Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Arboretum

31 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Paul Martin's - Austin restaurant

1. Paul Martin's - Austin

4.6

Exceptional(2309)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • North Central

Booked 31 times today

At Paul Martin's American Grill in Austin's lively Domain NORTHSIDE, the essence of classic American cuisine is elevated through expertly mesquite-grilled premium cuts and fresh seafood. Diners rave about the authenticity and quality, celebrating dishes such as the "meaty and delicious" braised rib and the "perfectly seared" filet mignon. The restaurant's vibrant bar scene, complete with an extensive wine selection and shared plates like tacos, adds to the allure, making it a perfect spot for social gatherings. Reviewers consistently highlight the "exceptional food" and "phenomenal" butter cake, underscoring Paul Martin's as a cornerstone for culinary excellence in American cuisine. Regulars and newcomers alike are drawn to its "wonderful service" and the "great vibes," making every visit memorable.

2. Chez Zee

4.6

Exceptional(4572)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Northwest

Booked 42 times today

Chez Zee in Northwest Austin is a dessert lover's paradise, celebrated for its exceptional sweet treats that leave patrons raving. Diners particularly adore the crème brûlée French toast and the lemon lavender cake, heralding them as "beyond tasty" and "perfect." The restaurant's dedication to creating indulgent desserts shines through in glowing testimonials like, "Let's never forget ALL THOSE TASTY DESSERTS!!!" and the praise for their "magnificent array of appetizers and the main course." Chez Zee's atmosphere, described as fun and cheerful with twinkling lights, enhances the dessert experience, making each visit memorable. Whether for a special occasion or a casual outing, Chez Zee's desserts are a must-try in Austin.

3. Nido

4.7

Exceptional(1161)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Bouldin Creek

Booked 56 times today

Nido, nestled in the vibrant Bouldin Creek neighborhood of Austin, is a beacon of Lounge cuisine excellence, offering a unique blend of breathtaking city views and culinary mastery. Located atop The Loren at Lady Bird Lake, a spot celebrated by Conde Nast Traveller and Travel & Leisure Magazine, Nido provides an unparalleled Lounge experience. Guests rave about the "unbelievable bourbon selection" and "phenomenal" food, with the octopus carpaccio being a standout dish. The Lounge's ambiance is perfect for both lively gatherings and intimate nights out, with patrons frequently praising the "exceptional service" and the crafted cocktails, making Nido a must-visit for an authentic and upscale Lounge dining experience in Austin.

A photo of Jeffrey's Restaurant restaurant

4. Jeffrey's Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(2187)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Central Austin

Booked 23 times today

Jeffrey's Restaurant in Central Austin stands out as a premier Steakhouse destination, renowned for its exceptional dry-aged prime steaks. Since its establishment in 1975 and reinvention in 2012, Jeffrey's has been celebrated for not just its steaks but also its atmosphere and service. Patrons consistently rave about the quality of the dishes, with one stating, "The dry aged ribeye is a must!" and another noting, "Best filet ever. Can’t wait to go back next trip!" The restaurant's attention to detail and old-world service contribute to its reputation, making every dining experience memorable. Bon Appetit magazine recognized Jeffrey’s as one of the “Top 10 Best New Restaurants” in 2013, a testament to its enduring excellence and commitment to the finest Steakhouse cuisine.

5. Hestia

4.8

Exceptional(1903)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 32 times today

Hestia, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Austin, is a haven for Grill cuisine enthusiasts. Named after the Greek goddess of the hearth, Hestia truly celebrates the primal beauty of fire-cooked food. The restaurant's centerpiece, a majestic 20-ft hearth, isn't just visually stunning; it's the heart from which every dish pulses with authenticity and flavor. Diners consistently rave about the "amazing flavors" and "best tasting menu," highlighting specialties like the halibut, which has been described as "from another planet." The meticulously prepared grill items, such as the dry-aged wagyu and succulent pork chop, leave guests enthralled by the "incredible food" and "exceptional service." Hestia stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone craving a top-tier Grill experience in Austin.

6. P6

4.6

Exceptional(1122)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 18 times today

At P6 in downtown Austin, the essence of authentic American cuisine is elevated through a creative menu of contemporary small plates. Nestled atop a former 1960s parking garage, this rooftop gem offers a unique blend of history and modern culinary flair. Guests rave about the "fantastic food" and the inventive seasonal cocktails that pair perfectly with "technicolor Texas sunsets." With glowing testimonials like "the best food and such a beautiful outdoor seating" and "amazing waiter," it's clear why P6 is a cherished destination. Whether it's the shrimp and grits or the praised hummus, each dish is a testament to the quality and authenticity of American dining at its finest.

