It’s the weekend and there’s nothing you’d love more than dinner and cocktails at an Austin restaurant, but wait...you didn’t make a reservation.
Austin’s dining scene is diverse, star-studded, and awarded, but many eateries require a reservation — some are fully booked weeks or months in advance.
Here’s our fix: a list of eight restaurants in ATX that encourage walk-ins or don’t take reservations.
Walk-ins encouraged
- El Alma, 1025 Barton Springs Rd., Austin | Patio seating at this Mexican restaurant is reserved for walk-ins only, making its Barton Springs location with Downtown views a must-visit.
- Bill’s Oyster, 205 W. 3rd St., Austin | At this neighborhood restaurant, only a select number of tables are available for reservations, leaving room for spontaneous diners.
- Justine’s Brasserie, 4710 E. 5th St., Austin | This French restaurant encourages walk-ins for parties of five or fewer. Pro tip: City Editor Morgan normally arrives at 6 p.m. and is seated quickly.
- Uptown Sports Club, 1200 E. 6th St., Austin | Reservations are exclusively for parties with more than six guests at this New Orleans-inspired joint.
No reservations allowed
- Loro, 2115 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin | Guests grab any seat, order food and drinks at the bar, and enjoy a laid-back yet elevated meal at this Asian smokehouse and bar.
- Birdie’s, 2944 E. 12th St., Unit A, Austin | This first-come, first-served restaurant (where chef Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel is nominated for a James Beard Award) and wine bar’s menu is served via counter service.
- Holiday on 7th, 5020 E. 7th. St., Austin | Patrons can sit indoors or on the twinkling patio for martinis and a fancy meal.
- Komé Sushi Kitchen, 5301 Airport Blvd., Unit #100, Austin | Locals rave about this trendy sushi spot, so arrive early or be prepared to wait.
East Austin restaurant Birdie’s surprises guests with seasonal menus.
Photo by @mksrn
