Zilker Park is truly the heart of Austin! 🌳✨ It’s a beautiful, open green space where you can relax, walk, picnic, or just enjoy the skyline views. The park feels alive with people jogging, playing frisbee, walking their dogs, or simply lounging under the trees. Barton Springs nearby is a refreshing bonus, and the walking trails are perfect for soaking in the natural beauty. What I love most is how versatile the park is — whether you want a quiet afternoon with a book, a family picnic, or to catch one of Austin’s famous festivals, Zilker has it all. A must-visit if you want to experience the local vibe of the city.

Ok. Great views, but lots of trash. Not sure why the city neglects this popular site which is visited by many tourist. I also got the feel that petty crime is rampant. Glass is visible from broken car windows. Don’t leave valuables in your car. The city has to do better!

Beatiful ang huge place. You have to pay to use the pools. The public one is a bit dangerous if you want to swim. I think it’s $5 if you live in Austin and $9 if you don’t. No admission fee and there’s a parking lot.

Lots of people but lots of space. Parking wasnt difficult. Walking amd bike trails are great. There are a few detours due to maintenance.

This was a fun place to see all the music acts for the music festival and what a view of the city!! Wow! Definitely want to go here when not music takeover but definitely would do ACL again!

ACL 2025 My first ACL and it won't be my last! 🤩 The park was perfect for it! Great location to downtown and the setup was fabulous. Thank you Zilker Park and Austin for an ABSOLUTELY unforgettable weekend 💯🔥 ❤️🧡💛💚🩵💙💜

We love exploring Zilker Park! It's well kept and the park staff seem to genuinely enjoy their job. My kids especially like the statues and bridges that go over the train tracks and lead to other parts of the playground. The Zilker Eagle Train ride is really neat, with great views of the park, Barton Springs and the cityscape.

I like this museum and there’s a lot to see. Texas has such a rich history that can be easily missed if you’re not paying attention. I’d recommend setting aside 2 hours to get thought it. Pro-tip: It’s free the 1st Sunday of every month. 10/10 Cows 🐄

The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a great place to dive into the rich and complex history of Texas. The exhibits are well-curated, interactive, and engaging for all ages. The IMAX theater is a fun bonus, and the layout of the museum makes it easy to explore at your own pace. My only complaint is that the ticket prices feel a bit steep, especially for families or repeat visits. That said, the overall experience is definitely worth it if you're interested in Texas history. Would recommend, just be prepared for the cost!

Bullock Texas State History Museum ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The shipwreck exhibit is absolutely fascinating — beautifully presented with meticulous artifacts displayed around the vessel. It’s incredibly informative and unique, and I loved being able to view the shipwreck from above as I moved through the upper floors. One of the highlights is seeing the original Goddess of Liberty statue from the Texas Capitol dome. Standing before her gives you a whole new appreciation for the artistry and scale — it’s amazing to consider how she was designed to be seen from 300 feet away! The museum is a perfect size to explore in about 1.5–2 hours, and when I visited, there was a bonus exhibit on loan featuring a T. rex from New York — a fun surprise that added to the experience.

I had the absolute pleasure of visiting the Bullock Texas State History Museum for the first time—and wow, what an experience! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by two incredibly kind and welcoming gentlemen, Don and Joseph. They took the time to explain what was inside the museum, answered all my questions, and made me feel right at home even before I bought my ticket. Once inside, I was completely captivated. The museum takes you on a powerful journey through the rich and complex history of Texas—starting with Indigenous cultures and Mexican independence from Spain, all the way to the modern era. Every exhibit was thoughtfully curated and packed with fascinating artifacts. I left feeling inspired, informed, and eager to return. If you haven’t been yet, it’s a must-see—truly a Texas treasure!

Really enjoyed the Bullock Texas State History Museum. The NASA exhibit was my favorite—great artifacts and interactive displays about Texas’ role in space exploration. The rest of the museum is well done, with clear storytelling and an excellent IMAX. Staff were friendly and helpful, and everything was clean and easy to navigate. Solid way to spend a few hours in Austin.

I always have a lovely time here. Fantastic and informative exhibits, lovely staff, and typically quiet if you go early on a week day. Bonus points for the bathrooms being clean and the elevators not being super scary, haha. Recently visited for the T. rex exhibit, and I highly recommend checking it out while you can!

Outstanding historical museum. Tells a story through a linear fashion through the museum which was very educational and interesting. A great mix of historical facts and artifacts tells the story of the history of Texas.

