Jason Smith

This is by no means a comprehensive list of all the great food that is to be had in Austin. This just what I would recommend for SXSW. The majority of these are found downtown, and are relatively inexpensive. I know, where is the BBQ? If you want to experience central Texas BBQ and are here for South By you really don’t have the time to go down to Driftwood for Salt Lick. Take another vacation for that.

There are a lot of ringers that come in for this. Here is what we eat in Austin year round. Sorry for lack of map links, etc. We are all adults and know how to use google.

• The Hot Dog King: They truly are. Some people will tell you to go to Frank, but they are misguided. Do not listen to them.
• Death Metal Pizza: This is my choice for pizza. I eat so much of it every South By I have to wait until the next one until I can stomach it again.
• Me So Hungry: Bahn Mi. $5. So much deliciousness
• Luck J’s: Chicken and Waffles. I won’t be doing that, but if you feel like it do it.
• Rio Rita: Bloody Mary. A salad in a glass. Seriously, do this.
• P. Terry’s: Great burger and even better chicken burger
• Huts: Another great burger
• Counter Cafe: Another great burger
• Magnolia Cafe: 24 hours and glorious
• Star Seeds: Also 24 hours. Where did I eat my first meal of 2011. Star Seeds. The. Fries. I want them now.
• Caffe Medici: Best coffee in Austin. Hopefully their downtown location will be open in time.
• Kebabalicious: You can find the prettiest girl in the room and take her to get a kebab. Do it.
• Torchy’s: Fried Avocado Taco. You’re welcome.
• BBQ Heaven: Well, it is. Chopped Beef Sandwich of glory.
• Taco Shack: It’s better than Taco Bell, but it’s no Torchy’s. Then again, what is?
• Galaxy Cafe: Best Sweet Potato Fries.
• Gourdoughs: Donut’s of death.
• Home Slice: An acceptable slice of pizza pie.
• Conan’s: Deep dish glory. If you’re from Chicago you can tell me how wrong I am after you’ve eaten there.
• Plucker’s: Wings. Fried Mac ‘n Cheese. You read that correctly.

If I missed anything add it.