Stuck at Austin Airport with a rumbling stomach? Forget the overpriced, often underwhelming, airport fare. Austin’s vibrant culinary scene extends far beyond the bustling downtown area, and there are plenty of amazing restaurants just a short drive from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Whether you’re a seasoned traveler with a lengthy layover, a local returning home after a long trip, or simply looking for a delicious meal before catching your flight, this guide will help you discover the best food near Austin Airport. We’ve curated a list of dining options to satisfy every craving, from quick and convenient bites to leisurely sit-down experiences and a taste of authentic Austin barbecue. So, ditch the questionable pre-packaged sandwiches and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure just minutes from the terminal. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about experiencing a taste of Austin before you even leave, or enjoying a final, memorable meal before heading into the skies.
Austin has established itself as a food destination, and its delicious offerings are not limited to the city center. With a wide array of local eateries, national food chains, and everything in between, the hungry traveler will find everything they need within a short distance from the airport.
So what goes into picking the best restaurants close to Austin Bergstrom Airport?
Before we dive into the recommendations, let’s talk about the criteria used to select these culinary gems. We considered several factors to ensure that this list provides value to a wide range of travelers:
- Proximity: Obviously, location is key. All restaurants are within a reasonable driving distance of AUS, minimizing travel time and maximizing convenience.
- Food Quality: This is paramount. We prioritized establishments known for their fresh ingredients, flavorful dishes, and consistent quality.
- Customer Reviews: We scoured online reviews (Yelp, Google, TripAdvisor) to gauge overall customer satisfaction and identify consistently positive experiences.
- Price Point: We aimed for a range of options to suit different budgets, from affordable quick bites to more upscale dining experiences.
- Cuisine Variety: Austin boasts a diverse culinary scene, and we wanted to reflect that by including a variety of cuisines, from classic Tex-Mex to international flavors.
- Speed of Service: For travelers with limited time, speed of service is crucial. We considered restaurants known for their efficient and timely service.
- Local Flavor: We sought out restaurants that offer a unique taste of Austin, showcasing local ingredients and culinary traditions.
- Dietary Needs: We looked for establishments that offered vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to cater to a variety of dietary needs.
- Atmosphere: Is the restaurant kid friendly or more of an adult setting? We consider this when creating the list.
Now that you know what we looked for, let’s get to the good stuff: the best places to eat near Austin Airport.
Quick and Easy Bites: Perfect for a Quick Layover
When time is of the essence, you need a quick and satisfying meal without sacrificing quality. These restaurants offer delicious options that are perfect for a short layover or a pre-flight refuel.
JuiceLand
For a healthy and refreshing option, JuiceLand is a local favorite. Located a short drive from the airport, this juice bar offers a wide selection of smoothies, juices, and healthy snacks. Perfect for a quick boost of energy or a light meal. Must-try: The Soul Bolt smoothie. Price: Affordable.
Taco Deli
A beloved Austin institution, Taco Deli offers a variety of delicious and authentic tacos. It is a great spot to get a quick bite of deliciousness. With fast service and convenient locations, Taco Deli is a great choice for travelers on the go. Must-try: The Sirloin Taco. Price: Affordable.
Starbucks
Sometimes, you just need a reliable caffeine fix and a quick bite. The airport location and several other nearby locations provides just that. You’ll find the same familiar menu, speedy service, and comfortable atmosphere. Must-try: A classic latte and a pastry. Price: Affordable.
The League Kitchen & Tavern
Though technically a sit-down restaurant, The League Kitchen & Tavern offers a streamlined lunch menu and efficient service, making it a great option for a slightly longer, but still quick, meal. Their diverse menu has something for everyone. The League Kitchen & Tavern provides classic American comfort food. Must-try: The burger and fries. Price: Mid-range.
Sit-Down Dining: For a Relaxing Meal
If you have more time to spare, these restaurants offer a more relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. Sit back, unwind, and savor a delicious meal before or after your flight.
