Austin's food scene is famous, but you don't need to wait 4 hours at Franklin to eat well. The city's food truck culture, taco obsession, and neighborhood joints offer incredible cheap eats. Here's how to eat like a local on a budget.
Breakfast Tacos
Austin runs on breakfast tacos. Every Austinite has their favorite spot.
Veracruz All Natural
The migas taco is legendary. Fresh, flavorful, and affordable. Lines move fast.
Joe's Bakery
Old-school spot with massive tacos. The carne guisada is excellent.
Tacodeli
The Otto is famous: refried black beans, bacon, egg, cheese. Perfect start to any day.
Cisco's
Historic Tex-Mex since 1948. Huevos rancheros and migas plates are huge.
Food Trucks
Austin's food truck scene is legendary. Parks full of trailers serving everything from BBQ to Thai.
Torchy's Tacos
Started as a trailer, now everywhere. Creative tacos, secret menu, Austin icon.
Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ
Brisket breakfast tacos that combine Austin's two loves. Worth every penny.
East Side King
Paul Qui's Asian street food. The beet fries and Thai chicken are famous.
The Peached Tortilla
Asian-Southern fusion. The brisket banh mi shows off Austin's creativity.
Budget BBQ
You don't have to wait hours or spend $30/pound for great Austin BBQ.
Terry Black's
Quality BBQ with shorter lines than Franklin. Good brisket, great sides.
Stiles Switch BBQ
Neighborhood BBQ joint with excellent brisket and no crazy waits.
Micklethwait Craft Meats
Trailer serving top-tier BBQ. Lines are shorter and prices are fair.
More Cheap Gems
Juan in a Million
The Don Juan taco is massive. Cheap, filling, perfect hangover food.
Home Slice Pizza
New York-style pizza by the slice. Great late-night option.
Kerbey Lane Cafe
24-hour Austin institution. Pancakes, queso, and breakfast all day.
Ramen Tatsu-Ya
Some of the best ramen in Texas. Filling bowl for under $20.
Austin Budget Eating Tips
- Happy hours: Many restaurants on South Congress and Rainey Street have great deals
- Food truck parks: Check out The Picnic, Fareground, and others
- East Austin: Generally cheaper than downtown or South Congress
- BBQ lunch: Go early for shorter lines and better meat selection
- College deals: Many spots near UT have student specials
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