One of the many perks of living in – or visiting – Austin is the city’s many lakeside restaurants. Soak in the season with this list of Where to Dine by the Water. Whether you arrive by car or boat, you’re sure to enjoy these beloved restaurants spanning Lady Bird Lake, Lake Austin, and Lake Travis.
Lake Austin
County Line on the Lake
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city livin’ and go back to the roots of the Lone Star State, we can think of few better activities that channel one’s inner Texan than chowing down on BBQ at County Line on the Lake. Order yourself some hot ribs and a cold beer and stay a while on the breezy patio just off Bull Creek. The kids will love looking at all the turtles by the water’s edge.
Hula Hut
This lakeside restaurant offers “traditional Tex-Mex with a Hawaiian twist” in a colorful setting, with all the tiki accouterments you would rightfully expect. Satisfying portion sizes and a wide variety of refreshing tropical drinks and margs make this spot an excellent place to refuel after a day of paddleboarding in the sun. They also have boat slips on a first-come, first-served basis, or order yours to-go to eat out on the lake.
Ski Shores
Ski Shores is a steadfast waterfront option that has served fresh American eats and ice-cold drinks along the shore of Lake Austin for decades. Let the kids enjoy some carefree moments in their adorable fenced play area or digging in the sand pit. It’s never a bad time to visit Ski Shores, but the best time might be after a big day on the lake! Boat parking is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. They also have live music on Fridays from 5 – 7 pm.
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters
Just steps away from Hula Hut, you’ll find Mozart’s — very popular for coffee, and desserts, and a great big casual patio overlooking the water. It’s a great pick for treats and snacks with the kids any time of day.
— Quince
Quince Austin is a new-ish restaurant on Lake Austin with casual fare like Spicy Tuna Rolls, “Austin Style” Cheese Fries, New York Strip, and more. The restaurant is beautiful and stylish with seating inside and on their lakefront patio.
Lake Travis
The Oasis
We know, we know, you’ve heard of The Oasis. But there are probably two people in the Austin metro area who haven’t heard of The Oasis, and we owe it to those folks to clue them in. It’s known as the sunset capital of Texas for good reason – this tiered structure serves glorious vistas of Lake Travis and the Hill Country. This may be a tourist must-do, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t an awesome place for a brew with the crew (and some people watching, too).
Shack 512
From Shack 512’s elevated patio, you can enjoy an excellent view of the Colorado River and a side of tasty new American food. Our advice: catch a dazzling sunset while roasting lakeside s’mores — a popular menu item for good reason — at your table. Shack 512 is open seasonally and you can keep up to date with their hours here.
Sundancer Grill
Try Sundancer Grill for decadent brunch steps from the shore of Lake Travis – because what lake trip is complete without breakfast nachos and stuffed french toast? During the rest of the week, this is an excellent option for a cold margarita and some hot, crispy fried pickles. Boat parking is complimentary for diners here, and they’re open for lunch and dinner as well as Sunday brunch.
— Beachside Billy’s at Volente Beach
For casual dining, we love Beachside Billy’s for lunch or dinner. Let the kids hit the waterslides and pools at Volente Beach and follow it up with some salads wraps, burgers, and more. They also have a great kid’s menu and excellent drinks.
Lady Bird Lake
Veracruz All Natural at the Line Hotel
On the first floor of the Line Hotel overlooking Lady Bird Lake in Downtown Austin, you’ll find local favorite, Veracruz All Natural serving up excellent tacos. Pick them up and sit outside for a picnic by the water. (For an upscale dining experience, you will also find restaurant Arlo Grey at the Line Hotel for a great date night option with views.)
— Ciclo
You can dine on the outdoor patio at Ciclo at The Four Seasons Austin for a view of the lake. Ciclo makes our list for great kid’s menus and is also just a short walk to see the bats or to rent SUPs, canoes, or kayaks.
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