Our area has become a foodie's paradise with a wide variety of choices ranging from creative farm-to-table dishes, Tex-Mex, Asian, and Italian specialties. Also, a few epic Austin brands (like The Grove, Alamo Drafthouse, and Moonshine) have opened a second location "up" in our area – lucky us! 

This list was compiled from a survey sent out to local residents via email and social media. Most of these restaurants are close by... A few are farther away but worth the drive. Let us know what you think! We'd love your feedback. Email laura.terry@belocalpub.com.

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14028 N. U.S. Highway 183, Building F, Austin, TX 78717 

(512) 861-7070, drafthouse.com/theater/lakeline

A stylish theater chain for new and classic films features cocktails and creative bites served seat-side.

“The food is always excellent. The 2-by-2 burger is my favorite, and I've never been disappointed. It's a five-star version of the Big Mac. The Colorado steak salad is also a regular favorite. Drinks are always cold, and the buttered popcorn with real butter is ridiculously delicious.”

10500 Avery Club Dr., Austin, TX 78717

(512) 248-2442, www.averyranchgolf.com/sunset_grill

This full-service restaurant and bar is open to the public. Sit outside on the patio, and enjoy the view of the signature infinity pool and Brushy Creek.

"Beautiful setting. New menu. Delicious food."

700 E. Whitestone Blvd., Suite 204, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 528-0889, www.bluecornharvest.com/location/cedar-park

A locally sourced restaurant serving eclectic Southwestern and Mexican fare.

“The food was very delicious. We had the guacamole and chips for the appetizer, but the house salsa that came was awesome. If not one of the best restaurants in Cedar Park, it should be very close.”

2051 Gattis School Rd., Suite 120, Round Rock, TX 78681

(512) 238-0700

A cafe serving breakfast and lunch daily.

“Must get Dave's awesome famous omelet. Smothered in queso! Add the sourdough toast for a great combination.”

2450 RR 1869, Liberty Hill, TX 78642

(512) 515-7772, www.dahliacafe.com

A family-friendly restaurant that offers great food, indoor/outdoor seating, a children's play area, and live music.

“Breakfast is legit: great omelets, and of course chicken fried steak and eggs. Lunch is always a nice experience, and it's our go-to spot for taking our parents out.”

11880 Hero Way W., Suite 201, Leander, TX 78641

(512) 246-8158, www.farmtoforktexas.com/

A farm-to-table restaurant serving American cuisine plus craft beer and local wines.

“Excellent food for a decent price. Check out the lovely homemade chocolate soufflé!”

13995 U.S. 183, Austin, TX 78717

(512) 386-1354, www.foxholeaustin.com/    

A modern tavern featuring fine dining specialties, like steaks, craft beer, and cocktails.

“I had the shrimp and grits, and if you like a spicy kick, then you will love this dish! I couldn't stop eating it, and it was a huge portion!”

1201 Lakeline Blvd., Suite 900, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 259-1144

A cafe serving Mexican and American comfort food.

“Tacos! Let me warn you that they are enormous and every bit delicious.”

1310 E. Whitestone Blvd., Suite 500, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 986-7041, www.grovewinebar.com/cedar-park

New American food and thin-crust pizza served in a wine bar setting featuring a large patio.

“Great place ideal for brunch and dates. Wine flights, bruschetta, and cocktails.”

10526 W. Parmer Ln., Austin, TX 78717

(512) 366-5627, www.leaguekitchen.com/locations

A rollicking restaurant offering creative New American fare and drinks in airy surroundings.

“My favorite dish there is the fish 'n' chips. I also love the eggs Benedict and breakfast pot pie on the brunch menu.”

1420 Cypress Creek Rd., Suite 1000, Cedar Park, TX 78613 

(512) 291-6067, www.magstexas.com/

A sports bar serving pizzas and American fare.

"Best pizza rolls I've ever had.”

    

1004 Loop 332, Liberty Hill, TX 78642

(512) 548-6086, www.maltedgrainstx.com

A restaurant serving New American and southern fare.

“The cheese biscuits served during Sunday brunch were amazing.”