I was born and raised in Austin, and this place never gets old, in fact it just gets more beautiful. I worked here about 4 summers as a lifeguard around 2009, and I can tell you from behind the scenes, safety is of utmost importance, guards are trained often and rigorously tested physically and mentally, and scenarios with emergency response crews from the area (EMS, Police, etc) are done on occasion. Barton Springs in particular runs a tight ship- you have to with thousands of visitors daily during the summer. Over the years they have not only improved on the grounds, but continue to keep it's original Austin appeal, even when renovations occur. The water is a consistent chilly 68°-70° (some of the spring water comes up at the bottom of the drop off by the diving board where it's coldest), lots of work is done on Thursdays by guards and frequently by biologists to maintain the natural state and save the salamanders (more so in Eliza Springs attached) but also keep it safe for patrons. No food or drink is allowed as they cannot spray for bugs so as not to contaminate the water and grounds. There are two entrances (Southside and the main entrance through Zilker Park) and it does cost money in the summers but it is currently free until March (we're in November now). They also use to offer free swim from like 5-9am and 9-10pm but not sure if that's still a thing. Parking can be difficult but that's to show how popular it is being an oasis in the heart of Austin. You will see ALL different types of people in all different types of dress (including topless & thongs) but everyone is at the Springs to chill and have a good time (I've also heard the water is a great hangover cure). There are living animals in and around the "pool" such as turtles, ducks, cormorants, fish, salamanders, and at one point there was some sort of eel at the spillway end. There is also plenty of algae and plant growth but everything is harmless and visible in the clear refreshing water. The pool starts at zero depth and continues to on to maybe 6-7ft aside from the dicing area which I believe is 12-13+ feet (it's been awhile and I can't remember exactly anymore). You can see downtown Austin from the pool and sunsets are beautiful. It is wheelchair and stroller friendly, you just have to follow the ramp down to the deck. The bathrooms are large and clean (and cleaned regularly by the guards) with lots of changing areas and bathrooms. Barton Springs has a rich history that it strives to upkeep, especially by the S.O.S - Save Our Springs Alliance. I suggest you wear your swimsuit, pack a blanket, a towel, and some water bottles (no coolers allowed), and head on over with your friends to chill on the hill and watch some crazy people doing crazy tricks off the diving board; you won't be disappointed!

Such a great place! The pool was clean, nice cold and refreshing, super deep and filled with rocks and plants and tiny fishes, loved the nature and the entire experience! Really felt like a mermaid today!! Loved it! Definitely will be coming here again before summer ends! 🧜🏻‍♀️🙌🏻✨🪸💦

I will always take a plunge in Barton Springs pool when in the area. Cold but refreshing. South-side parking was challenging (-1 one star). Entrance fee is reasonable and easy peasy online ticket purchasing available. Nice crowd size in the pool.

OMG this was our favorite stop in Austin. One side is a pay-to-enter swimming hole and there is another hidden free-to-enter entrance that serves as a much smaller swimming hole for the doggies. We had such a great time interacting with the locals and playing with the cute, energetic dogs we didn’t want to leave. Note that the doggie entrance is hidden amongst the trees and down a very steep hill (which is a bit tricky to get up and down). If you are a lover of animals the doggie side is a MUST. We didn’t pay to enter the other side but it is huge and looks soooo cool. If we had our swimming suits we def would’ve gone! What amazed me about the doggie side (and really Austin in general) is how welcome the locals made us. What was also cool is how everyone looked after everyone else’s dogs, taking turns throwing balls for them in the water. You don’t even need to take your own dog here to take part in the action and appreciate this place! ❤️

Barton Springs Municipal Pool – A Classic Austin Experience Barton Springs is an absolute gem. We had no trouble grabbing tickets at the window with good old-fashioned cash (just a heads-up: cash only!). While we didn’t use the ticket kiosks, we saw plenty of people struggling with them—lots of confused faces and short lines of frustrated folks. Do yourself a favor and just head to the window. There’s a fair bit of construction going on right now, but it was super easy to navigate. Clear signs make the path to the pool straightforward. Once you’re in? Pure bliss. The water is cool, crisp, and refreshing—the perfect way to escape the Texas heat. It’s a true spring, so don’t expect bathwater temps, but once you’re in, it feels incredible. There’s a little something for everyone here—swimmers, floaters, jumpers, sunbathers, families, solo chillers. It’s also top-tier people watching. An authentic Austin spot that never disappoints.

This place was magnificent. It really was one of the highlights to my Austin adventure. It was comfortable and felt very safe. I will say the patrons were not as friendly as i would have expected but that is not the pools fault. The salamanders were soooo cute. I love it.

We went in October 2025 and the parking lot is at 1000 Azie Morton rd. We got there around 1230 pm On a monday and saw like 4 open spaces. No parking fee. 2 min walk to pool entry pay $9 cash or credit at machines. The pool area is huge. 6 lifeguards. No concessions inside. There is a changing trailer and bathrooms. Its pretty with trees and grass, cold water, squirrels all around, fluffy clouds, sunshine, overall real good vibe.

I had a good time visiting the Texas State Capitol in Austin. The architecture is stunning, and the building is full of history. I enjoyed walking through the rotunda, seeing the portraits of past governors, and learning more about Texas’ unique political history. The provide a free tour with a guide of what seemed like every 15 minutes. The grounds were beautifully maintained, and the views of downtown Austin added to the experience. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!!!

Beautiful architecture especially inside the dome. You're not really allowed to go anywhere else other than the centre inside. Airport type security at the entrance with metal detectors. There are toilets inside, clean. Beautiful gardens and monuments outside.

