John Anderson
Last year, Cafe Josie's longtime GM Cody Taylor and Executive Chef Brandon Fuller took over ownership of this neighborhood stalwart to realize a new vision: new colors, new vibe, and a modern American menu. Relaxed and elegant, this may be Austin's calmest dining room. Excellent curried crab crêpes, spicy grilled octopus, and balsamic goat ribs. – MM Pack
CLOSED
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Brought to you by the folks from Perla's, Clark's menu runs the briny gamut from $14 tuna sandwiches to if-you-have-to-ask caviar service, with many intriguing options in between – not all of which are expensive. Beautiful oysters and other raw bar goodies, plus Champagne, fine wines, cocktails, and martinis, of course. – MM Pack
1200 W. Sixth
512/297-2525
www.clarksoysterbar.com
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photo by John Anderson
This tiny spot is Austin's answer to a traditional diner, except traditional diners don't offer excellent crab cakes, quail, and hanger steak alongside the biscuits, bacon, eggs (organic), and burgers. The Counter Benedict with pastrami on a biscuit and grilled pimento cheese sandwiches are standouts.– MM Pack
CLOSED
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Housed in a gorgeous mid-century-modern structure, this is Italian grandmother-inspired cooking – if the grandmas had attended culinary school and worked in iconic New York restaurants. Chef Shawn Cirkiel, of parkside and the backspace, has reinterpreted classic dishes using seasonal, local ingredients in unexpected ways, presented in a family-friendly setting. – MM Pack
3411 Glenview
512/467-9898
www.oliveandjune-austin.com
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photo by John Anderson
photo by John Anderson
This is a big place to call itself a diner; nonetheless, it hops all night long and delivers superior "chef-driven" diner-esque grub, along with interesting beers and wines. Breakfast all day, burgers and meatloaf, pot pies, chicken and waffles, milkshakes, rich desserts. Reasonable prices, ample portions, and local sourcing. – MM Pack
600 N. Lamar
512/472-5400
www.24diner.com
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Since 2001, chef/owners Stewart Scruggs and Mark Paul have offered casual fine dining in the small salon and adjacent wine bar. One of Austin's first restaurants to emphasize local sourcing, chef de cuisine/forager Eric Polzer provisions at Boggy Creek and other local farms; the eclectic menu changes nightly. – MM Pack
1014 N. Lamar
512/482-8868
www.winkrestaurant.com
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John Anderson
Photo by John Anderson
This European gastronomic exploration exudes taste inside and out. The love story that started it all continues through the care and craftsmanship incorporated into everything from the homemade bread to the house-cured Metzger board. Perhaps the very best part, however, is that the price point of this luxe-sounding menu makes it accessible to most. Inducted in 2018.
CLOSED
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Jeffrey’s is a rare classic establishment where heart-stopping prices actually equate to fine dining. The centerpiece of the menu revolves around perfectly seasoned and seared steaks, but even those who aren’t carnivores can make a meal of the sides and salads that are just as legendary as the delectable meat. Inducted in 2018.
1204 W. Lynn
512/477-5584
jeffreysofaustin.com
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Images Courtesy of MML Hospitality
John Anderson
In an Austin that often mistakes fine surfaces for fine dining, chefs Stewart Scruggs and Mark Paul’s strip mall eatery is the real deal. Maybe there’s no miles of carrara marble and the fixtures may not require weekly wipe downs with Brasso, but wink has it where it counts – beautiful food made with the best ingredients, immaculate service, and a wine program that’s worth raising a glass to. Inducted in 2017.
1014 N. Lamar
512/482-8868
www.winkrestaurant.com