Salt Lick BBQ (Driftwood, TX)
While technically not *right* next to the airport (it’s a bit of a drive, around thirty minutes), no discussion of Austin food is complete without mentioning Salt Lick BBQ. If you have a significant layover or are arriving early for your flight and have rental car, the experience is worth the journey. This legendary barbecue joint offers a true taste of Texas, with mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausage cooked over an open pit. Must-try: The brisket and all the sides. Price: Mid-range to Expensive.
Odd Duck
Odd Duck offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience, showcasing the best of Texas seasonal ingredients. The menu changes frequently, but you can always expect creative and flavorful dishes. Odd Duck is a true Austin culinary experience. Must-try: Whatever the chef recommends! Price: Expensive.
Matt’s El Rancho
Matt’s El Rancho is an Austin institution serving up classic Tex-Mex cuisine for over sixty years. The casual atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The food is high quality, and the drinks are great as well. Must-try: Bob Armstrong Dip and the enchiladas. Price: Mid-range.
Best Barbecue Near the Airport
Austin is synonymous with barbecue, and no trip is complete without indulging in some mouthwatering smoked meats. Here are a couple of top-notch barbecue joints near the airport:
Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ
Valentina’s expertly blends Texas barbecue with the flavors of Mexico. The brisket tacos are legendary. Their menu offers unique twists on classic BBQ fare. This location is the perfect way to start or finish your trip to Austin, Texas. Must-try: The brisket taco. Price: Mid-range.
La Barbecue
Another Austin favorite, La Barbecue is known for its tender and flavorful brisket, ribs, and sausage. While the lines can be long, the barbecue is worth the wait. This location offers a genuine Texan experience. Must-try: The brisket. Price: Mid-range.
International Flavors: Taste the World
Austin’s diverse culinary scene extends beyond Tex-Mex and barbecue. These restaurants offer a taste of international flavors, perfect for satisfying your global cravings.
Pho Thaison
Craving Vietnamese cuisine? Pho Thaison serves up authentic and flavorful pho, banh mi, and other Vietnamese specialties. The restaurant offers an enjoyable and affordable experience. Must-try: The pho. Price: Affordable.
Uchi
While a bit further from the airport than other options, Uchi is worth the trip for sushi lovers. This award-winning restaurant offers creative and innovative sushi dishes that are sure to impress. Uchi is one of the best restaurants in Austin. Must-try: The chef’s selection omakase. Price: Expensive.
Hidden Gems: Local Favorites
Venture off the beaten path and discover these hidden gems that are beloved by locals. These restaurants offer a unique and authentic taste of Austin.
Gourdough’s Public House
If you’re looking for something different, Gourdough’s Public House is the place to go. This quirky restaurant specializes in gourmet donuts, both sweet and savory. It’s a fun and unique Austin experience. Must-try: The Mother Clucker donut. Price: Mid-range.
Via 313
For Detroit-style pizza that is some of the best in the country, look no further. A great option for the whole family, Via 313 offers appetizers, sides, and great pizzas! This is an Austin must-try!
Transportation and Accessibility
Getting to these restaurants from Austin Airport is relatively easy. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at the airport, providing a convenient and affordable way to reach most destinations. Rental cars are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves. Public transportation options are limited in this area, so ride-sharing or rental cars are generally the best choices. Most restaurants are within a fifteen to twenty-minute drive from the airport, depending on traffic.
Tips for Dining Near the Airport
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Check Hours: Call ahead or check online to verify restaurant hours, especially if you have a late-night or early-morning flight.
- Order Online: Many restaurants offer online ordering for faster pickup. Take advantage of this option to save time.
- Allow Extra Time: Factor in extra travel time to account for potential traffic delays.
- Check Parking: Confirm parking availability at each restaurant, especially during peak hours.
- Consider Layover Time: If you only have a short layover, stick to restaurants that offer quick service.
- Read Reviews: Check recent reviews to get an idea of the current dining experience.
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s no need to settle for bland airport food. With a little planning, you can enjoy a delicious and memorable meal at one of the many fantastic restaurants near Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Austin’s vibrant culinary scene is waiting to be explored, so take advantage of your time and discover the best food near Austin Airport. Whether you’re craving barbecue, Tex-Mex, international flavors, or something completely unique, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. So, what are *your* favorite restaurants near AUS? Share your recommendations in the comments below! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
