Eat Like a Local at SXSW
You won’t want to miss these Main Street Hub customers in ATX!
Austin has shaped itself over the past several decades as the spot for great food, incredible music, and an experience like no other — which is why this city is the perfect spot for South by Southwest, (a.k.a South by or SXSW). This nine-day music, film, interactive, and educational festival brings tens of thousands of people into our city limits every year.
While you’re sure to find great BBQ, breakfast tacos, and craft beer and cocktails, you’ll also come across some one-of-a-kind spots that you can only find in Austin.
During this exciting time in ATX, we’re here to help you find the best spots to refuel and unwind — and what better spots to recommend than Main Street Hub’s own customers! Check them out to eat (and drink) like a local during SXSW:
Looking for a neighborhood hang? Look no further than HandleBar in downtown Austin. You’ll love the old school vibe, craft cocktails, local beer, and mustachioed decor in this indoor/outdoor bar. Stop by to enjoy the rooftop deck, photo booth, and giant TVs playing every game imaginable while you have a drink. Consider checking in for their Happy Hour from 3–8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, as well as their all-day Happy Hour on Sunday!
Cheer Up Charlie’s
900 Red River St., Austin, TX 78701
Ready to put on your dancing shoes after a long day of panels? Cheer Up Charlie’s is for you. This LGBTQ-friendly, vegan bar is as delightfully eclectic as it sounds. From fresh-squeezed juice cocktails to kombucha on tap, you’ll find something delicious to sip on while you take in the colorful decor, lively music, and vibrant staff. Stop into Cheer Up Charlie’s, and you’ll find the perfect place to Keep Austin Weird. Hungry while you’re there? Check out Arlo’s food truck for some alternative late-night snacks!
Maiko Sushi Lounge
311 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78701
Traditional fare meets contemporary vibes to provide a fresh take on the classics in this downtown sushi hot spot. Happy Hour is seven days a week and you might catch a special guest from time to time — especially during SXSW! Maiko is fresh, hip, and full of surprises, much like SX . Roll on over to see for yourself.
Juan and Myrna Meza have been running this Austin staple and true family business for almost 40 years, serving breakfast all day along. Their signature breakfast taco is the Don Juan El Grande Taco, which has a secret combination of potato, egg, bacon and cheese in a hot tortilla. (If you’re feeling extra hungry, ask about the Don Juan Challenge.)
Their customers also love their delicious, homemade enchiladas, menudo, and huevos rancheros “made with abuelita in mind.” Don’t miss their no-frills, original plates that won’t break the bank and enjoy their laid back atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
Nasha
1614 East 7th St., Austin, TX 78702
In Hindi, Nasha means “to crave,” and trust us — once you’ve tried the Indian fusion tacos and curried margaritas at this East Side restaurant, you’ll be craving more. While Nasha serves all the Indian hits, like Tikka Masala and Vindaloo, they’ve also added some new-wave inventions to the menu, like Paneer Quesadillas and Tandoori Tacos. See you at Nasha on the East Side!
Rainey Street
El Naranjo
85 Rainey St., Austin, TX 78701
For the gourmet festival-goers, there’s El Naranjo. Upscale, traditional Oaxacan Mexican fare, house-made tortillas, indoor and outdoor bar options, and attentive, friendly service await you in this cozy spot on Rainey Street. Whether you indulge in a luxurious brunch or simply stop in for one of their top-shelf margaritas, you’ll want to see what this gem has to offer.
Inspired by the power that good wine and food have to bring people together, Sébastien Charbonneaux and his wife left France for Austin, and took over the space formerly occupied by Little Barrel and Brown on South Congress. With their chef, Cedric Francois, they’re serving dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients, craft cocktails, and, of course, exquisite wines. Just as they pair fine wines with great food, they’re all about bringing people together.
South Lamar
Matt’s El Rancho Restaurant
2613 S Lamar Blvd., Austin TX 78704
Matt and Janie Martinez opened El Rancho in 1952, and today, the South Lamar restaurant is still run by the Martinez family and still making everything from scratch. From their margaritas with freshly-squeezed lime juice to their famous queso pictured above, (the legendary Bob Armstrong dip, named one of the best queso dishes in town, this family-friendly Tex-Mex spot is always churning out favorites. Make sure to pay a visit to the Mexican restaurant that the Austin American-Statesman said, “treats food like art and patrons like family.”
Windsor Park
Nomad Bar
1213 Corona Dr., Austin, TX 78723
Comfortably tucked away in the Windsor Park neighborhood, Nomad Bar, a world travel-themed watering hole has won Austin Chronicle’s Best Neighborhood/Dive Bar not once, but three times! From the patio and live music to the tasty drinks and pizza, this is one of Austin’s signature hangouts.