10525 Avery Ranch Blvd., Austin, TX 78717

(512) 551-8669, www.moonshinegrill.com

A downtown classic offering an innovative take on classic American comfort food and craft cocktails.

"Their chicken and waffles are still the best in Austin to me.”

1821 Lakeline Blvd., Suite 104, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 356-9300, www.moutonsbistro.com/cedar-park

A bistro serving Cajun and Southern food.

“I got the red beans and rice with sausage, and it was great. Very large portions here. Also, get the boudin balls as an appetizer. The mac ‘n’ cheese is delicious too.”

    

6550 Comanche Trl., Austin, TX 78732

(512) 266-2442, www.oasis-austin.com

A spectacular destination that's worthy of the drive serving Mexican and American food, and an array of drinks in the setting of tiered outdoor decks overlooking Lake Travis.

“The beef fajitas for two was absolutely awesome. The steak was tender and cooked to perfection.”

8300 N. FM 620, Unit E, Austin, TX 78726

(737) 222-5779, oasthouseaustin.com

A family-friendly gastropub featuring craft beer, creative cocktails, and locally sourced food.

“As our main course, we had the Wagu Steak. Cooked to perfection, and it utterly melts in your mouth.”

15609 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Suite 100-A, Leander, TX 78642

(512) 456-0940, www.therepublickitchen.com

The menu is Texas-themed with a few tasty tweaks such as quail and short rib as part of the hamburger mixture.

“The menu is great. It has Texas favorites but done in a more upscale and modern way. They have King Ranch Casserole but now with quail.”

13265 U.S. Highway 183 N., Austin, TX 78750

(512) 257-8750, www.philsicehouse.com

An Austin chain serving creative burgers in a location shared with Amy's Ice Creams.

“I had a BLT, and it was literally the best I've ever had!”

3121 Palm Way, Suite 101, Austin, TX 78758

(737) 300-4800, www.secondbarkitchen.com/domain-northside

A New American restaurant with unique craft cocktails in a sophisticated setting at the Archer Hotel in the Domain.

“Their salads were flavorful, especially the beet salad, which had nice citrus flavors from the fruits and was delicious with every bite!”

3201 Twin Creeks Club Dr., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 275-2349, www.twincreeksclub.com/dining-social/hours

The Twin Creeks Country Club features a fine-dining restaurant, bar, and lounge and covered outdoor dining.

“The dining area is gorgeous. Loved the street tacos. Great margaritas also.”

11301 Domain Dr., Austin, TX 78758

(512) 490-1511, www.urbanatthedomain.com/

Located in the Westin at the Domain, this relaxed eatery offers elevated comfort fare plus happy hour in the lobby bar.

“Had the mushroom pizza at the bar – fantastic! Great crust and flavor!”

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2051 Cypress Creek Rd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 249-0338, www.daichisushiandgrill.com

An upbeat Japanese locale offering sushi and kitchen entrées, plus sake and beer.

“Authentic, quality Japanese food in a clean, simple dining environment. Curry pork cutlet was delicious. Ramen was pretty tasty. Sushi was fresh.”

13776 North U.S. 183, Suite 142, Austin, TX 78750

(512) 258-1833, www.freshheim.com

A restaurant offering wide selections of salads and other fresh items.

“If you're looking for an easy healthier lunch spot this place is great. Nice, big salads with good variety of fruits and vegetables. Everything tastes fresh, and I love that they have glass noodles as well.”

8300 N. FM 620, Building L, Suite 800, Austin, TX 78726

(737) 222-5000, www.greenmangoatx.com

A Thai restaurant with a large focus on using freshly sourced ingredients.

“The basil eggplant dish was the hit at our table. Perfectly cooked eggplant, and a mixture of spices and veggies that will delight your senses. We added crispy tofu, which only enhanced the dish.”

13000 I-35, Austin, TX 78753

(512) 339-9088, www.hohochinesebbq.com

A Chinese barbecue restaurant featuring aquariums to add to the atmosphere.

“Their roast duck is tasty. Other dishes are just as great.”

