Bar at Austin, TX

Highlights
Phenomenal service
Delicious food
Generous portions
Friendly atmosphere

Let me start by saying that the service at Jalisco's was nothing short of phenomenal. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and prompt attention. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and made sure I felt right at home.

Now, let's talk about the delicious food. There were so many options to choose from, it was like being a kid in a candy store. I opted for the chicken enchiladas, and they did not disappoint. The flavors were perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of spice. Each bite was a burst of savory goodness that left me craving for more.

One thing that struck me about Jalisco's was the generous portions. You definitely won't leave hungry. The enchiladas came with a side of freshly made guacamole and chips, which were a delightful addition to the meal. The portion sizes were large enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.

What really made my experience at Jalisco's memorable was the friendly atmosphere. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting vibe, with colorful decorations that added to the overall charm. It was the kind of place where you could relax, enjoy a great meal, and have a conversation without feeling rushed.

In conclusion, Jalisco's Restaurant & Bar is a hidden gem in South Austin. With its phenomenal service, delicious food, generous portions, and friendly atmosphere, it's no wonder why it's a contender for the best lunch spot in South Austin.

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THE GIT OUT BAR AND KITCHEN

Highlights
Super amazing food
Unique flavor combinations
Creative and crafted burgers

First things first, let me just say that the food at THE GIT OUT BAR AND KITCHEN is super amazing. From the moment I walked in, I could tell that this place is not your average lunch spot. The ambiance is casual yet trendy, setting the perfect scene for an unforgettable culinary journey.

What sets this place apart from the rest is their commitment to unique flavor combinations. Each dish on the menu is a work of art, carefully crafted to delight your taste buds. I opted for one of their creative burgers, and oh boy, was it a game-changer. The patty itself was juicy and perfectly cooked, but it's the toppings that stole the show. The combination of jalapeño cream cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy pickles provided a flavor explosion that I never knew I needed in my life.

The attention to detail that goes into each dish is truly impressive. Not only are the flavors perfectly balanced, but the presentation is also top-notch. The plates are like pieces of art, almost too pretty to eat (although I quickly got over that).

From the moment I took my first bite to the very last crumb, my taste buds were dancing with joy. THE GIT OUT BAR AND KITCHEN has truly earned its spot on the list of the best lunches in South Austin. So, if you find yourself in need of a lunch spot that offers not only amazing food but also a unique dining experience, this place should be your top choice. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Casa Garcia's - William Cannon

Highlights
Margaritas
Delicious dishes
Excellent service
Made in-house tortillas

Let me start by saying that if you're looking for a delightful lunch spot in South Austin, Casa Garcia's - William Cannon should be at the top of your list. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and a friendly "Bienvenidos!" from the staff.

Let's talk about the highlights of my visit. First and foremost, the margaritas at Casa Garcia's are simply sublime. I tried their classic margarita, and it was perfectly balanced with just the right amount of tequila and tanginess. It truly set the tone for a great lunch experience.

Speaking of the food, the menu at Casa Garcia's is a treasure trove of delicious dishes. I indulged in their enchiladas, and let me tell you, every bite was a burst of flavor. The ingredients were fresh, the spices were well-balanced, and the portion size was just right.

What impressed me even more was the excellent service. The waitstaff was attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure that I had a fantastic dining experience. They recommended their made in-house tortillas, which were a game-changer. Soft, warm, and perfectly doughy, they elevated every dish.

In conclusion, Casa Garcia's - William Cannon offers a lunch experience that is both enjoyable and memorable. With their outstanding margaritas, delectable dishes, and exceptional service, it's hard to find a better option in South Austin. So, if you're searching for the best lunch in the area, don't hesitate to visit Casa Garcia's. You won't be disappointed!

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Cruzteca Mexican Kitchen

Highlights
Generous portions
Tasty food
Reasonably priced
Excellent service
Cute atmosphere

As soon as I stepped into Cruzteca Mexican Kitchen, I was greeted with a friendly smile and a warm welcome. The cute atmosphere instantly put me in a joyful mood, ready to indulge in some delectable Mexican cuisine.

