Where to Eat Near ACL Fest
Foraging around Zilker
Fri., Sept. 30, 2016
1) Chuy's
With hubcaps, colored lights, and a velvet Elvis, this is Austin-style Tex-Mex at its tacky, funky best. It's almost always busy, but the chips and creamy queso are worth the wait. 1728 Barton Springs Rd.2) The Picnic
A curated selection of some of Austin's best food trucks – including Turf N Surf Po' Boy, Hey! You Gonna Eat or What?, and the Mighty Cone. 1720 Barton Springs Rd.3) Baby Acapulco South
Great enchiladas and multiflavored margaritas that should come with warning stickers: "Muy bueno!" 1628 Barton Springs Rd.4) JuiceLand
This friendly and popular juice bar near Barton Springs offers fresh juices, smoothies, and vegan and gluten-free grab and go. You'll feel better on the way out than you did going in. 1625 Barton Springs Rd.5) Shady Grove
Take advantage of the beautiful outdoor seating area and hot dogs all year round in a family-friendly setting. We're partial to the green-chile cheeseburgers with mountains of onion rings. 1624 Barton Springs Rd.6) Austin Java Cafe & Bar
Beyond the morning cup o' joe, Austin Java offers an array of sustenance plus luscious desserts. 1608 Barton Springs Rd.7) Uncle Billy's Brew & Que
The barbecue sauce is outstanding on their tender sausage and ribs. After a day at Zilker Park, enjoy great service and cold, house-brewed beers on tap. 1530 Barton Springs Rd.8) Juliet Ristorante
This new Italian contender offers an elegant dining room and one of the best patios in Austin. Try the negroni flight if you just can't make up your mind. 1500 Barton Springs Rd.
Juliet Ristorante
9) House Wine
A simple menu does the affordable wine list justice at this cozy, homey spot. 408 Josephine.10) South Austin Social
Tucked behind Thom's Market, SAS features some strong contenders for Austin's food truck crown – including Boca, Unity Vegan Kitchen, and Gemma Love. 409 Jessie.11) Green Mesquite BBQ
One of Austin's favorite barbecue dives – it may look seedy, but the menu is extensive, and the food is terrific. 1400 Barton Springs Rd.12) P. Terry's Burger Stand
Burgers fashioned from hormone- and antibiotic-free Black Angus beef, all-natural chicken, fresh-cut fries, and milkshakes. Sit at a picnic table on the patio. Dogs get a free biscuit. 404 S. Lamar.13) Flour and Vine
This place has garnered fans of the hanger steak and skillet mac & cheese. 300 S. Lamar.14) El Alma Cafe y Cantina
Chef Alma Alcocer-Thomas' take on casual Mexico City cuisine is approachable, affordable, and delicious. Brunch includes huevos Franceses (eggs and spinach resting on corn pudding) and huevos revueltos. Throw down a Mimosa Feliz and don't miss the cochinita pibil or the gorgeous views from the upstairs patio. 1025 Barton Springs Rd.15) Terry Black's BBQ
As the mural says in the dining room, here "Brisket Is King." The pork ribs are a treat too. 1003 Barton Springs Rd.16) Sandy's Hamburgers
Some say the corn dogs and fries are the tastiest in South Austin, and others say the burgers are the best buy in town. We're mostly interested in the frozen custard, malts, and soft-serve. 603 Barton Springs Rd.17) Threadgill's World HQ
Just a shout away from the former Armadillo World Headquarters, the menu is packed with solid home-cooking options, and there's a brunch buffet on Saturdays and Sundays. 301 W. Riverside.18) Zax Restaurant & Bar
American bistro cuisine here: fluffy crab cakes, classic Caesar salads, and meaty burgers with bleu cheese. Try the build-your-own Bloody Mary at brunch. Then, if you can still read the menu, go for the steak au poivre or pan-seared duck breast. 312 Barton Springs Rd.19) Aussie's Grill & Beach Bar
In addition to great appetizers and pub fare, Aussie's offers big-screen TVs and beach volleyball courts out back. 306 Barton Springs Rd.20) Southwest Bistro
Located on the second level of the Hyatt Regency's atrium, this place draws raves. Maybe it's SWB's commitment to local produce and meats that makes it a local favorite. 208 Barton Springs Rd.21) Uchi
The sushi ranges from fresh scallops, tuna, and unagi to negitoro rolls, seaweed, chicken, and salad, and all are highly rated. Reservations recommended. 801 S. Lamar.
