Austin Area's 5 Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining

Contigo

Sure, it's blazing hot now, but we're just around the corner from fall, meaning we can start thinking about outdoor dining again. So where to head when the temps eventually start dipping? Read on for some must-try alfresco options, courtesy of our Texas Restaurants guide.

Contigo
Food: -
Decor: -
Service: -
Cost: -
This “rustic” find in the new Mueller development takes its inspiration from the owners’ ranch in South Texas with low-cost Eclectic fare that pairs with “seasonal cocktails” and beer in a laid-back setting; a major draw is the all-weather patio strung with Christmas lights.

2027 Anchor Ln.; 512-614-2260


JMueller BBQ 
Food: -
Decor: -
Service: -
Cost: -
A large parking lot in Bouldin Creek is the site of the long-awaited return of pit master John Mueller – of the famous Louie Mueller BBQ family in Taylor – who barbecues housemade sausage, pork chops and short ribs (along with prime rib on Fridays) and sells it from a truck; picnic tables are available for alfresco chowing, but many folks call ahead and get it to go.

1502 S. First St.; 512-229-7366

Moonshine
Food: 24
Decor: 22
Service: 23
Cost: $27
Set in a “lovely historic home” Downtown right across the street from the convention center, this well-priced charmer serves “dressed-up” Southern-American cuisine with “modern” touches; “tasteful” decor, a lush patio and “busy bar” make it “pleasant” all around, not to mention a must for its “epic” Sunday brunch.

303 Red River St.; 512-236-9599

Paggi House
Food: 23
Decor: 24
Service: 21
Cost: $54
A revamped historic home provides the “beautiful setting” for this New American south of Downtown where dining on the deck overlooking Lady Bird Lake and the city skyline is “simply magical”; a “stellar” menu, “unique cocktails” and a wine list that’s “one of the best in town” keep it especially busy at happy hour and brunch, though some lament “tiny portions for huge prices.”

200 Lee Barton Dr.; 512-473-3700

Perla's 
Food: 26
Decor: 23
Service: 23
Cost: $44
“Even Bostonians rave about the lobster roll” at this SoCo hot spot serving a “wonderful” Cape Cod–style seafood menu featuring “rich chowder”, “fresh fish” and loads of oysters; add in a “pro” staff, moderate bills and a “laid-back” setting with a “marvelous” deck for “excellent people-watching” and you have a “winner”; P.S. brunch is also popular.

1400 S. Congress Ave.; 512-291-7300