Craving some delicious diner fare? Do burgers, milkshakes, omelets, and pancakes make you drool? If you answered yes, you’re going to love this post. Diner fare is among our favorites, especially in Austin, Texas. This city is known for its fun food fusions and its food scene that focuses on local business, fresh ingredients, and a hint of imagination. That’s why we’ve created this list of the best diners in Austin. Read on to find out where to get classic diner fare with a hint of nostalgia.
Best Diners in Austin
Finding the best diners in Austin isn’t just about finding the classic foods like burgers and milkshakes. It’s about discovering places that give off nostalgic vibes and a cozy diner ambiance. Fortunately, there are several spots in Austin that hit the mark. From soda fountains and drugstores to quaint cafes, here are the best diners in Austin.
1. 24 Diner
24 Diner offers comfort food from 7 am to 11 pm, making it a go-to whether you want diner breakfast fare or some late-night grub. Located on E 6th St and N Lamar Blvd it’s ideally located if you want to explore the downtown Austin area. The chicken and waffles, eggs benedict, and cereal-crusted brioche French toast as our favs for brekkie. For the evening hours, hamburgers, sandwiches, ice cream, and milkshakes can help fuel your adventures.
2. Phoebe’s Diner
Phoebe’s Diner has two locations: one on Oltorf St and one on West 11th St in the downtown district. They‘re one of the best restaurants in town and they offer diner fare for breakfast, lunch, and brunch from 7 am to 3 pm. On the menu at this Austin diner, you’ll find Southern influences. From crispy Brussels sprouts, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes to migas, omelets, and chicken and grits there’s something for everyone. They’re also known for some of the best fried chicken and chicken fried steak in ATX.
3. Cafe Java
Cafe Java is a vibrant and funky coffee shop that offers delicious diner fare in addition to the java. Try the smoked salmon bagel, chilaquiles, or the buttermilk pancakes for some tasty comfort food. Best of all, there are unlimited refills at this cafe so you can jumpstart your day or get ready for a long night out on the town.
4. Counter Cafe
Like Phoebe’s, Counter Cafe has two locations. One is located on the trendy east side of Austin and the other is over on 29th St. This authentic diner puts a modern 21st-century spin on diner food. They use gourmet, organic, and local ingredients for their dishes. Try the crab cake benedict, the quail and eggs, or the grilled pimento cheese sandwich.
5. Nau Enfield Drug
Nau’s drug store is about as authentic as it gets when it comes to American diner food. Like drugstores of the past, you can still grab sandwiches, drinks, and other comfort food at this soda fountain. Don’t expect anything fancy here. Instead, relish the nostalgia and dine on burgers, milkshakes, and classic breakfasts.
6. Kerbey Lane Cafe
Kerbey Lane Cafe has been serving classic diner fare with a twist of imagination since 1980. They have a fun seasonal menu that features natural ingredients that change each month. Plus you’ll find diner favorites as well as Tex-Mex treats including queso and chipotle beer batter fish and chips.
7. The Omelettry
For one of the best diners in Austin, head over to 4631 Airport Blvd where you‘ll find The Omelettry. They accept takeout orders and offer dine-in so you can snack on diner food in your own living room or in the nostalgic dining room. In addition to a wide range of omelets, you’ll also find popular breakfast entrees including French toast, buttermilk pancakes, and sausage and eggs.
8. Magnolia Cafe
Magnolia Cafe, located at 1920 S Congress Ave, has been serving up delicious Austin food and diner fare for more than 40 years. The cafe offers classic breakfast fare in addition to burgers and sandwiches. They also have a large selection of Mexican food including breakfast tacos made with flour and corn tortillas. We love the gingerbread banana pecan pancakes and the Flamingo Sandwich featuring avocado, Swiss cheese, tomatoes, and sprouts on rye or sourdough bread.
9. Bouldin Creek Cafe
Bouldin Creek Cafe is a local and woman-owned cafe that specializes in vegan and vegetarian fare. The veggie food at this eatery is made from scratch and the owners focus on paying a fair wage and giving back to the community. It’s the perfect reflection of diner roots and their food is hard to beat. Try the potato leek omelet or the Wanna-BLT made with tofu bacon. They also have a weekday happy hour with mimosas and micheladas.
10. Austin Diner
Austin Diner is located at 5222 Burnet Rd and this top spot is often considered king when it comes to classic comfort food. Daily specials include pot roast, chicken and dumplings, and salmon croquettes. On the menu, you’ll also find plenty of burgers, soups, and taco plates. There are also several sandwiches including pastrami, turkey breast, and hot roast beef.
Discover the Best Austin Restaurants
When it comes to incredible food, Austin delivers. If you want fresh sushi, head to Uchi where you can dine on fish that’s flown in daily from a Japanese fish market. For the best BBQ in Austin, hop on over to Franklin’s where you can enjoy slow-roasted meats from a James Beard award-winning chef. For a restaurant that’s perfect for date night, make a reservation at top spots like Odd Duck, Valentina’s, and Italian fave Intero.
At ATX Guides, you’ll find tons of restaurant recommendations for every occasion and taste bud. Whether you’re looking for Asian or Thai food, Mexican restaurants with refreshing margaritas, the best food trucks, or the best brisket in Austin we can help you out. Plus, you’ll find options from South Austin and East Austin to North Austin and everything in between so you’re always close to a delicious meal.
