Shady Grove

Restaurant · Zilker

Shady Grove

Restaurant · Zilker

1624 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Highlights

Casual spot with a big patio offering Tex-Mex classics & burgers, plus live music under pecan trees.

1624 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704 Get directions

$$ · Menu

@infatuation

"When we make our way to heaven (fingers crossed), we hope it’s something like Shady Grove. This is everything you could ever hope for out of an Austin restaurant, from its Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives-worthy menu to its ridiculously strong frozen cocktails. We’d be tempted to say that the most wonderful thing about this Tex-Mex classic is its sprawling outdoor patio with big pecan trees to shade you from that brutal Texas sun. But then there’s the chicken fried steak. And the queso. And the Hippie Sandwich. And the huge stock of Austin craft beers. And the live music and people-watching. This spot is by no means an appropriate venue for Instagram-obsessed food bloggers or people that wear high heels. This is a place known for its ambiance, destined for day-drinking or evening-chilling glory while being surrounded by all that is good in the state of Texas. Food Rundown Burger One of our favorite Austin activities is eating this burger out on Shady Grove’s patio. Simple, classic, and super satisfying. Chicken Fried Steak This might be the best CFS in town. Queso Shady Grove does a great queso. Definitely get one for the table." - Calais Zagarow

Shady Grove Review - Zilker - Austin - The Infatuation

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@eater

"Shady Grove was an Austin Southwestern restaurant operated by Chuy’s co-founders Mike Young and John Zapp from 1992 to 2020." - Nadia Chaudhury

Chuy’s Gets Acquired by Darden Restaurants Group - Eater Austin

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@eater

"Along with others like Shady Grove, Barracuda, Plush, and the North Door, just to name a few." - Hannah Schon

How to Support Austin Music Venues During COVID-19 - Eater Austin

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Sebastian Cocchi

Google

Fun environment with live music. Drinks are great. Lots of drink specials. Friendly staff. Overall food is mediocre at best. Great sounding options, but all taste rather bland. Overall a fun Austin experience but food quality can definitely be found at many other places.

Alicia Mariah Elfving (MotoLady)

Google

This place was great! It was a pretty busy joint, which meant for a wait and tight seating. But the outside patio atmosphere and good service made up for that! Definitely suggest the queso. My friend got the chicken fried steak, I chose the meatloaf– both with green beans and mashed potato sides. The meat loaf sadly wasn't the best I ever had, without the gravy it was borderline dry. That being said, the green beans and mash were well seasoned and delicious! The white gravy on the chicken fried steak was fluffy and creamy, and the breading was crispy with great texture. I tried to steal more of her food than just a taste because I liked it more than my meatloaf, haha. I'd go back for that!

Barry Fitzpatrick

Google

Came on Wednesday lunchtime, and the tables were already full. Didn't have to wait too long though. Sat on the patio, ordered some delicious nachos, a chicken fried chicken, and catfish. Was amazing. Great selection of beers too. Can see this being a new favourite haunt.

K.J.

Google

The food is good and the staff is friendly. Every Thursday night from April till September they have unplugged live music which makes the place very special. ---------------------------------- My star rating legend: Excellent / Exceptional ☆☆☆☆☆ Very good / Special ☆☆☆☆ Above-Average ☆☆☆ Below-Average ☆☆ Something is wrong!? ☆ ----------------------------------

Sebastian

Google

Nice little place right on Barton Springs. You have the option to dine either inside or outside both of which have great views. I chose to dine inside and had the bacon cheeseburger. It was very tasty and well seasoned. The waiter Joe was very friendly and willing to serve. If you're looking for a casual place to come eat out this is definitely a place to check out.

Larissa Derrick

Google

Shady Grove is one of my favorite places to go for lunch. The service is great and the patio is quite nice. My favorite thing to get is the chicken Cobb salad. I love all the avocado and fresh veggies! If salad isn't your thing, you should try the burger and onion rings.

Donn Hussey

Google

I went to the free show sponsored by Austin City Limits radio. The food was fantastic. We ordered a few of the highlighted menu items. They have a good selection of beer and drinks, too. The stage is quite visible from anywhere you might sit outdoors. The bar responds with prompt service, and it's a reasonable walking distance from our hotel. If you are in town and there is a show here, come early for a bite to eat. You won't regret it. The only drawback is the number of flies... But it's outside.

Patrick Smiley

Google

The food was good and there was a great variety. Limited beer selection considering where they are. My son and I split a cheese burger and onion rings, they did not agree with us and we both had upset the rest of the night, but the rest of our party was fine. I would try it again.