How to Dine in Downtown Austin

Once upon a time Austin dining was pretty much limited to Tex-Mex, barbecue and burgers. But Austin has become increasingly cosmopolitan in the last two decades and as such, is now a foodie's paradise. Downtown is a good place to start sampling the Austin food scene.

Instructions

1. Carmelo's<br>504 E 5th St<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>For an Italian restaurant, Carmelo's is full of surprises. Occupying an old train depot, this elegant spot was for years an outpost in a part of downtown that is now crowded with new construction. The menu includes such delights as veal with lobster, roasted breast of duck, lobster-filled ravioli and even some flambé dishes.

2. Kenichi Austin<br>419 Colorado<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>This chic restaurant is one of the key places downtown to see and be seen. The menu is Japanese fusion, with sushi rolls and even such Japanese basics as yakitori, but there's also such Western favorites as rib eye, roasted salmon and duck confit.

3. Thai Passion<br>620 Congress Avenue, Suite #105<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone] <br><br>Though located in the heart of downtown, Thai Passion never gives off a hectic vibe, even during the lunch rush. Many Thai standards, such as pad thai and satay are available, as are duck curry and fried red snapper.

4. Katz's Deli & Bar<br>618 W 6th St<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>Owned by local character Marc Katz, this 24/7 eatery is both an institution and an inevitability; everybody hangs out here at one time or another. In addition to such deli standards as matzo ball chicken and noodle soup, potato pancakes and reubens, pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, it also offers steaks, seafood and a large breakfast menu.

5. Mike's Pub<br>108 E 7th St<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>This is the ideal place to enjoy a big, sloppy, greasy burger, fries and a cold beer or soft drink. Located next door to a parking garage, it is dark, crowded and absolutely perfect.

6. Hoffbrau Steaks<br>613 W 6th St<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>Once a favorite hang-out of Lyndon Johnson's, this no-frills establishment has an excellent if limited menu--mostly pan-fried steaks and sides. It's been open since the 1930s and the crowd still spills outdoors.

7. Ruth's Chris Steak House<br>107 W 6th St<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>An expensive chain offering prime steaks and a superb wine list, this is one of the top places downtown to take people you want to impress. It may be part of a national chain, but it manages to avoid the "sameness" typical of chain restaurants.

8. Louie's 106<br>106 E Sixth St<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>The menu here is a mixture of Italian, Mediterranean and American delights but what Louie's is best known for is its tapas. There is also an extensive wine list and a number of public and private dining rooms spread out over three stories.

9. Stubb's Bar-BQ Restaurant<br>801 Red River St<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>This is not only one of the most popular barbecue restaurants in town, it's also one of the premier music venues. Don't miss the Sunday Gospel Buffet.

10. Texas Chili Parlor<br>1409 Lavaca Street<br>Austin, TX 78701<br>[phone]<br><br>The name says it all. Located within a couple blocks of the State Capitol, this place serves three grades of chili: the mild "X," the spicy "XX" and "XXX," which is guaranteed to make your brain explode out of your skull cavity.