Brunch in Austin is not just a meal. It feels more like a citywide ritual, breaking up weekend routines with something far tastier. You’ll find a table anywhere from a funky neighborhood spot to a sun-drenched patio downtown, and the city spoils you with variety. I remember wandering South Congress on a lazy Sunday while chasing a friend’s recommendation. That led me to a quiet patio, a mug of perfect coffee, and what might have been the fluffiest pancakes I’ve ever tasted. Austin has a knack for turning a simple late-morning bite into the best part of the week.
Finding the best brunch in Austin means exploring everything from breakfast tacos to creative vegan plates, from classic diners to modern, open-air kitchens. Navigating the options can get overwhelming—especially when you’re hungry—so I’ve put together a clear guide to thirty of Austin’s standout brunch spots. If you want your next brunch to be something special, you’re definitely in the right place.
Where to find the best brunch in Austin, TX
Here are some of the top spots to find the best brunch in Austin, TX:
- Cypress Grill
- Stella San Jac
- Bouldin Creek Cafe
- Moonshine Grill
- Odd Duck
- Jack Allen’s Kitchen
- Magnolia Cafe
- Torchys Tacos
- 1886 Cafe & Bakery
- Roaring Fork
1. Cypress Grill
Cypress Grill brings a taste of Louisiana to South Austin, serving up soulful Cajun flavors in a warm, laid-back setting. Walk in and you’ll catch the aroma of spices and fresh bread, plus the friendly chatter of loyal regulars. This spot is one of those neighborhood gems locals whisper about when someone asks where to eat.
One visit pulled me in on a rainy morning. I watched as the server placed a plate of eggs with creamy cheese grits in front of me. **That first bite—rich and peppery—was enough to earn my return visits.** The beignets are pillow-soft, dusted with snowy sugar, and always gone too fast.
**For brunch, try their shrimp and grits or the crawfish omelet.** Both reveal Cypress Grill’s knack for balancing bold flavors and southern comfort. It’s easy to see why this spot is a weekend staple.
2. Stella San Jac
Stella San Jac feels like downtown Austin distilled into one cheery, bustling dining room. The sunlight filters through tall windows, catching the buzz of brunchers reuniting over strong coffee and generous plates. **What sets Stella San Jac apart is its artful twist on Southern classics, served with real warmth.**
I once ducked in on a whim and found myself lingering over their biscuit board, a playful sampler of house-made biscuits with spreads that left me rethinking what a biscuit could be. It’s easy to get hooked after just one visit.
**For brunch, the avocado toast here deserves attention, piled with fresh fixings and a zesty Texas kick. The sweet potato hash offers comfort in every forkful.** Stella’s plates feel both rooted in tradition and full of surprises—exactly what brunch in Austin calls for.
3. Bouldin Creek Cafe
Bouldin Creek Cafe has a quirky, welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger long after brunch ends. Tucked away in the heart of South Austin, it’s a haven for vegetarians and anyone who loves a creative, plant-based menu. **You’ll hear stories of regulars who can’t go a week without their tofu scramble fix.**
I wandered in after a morning walk and discovered that coffee is practically an art form here—the baristas take their craft seriously, and it shows. The space buzzes with artists, students, and neighbors swapping stories over steaming plates.
**Brunch at Bouldin Creek Cafe means trying the “Ren” breakfast platter or their famous vegan pancakes.** Every bite tastes fresh, satisfying, and distinctly Austin, making it a brunch spot you’ll want to visit again and again.
4. Moonshine Grill
Moonshine Grill sits inside a historic Austin building, where exposed stone walls meet laughter over hearty Southern brunch. The space oozes a rustic charm that calls for slow mornings with friends or a lazy solo treat. **The staff sets the tone with genuine hospitality, making every visit feel like coming home.**
I was introduced to Moonshine by a longtime Austinite who swore their brunch menu had no rival. She wasn’t wrong. One forkful of their fluffy biscuits and creamy grits and I understood the local hype.
**Order the green chile cheese grits or the banana bread French toast.** Both are perfect examples of Moonshine’s talent for comfort cooking with creative flourishes. For anyone after a trustworthy brunch in Austin, this is a place you’ll want to bookmark.
5. Odd Duck
Odd Duck feels like the blueprint for Austin’s creative food scene. The space buzzes with a come-as-you-are energy, making every visit as comfortable as it is interesting. **The menu celebrates local ingredients with unexpected twists, ensuring no two meals ever feel alike.**
I remember settling in at the counter, watching chefs craft plates with careful hands and wild imagination. Brunch at Odd Duck is often a little adventure; you never quite know what will land on your table—only that it’ll be memorable.
