Discover Trending Restaurants in Austin

Sometimes, it’s the basics that keep people coming back again and again: good service, good atmosphere, and good food. Nightcap has all of these, plus a mission to create a cozy and intimate space for all diners, whether a couple on a date night or a group of friends celebrating a special occasion. Share some small, savory plates such as roasted shishito peppers or their famous kimchi fries. A bustling and cheerful venue with staff who make it their mission to look after hungry and happy diners.

In 2018, one critic hailed Emmer & Rye as the best restaurant in Austin right now, saying their dishes are "a study in flavor and textures." The name refers to two grains not so widely used these days, as the restaurant loves to explore using "relic," or heirloom, grains for their bread, pasta, and even dessert. The menu changes daily based on whatever fresh ingredients are available, and one of the most exciting ways to dine here is to sample the circulating dim sum carts. These carts hold around 10 different dishes each night, and servers are happy to recommend dishes and suitable wine pairings.

Dai Due is taking the farm-to-table ethos the furthest it can go, by sourcing as many ingredients locally as possible. Seasonal ingredients get pickled or preserved, smoked or fermented, to create a menu of exciting dishes that keeps diners coming back for more. Even the wines and beers are from Texas, and non-alcoholic drinks are all made in-house. Dai Due appeals to both old-school Austinites with its lack of pretention, and fans of trendy dining thanks to the enticing, seasonal offerings and "Supper Club" menu, including a mixed grill unlike any other.

The desirably placed Arlo Grey boasts stunning views over Town Lake and a chance to catch a sight of the famous Congress Bridge bats in flight. Once diners get over the amazing scenery, the menu wows them even more. Listed from the lightest to the heaviest dishes, Top Chef winner Kristen Kish’s dishes explore French and Italian influences, utilizing the bounty of Texan ingredients in new and exciting ways. Enjoy a satisfying brunch or a fine dinner in a sleek and contemporary setting. For a quirky extra, look out for Kristen’s story painted across a corner wall.

Downtown Austin is full of busy people looking for a cool place to grab a drink and a bite to eat after a hard day at work. Wink welcomes food lovers with open arms, and offers superb wines and a menu that has made the restaurant "a vital piece of the Austin dining landscape," according to one critic. Diners looking for a trendy spot to enjoy some top cuisine should check out the chef’s tasting menus, with delights such as beef tataki, Hamachi sashimi, and grilled venison with bok choy. Truly one of the most trendy restaurants in Austin today.

With former Uchi creative director Nicholas Yanes involved, it’s no surprise that Italian -inspired restaurant Juniper is making waves in the trendy Austin dining scene. The outside is smart and fairly unassuming, with a small seating area for al fresco dining. Inside, the décor is cool and contemporary, with a menu to match. Dishes range from small plates of smoked whitefish spread and roasted beets, to pan-roasted fish with pea ragu. When booking for a special occasion, let the staff know as they might provide a special surprise.

Billed as a "nose to tail, farm to table dining experience," Foreign & Domestic is an intimate, neighborhood restaurant frequented by locals and tourists alike. The nose to tail tasting menu perfectly demonstrates the restaurant’s ethos, with dishes such as sweetbread roulade and seared lamb heart. A real treat for the adventurous diners out there! More standard fare includes gnocchi, braised pork, and the ever-popular popovers. Tuesday to Saturday diners should look out for happy hour at 5:30 p.m.

Although technically a gastropub, Sixth Street’s Parkside is a hot destination for diners looking for the best range of raw oysters and a dramatic yet seasonal menu. Exposed brickwork and unadorned lightbulbs add to the contemporary vibe, while dishes such as braised oxtail agnolotti and marrow bones with herb salad keep diners coming back for more. Reviewers get very excited about the crispy calamari and garlic fries. This trendy restaurant in Austin is a great place to celebrate with friends and fine food.

Why is Uchi consistently hailed as one of the top trendy restaurants in Austin, and even the whole of America? It could be chef and sushi master Tyson Cole’s mission to get customers to be as fanatical about Japanese food as he is. Or maybe it’s the intriguing combinations of flavors like salmon and blueberries, or yellowtail with Asian pear. It could even be the simple wood and striking floral panels that bring a touch of Japanese culture to South Lamar. Brave, bold, and always trying new things, Uchi is bound to be an Austin hot spot for many years to come.

Farm to table is a phrase that really means something at Wu Chow, the home of authentic, modern Chinese food in the middle of downtown Austin. Both the executive and dim sum chefs trained in China, and all eight styles of Chinese cuisine appear on the extensive menu. One of the most exciting weekly events at Wu Chow is the Sunday dim sum brunch, where waiters serve potstickers and dumplings as fast as diners can eat them. Wash the meal down with a refreshing Tsingtao shandy, with added lime and ginger for a more Oriental twist.

Austin has always been famous for Tex-Mex fare, but for those who want to try some hip yet traditional Mexican food, La Condesa delivers this in a truly urban setting. The stunning mural across the back wall is a riot of color and joy, while the patio allows for some professional people-watching and a chance to soak up the bustling atmosphere of the city. Diners enjoy the carne asada and the detailed and flavorful cocktail menu. Check out happy hour for half-price bar snacks and the famous guacamole sampler.

The sister restaurant to the popular and very cool Uchi, Uchiko is another brainchild of Tyson Cole. This restaurant has a little less focus on the sushi, making for a more well-rounded menu. Uchiko dedicates itself to sustainability; ideal for ethical eaters. The 10-course tasting menu is a big hit with diners who want to take their time and really enjoy the experience. Servers are happy to advise on the menu and make recommendations. Look out for the quirky ham and eggs roll and coffee bacon.

Manor Road is a bit of a go-to spot in Austin right now for exciting food and drink. The Salty Sow stands out from the crowd with its quirky décor and outdoor dining area known as the Pig Pen. There’s no mistaking what’s on the menu here. Images of pigs are everywhere, just to remind diners of the star of the show. There’s plenty of "non-sow" options though, from green chile grits to crispy chicken thighs. A fun and vibrant restaurant with an excellent happy hour.