The Texas Capitol is a must-see in Austin. It’s impressive from the outside, but definitely worth stepping inside too. The building is beautiful, full of history, and free to visit. Everything is well maintained, and the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. A great place to walk around, learn something new, and take some great photos. A solid stop if you’re exploring the city.

The Texas State Capitol in Austin is an absolute must-visit and one of the finest state capitols in the United States. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this historic landmark stands tall with its impressive architecture, rich history, and beautifully maintained grounds. From the moment you approach the building, you’re struck by its grandeur. The pink granite exterior gives it a unique character, and the rotunda is truly breathtaking once inside. The interior features intricate details, historic paintings, and sculptures that reflect the pride and legacy of Texas. The dome itself is higher than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., which is quite impressive. The Capitol is open to the public and offers free guided tours throughout the day. These tours are very informative, covering everything from Texas history to the legislative process. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. You can also choose to do a self-guided tour if you prefer to explore at your own pace. The Capitol grounds are expansive and beautifully landscaped, making it a great spot to walk around, relax, or take pictures. Statues and memorials throughout the grounds add to the experience, each telling a different part of Texas history. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or just a curious visitor, the Texas State Capitol offers something for everyone. It’s a place where you can truly feel the pride Texans have for their state. And best of all — it’s free to visit! Highly recommend setting aside a few hours for this remarkable site. It’s a shining example of Texas history and government, and a highlight of any trip to Austin.

Today was a awesome day at the Texas State capitol, I initially went just to make a contribution to google maps cause a few of my friends asked if I could but then without any kind of notice a group of young mariachis, an Aztec dance group in full regalia out of Houston and a Mexican vaquera soldadera who too was from Houston,I apologize for not asking your name but I hope your picture alone gives you justice, you made a outstanding performance and I personally applaud you,,as for the eagle and Jaguar knights special shout out to conrado Acevedo and kind heart and the rest of the Houston Aztec dance group,, and last but not least id also like to give a shout out to the local mariachi group from Akins high school,there was plenty of singing and dancing and all kinds of Instruments keeping sync from each performing group at times your occasional grito can be heard,there are restrooms and water fountains and it is wheelchair accessible, the grounds are very well kept, with monuments and dedication plaques at different points of the capitol grounds and you already know there is always a large police presence,tours are free and there is one in English and also one in Spanish of course at different times and they start out of the southern foyer,there are plenty of benches in and outside the capitol bldg, so one can take a break and breathe in all the history and stare in awe as you look around and see how beautiful and spacious the inside of the capitol is,,it never got to crowded and please be respectful and take your hat off within the bldg, outside it's cool all day every day,if you have never done one thing outside the norm and your from Texas, please before you get any older take a trip and visit your state capitol,I strongly recommend you take your kids and/or grandkids,,I promise you will never forget the experience... enjoy

Good experience. Highly recommended to do the free guided tour provided at the Capitol. They gave you a quick overview of the buildings and its significance. If you are not into politics, you might not find it interesting.

If like me you love history, this is a place that you can't miss. Just go and enjoy your time in there. I went on a Sunday, it was easy to take pictures.

Beautiful place. Nice atmosphere. Great place for a nice walk or run

An absolutely beautiful path to walk, run, bike, or pop on the lake for boarding, kayaking fun. The pathways connect to multiple parks, and have water for you and your pups along the trails.

It’s the place to go for paddle boating, kayaking and bat watching. Bat watching is a must do tourist excursion in Austin. The lake is beautiful and has a park and walkway all around the lake. It’s a nice spot to watch the sunset and the beautiful city!

We visited this place on January 1st and loved it. It’s an enormous park with lots of trails for walking, trekking and cycling. Our dog also had a wonderful time there. We didn’t find any restrooms or placer where to buy refreshments. That is missing, the rest was great!

Nice lake. Lots of places to sit and eat or just sit and relax with a view of the lake. A very nice to ride an electric bike. Regular bikes are not allowed. I was expecting First Lady quality. Free parking.

Paddling on Lady Bird Lake in Austin is a delightful way to experience the city's natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. It could be a bit more clean in some areas. The calm waters provide the perfect setting for kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing, offering stunning views of the downtown skyline, lush greenery, and iconic landmarks like the Congress Avenue Bridge. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, the lake's serene environment makes for a relaxing outing. Along the way, you might spot turtles, birds, and even the famous bats at sunset. The accessibility of rental services and the friendly local vibe add to the experience. Paddling on Lady Bird Lake is a must-do activity for anyone looking to enjoy Austin's outdoor charm.

Lady Bird Lake in Austin offers a beautiful contrast to the downtown buildings, creating a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. While the directions may not be the easiest to navigate, the overall experience of the lake and its surroundings makes it a worthwhile destination.

Absolutely amazing! Totally worth the visit. Everything from the clean atmosphere to the bathrooms was great. There just 2 of us and we did a 2 meat tray and a 1 meat tray for a total of 3 meats and 4 sides. This was plenty and we had no leftovers. The flavor explosions you will experience will rock your world. We had the chori papa's, Ceasars kale, miss carrots, tallow chips, flat iron, brisket, and cheddar chorizo sausage. Everything was phenomenal! Support this local Michelin starred gem and make your taste buds happy by stopping at LeRoy and Lewis!

