She’s Not Here, Last Straw, Odd Duck, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because it’s the downtown tiki bar and sushi joint you didn’t know you desperately needed. Loungey and tropical, She’s Not Here is just the oasis you need for a post-work happy hour, light bites to start a night out, or a sushi feast with friends. Just look for the giant hibiscus print mural on West Second—a beacon for convivial times ahead.

Because sometimes you need a vacation, even in your own town. Thankfully, this new East Sixth spot from Nickel City alum JR Mocanu proudly serves up “vacation by the hour,” meaning tasty boat drinks amidst sherbet-hued decor. Bonus? A greatest hits-style bar menu featuring dumplings, nachos, fried rice, taquitos, burgers, wings, and (wild card!) ssam for 4-6 people.

Walk-ins only.

Because this West Sixth charmer is quickly becoming Austin’s premier dumpling destination. Chef Ling Qi Wu’s fresh take on Chinese fare (and her giant seafood soup dumplings!) keep the place packed every night. Sunday dim sum brunch is where Lin really shines, though—set a Notify.

Because the hottest table in East Austin just keeps getting hotter. Fresh off reviews from the Statesman, Chronicle, and Austin Monthly, Suerte has received glowing marks across the board. And their mix of modern Mexican, complete with house-made masa and agave-based cocktails, is exactly what you need once fall’s patio weather sets in.

Because it’s the Ramen Tatsu-Ya you know and love…plus cocktails. A preview of their upcoming South Lamar tiki bar, perhaps? Bonus, this location’s open later than the other slurp shops, so you have plenty of time to indulge.

Walk-ins only.

Because this beloved campus-area food truck has a bright and shiny new brick-and-mortar. They’re still serving up the Korean dishes that made them a favorite among students, though: think classics like bibimbop and japchae, as well as some of their own creations, like their deep-fried kimchi nuggets.

Walk-ins only.

Because Brama is a show of strength for Austin’s Eastern European options (read: pierogi galore!). Brama serves a mix of Russian, Ukrainian, Polish, and Romanian dishes: pelmeni, beef stroganoff, schnitzels, sausages, and more. And it’s all absolutely perfect for cooler fall weather.

Walk-ins only.

Because Odd Duck is everything that is great about Austin dining: creative riffs on Texas flavors made with fresh, local ingredients and an eye for detail that belies its casual atmosphere. Brunch here is great, but word to the wise: don’t sleep on weekday lunch, which boasts a pastrami reuben and Wagyu burger.

Because bars serving great food will always be welcome. Even better when they’re served alongside retro games like air hockey and foosball. The warm pimento cheese BLT is a must-try dish; the Korean hot chicken sandwich and classic cheeseburger are killer, too.

Walk-ins only.

Because grab a seat at the bar and know you’re in good hands, whether it’s brunch or dinner. Mondays are ideal as bottles of wine are half-off all day; but whenever you go, be sure not to skip pastry chef Laura Sawicki’s desserts.