Uncle Nicky’s, Mattie’s, Chispas, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because new chef Ethan Holmes is steering the menu in a seasonal, Southern direction. New entrees include smoked duck breast with duck confit bread pudding; pan-roasted chicken breast with grilled vegetables and salsa verde; and brunch treats like cinnamon knots, smoked salmon tartare, and short ribs and eggs. Otherwise, it’s the same Mattie’s you know and love—peacocks, beautiful setting, and all.

Because the casual Italian cafe of Hyde Park’s dreams is finally open. Uncle Nicky’s is a collaboration between the folks behind Juniper and Nickel City, which means killer Northern Italian food and possibly even better cocktails (think delightful Negroni variations, spritzes, sandwiches, and antipasti).

Walk-ins only.

Because San Antonio chef Jason Dady has opened his first Austin restaurant. Located in the former Fado space in the Warehouse District section of downtown, Chispas serves a menu of tacos both classic (carne asada) and inventive (tofu al pastor, butternut squash). Come late-night, delve into a sampling of breakfast tacos, aptly suited to a night on the town.

Walk-ins only.

Because the spicy boys of Soursop have opened a Thai fried chicken truck, and you know that means great things. The truck is parked at Zilker Brewing currently, offering wings with or without bones (as well as vegetarian cauliflower “wings”), served in an array of sauces. But that’s not all—spring for the sandwiches, roti and curry, and tater tots, too.

Walk-ins only.

Because this East Austin Italian favorite is one of only two Austin entries on Texas Monthly’s 2019 Best New Restaurants list. “Italian is spoken with a modern accent at Intero,” Patricia Sharpe observed. Indeed, here you’ll find seasonal treats, house-made pasta and more in a laid-back date night atmosphere. Pro-tip: don’t skip the chocolate!

Because this taco temple is a critical darling, too. Notably included among Sharpe’s list of the best new restaurants state-wide, Suerte “hardly looks like the kind of Mexican restaurant you’d normally find in Texas. But I suspect that’s the point.” Come for the tacos, stay for the “pillowy tamales.”

Because it’s pizza for all at this new Lamar Union spot. Offering gluten-free crusts and vegan cheese options for every pizza (as well as good ol’ mozz and sausage), Connection makes sourdough crust pizzas alongside a full cocktail menu. Whether you’re a sucker for the classics (Margherita) or the Instagram-worthy pies (the Gold Truffle, boasting edible 24k gold), there’s something for everyone.

For reservations, call the restaurant at (512) 284-9867.

Because this South Austin prix fixe spot is expanding its options with an a la carte menu. Diners will still be able to choose from a four-course option in the dining room, but a choose-your-own menu awaits diners both inside and al fresco. Hot-weather food by the plate and wine in the garden? We’ll cheers to that.

Because you know you want to pour yourself a beer. Pronounced “ounce,” Oz. boasts 40 taps from which diners can pour their own beers—an RFID card linked to your tab keeps track of how much you’ve poured. Add a farm-to-market pub menu and you’ve got a beer garden destination.

Walk-ins only.

Because at long last, it’s crawfish season, and Shoal Creek Saloon is the best place in town for mudbugs. Come during the week for crawfish by the pound, served daily for dinner; on weekends, enjoy your fair share at lunchtime. Add a couple links of andouille and your spring is made.

Walk-ins only.