My husband and I went to Leroy and Lewis this past Saturday as we make our way through the Texas Monthly list! Since it was Saturday, we expected a long wait time going in. We got there around 10:50-11AM, and we were able to order at 1:15PM. So wait time a little over 2 hours. Staff was extremely friendly and checked on you throughout the experience (in line, at the counter, while eating, etc). The food— The beef cheek was 10/10 and our favorite thing on the menu! I would recommend this to everyone! The brisket was super flavorful and had a really nice peppery taste from the bark. Also, would highly recommend. The chicken was great and very well done, but you could skip it if needed. Overall, my husband and I didn’t have much interested in the offered sides, but the chips were tasty! Not sure when we will have another few hours to go again, but it was definitely worth the wait! Thank you!

A Michelin star and ranking of #2 on Texas Monthly forced my expectations to be sky-high for Leroy and Lewis. I enjoyed my experience, but I do think in some areas, L&L tries a little too hard to be different and set apart from the rest. My wife and I tried the flat iron, whole hog, and the jalapeño cheddar sausage. We also tried chori-papas, frito pie, pork hash, and tallow potato chips as our sides. We finished the meal with banana tiramisu. It was fun to try so many new things you typically don’t get with modern Texas BBQ, but I felt myself missing some of the classic flavors, like a mac & cheese or potato salad. Their bread is Martin’s brand, rather than the heavenly homemade pillows at Goldee’s. I tasted notes of chilis powder/cumin in many of the dishes, which I love but wasn’t in the mood for as I was craving central Texas BBQ. I admire L&L’s boldness to be different, but I also think there’s beauty in doing the normal/simple things and elevating them to new heights. Goldee’s is still #1 in my book, having been to more joints than I’d like to admit. But L&L definitely deserves a spot in the top 50, they’re putting in good work and anyone could have a good time visiting. (Also, there were about 30-40 in front of us when we got in line and it still took 1.5 hours to order. My wife got hangry so I get inclined to mention that).

Leroy and Lewis is worth the (long) wait. Their brisket is easily some of the best I’ve ever had—perfectly smoked, insanely tender, and packed with deep, rich flavor…no sauce needed. You can tell they care about every detail, from the quality of the local meat to the creativity behind each side go for Chori-papas and Frito pie. The crew is friendly and passionate, and the whole experience feels authentically Austin—laid-back, welcoming, and seriously delicious. If you’re a BBQ lover, this spot is non-negotiable. Their well-earned Michelin Star says as much.

This place has been open for over a year and half now and we just now found it. The service is excellent! The staff is super friendly! We walked in and we were greeted immediately after, where given menus and told about thier special sauce of the day. Approached the order counter, and the guys all greeted us and a staff member introduced all bis coworkers! Omg that simple gesture made my whole day! We smiled and joker about how I was we were so hungry I wouldn't remember thier names! Lol they all laughed. The food portion are a good quantity and very delicious. I had the brisket with side of coleslaw slaw and chori-papas. They have a nice picnic tables in the backyard, which probably is best at night. The place was not busy when we arrived shortly after 11am, however....soon after we placed our order we looked behind us and there was a line to the door!. Would give it 5 stars, but for lack of parking spaces. But is a must try!

My experience at this restaurant was absolutely amazing! The creativity just drips from every single dish, they’re not only delicious but also beautifully thought out. Honestly, every dish feels like a must-try. The entire team is kind, attentive, and very helpful, which really enhances the overall dining experience. We’re already planning to bring our family and friends here, because this is the kind of place you want to share with the people you love. Highly recommend! it’s an unforgettable culinary experience.

Incredible Texas Barbecue. We went when there was a special for an Oktoberfest sausage which was delicious! Unfortunately, buy the time we got to order, one of the items we wanted to order was already out. I definitely recommend coming as early as possible in order to get everything you want. The flat iron and tri-tip were my favorites but no doubt the barbacoa and brisket were also amazing. Anything you get will be juicy and flavorful.

Was such a fun and amazing experience! The food was amazing and this place is not just hype. You can tell there are chefs in the kitchen that truly care about taste and flavor. Everything was great but the grilled chicken hearts blew me away!

Lovely dinner for 4. Great service, cocktails, wine selection and most of all food. Everything was excellent except for the chicken fried pork chop, but the rest of the flavors very delicious and unique. Complimentary valet parking and very friendly attendants. Great atmosphere too. Make a reservation early on, scored a 5 pm on Saturday a month before. Very popular with their recent accolades! Will be back.

One of the best restaurant experiences I've ever had in Austin. Worthy of being considered a top 5 restaurant in the Austin area. The chefs counter was an incredible experience. The staff took care of us from beginning to end. Food was delicious, the speed at which it arrived from the kitchen to our table was light speed, and the free desserts and drinks we received were a blessing from the staff. Phenomenal experience, 100% recommendation and will come back again!

