Yelp’s list of the top 25 places to eat in Austin is here, and our mouths are watering.
The list was compiled using total volume and ratings of reviews given by Yelp Elite Squad members — aka Yelp’s most active users — from August 2024 to August 2025. Figi here — I’ve been around the block a few times too. I went through the list to find some of my favorites so I can help you work your way through flavortown.
No. 1: Terry Black’s Barbecue
Using time-honored recipes from the Black family, this restaurants has six locations across the US, and like many barbecue restaurants, you have to get in line early before they sell out. Next time you visit, try this: the signature brisket and the mac and cheese.
No. 4: Aba
The Mediterranean restaurant on Music Lane is perfect for people-watching, sharing some appetizers, and getting happy hour delights. I recommend sitting outside when you visit, ordering the whipped feta and sipping on a “Livin’ Easy” cocktail.
No. 9: Bird Bird Biscuit
A chicken biscuit from this local favorite is a great bite to eat at any time of the day, plus you can get breakfast sandwiches during all operating hours at its three locations. My go-to order? “The Queen Beak,” which comes with black pepper honey and bacon-infused chipotle mayo.
No. 11: Ember Kitchen
Located in the Seaholm District, this centrally located Latin Seafood restaurant is right up my alley when it comes to flavor and has a picturesque interior to boot. I’ll order anything with masa, so I usually opt for the sope caviar bites and scallops with corn mousse.
No. 14: KG BBQ
If you’ve been reading ATXtoday long enough, you’re likely well aware of how KG BBQ made me tear up the first time I tried food from the Egyptian barbecue truck. There is not a bad dish on the menu as far as I’m concerned, but the Egyptian mac n’ cheese and any of the rice bowls are a good start.
No. 22: The Guest House
This spot is not for a casual dinner, as presentation and taste hit the highest notes when you visit the dimly lit, swanky dining room. The Guest House may boast my favorite espresso martini, which comes with vanilla cold foam and croissant-infused vodka, and I love how you can order “Theatrical” cocktails.
No. 23: Home Slice Pizza
On the other end of the spectrum, getting some ‘za from Home Slice is practically a rite of passage for Austinites. Try the rotating pie, or opt for my favorite: pepperoni and hot cherry peppers.
These are just my favorites — check out the full list.