14900 Avery Ranch Blvd., Austin, TX 78717

(512) 244-2972, www.hunanranchaustin.com

A Chinese restaurant offering a sushi bar and a large fish tank at the entrance.

“We love their crab rangoon! It is our favorite Chinese food restaurant.”

10900 Lakeline Mall Dr., Suite 650, Austin, TX 78717

(512) 337-9030, www.nancysskygarden.com

An Asian fusion restaurant with a focus on freshly sourced ingredients.

“This is hands down the best poké spot in Austin. The portions are very generous for the price, and the fish tastes so fresh. I highly recommend trying out both the purple rice and sweet potato noodles!”

1850 S. Lakeline Blvd., Suite 201, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 649-2222

A sushi bar and Asian fusion restaurant.

“My dish favorites are the miso soup (ask for it spicy). It is one of the best I've ever had. The Brussels, Californication and Dark Side of the Moon and spicy garlic edamame are amazing. Also, their premium soy sauce! Yum.”

905 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 259-1010

A Japanese restaurant featuring noodle dishes and playfully named sushi rolls.

“Sushi Fever is a must in Cedar Park. The rolls are inventive and tasty, and reasonably priced.”

11066 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 402, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 257-0788, www.sotoaustin.com

An upscale-casual Japanese restaurant serving sushi, cocktails, and more.

“We like to frequent this place around the start of happy hour. The ever-evolving menu allows us to always enjoy something new every time we come in.”

1335 E. Whitestone Blvd., Suite T-140, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 528-5449, www.takaraonline.com.

A restaurant offering sushi and other Asian dishes served in a modern space.

“Their sashimi and sushi rolls are amazing, and so are the beef bulgogi, teppan-yaki (with beef and shrimp) and teriyaki salmon. Also, the potstickers (yaki gyoza) are great, and so is the coconut curry chicken.”

801 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78704

(512) 916-4808, www.uchiaustin.com

This downtown restaurant serves sushi plus creative hot and cold dishes from chef Tyson Cole in a stylish, sophisticated setting.

“If you want sushi in a cool setting, give this place a try. They are the real deal with fish flown in from Japan five days a week!”

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12233 RR 620, Suite 105, Austin, TX 78750

(512) 382-6248

A small-batch craft barbecue restaurant serving Texas-style barbecue and sides.

“Had me some juicy pork belly, melt-off-the-bone ribs, jalapeño cheese sausage, potatoes, mac 'n' cheese and ranch-style beans. In my humble opinion, the best barbecue around.”

10621 W. Parmer Ln., Austin, TX 78717

(512) 467-4891, www.smokeymosbbq.com/locations/avery-ranch/

A local chain serving barbecued meats and sides plus breakfast.

“Delicious lunch break. Only place I’ve found chess pie so far in Austin.”

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14011 TX 29, Liberty Hill, TX 78642

(512) 548-6781

A locally owned burger joint also featuring hand-battered chicken fingers, onion rings, and beer-battered fries.

“They are the definition of comfort food. Love the thick juicy burgers, fries and fresh berry shakes.”

200 S. Bell Blvd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 249-5214, www.mooniesburgerhouse.com/cedarpark

Burgers on soft buns and sweet-potato fries are the stars of this informal kid-friendly eatery.

"Good family place. We visit regularly. An interesting variety of specialty burgers, great battered fries. I particularly love their own special flavor of coconut black tea. Be sure to try it. The soda fountain has that really good soft ice, too."

11301 Lakeline Blvd., Suite 200, Austin, TX 78717

(512) 219-1600, www.mooyah.com/locations/austin-tx-250

A chain for custom burgers, including poultry and veggie versions, plus fries and shakes.

“They make everything to order on the grill, not frozen. I ordered the paleo double burger with no bun and got my husband the double bacon cheeseburger.”

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13343 Research Blvd., Suite 350, Austin, TX 78750

(512) 401-2424, www.meltingpot.com/austin-northwest-tx

A fondue restaurant chain offering heated pots of cheese, chocolate, or broth for dipping and cooking.

“The spinach artichoke cheese fondue was my favorite. So good! It went well with the bread, cheese and veggies. The flaming turtle was my favorite chocolate fondue, but all of them were delicious. I mean, it's chocolate fondue, how can it be bad?”