Had such an incredible experience at Odd Duck in Austin — hands down one of the best meals I’ve had in the city. You can feel the passion in everything they do, especially through our amazing waiter Thomas, whose energy and love for the food made the night unforgettable. The burger and cornbread were absolutely next-level — truly the best in Austin. 🍔🌽

Odd Duck Austin, at the Chef’s Counter: A Night of Personal, Palate-Driven Play. From the moment you sidle into Odd Duck and slide into the chef’s counter, the meal feels less like a dinner and more like an edible conversation with the kitchen. The kitchen’s intimate choreography—flame, fork, and ferocious curiosity—sets a high bar for tasting-menu storytelling. This night, seated inches from the heat and bustle, offered a stream of inventive bites that balanced seasonal audacity with comforting textures and precise technique. The setting amplifies the meal: you’re not just observing the plate, you’re watching how intention becomes taste in real time. The energy from the cooks, the quick taste checks, and the moment-to-moment adjustments lend the tasting a live, improvisational rhythm. Fresh draft watermelon fresca: A refreshing opener that primes the palate with bright acidity and fruit-forward brightness. The texture contrast and cooling finish likely set a playful, summery tone for the night. Texas pickles: Expect a bold, tangy punctuation—crisp texture, assertive acidity, and perhaps a touch of sweetness. Pickles here are not an afterthought but a defining bite that signals the kitchen’s love for zesty contrast. Pork belly slider: A classic anchor that often serves as the night’s emotional anchor—rich, satisfying, and balanced by a crisp exterior and perhaps a sharp pickled accent or herb pop. The slider format promises immediacy and comfort while still leaving room for technique to show. Cast iron cheddar cornbread: This likely delivers a toasty, caramelized crust with a rich, melty cheddar inside. The cast-iron finish usually adds depth and a slight smokiness, offering a grounded counterpoint to lighter courses. Redfish ceviche: A bright, citrusy, seafood-forward note that showcases freshness and technique in curing. The ceviche should feel clean, with a nuanced balance of acidity and a touch of brightness to keep things lively. Thai apple salad: A bright, aromatic interlude—crisp apples, maybe herbs, heat, and a balancing acidity. Expect a playful balance of sweet, sour, and fresh heat, lifting the meal with herbal lift. Fettuccine shrimp: A pasta course that blends succulent shrimp with a likely buttered, perhaps slightly citrusy sauce. Textural contrast and a clean, seafood-forward core would anchor this plate in comfort while letting seafood flavor shine. Blackened redfish with mesquite and vanilla bean scoop: This sounds like a bold, smoky main that leans into spice, wood-fire aroma, and a surprising vanilla note—an inventive sweet-smoky finish that creates a memorable, almost mischievous twist. Final note—Mesquite vanilla bean scoop: Expect a creamy, aromatic end that complements the savory notes with a gentle sweetness, leaving you on a soft, satisfying close. Odd Duck Austin, experienced from the chef’s counter, delivers a distinctive tasting experience that blends seasonal clarity with adventurous flavor experiments. It rewards diners who embrace curiosity and savor the storytelling arc of a well-curated menu. If you’re craving a night where the kitchen feels like a collaborative partner rather than a distant authority, this counter-seat experience is worth seeking out.

We were seated at the Chef's table, which is a row of 8 seats with a direct view into the kitchen. Fascinating! What looked like total chaos at the beginning of our meal evolved into more of a ballet of chaos as each person in the kitchen adeptly performed his/her unique role. I was amazed how little time the finished plates were under the heat lamps (literally not more than 10-15 seconds) before being scooped up by servers and brought to tables. The concept of farm to fork is very evident here. We shared 5 different items and probably should have stopped at 4. Decent sized portions.

My family and I would like to give a shout out to Thomas, who literally treated us like family at our visit to Odd Duck last night. We were walk ins and were seated promptly outside by the mister fans which made the environment super comfortable. Thomas gave us all his recs and helped guide the courses. If you go, you must get the cornbread. It’s insanely good. We also devoured the braised goat pizza, antelope tataki tostada, redfish crudo, and thai melon salad. All top notch with incredible flavor. To be honest, my favorite part was hearing each person describe the dish as they delivered it to our table. This place seriously cares about the dining experience and it shows. Thomas’ service was impeccable and he always made sure we had fresh plates and silverware. Thank you Thomas for making sure we had an unforgettable time at Odd Duck! Also, thank you to the most extraordinary valet superstar I’ve met. Audrey took excellent care of our car and had it ready for us in moments! Thanks Audrey! Protip: if you’re driving and want a zero proof beer, get the Best Day Kölsch!

Amazing food; especially love the grilled pork chops. Menu changes constantly: Have been back multiple times already. Great dining environment. Very limited parking. Be prepared to park in the residential areas across the street during peak dining hours. Be prepared to make reservation 1-2 weeks in advance if you have a large party.

