The March Hit List: Two Hands, Bar Peached, Old Thousand, and More

It doesn’t matter what time of day you go — dining at Two Hands always has the energy of a great brunch. If you haven’t yet made it to this Australian cafe, book your Resy ASAP to try fresh, energizing breakfast foods like tomato toast with Parmesan, prosciutto, and a poached egg, as well as inventive dinner options like Aperol-cured salmon (fun!). We’re also big fans of their drink menu, which features everything from cold-pressed green juice to floral Tequila cocktails.

On days when you don’t feel like making decisions — aside from choosing something delicious for dinner — the answer is: Old Thousand. From the spicy, crispy Chongqing chicken to the chewy and aromatic beef ginger scallion lo mein, the menu is all hits, no skips — so you really can’t go wrong. Even better? They only have one dessert — a five-spice “Chinese churro” with pandan cream — and it is everything.

Next time you’re craving steak, you could fire up the grill — but why not take things to the next level by grabbing a seat at Salt & Time, where you can have your dry-aged steak with a side of beef fat fries and some grilled romanesco with salsa verde? Even if you’re not into steak, this spot is worth a visit for fresh pastas, shareable starters, and the signature butcher’s burger.

The food at Bar Peached is what all bar food should be: comforting, playful, and substantial enough to soak up the cocktails. The menu is Asian-inspired, but also distinctly Texan, featuring items like banh mi tacos, Korean chili pork fries, and mapo Bolognese, made with chow fun noodles. For an extra special experience, go on Korean BBQ night (every Wednesday) and choose from bulgogi, spicy pork, and pork belly to fill your gochujang-smeared lettuce wraps.

Call 512-992-0666 for reservations.

At Sap’s, you can expect a casual, group-friendly atmosphere, generous portions, and — most importantly — a large menu of delicious Thai food. Start your meal with an order of mieng kum, which features crisp lettuce cups filled with salty dried shrimp, fresh ginger, and peanuts, all topped with a punchy coconut sauce. The Sap wings (specify the preferred level of spice) are another great choice, as are the kao soi and the panang curry. Of course, someone at the table will probably want pad Thai, and Sap’s doesn’t disappoint.

Call 512-419-7244 for reservations.

At this long-time Austin staple, you can enjoy Texas barbecue while gazing out on to the rolling Hill Country landscape. Does it get any more classic than that? Naturally, you’ll want to order brisket and sausage, and don’t forget to leave room for sides and a slice (or two) of pecan pie.

You heard it here first: Chuy’s has some of the best queso in Austin. But of course, as with any great Tex-Mex meal, the queso is just the start. We especially love their sauce-smothered “big as yo’ face” burritos, as well as the fajitas, which get their flavor from a marinade that includes Shiner Bock beer. Wash it all down with a margarita (rocks or frozen — take your pick).

No reservations. Find more info here.

What’s better than being a kid in a candy shop? Being an adult in a sushi restaurant — specifically Fukumoto, where the menu features a sparkling array of options, from traditional maki and nigiri to some of the best yakitori in town. Don’t miss the signature king salmon yakitori, the toro taku (fatty tuna) roll, or the YST maki, made with smoked yellowtail, shiso, tomato, and Thai chile mayo.

Call 512-770-6880 for reservations.

This inviting Italian spot offers an extensive menu that means everyone in your group will find multiple dishes to get excited about. Wood-fired pizza is their specialty, and their options range from classic margherita to playful inventions like a chicken Parmesan pie. If you’re in a DIY type of mood, you can create your own pizza from the list of cheeses and toppings. Want something other than pizza? Check out their salads, sandwiches, and pastas.

Just because Valentine’s Day is over doesn’t mean you have to stop treating your loved ones (yes, including yourself) to indulgent sweets. Cookie Rich, founded by former French Laundry chef Lorin Peters, is known for frosting-filled, truffle-like cookies, which happen to be the perfect size for a little afternoon treat. Order the cookies online, or stop by the food truck on North Lamar, where you can also get coffee, ice cream, and their recently released cocoa cinnamon roll.

No reservations. Find more info here.