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11066 Pecan Park Blvd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 394-6248, tarkaindiankitchen.com

An Austin counter-serve Indian restaurant chain featuring a contemporary setting.

“The Channa Masala is fantastic, among my favorite Indian dishes ever, and I have had a few!”

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124 E. Eighth St., Georgetown, TX 78626

(512) 943-9272, www.600degreespizzeria.com

Creative pies, slices and varied craft brews are the draw at this compact eatery with an upbeat vibe.

"The best pizza in the town, quality, and fresh ingredients. Clean facilities and friendly staff. Huge pizza toppings and more than 20 beers options. Perfect to hang out with family and friends."

14028 U.S. 183, Suite 210, Austin, TX 78717

(512) 243-6555 • www.cedroaustin.com

A locally owned restaurant serving homemade Italian food in a stylish and modern setting with outdoor seating available.

“This is a nice quaint modern restaurant, and you can then walk across the street and see a movie at the Alamo. The food was great and thoughtfully created, and reminded me of an Italian restaurant in Little Italy. Capellini with seafood... etc., risotto ... the food – yum.”

12100 W. Parmer Ln., Suite 200, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 879-1450, www.mandolas.com

A family-owned Austin Italian chain featuring an outdoor children's playground.

“The food here is really good. The bread that comes with each meal is perfect. The gnocchi is probably the best dish on the menu, and the Italian cream cake is good for dessert.”

11420 Rock Rose Ave., Suite 120, Austin, TX 78758

(512) 215-9598, miatapasaustin.com

A locally owned restaurant featuring fresh pasta and Italian small plates, plus wine, beer, and cocktails.

“I highly recommend the sweet-potato tapas. Completely unexpected, and what a gorgeous presentation. The other apps were delicious, but the sweet potatoes stole the show.”

4807 183-A Toll Rd., Suite 104, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 548-4087, www.modpizza.com/locations/cedar-park

This counter-serve chain is known for build-your-own pizza in an industrial-chic setting.

"Family loves MOD; everyone gets what they want. I get the complete package. The wife gets the cauliflower crust. Kids get their fav ... great pizza."

508 N. Bell Blvd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 250-1188, www.nikispizzacedarpark.com

This local establishment with a 40-year history is serving up fresh homemade pizza and pasta made from scratch.

"Amazing pizza and great experience if you have never been here. Lots of history about the family-owned business on the wall."

11506 Century Oaks Ter., Suite 124, Austin, TX 78758

(512) 339-4400, www.northitalia.com

A modern Italian restaurant in The Domain featuring a patio while serving items like thin-crust pizzas and other sophisticated fares.

“We probably ordered three servings of the truffle garlic bread by the end of the night – so amazing. Pro tip: Use the truffle bread to mop up your sauce. Also, I went on a Wednesday, and it just so happened to be half-off bottled-wine night. Score!”

2800 Hoppe Trl., Round Rock, TX 78681

(512) 717-0869, pinthousepizza.com/round-rock

A restaurant and craft brewpub serving an array of pizzas and craft beers.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the Sundance salad, half banh mi and half of the pizza with pear.”

1913 U.S. 183, Leander, TX 78641

(512) 259-2699, www.southernspizzaandsportspub.com

“One of the best pizza places in town! They use cornmeal dough, and it gives the pizza such a great crispy texture. Don't miss the delicious cheesy breadsticks either!”

    

10526 W. Parmer Ln., Austin, TX 78717

(512) 255-9463 • www.tonycs.com

A locally owned pizzeria turning out coal-fired pies and traditional Italian entrées plus wine flights.

“We went tonight for a dinner date and got the garlic knots and split the large carnivore with three slices left over. Really great service, atmosphere, and food.”

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4911 183A, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 260-7775, www.chuys.com/locations/austin/cedar-park

A locally owned chain restaurant serving Tex-Mex dishes in kitschy, Elvis-heavy settings.

“Great food and atmosphere. Been coming to Chuy's ever since I was a little kid, and it has never let me down.”

