Best Lunch Spots in Austin (2025)

Austin’s marquee lunch line for world-class brisket and ribs, serving from 11 a.m. until sellout. Recognized by the Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand and beloved by national critics, it’s the definitive East Side experience. ([franklinbbqcompany.com](https://franklinbbqcompany.com/?utm_source=openai), [guide.michelin.com](https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/texas/austin_2958315/restaurant/franklin-barbecue?utm_source=openai))

An East Austin staple carrying LeAnn Mueller’s legacy, now led by Ali Clem, known for peppery brisket, snappy house sausages, and sides with a kick. Awarded one Michelin star in 2024—expect a line and a lively crowd. ([guide.michelin.com](https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/texas/austin_2958315/restaurant/la-barbecue?utm_source=openai), [austin.eater.com](https://austin.eater.com/2024/11/11/24293767/2024-austin-michelin-star-restaurants-texas?utm_source=openai))

A beloved trailer turned 2025 brick-and-mortar inside a renovated East Side church, serving oak-smoked classics, mesquite-grilled specials, and house-made desserts. Open Thu–Sun from 11 a.m. until sold out; plenty of outdoor seating. ([craftmeatsaustin.com](https://www.craftmeatsaustin.com/?utm_source=openai), [axios.com](https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2025/04/16/micklethwait-barbecue-austin-texas?utm_source=openai))

Border-style tacos carved straight from the trompo, with handmade tortillas and salsas that pop. Open for breakfast through dinner; the al pastor and nopales make excellent midday fuel and are frequently praised by local editors. ([vaquerotaquero.com](https://www.vaquerotaquero.com/hours?utm_source=openai), [austin.eater.com](https://austin.eater.com/maps/best-tacos-austin/?utm_source=openai))

Sisters Reyna and Maritza Vazquez serve some of Austin’s most acclaimed tacos—migas, fish, and veggie—downtown with indoor seating and a patio. A perennial Eater favorite, perfect for a fast, fresh lunch near the lake. ([thelinehotel.com](https://www.thelinehotel.com/austin/restaurants-bars/veracruz-all-natural/?utm_source=openai), [austin.eater.com](https://austin.eater.com/maps/best-migas-austin-tex-mex-restaurants-tacos?utm_source=openai))

A vegetarian cornerstone since 2000 where tofu scrambles, veggie burgers, and Texas-pecan chipotle pesto draw loyal locals. Regularly celebrated by the Austin Chronicle’s readers; all-day lunch with a relaxed South First spirit. ([bouldincreekcafe.com](https://bouldincreekcafe.com/?utm_source=openai), [austinchronicle.com](https://www.austinchronicle.com/best-of-austin/year%3A2025/poll%3Areaders/category%3Afood-and-drink/bouldin-creek-cafe-vegetarian/?utm_source=openai))

Austin Vietnamese Food Truck Saigon Le Vendeur Opens New Restaurant | Eater Austin

After operating as a beloved Austin Vietnamese food truck since July 2013, the team has opened a brick-and-mortar restaurant at 2601 East Seventh Street, Unit 101 in the Holly neighborhood (the original truck up the street is now closed). The menu is largely carried over — banh mi with fillings like cold cuts and pâté, spicy chicken, grilled pork, tofu, or prawns; vermicelli bowls; skewers with grilled shrimp or octopus; egg rolls and spring rolls; and Vietnamese iced coffee — while the larger space allows for new and seasonal offerings such as curry ramen and desserts like ube tiramisu. Owner and chef Tebi Nguyen, whose group previously expanded with Le Bleu in North Shoal Creek and briefly operated a downtown truck, describes the restaurant opening as a long-awaited fulfillment of the team’s dream after a challenging two-year project. The new spot offers casual sit-down table service in an indoor dining room, daily hours from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and online takeout. - Nadia Chaudhury

Since 1938, this market-and-counter serves Gulf-to-table plates—oysters, po’boys, fried cod—at honest prices. Its lunch hours make it a neighborhood standby, and locals consistently commend its freshness and community focus. ([qualityseafoodmarket.com](https://qualityseafoodmarket.com/?utm_source=openai), [austinchronicle.com](https://www.austinchronicle.com/best-of-austin-restaurants/year%3A2024/poll%3Areaders/category%3Acuisine/3200489/?utm_source=openai))

A Mexico City–style taco truck known for suadero, longaniza, and nixtamal tortillas, earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand. Open for lunch with a devoted following at Arbor Food Park. ([austintexas.org](https://www.austintexas.org/listings/cuantos-tacos/13531/?utm_source=openai), [austin.eater.com](https://austin.eater.com/2024/11/11/24293767/2024-austin-michelin-star-restaurants-texas?utm_source=openai))

A converted bungalow near UT turning out house-made pickles, spreads, and peak-season sandwiches—think roast lamb with grilled eggplant or classic turkey on baguette. A longtime lunch favorite with deep local ties. ([foodheads.com](https://www.foodheads.com/location/foodheads/?utm_source=openai), [austinchronicle.com](https://www.austinchronicle.com/food/2010-01-01/933449/?utm_source=openai))