10 East Austin Restaurants You Can't Miss

Table of Contents

1. Suerte

2. Launderette

3. Kemuri Tatsu-ya

4. Justine’s Brasserie

5. Ramen Tatsu-ya

6. Nixta Taqueria

7. Zilker Brewing Co. + Spicy Boys

8. All Day Pizza

9. Paperboy

10. Birdie’s

Austin's East Side has become the coolest hub for dining, where forward-thinking chefs find creative ways to reinvent classic dishes and present their new ideas to eager diners. Known for its lively atmosphere, eclectic crowd, and proximity to fantastic live music bars, Austin’s East Side neighborhood offers a culinary adventure for every palate. From upscale dining to casual eats, here are 10 East Austin restaurants you won’t want to miss.

1. Suerte

For an unforgettable Mexican dining experience, the award-winning Suerte stands out for its handmade masa creations and rich, flavorful dishes. Signature menu items like the suadero tacos (made with confit wagyu brisket, black magic oil, avocado crudo, onion, and cilantro) and ceviche de trucha (rainbow trout, carrot- costeño broth, apple and grapefruit pico, and watermelon radish) showcase authentic flavors with a modern twist. Every tortilla is crafted in-house from heirloom corn, giving each bite a depth of flavor that sets Suerte apart. The restaurant’s inviting ambiance, thoughtful cocktail program, and attentive service make it a must-visit. Don’t miss their sister restaurant, Este, for a seafood-focused dining experience with equally impressive flavors, including whole grilled fish and ceviche.

2. Launderette

Housed in a converted laundromat, Launderette blends Mediterranean and American cuisines with an eclectic menu that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more. Standouts like the shawarma cauliflower and wood-grilled Texas redfish are expertly executed, while their plancha burger, made with a special sauce, has developed a cult following. The restaurant's inviting outdoor patio is relaxed yet chic, making it perfect for brunch, a casual lunch, or a romantic evening out. Save room for dessert—Launderette’s birthday cake ice cream sandwich is a playful and delicious treat. The corn cake is worth a try, too, made with goat’s milk gelato, cajeta, and bee pollen. 

3. Kemuri Tatsu-ya

Blending Japanese izakaya dining with Texas smokehouse flavors, Kemuri Tatsu-ya delivers a one-of-a-kind menu with dishes like taiyaki cornbread, chili cheese takoyaki, BBQ eel, sashimi, skewers, and BBQ brisket hot pockets. Their creative fusion of East and West is evident in every plate, and their sake and Japanese whiskey selection is equally impressive. The restaurant’s dimly lit, cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot for an intimate dinner or a unique date night. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails or explore their extensive sake list for the full experience. 

4. Justine’s Brasserie

For a taste of Paris, Justine’s Brasserie offers a chic and intimate dining experience with an electric, artsy ambiance. Known for their steak frites, escargot, and classic French onion soup made with Comte cheese, Justine’s transports diners to a stylish bistro in the heart of France. The extensive wine list includes excellent French vintages, and the cocktail program is equally refined. Whether you’re dining inside listening to live music or enjoying the charming patio and house-like setup, Justine’s is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. 

5. Ramen Tatsu-ya

A collaboration between two local chefs and DJs, Ramen Tatsu-ya is a standout in Austin’s ramen scene thanks to rich broths, perfectly cooked noodles, and bold flavors. Popular choices like THE OG Tonkotsu, with its deeply flavorful pork broth, and the MI-SO-NOT, a vegetarian-friendly bowl with umami-packed miso flavors, highlight their dedication to Japanese comfort food. The restaurant’s casual setting and lively atmosphere adds to its welcoming charm. If you’re looking for a satisfying and warming meal, Ramen Tatsu-ya is the place for that. 

6. Nixta Taqueria

Blurring the line between playful and precise, Nixta Taqueria has embraced a "maíz revolution," transforming heritage ingredients into contemporary Mexican dishes. Their approach to nixtamalization—an ancient process of treating corn to enhance its flavor and texture—results in some of the most flavorful tortillas in town. Signature dishes like the duck carnitas tacos and the carrot tostada highlight their ability to honor tradition while reimagining classics. The vibrant, colorful space and laid-back feel make it a must-visit for taco lovers and foodies. 

7. Zilker Brewing Co. + Spicy Boys Food Truck

Craft beer lovers should head to Zilker Brewing Co., where industrial-chic design meets innovative brewing techniques. Their rotating selection of beers, from hazy IPAs to crisp lagers, ensures there’s something for every palate. While you sip, indulge in spicy, flavorful bites from Spicy Boys Fried Chicken, which is all fried chicken sandwiches with Southeast Asian influences. Choose between the fried chicken sandwich and the vegetarian fried tempeh sandwich — sides like tater tots and the banana pudding dessert perfectly complements a cold pint.

8. All Day Pizza

Located in Daydreamer, a cute cocktail bar on popular East Sixth, All Day Pizza, offers crave-worthy slices, with options like the cacio e pepe, margherita, and house-made stracciatella, which will delight any cheese enthusiast. Whether you're in the mood for a perfectly paired wine and pizza night or just grabbing a quick slice, this spot offers an indulgent experience in a dreamy setting.

9. Paperboy

Exclusively open for brunch daily, Paperboy delivers a memorable start to your day with dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients. Their Texas hash, made with roasted pork, sweet potato, onion, kale, a poached egg, and pecan mole, is a favorite among regulars, and their house-made pastries like the blueberry lemon roll make for the perfect accompaniment to their expertly brewed coffee (no one will judge if you go for the cold brew martini, instead). With a beautiful rooftop patio that offers a great view of the city, Paperboy is an ideal spot for a leisurely weekend brunch. While reservations are recommended, dedicated walk-in tables are available—though a wait is likely during peak hours. 

10. Birdie’s

Not just a restaurant but also a wine bar, Birdie’s reimagines the dining experience with a "fine-casual" approach, offering counter-service dining with elevated dishes inspired by French and Italian cuisines. Their dynamic menu changes frequently, but standout items include house-made pastas, fried polenta, seasonal crudos, and thoughtfully curated natural wines. Despite its casual service model, Birdie’s delivers a refined and deeply satisfying dining experience, and its setting makes it a favorite among those looking for high-quality food without the formality of traditional fine dining. Be warned, if you go during prime dinner hours there will likely be a line however Birdie’s offers a wine service while you wait making that time fly by. 

Enhance Your Next Trip to Austin With Placemakr

East Austin's diverse dining scene delivers everything from authentic Mexican flavors to elevated French bistro fare. Whether you're craving bold ramen, craft beer with spicy bites, or creative brunch dishes, this neighborhood has it all. 

To fully experience the culinary delights of East Austin, consider staying a while. Placemakr has two different apartment-style hotels in Austin, with amenities like chef-ready kitchens (for the days you want to stay in and cook), laundry facilities, an outdoor pool (at the Downtown location), lounges/co-working spaces, and stunning city views. Book your room for a seamless and convenient stay, ensuring you're never too far from your next great meal.