7. The Well

4.7

Exceptional(520)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 29 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Austin, The Well is a culinary jewel renowned for its exceptional American cuisine. With a commitment to sustainability, this restaurant sources its ingredients from local farms, ensuring that each dish not only tastes authentic but also supports local agriculture. The menu is a celebration of American flavors, with guests raving about options like the "best chicken ever" and "outstanding" ceviche. Diners consistently praise the "amazing and healthy" food, highlighting the restaurant's ability to cater to a variety of dietary needs without compromising on taste. The Well's dedication to quality is reflected in its glowing reviews, with one patron noting, "It’s amazing what you can serve gluten-free!" Whether you're a local or just passing through, The Well promises a dining experience that's both delicious and wholesome, making it a must-visit destination in Austin.

A photo of Foreign & Domestic - Austin restaurant

8. Foreign & Domestic - Austin

4.7

Exceptional(2038)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Central Austin

Booked 17 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Central Austin neighborhood, Foreign & Domestic stands out as a beacon of American cuisine with a creative twist. Celebrated for its dedication to farm-to-table dining, this cozy restaurant boasts a menu that reflects the very essence of American ingenuity, focusing on locally sourced ingredients. Patrons rave about the "imaginative and delicious" dishes, highlighting favorites like the gnocchi and popovers, which are described as "a must" by satisfied guests. The ambiance is consistently praised for its welcoming and engaging atmosphere, making it a cherished spot for both locals and visitors. Reviews frequently commend the exceptional service and the unique opportunity to watch skilled chefs at work, especially if you grab a seat at the counter. Whether it's the praised Sunday brunch or a dynamic dinner experience, Foreign & Domestic delivers an authentic slice of American dining with a memorable flair.

A photo of Honey Moon Spirit Lounge restaurant

9. Honey Moon Spirit Lounge

4.8

Exceptional(287)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Central Austin

Booked 8 times today

Honey Moon Spirit Lounge in Central Austin is a beacon for cocktail enthusiasts, celebrated for its "exquisite" craft cocktails that blend classic ingredients with a modern twist. This vintage-chic speakeasy doesn't just serve drinks; it crafts an intoxicating atmosphere that makes every sip feel special. Patrons rave about the cocktail quality, noting that they "can't stop thinking about" the memorable mixes. The lounge consistently impresses with its warm, welcoming staff and a vibe that's perfect for everything from "a romantic date" to "happy hour with the girls." Whether it's the balanced West Texas cocktail or the best margaritas some have ever had, Honey Moon Spirit Lounge stands out as a must-visit spot for authentic cocktail experiences in Austin.

A photo of The Guest House Austin restaurant

10. The Guest House Austin

4.6

Exceptional(188)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 17 times today

Welcome to The Guest House Austin, a vibrant gem in downtown Austin that offers a fresh take on Contemporary American cuisine. With its chic, energetic ambiance, this restaurant is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Diners rave about the "stunningly creative specialty drinks" and dishes with "unique slants and presentations." The theatrical cocktails and superior service, with shoutouts to staff like Regan and Sarah, highlight the restaurant's commitment to excellence. The Guest House Austin delivers an "extraordinary" dining experience that is both innovative and authentically American, making it a must-visit destination. As one diner put it, it's "amaIng food and spectacular service! overall 10/10 dinning experience" – truly a testament to its standout offerings in the heart of Austin.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

B
Barbara
Austin •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Chez zee American Bistro was excellent , staff was also excellent . Atmosphere was great food was exceptional , waiters were the best . Wonderful experience !!!! They are the very best in Austin . Thanks, Barbara Daugherty
More info
Chez ZeePrice: Moderate• American• Northwest
•
4.6
K
Kirsten
Austin •23 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Another wonderful experience at Paul Martin's, this time for brunch. This was our first brunch visit, and we met some friends for a holiday celebration. The food was delicious, and a great value for the quantity and quality. Some of the best service in Austin.
More info
Paul Martin's - AustinPrice: Expensive• American• North Central
•
4.6
M
MarkVIP
Houston •16 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Fantastic meal from starters to mains. The Razor Clams were so good we ordered it a second time. The Crystal Blue Prawns were very tasty as was the Octopus Carpaccio. We finished with the Lamb Ragu, which was outstanding. Service (KQ) and Sommelier (Nick) were attentive and friendly. Trenton in the bar area was great as well. We will be back when in town.
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NidoPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French / American• Bouldin Creek
•
4.7
C
Corey
Houston •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Every dish and every cocktail was outstanding. Flavor explosions with every bite, well balanced and unique cocktails. Gabby and Rudy took great care of us, George is a true hospitalitarian, and everyone who came to our table was so knowledgeable about the item they were serving. Great restaurant, great staff. Completely understandable why they earned a Michelin star. Run, don’t walk, to your reservation now!
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HestiaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
•
4.8
B
Bryan
Houston •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 23, 2024
Incredible place, always a great time. Sarah took great care of my table
More info
P6Price: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown
•
4.6

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Arboretum

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31 restaurants available nearby

1. Paul Martin's - Austin

2. Chez Zee

3. Nido

4. Jeffrey's Restaurant

5. Hestia

6. P6

7. The Well

8. Foreign & Domestic - Austin

9. Honey Moon Spirit Lounge

10. The Guest House Austin

See what locals rave about

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