I ended up going with the Pastrami Reuben as an appetizer, and I cannot lie. It was one of the best in the city. The pastrami was sliced thin and generously stacked along with sauerkraut on grilled rye bread. However, tradition stops there because Swiss cheese is swapped out for pepperjack, and the dressing, normally a thousand island or Russian, is replaced with a beet 1,000 island sauce. It is a sloppy sandwich and we ended up knife and forking it, but the goeyness of all those flavors melding together started the night out right. There is not a lot of seafood on the menu here, that is not Dai Due's focus. We did try the Gulf Brown Shrimp as an appetizer. Four large shrimp are skewered and served with charred tomatoes and a garlic vinaigrette. My wife and I agreed we could have eaten three of those. O.K. back to the meat. When I previewed the menu, I focused in on their Cold Meat Board. It did not disappoint. Wild Boar was the star of the show, presented in three different forms - a rillette, a pecan country pâté and a summer sausage. A smoked duck breast and a chicken liver mousse with cherry mostarda rounded out the proteins on the board. The dish was completed with pickles, Fireman's #4 mustard and an enormous mountain of grilled sprouted rye bread. That's a lot to unpack! The three wild board creations really showcased the talent of the kitchen. I liked the pecan country pâté the best. In the picture, it's the meat that looks like a slice of Spam. No, I am not comparing the taste to Spam, just the visual image. The pecans do come through and with their buttery and slightly sweet taste mixing well with the rich, pork taste of the boar. I liked to use the mustard on top of it too. Definitely try it without the mustard first to see if you can taste all those flavors. The boar summer sausage was equally tasty. It had a slight, smokey, peppery flavor to it. The rillette seemed a bit meh compared to the other items. Maybe my taste buds were overwhelmed by the time I got to it. While the wild boar was the featured meat, I felt the chicken liver mousse stole the show. Mousse when done right has a smooth almost velvety mouth-feel, and yes it was done right. Then the Dai Due kitchen topped the mousse with cherry mostarda, and the sweetness of the Italian condiment perfectly complimented the savoriness of the chicken. I liked the mouse so much, I almost, forgot about one of my favorite charcuteries, the smoked duck breast. The delicate cuts of smokey duck were shaved thin, and the taste, pure decadence! A last note on the meat board, the bread. So, I started off saying they served the meats with a mountain of bread. Quite the opposite of many places that always seem to give you not nearly enough crackers, crostinis or bread to get through the dish. I laughed at first because it seemed like there was way too much. Um, no. As I got toward the end of the board I had to ration out the last two pieces. Apparently, they know what they're doing - like there was ever a doubt. Their pudding is served in a small glass jar with whipped cream and candied pecans. Even if you are full like I was, you can and should use this as an ending to your meal. I also encourage you to try the Texas Valkyrie's Kiss which is a Wildflower Mead. Overall it was a great experience at Dai Due. I do not know what their other seasonal menus look like, but for what they have now, if you don't like meat this may not be your place. I love the options, but know that going in meat is king at Dai Due. Wonderful appetizers and sides, so like us, you can create a lighter meal if desired. If you appreciate creative, fresh food that tastes incredible this is your place. Service is impeccable. What a gem for Austin.

I have been hearing about this restaurant through various sources like the Meateater podcast, Jesse’s books, etc. I finally got a chance to eat here and it did not disappoint. My girlfriend was skeptical as she is not a game meat eater but the burger she had was “the best burger of her life”. My dinner was equally good and both starters we got were incredible. Next time I’m in town I plan on making another visit.

Stopped by for their brunch, which is available 3 days a week. Biscuit with butter and jam, carnitas flautas and the longhorn cheeseburger were our choices for the afternoon. The biscuit with jam was tasty, with no complaints. The flautas were surprisingly girthy with plenty of meat inside. Something you don't see to often with this particular Tex-Mex dish. I'm never been a huge fan of flautas generally, so this did not blow my socks off, but overall a reccomend if interested. Lastly, we split the longhorn cheeseburger. Very juicy and messy, but tasty. The burger was not trying to do too much, but had it's own personality and was made with care. With all Due respect, why aren't you on your way to Dai Due? 4.5/5

Excellent, locally-sourced meat and veggies prepared with great care. Everything was delicious and, since the menu I seasonal, I might just have to go back every few months to try everything else.

Food was good but the price : food wasn’t worth it (but we come from Houston where food is cheaper and we get more). The service was good - frequent refills, check ups, and care but also slow. We didn’t make a reservation but were seated within 10 minutes. We made our order and waited almost 15 minutes to get our appetizer and then another 15-30 minutes for the main meal. The three of us ordered to share the boar confit, cheese burger, sourdough, and potatoes caroline. Our favorite was the boar confit but altogether the flavors were good but not great

Great food. I had the seasonal dish: Grilled Wild Boar Filipino Longanisa Sausage with garlic rice, grilled eggplant salad, chives and an egg. It was excellent. They no longer sell sliced sausage or charcuterie out the front butcher cabinet, but there is still some frozen fresh ground sausages, bone broth, and their cookie dough in the freezer up front to purchase along with Jesse Griffiths books, some coffee beans, Dai Due apparel, etc.

