Southwestern Restaurants in Austin, $10-$25

The Oasis

Southwestern • West Austin and Lakeway • $10-$25

Nothing tests the mettle of a musician like having to compete with the best sunsets in Texas. Opened by Beau Theriot in 1982, the Oasis has grown from a remote ranch house on the western edge of town to a four-tiered food and entertainment fortress overlooking Lake Travis with a capacity of 2,500. Neither a 2005 fire nor the 2010-13 drought stanched the venue’s momentum. During the spring and summer months, the Oasis features live music on weekends and select Thursdays. Frequent fliers include venerable all-purpose show band Rotel & the Hot Tomatoes and Eighties glam-metal specialists LC Rocks.

6550 Comanche Trl., 512/266-2442

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South Congress Cafe

Southwestern • South Congress and South First • $10-$25

The inspired Southwestern fare at this relaxed, upscale eatery features beef milanesa, a traditional dish with an inventive, spicy spin. Other distinctive dishes include wild boar chile pozole and the lamb lollipop trio.

1600 S. Congress, 512/447-3905

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Texican Cafe

Southwestern, Tex-Mex • South • $10-$25 •  First Plates 

This popular venue specializes in El Paso-style variations such as stacked Santa Fe enchiladas, along with excellent margaritas and Dos Equis on tap.

11940 Menchaca Rd., 512/282-9094

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Travis Room at Lakeway Resort & Spa

Southwestern • West Austin and Lakeway • $10-$25

Huge windows offer stunning lake views at this grandfather of restaurants on the lake. The decidedly country-clubby menu gives a nod to Southern comfort foods.

101 Lakeway Dr., 512/261-6600

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