Shore Raw Bar and Grill, P6, Thai Fresh, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because oysters and margaritas is a pairing aptly suited to springtime in Texas. Inspired by the food traditions of the Gulf Coast—namely Mexico, Louisiana, and Texas—Shore serves specialties like seafood gumbo, whole grilled fish with tortillas, and a seafood tower that captures the best of both worlds: raw bar and fried favorites.

Because the Line Hotel is taking advantage of its lakeside location, revealing a stunning rooftop bar with a lovely view. P6 is the place to admire a gorgeous Austin sunset with a glass of bubbles in hand. In addition to the cocktails, the elegant snacks menu (charcuterie, caviar, and lamb tartare, to name a few) is just enough to curb your hunger without leaving the beauty of the space.

For reservations call 512-473-1566.

Because this South Austin neighborhood joint is not only championing innovation in the kitchen, but within its business, too. Thai Fresh was named one of Food & Wine’s 19 Great Restaurants to Work For, after owners Jam Sanitchat and Bruce Barnes nixed tipping and adjusted prices, all in the name of guaranteeing their workers a living wage.

Walk-ins only.

Because now’s the best time of year to enjoy one of Austin’s finest seasonal eateries. Whether you’re indulging in Swine Time happy hour snacks and drinks (cocktails are seasonal, too!) or the tasting menu, get a taste of the peak-season ingredients local growers have to offer.

Because long live the old-fashioned neighborhood bar. The Long Play Lounge spins LPs for its soundtrack, as its name implies, with over 300 albums to choose from. Retreat to the patio for cocktails or a selection of local brews. 

Walk-ins only.

Because pickle fried chicken is the guilty pleasure you never knew you needed. In addition to its signature offering, The Pickle House serves a menu of southern staples and snacks— a stellar chicken sandwich, pickle queso, and chocolate chess pie.

Walk-ins only.

Because it’s impossible to mention patio season in Austin without acknowledging Lenoir’s twinkly wine garden. Retreat to the rustic backyard for drinks or bites, accompanied by an extensive range of wines by the glass and bottle (pairings, too!), as well as beers and ciders.

Because say hello to this food truck with a cult following. Highlights include Sassys’ specialty ‘Chicon N Waffles’—made with chicken-fried seitan and egg-free waffles topped with coconut syrup. Add some refried black-eyed peas for good measure.

Walk-ups only.

Because North Central Austin has a new go-to, in the form of Szechuan spot, China Family. Best of all, the neighborhood Chinese restaurant serves a mix of new-school Chinese-American dishes and authentic traditional recipes.

Walk-ins only.

Because the latest addition to Austin’s Fareground food hall is serving some of city’s best hummus. TLV comes courtesy of the folks behind Hummus Among Us, so you can expect Israeli street food, including falafel, sufganiya (doughnuts), and, of course, hummus platters.

Walk-ins only.