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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Central Austin

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30 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Aris restaurant
1. Aris
4.7
Exceptional(99)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mediterranean • Austin
Booked 45 times today
Discover Austin’s newest dining gem, Aris, brought to you by Sof Hospitality. Located in opulent Clarksville, Aris blends modern Mediterranean cuisine with stunning design. Enjoy prime dry-aged steaks, fresh fish, and vegetable-forward dishes in a lively, terracotta-accented space. With a curated wine and cocktail program, and an inviting atmosphere, Aris is the perfect spot to gather, celebrate, and unwind. Open daily at 5 p.m.
A photo of Paperboy restaurant
2. Paperboy
4.9
Exceptional(280)
Price: Expensive
• Breakfast • East Austin
Booked 62 times today
Paperboy is a breakfast and lunch spot, known for its thoughtfully curated menu and comfortable atmosphere. We use simple, quality ingredients in our dishes, with bread, juices, sauces and preserves made in-house. Whether you grab a pastry and coffee to go or sit and enjoy a meal with your friends, we put just as much thought and care into the Paperboy experience as the food itself.
A photo of Sammie's Italian restaurant
3. Sammie's Italian
4.8
Exceptional(1531)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 49 times today
Sammie’s is a little taste of old Italy in downtown Austin. It celebrates the great ‘red sauce’ institution—inspired by old school, legendary Italian-American restaurants. The menu offers classic dishes in a casual but sophisticated, retro-designed space that is both lively and comfortable, capturing the essence of a night out at your favorite neighborhood joint. The space consists of a central dining room overlooking Shoal Creek and 6th Street, polished wood bar, Mildred’s Room (a private dining/wine room), and wraparound patio dining area. Please note that patio seating is weather contingent. The menu offers riffs on standards including Housemade Mozzarella Sticks, Clams Casino, and Caesar Salad a la Tommy; timeless pastas like Spaghetti with Meatballs, and Linguine Vongole; and Sammie’s Classics: big portions of iconic plates like Chicken and Eggplant Parmigiana, Veal Marsala, and Baked Manicotti.
A photo of Sushi Endo restaurant
4. Sushi Endo
5.0
Exceptional(114)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative Japanese • Old West Austin
Booked 6 times today
For only $150 a seat for a limited time, experience the exquisite craftsmanship of Chef Endo Yasuhiro's 20-course omakase at our establishment, a collaboration with the renowned Sushi Nakazawa of Washington D.C. and New York City fame. Indulge in a culinary journey meticulously curated by Chef Endo, showcasing the finest ingredients and traditional techniques.Enhancing your dining experience, our custom bar features an impressive selection of rare Japanese whiskies, top-rated sake, and artisanal beers sourced from both local and Japanese breweries. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Japan as you savor each sip and bite.To further entice your palate, please note that our menu changes daily, ensuring that you experience the freshest and most seasonal offerings handpicked by Chef Endo himself. Join us and embark on a culinary adventure like no other.
A photo of Yamas Austin restaurant
5. Yamas Austin
4.5
Awesome(1189)
Price: Expensive
• Greek • Austin
Booked 65 times today
For parties of 12 or more, please email reservations@yamasatx.com. We look forward to having you dine with us.
A photo of Nômade restaurant
6. Nômade
4.7
Exceptional(520)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Mexican • Austin
Booked 49 times today
Nômade is a gem in Austin, transporting visitors to the Yucatán with its open-fire grills and flavors that are both authentic and creative. As one reviewer put it, 'the food is delicious and interesting - flavors are authentic with a twist.' It's not just about the food, though - the ambiance is consistently praised as a 'vacation mode' and the service is 'wonderful, professional and caring.' It's a must-visit for any foodie or anyone seeking a unique dining experience.
A photo of Wu Chow-Downtown restaurant
7. Wu Chow-Downtown
4.6
Exceptional(2215)
Price: Expensive
• Chinese • Downtown
Booked 57 times today
We are now open for Dine-in, Patio Service, Curbside, and Delivery! Lunch Monday - Friday 11am - 2pm Dinner Monday – Thursday 5pm–10pm | Friday – Saturday 5pm–11pmSunday Dim Sum 11am–3pm Happy Hour | Monday -- Friday (Cocktail Area & Patio Only) 5pm–6pmWu Chow brings authentic, farm-fresh, modern Chinese food to the heart of downtown Austin, offering dishes representative of all eight styles of Chinese cuisine, as well as Dim Sum service on Sunday's -- dine-in or to go!
A photo of Lucky Robot restaurant
8. Lucky Robot
4.7
Exceptional(1244)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Bouldin Creek
Booked 42 times today
Lucky Robot is a gem in Austin, known for its unique blend of Modern Nikkei cuisine and traditional sushi. As one reviewer put it, it's 'such a great place!' with 'interesting and varied menus', 'beautiful dining rooms' and 'excellent food and service'. Their 'quality food' and 'impeccable' service make it worth the visit. Plus, they're committed to sustainability and healthy oceans, making every bite a conscious choice.
A photo of Top Roe restaurant
9. Top Roe
4.5
Awesome(33)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Downtown
Booked 15 times today
Top Roe is a Yōshoko Japanese restaurant located in Austin Texas. Created by Executive Chef Paul Qui, there are two experiences offered under one roof: Top Roe Izakaya and Top Roe Hand Roll. Our 12-seat handroll counter operates on a first come, first served basis. Because no one likes a soggy handroll, Top Roe’s handrolls are exclusively offered at the handroll counter. The handroll counter also encourages a 30-to-45-minute dining experience to preserve the integrity of the freshly made handrolls. Top Roe’s menu in the izakaya-style dining room offers a small plate menu featuring agemono(fried dishes), yakimono (grilled dishes) and cold plates dictated by what’s available from Qui’s favorite local farms and meat and seafood purveyors. Stay for a while if you’d like! The izakaya dining room is designed to welcome longer dining experiences than its in-and-out handroll bar counterpart.
A photo of Corinne - Downtown restaurant
10. Corinne - Downtown
4.3
Awesome(569)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown
Booked 41 times today
Corinne, in downtown Austin, Texas, is worth the drive for its modern American cuisine and exceptional service. As per the reviews, it's a vibrant spot with delicious food like the baked half rotisserie chicken and wagyu beef. The service is praised for being knowledgeable and attentive. Even with the limited menu, each dish is carefully curated for a great experience. The ambiance is described as social and energetic. It's a great place for a family meal, date night, or special occasions.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Central Austin

Discover the culinary treasures of Central Austin with our curated list of restaurants that are truly "worth the drive". Each dining spot offers a unique blend of flavors, atmosphere, and top-notch service that stands out in the vibrant Austin food scene. Whether you're craving innovative Tex-Mex, authentic Interior Mexican cuisine, or farm-to-table freshness, these establishments promise an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Central Austin is not just a hub for political and cultural activities; it’s also a thriving gastronomic center known for its eclectic food offerings that cater to all taste buds. Our selection focuses on restaurants that not only provide exceptional meals but also enrich your dining experience with their charming ambiances and expert staff. Perfect for a special occasion or a delightful culinary exploration, these restaurants make every drive worthwhile. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination as you explore these gastronomic gems in Central Austin.

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