Best Downtown Austin Restaurants and Bars | Eater Austin

"When it comes to restaurants that feel like true Austin institutions, Texas Chili Parlor, which opened a year before chili was proclaimed the official state dish in 1976, still reigns supreme. This venerable and very retro spot’s indoor dining room serves up genuine Texas beef chili (with no beans, of course), but Texas Chili Parlor also offers a vegan chili with beans in the name of open-mindedness. In addition to the classic “bowl of red,” Texas Chili Parlor will provide its chili atop potatoes as part of a tasting sampler, with eggs, or in its most recommended form: on top of cheese enchiladas. Be sure to grab an ice-cold beer or a potent margarita to complete this thoroughly Austin experience." - Taylor Tobin