The Best Restaurants in South Austin - Austin - The Infatuation

"Perla’s has one of the most recognizable patios in Austin, in part because it’s located on a well-trafficked stretch of South Congress where the seafood spot’s beachy cheerfulness practically bleeds onto the sidewalk. The dining room is big and airy, but when the weather is nice—or you have a date who can’t resist the pull of string lights wrapped around oak trees—you’ll want to sit outside. Order rosé and fresh oysters to start, then grab New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, Spanish octopus, and whatever else catches your eye. Perla’s is equally fun at lunchtime, especially since that’s when they serve colossal po’boys overflowing with fried shrimp. Get access to exclusive reservations at this spot with Chase Sapphire Reserve. New cardmembers get $300 in annual dining statement credits." - matthew jacobs, nicolai mccrary