Great taquería that deserves the acclaim. The salsas are a shockingly good star in a show of star tacos. The salsa sampler order is good enough to order on its own. The tacos are great, with a few vegetarian options available. The best is the carnitas taco. It's got a perfect balance of savory flavors. Order outside when you arrive and try to get a table inside. It's a small but worthwhile interior for the service and smell.

Nixta was recommended to us as wee were told they have unique meals and a duck taco. We stopped at lunchtime on a Friday and it was not that busy. Its kind of tucked away in a residential-ish area, but they do have a small parking lot otherwise there is street parking. We got the chips n dips, duck carnitas taco, and a quesadilla with chorizo. To drink we got horchata and the seasonal (cantalope) agua fresca. The chips and dips were good, the salsa morita has a nice smoked flavor with a good kick and the duck fat refried beans are the perfect pairing to help cool it down. The quesadilla was smaller than I thought but still good and the chorizo had a nice kick. The dining space is covered and there are a variety of tables and beautiful colors throughout.

Had an amazing dining experience at Nixta Taqueria in Austin, a true fine-dine Mexican spot that exceeded expectations in every way. We were a group of three and ordered quite a variety — Beetroot Taco, Duck Taco, Tuna Tostada, and Chicken Taco — and every single dish was bursting with unique flavors and beautifully presented. The food was absolutely incredible — a solid 5/5 across the board. The staff and service were exceptional, attentive without being intrusive, and clearly passionate about what they do. The vibe of the place was warm, modern, and energetic, creating the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed evening with friends. We also tried a few drinks, and they complemented the food perfectly — refreshing and well-balanced. The only small challenge was finding parking, but once seated, everything else made up for it completely. It’s one of those places that makes you appreciate the artistry behind good food. If you’re in Austin and want to experience elevated Mexican cuisine with a creative twist, Nixta Taqueria should definitely be on your list. Must-try: Beetroot Taco & Tuna Tostada 🌮🍹

Rating: 3.7/5 [take out] We came on a Saturday about 10 minutes before opening (5 PM) and were the first ones there. People began lining up behind us shortly after. At 5:01 PM, someone came out to start setting up, which took about 5 minutes, and our order took roughly 17 minutes to prepare. Nixta looks like a ghost kitchen since all seating is outside. They recommended we wait in their outdoor patio so they could find us when our takeout order was ready. Nixta makes their own tortillas and masas using heirloom corn from Mexico, and what makes them especially unique is that their tortillas are half blue and half yellow which makes them beautiful to look at. Duck Carnitas Taco ($10): The duck confit was extremely greasy. The flavors were okay, but the texture wasn't pleasant. I was the most excited for this one but wouldn't order it again. Tuna Tostada ($15): Huge slices of yellowfin tuna that were fresh enough with good flavors. This was my friend's favorite. Beet "Tartare" Tostada ($9): I misread this and thought it was beef, but it ended up being a pleasant surprise. It was the best-looking item, with lovely piping of avocado crema. They gave a generous portion of beet and seasoned it very well. This was my favorite of the four items we tried. Wagyu Tlayuda ($32): This was a waste of money. I looked up what a tlayuda was and it's supposed to be like a Mexican pizza, but this came out more like a quesadilla. It was barely filled, with lots of empty spaces, especially around the edges. There was far more cheese than meat, and the wagyu didn't shine at all. It was one of the most underwhelming things we ate; even Taco Bell's ground beef has a more prominent flavor. The best thing about this entree was actually the sauce. Nixta is great to try once, but there's nothing that makes me want to come back. While they have unique tacos and tostadas, they're overpriced for what you get.

We enjoyed the visiting chefs middle eastern brunch event and will look for future events. The food was amazing, the owners were hospitable and lovely. The staff was in constant motion to make our day enjoyable. We enjoyed our brunch but a sun shade down the side of the pergola would have kept my silverware from becoming too hot to pick up. The communal seating was fine, really depends on who you get matched with. I’d try to fill a table next time. The reason for our visit was the chefs talent and they brought it. Enjoyed EACH and EVERY dish. So glad KG bbq is hometown as we visit him often. Fav dish was the milk bread with whipped ricotta.

Nixta Taqueria feels like your grandma’s taco joint met fine dining. It was warm, soulful, and elevated in all the right ways. You can feel the passion and creativity from the husband-wife duo behind this place. From the moment we sat down, the hospitality was exceptional. Natalia, the wine manager, helped us select an excellent bottle and even surprised us with an extra sparkling pour as a thoughtful gesture when we told her we were new to Austin and thoroughly enjoyed our dining experience thus far. Sara, the owner, even gave us a post-dinner garden tour that made the whole experience feel extra personal and special. The food was phenomenal, with the bean and cheese taco and suadero taco as standouts. And I’m still thinking about the beet “tartare” — such an inventive, flavorful take that somehow tastes like the real thing. The chips and salsa trio was also a must-order (I’d skip the avocado crema, the salsas shine on their own). Nixta is the perfect mix of heart, craft, and creativity. Easily one of the most unique yet quintessentially Austin dining experiences. We can’t wait to return to try their taco omakase!

