From overlooking the lake to a river flowing by, Austin has some great waterfront restaurants that are always delightful with great patios + beyond. In the mood for tex-mex, BBQ, or seafood, here’s our 101 to all the best in the metroplex!
Updated February 2024
County Line On The Lake
This classic spot for barbecue in Austin features amazing eats, drinks, and views! Enjoy dishes like brisket tacos, cheddar jalapeno sausage, pulled pork sandwiches, and more, all while overlooking Lake Austin. Their happy hour and family-style platters are a great deal and one of our go-tos!
Ranch Road 2222 | Directions
Hula Hut
Find this little slice of paradise on Lake Austin, serving Tex-Mex with a Hawaiian twist! The extensive menu includes everything from Pu Pu Platters and seafood dishes to tacos and enchiladas – there’s truly something for everyone. The cocktails match the space perfectly, giving all the tiki vibes. We love to sit on the dock on a sunny day and watch all the boats come in! (Featured header image)
Tarrytown | Directions
Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile
This cozy ranch-to-table restaurant overlooks the Colorado River! From the dishes to the decor, this place has all the Texas vibes. We recommend dining on the patio, and you really can’t go wrong with any dish on the menu – they all have a grandma’s cooking, but upscale, flavor that is like no other!
East Austin | Directions
The Lighthouse Restaurant & Lounge
Soak up the sun from their lake view terrace, while you enjoy live music and delicious eats! Their menu features American and Mexican dishes like flatbreads, queso, salad, seafood, pasta, and even $5 burgers after 4pm. Go any time of day for lunch, brunch, or dinner, and bring the kids along too – they have a kids’ play area!
Lake Travis | Directions
Mozart’s Coffee
Since 1993, Mozart’s has been serving delicious coffee, pastries, and desserts! Stop by for a treat while overlooking beautiful Lake Austin – we recommend the bottomless coffee. They always have live music and community events going on, plus paddleboarding available to book!
Tarrytown | Directions
Oasis Texas Brewing Company
This Austin staple is serving up great views and better brews, all while overlooking Lake Travis! The taproom serves over ten different rotating beers, along with a selection of bar bites like burgers, apps, and amazing beer chili. Spend a night here with friends and roast marshmallows with one of their s’mores kits!
Lake Travis | Directions
The Perch ATX
This adorable cafe and local hang-out overlooks Town Lake! It’s perfect for a morning relaxing with friends, or working remotely. Their menu offers an array of coffees, teas, smoothies, and breakfast items like bagels, paninis, pastries, and delish breakfast tacos on the weekends.
Downtown | Directions
Shack 512
Head to this restaurant and bar on Lake Travis to enjoy elevated pub grub! Their huge deck is the perfect casual dinner and drinks spot, with stunning sunset views. Try their Deep Eddy Mules or Mexican Martini, paired with their beloved chicken sandwich!
Volente | Directions
Ski Shores Cafe
If you haven’t been to Ski Shores yet, it’s a must! This spot is a true Lake Austin oasis with boat ramp docking, fresh tacos and burgers, amazing frozen drinks, and even pickleball. Their patio is massive and features umbrellas, misters, and fire pits – perfect for the crazy Texas weather!
Lake Austin | Directions
Sundancer Grill
Find this no-frills, adorable white house on Lake Travis! They offer lakeside dining all year round, serving up dozens of cocktails, weekend brunch, tacos, burgers, and seafood galore. If you’re arriving by boat, they offer complimentary boat parking right next to Sail & Ski Yacht Club.
Lake Travis | Directions
