The collab between Franklin Barbecue and Uchi — smoked meats meet Asian flavors under string lights on a sprawling patio. Order the corn fritters and smoked brisket. No reservations; frozen gin and tonics at the bar while you wait.

A South Lamar institution that started as a food trailer. The menu changes constantly — seasonality, whims, whatever — but the food is consistently inventive and delicious. The kind of place you return to over and over.

Chef Tyson Cole's nationally acclaimed Japanese restaurant. The Hama Chili and Machi Cure are legendary. Minimalist interior, artfully crafted dishes, and a reputation that has trained half the high-end kitchens in Austin.

A true Austin institution since 1952. Going here for Tex-Mex is like time-traveling back to a simpler time. The Bob Armstrong Dip is non-negotiable.

Behind ivy-covered walls lies one of South Lamar's most elegant dining rooms. Rooftop bar with Austin skyline views. Great for a date night or a drinks-and-dinner occasion.

Austin's premier ramen destination. Dedicated to the craft — every bowl is deeply considered. The OG tonkotsu is the move. Kitchen stays open until midnight.

Right next to Loro. The Queen Beak is the move. Crispy, buttery, absurdly good biscuit sandwiches from a local Austin chain that earned every bit of its following.

Whole, real ingredients and local dairy. Rotating flavors like dark chocolate with olive oil and sea salt, or goat cheese with thyme and honey. Genuinely exceptional.

The beloved Melbourne coffee brand's Austin location. Come for the flat whites and pour-overs. Stay for the scrambled eggs on roti. Good vibes, full stop.

Inside Lamar Union with free parking. A community-driven space with exceptional coffee and outstanding pastries. Bright, modern interior and a sprawling oak-shaded patio.

Started as a little kart downtown, grew into a South Lamar staple. Minimalist, modern, great shady patio. Local beans, avocado toast, and outstanding chai.

Right across from Merit in Lamar Union. Solid coffee program in a pretty, modern space. Two great coffee options within a stone's throw of each other.

A hot spot for South Austin locals. Huge dog-friendly patio, bluegrass Mondays, trivia Tuesdays, outdoor cinema Wednesdays, live singer-songwriters on weekends.

Cozy, dark, and friendly — just as a neighborhood bar should be. Shuffleboard, vintage jukebox, and creative cocktails. A South Lamar gem.

Austin Beer Garden Brewing. Great beer selection and legitimately great pizza. One of the best places on the corridor for a relaxed afternoon. Live music most nights.

Dog-friendly patio, shuffleboard, darts, pool, 125 bottled beers, 26 on tap. White Trash Wednesdays: $1 cans of Lone Star, PBR, and Pearl. Classier than it sounds.

An over-the-top tiki bar experience with seriously crafted tropical cocktails. The vibe is immersive and unlike anything else on the strip. Two stories of theater.

Since 1964. The "Best Honky-Tonk in Texas" has seen George Strait and Dolly Parton grace its stage. Come for the two-stepping, stay for the chicken fried steak.

Over 22,000 performances since 1990. Two to four acts every single night, including free happy hour shows at 6:30pm on weekdays. Country, rock, singer-songwriter.

The Austin original. Cocktails and freshly made food served to your seat during the movie. Quote-a-longs, cult classics, and award-winning milkshakes.

A South Austin institution since 1948. Two 18-hole courses, quirky obstacles, and a BYOB policy that makes it totally adult-approved. Old Austin at its best.

State-of-the-art performing arts venue on the edge of Zilker Park. Concerts, musicals, original works, and children's performances. A cultural anchor for the neighborhood.

100% local, affordable, and accessible. Features work from 30 emerging Austin artists, with a huge selection of pieces under $100. Art for everyone.