**The seasonal vegetable hash is always a smart bet, reflecting Odd Duck’s commitment to fresh, Texas-grown produce. Their homemade breads, particularly the biscuits, make excellent companions.** For anyone hunting for an inventive brunch, this spot never disappoints.
6. Jack Allen’s Kitchen
Jack Allen’s Kitchen is where Texas flavors headline the brunch menu, with a special nod to local farms and small producers. **It’s a place that feels upbeat and neighborly, perfect for gathering with friends or family.** The staff’s cheerful vibe sets the tone, and the wide, airy dining room fills up with laughter fast.
I landed here on a sunny Saturday and was greeted by the aroma of fresh cornbread and roasted vegetables. Every dish that passed by looked genuinely hearty and fresh.
**For brunch, the chicken fried steak (made halal-style on request) and the huevos rancheros are crowd-pleasers.** Each plate pairs Texas comfort with a creative, bright twist. The experience always feels personal, thanks to the care in every bite.
7. Magnolia Cafe
Magnolia Cafe is the kind of classic Austin diner where everyone feels like a local, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. With its colorful murals and open-all-hours energy, this spot turns every meal into a laid-back celebration. **Magnolia stands out by serving up comfort food with quirky Texas flair and a kitchen that never seems to sleep.**
I remember ducking in late one morning and sliding into a booth as sunlight spilled across the linoleum. The place buzzed with regulars swapping stories and servers balancing plates stacked high.
**For brunch, the gingerbread pancakes are legendary—thick, spiced, and sweet enough to need only a splash of syrup. Try the veggie omelet for something light but still filling.** No matter what you order, Magnolia’s food feels like home.
8. Torchys Tacos
Torchys Tacos is where Austin’s love for breakfast tacos reaches delicious new heights. Equal parts easy-going and inventive, this spot delivers bold flavors wrapped up in warm tortillas. **The first time I visited, a brisk morning quickly transformed with a plate of tacos and house-made sauces that packed just enough zing.**
It’s the kind of place where you can roll in any time and know you’ll leave satisfied. They’re serious about their salsas and keep the energy high, even during the quietest brunch hours.
**For brunch, the “Ranch Hand” with eggs, potatoes, and cheese is a standout, while the “Independent” piles on savory mushrooms and avocado for a hearty vegetarian fix.** Whichever route you go, brunch at Torchys is always big on flavor and personality.
9. 1886 Cafe & Bakery
Stepping into 1886 Cafe & Bakery feels a bit like time travel. With its Victorian charm and vintage accents, this spot is a downtown Austin classic. **It’s a favorite for those who like their brunch with a side of history and a dash of local character.**
I once slid into one of their cozy booths on a drizzly morning—the sort of day that calls for comfort. The air smelled of coffee and warm pastry, with just enough bustle to make you feel right at home.
**Their Texas-shaped pecan waffle is iconic, crisp on the outside and brimming with flavor.** The quiche is another must-try, delightfully light but satisfying. Every dish reflects the cafe’s respect for tradition, served without any rush.
10. Roaring Fork
Roaring Fork delivers classic American wood-fired cooking in a refined downtown setting. The space feels elegant but never stuffy, which makes it a favorite for both laid-back brunches and special occasions. **What sets Roaring Fork apart is their ability to balance smoky flavors with fresh, thoughtful ingredients.**
On a personal visit, I grabbed a window seat and watched Austin stroll by outside while the kitchen worked its magic. Brunch here always has a sense of occasion to it, thanks to attentive service and beautifully plated dishes.
**The rotisserie chicken hash offers a warm, savory start to the day, while the seasonal vegetable frittata brings out the best in local produce.** No matter the choice, you can count on quality and a touch of wood-fired depth.
More Things to Try in Austin, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best brunch spots in Austin?
Some standout brunch choices in Austin include Magnolia Cafe for classic comfort food, Odd Duck for creative plates, Bouldin Creek Cafe for plant-based goodness, and Moonshine Grill for a Southern-style spread.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan brunch options in Austin?
Absolutely. Bouldin Creek Cafe is famous for its all-vegetarian menu, while most spots like Stella San Jac, Magnolia Cafe, and Odd Duck feature plenty of veggie and vegan options.
What brunch dishes are unique to Austin?
Austin is known for its breakfast tacos, migas, inventive pancakes, and creative twists on Southern staples. Don’t miss specialty items like the Texas-shaped waffle at 1886 Cafe & Bakery or the seasonal hashes at local favorites.
Is it necessary to have a reservation for brunch in Austin?
While some spots accept walk-ins, the most popular brunch places fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Booking ahead is always smart if you want to skip the wait.
Can I find gluten-free brunch options in Austin?
Yes. Most top brunch restaurants—like Jack Allen’s Kitchen, Roaring Fork, and Bouldin Creek Cafe—offer gluten-free dishes or can adjust plates to suit dietary needs.