We had an amazing experience at Nixta Taqueria. Their tasting menu usually has six courses and we added one more. Every dish felt thoughtful and creative, and they did a great job elevating Mexican flavors while still keeping everything comforting and familiar. They also offer a full vegetarian tasting menu, which is a great touch and shows how much care they put into their guests’ experience. The mole rosa with roasted beets was the standout for me. It was rich, bright, and unforgettable. We also chose the non alcoholic beverage pairing and it was fantastic. The PAIS DE MAIZ was especially memorable. The atmosphere felt intimate and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. It’s a perfect spot for a date night.

Finally made it to Birdie's to celebrate a recent promotion. We arrived 10 minutes before opening, and there were 6 people in line before us. We were welcomed outside with a carefully selected wine menu that we ordered from before stepping inside. The service was what you would expect from any restaurant restaurant in its class. Unfortunately, for us the food just didn't live up to any of the hype. We added on the special pesto pasta of the night. I'm not sure what happened, but it was like somebody knocked over the container of salt into the pan. I'm not sure I've ever had a dish that salty, let alone from a restaurant of this caliber. This single dish almost ruined the entire meal for us. The highlight of the meal, was actually the salad. We both agreed, we could eat that with every meal. The beef and puree was the next best dish. The puree had a savory and sweet flavor that near pefectly accompanied the flavors of the beef. The beef itself was cooked just to our liking. Even being one of the highlights of the meal, we did not consider this on par with other beef dishes we have enjoyed in Austin. Neither of the desserts, chocolate soft serve and olive oil cake, were ones we would seek out again.

This experience was a bit confusing. Went there with friends on a weekday dinner when I visited Austin and was told that this is a Michelin restaurant. We were nicely greeted by the front desk who introduced the menu to us. With 100+ pp pricing level, I was expecting a fine dining experience. The game rule here is that customers need to stand by the frond desk, make the order, pay everything, get a table sign, go around and find somewhere to sit and place the sign on the table, wait for server to come with drink and food. I did not really agree with the fact that we had to pay tips before receiving any service. The food was marketed as seasonal menu and the ingredients were sourced carefully and locally. They were not bad, but not impressive either. The sauce in salad and pasta were nicely balanced and creative, but the rest of the food were just okay. Again, given the pricing, I would expect more. The wine list was very comprehensive. It would be great if they offer wine pairing to supplement the pre-fixe menu.

I’ve never left a crumb of food on a plate here. The pastas are to die for - I always think I need to order a second round, but I know I have to save room for the rest of the meal and dessert. The team creating the magic that is Birdie’s - and I mean every single person, not just the owners - are superb, friendly and adamant about your experience being one to remember. The wine selection is incredible and just as memorable as the food it is enjoyed with. I never, ever skip dessert, because why would you? My husband and I love sitting at the bar where we can watch the symphony of the kitchen and anticipate the next dish coming our way. We can’t wait to come back soon for their new prix fixe menu!

Since moving to Austin, I dove head first into the restaurant scene in attempts to find my favorite restaurants. I’ve been to many places, but nowhere tops Birdie’s. Their service is above and beyond. The level of care and warmth makes you feel like a guest in their home. And the food! Their pre fixe menus (which rotate about every other month, give or take) are all to die for (or cry happy tears for). The flavor profiles of every dish, even the seemingly simple ones! Incredible! The pictures included are from their last two menus. Absolutely chef’s kiss. Thank you Birdie’s!

We had such a great time at Birdie’s. From the drink in line while we waited for the table, to the excellent and attentive service and the fantastic food it was 10/10. The wine list was so well curated and there was a solid list of by the glass wines to choose from. Shout out to Justin for some great recs in Austin as well as great service. We had a fantastic time and will be back next time we’re in Austin!

Birdie’s is a unicorn in Austin: a restaurant that skips the smoke-and-mirrors and lands all its magic where it matters—on the plate and in the smile. The current French Riviera-themed prix fixe ($78, counter service) made me want to buy a striped shirt and start speaking poetic French. The veggies were almost shockingly fresh in every dish (one bite of green bean had me questioning how it was possible to pack so much flavor into such a small green stem). The pasta—mine was a dreamy pesto fusilli—tasted like it had been made by an Italian grandmother who summers in Nice. If you’re seeking edible foam and servers who do interpretive dance with your amuse-bouche, look elsewhere. Here, the staff is sincerely friendly, not performance art—and yes, you’ll wait in line, but you can order wine while you do, which is frankly the most civilized queuing system I’ve ever encountered. The wine list is carefully crafted and you CAN trust the Birdies team to guide your journey with a little nudge in the right direction.

I loved the experience at birdies. Walk in only but you can order drinks while you wait. I don’t think we waited longer than 30 min for a weekend dinner. I personally love that their menu rotates for the element of surprise. Every dish was incredible and did not disappoint. Would definitely come back again! Shoutout to Janah one of the servers - she was super friendly! Thank you for making our date night extra special