First and foremost, the portions at Cruzteca are generous. Each plate was filled to the brim with deliciousness. I couldn't help but marvel at the sizes of the tacos and burritos – they were practically bursting with filling. It was a feast for both my eyes and my growling stomach.

The taste of the food at Cruzteca is truly tasty. The flavors were vibrant and authentic. From the perfectly seasoned meats to the fresh and flavorful salsas, each bite was a delightful explosion of taste. I had a hard time choosing a favorite dish because everything was so mouthwatering.

What impressed me the most about Cruzteca was the reasonable prices. Despite the generous portions and high-quality ingredients, the menu was surprisingly affordable. I felt like I was getting a fantastic value for my money without sacrificing taste or portion size.

The service at Cruzteca was nothing short of excellent. The staff members were attentive, friendly, and always ready to offer suggestions or answer any questions. They truly went above and beyond to ensure that every customer had a pleasant dining experience.

In conclusion, Cruzteca Mexican Kitchen is a South Austin gem that deserves recognition in the search for the best lunch. Generous portions, tasty food, and reasonable prices make it a standout among its competitors. The excellent service and cute atmosphere add an extra touch of charm to the dining experience. So, if you're in the mood for a delicious Mexican lunch that won't break the bank, Cruzteca Mexican Kitchen should be your next stop. You won't be disappointed!

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Huckleberry

Highlights
Tasty seafood & burgers
Generous with crab in quesadilla
Refreshing watermelon salad

From the moment I stepped into Huckleberry, I could tell this place was special. The cheerful and rustic atmosphere made me feel right at home. The menu offered a diverse selection of options, ranging from seafood to burgers.

I decided to dive into their seafood selection and ordered their renowned crab quesadilla. Let me tell you, I was blown away! The quesadilla was packed with generous amounts of succulent crab meat that melted in my mouth with every bite. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the dish was accompanied by a zesty salsa that added a delightful kick.

For a lighter option, I also tried their watermelon salad. It was a refreshing surprise, with chunks of juicy watermelon paired perfectly with feta cheese and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. The combination of sweet and savory flavors danced on my taste buds, leaving me wanting more.

To top it all off, the service at Huckleberry was exceptional. The staff was attentive and friendly, making sure all my needs were met.

Overall, Huckleberry is a hidden gem in South Austin. Their tasty seafood, from the crab quesadilla to the fresh flavors of the watermelon salad, left me satisfied and wanting to come back for more. If you're looking for a unique and delicious lunch experience, don't miss out on Huckleberry.

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Evangeline Cafe

Highlights
Louisiana atmosphere
Consistent gumbo
Friendly staff
Tasty PoBoy

Stepping into Evangeline Cafe, I was immediately transported to the charming atmosphere of Louisiana. The lively decor, complete with Mardi Gras beads and colorful artwork, added a playful vibe to my lunch experience.

But it was the food that truly stole the show. Evangeline Cafe is famous for its consistent gumbo, and boy, did it live up to the hype! The rich blend of spices, tender chicken, and smoky sausage created a flavor explosion in my mouth. Each spoonful was a taste of New Orleans right here in South Austin.

The friendly staff were more than willing to guide me through the menu, and I decided to venture into the world of Po'Boys. And oh my, what a delightful decision that was! The pillow-soft bread perfectly encased the crispy shrimp, and every bite was met with a burst of flavor. It was like a party in my mouth, where the shrimp danced with the tangy remoulade sauce and the crunchy lettuce and tomatoes joined in for a savory celebration.

In a city with countless lunch options, Evangeline Cafe stood out as a true gem. The combination of the Louisiana atmosphere, consistent gumbo, and friendly staff made for a lunch experience that was both satisfying and memorable. Whether you're a fan of Cajun cuisine or simply looking for a tasty lunch, Evangeline Cafe is a must-visit spot in South Austin.

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