1600 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 260-7494, www.dossalsas.com

A family-owned Tex-Mex restaurant in a bright and modern setting.

“Friendly service and a good variety of quality food. It’s our regular go-to Mexican food place. Yum!”

4501 183A Toll Rd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 582-2210, tex-mex.com

A regional Tex-Mex chain known for its homemade tortillas and variety of margaritas.

“Highly recommend! The beef fajitas are delicious – they marinate them 24 hours... Loved the patio. And, loved the margaritas! Big flour tortillas were delish too.”

15515 RR 620 N., Austin, TX 78717

(512) 733-6622, www.mesarosa.com

An Austin chain serving a menu of classic Mexican dishes and cocktails in relaxed surroundings.

“Any time you can enjoy an adult beverage on the patio, eating chips and salsa, while your children run and play, is a win in my book.”

500 Cypress Creek Rd., Suite 170, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(737) 300-2296, www.santacatarinarestaurant.com

A spacious, contemporary restaurant offering familiar Mexican dishes and margaritas plus patio seating.

“The guac appetizer was yummy, and I enjoyed the shrimp tacos – some of the best I've had in the area. Also, pretty strong marg for only $5 during happy hour.”

1900 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 986-7374 

11100 Lakeline Blvd., Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 258-3441, www.serranos.com

A branch of a local chain serving up Tex-Mex standards and margaritas in a casual setting.

“Great food, good drinks, and awesome service! Love their salsa, and the tacos al pastor are my favorite.”

1468 E. Whitestone Blvd., Suite 100, Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 337-0997, www.torchystacos.com

A local chain serving Mexican-street-food-style tacos in inventive varieties.

“They have an exhaustive menu of delicious tacos. Don't forget to ask to see the ‘secret menu.'"

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9400-B Arboretum Blvd., Austin, TX 78759

(512) 342-2642, www.eddiev.com/locations/tx/austin/austin-arboretum/8502

An elegant fine-dining chain with a seafood and steak menu, plus a cocktail lounge featuring live jazz.

“My husband and I celebrated our 17th anniversary here. We were treated to a yummy appetizer (complimentary). The drinks and food were superb. I cannot forget to mention the chocolate mousse cake that we were given as a complimentary anniversary dessert.“

10903 Pecan Park Blvd., Austin, TX 78750

(512) 506-8700, www.fredasaustin.com

An upscale-casual restaurant serving seafood, steaks and Southern fare.

“I enjoy the happy hour specials at Freda's. Happy hour is from 4 to 7 pm, and food choice prices range from $5, $7, and $9. I've sampled many of these items and love the crab-stuffed mushrooms, chopped brisket sliders, and the spinach artichoke dip. Yum!”

2850 IH-35 N., Round Rock, TX 78681

(512) 351-9724, salttraderscc.com

An inventive and upscale-casual seafood spot.

“I've been to Salt Traders for lunch, happy hour, brunch and dinner, and I've enjoyed it on every occasion. My favorite item is the fried fish sandwich. The crispness of the fish and the fusion of the ingredients makes my mouth water. The lobster pot pie has a nice crust. They also have $1 gulf oysters during happy hour.”

10225 Research Blvd., Suite 4000, Austin, TX 78759

(512) 794-8300, www.trulucks.com

An upscale seafood and steak chain featuring half-price happy hour and a thorough wine list.

“My husband and I went here for our recent wedding anniversary. Wow, what amazing service, food and drinks.”

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2408 W. Anderson Ln., Austin, TX 78757

(512) 451-7333, www.bartlettsaustin.com

Fine dining at its finest serving top-quality meats, seafood, vegetables, and cheeses, along with an amazing wine list.

"This is one of my favorite places in Austin to eat. I've been coming here since I was a kid, and it's still just as good as it was when I was young. I love the atmosphere inside – it really makes you not want to leave."

11801 Domain Blvd., Austin, TX 78758

(512) 270-6880, www.perryssteakhouse.com/locations/tx/austin/domain-northside/

Pork chops, steak, seafood, wine, and cocktails served in an upscale setting with a lounge and live jazz.

“Easily the most marvelous pork chop I have ever had.”