Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Austin

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in South Austin

Price
Regions
Neighbourhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Accessibility

35 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nido restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1245)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Bouldin Creek
Booked 63 times today
Nido, located in the vibrant Bouldin Creek neighborhood of Austin, is a standout destination for Contemporary American cuisine with a flair for international inspiration. Nestled atop The Loren at Lady Bird Lake, Nido offers diners breathtaking views paired with exceptional culinary experiences. "It's a great place to spend a good moment with friends," one guest raves, highlighting the restaurant's inviting ambiance and attentive service. From the "amazing" lamb ragu to the "delicious" halibut, each dish is crafted with classical technique and a modern twist. Guests are consistently impressed by Nido's ability to provide "fantastic" food and service, making it a must-visit for any culinary enthusiast.
A photo of June's All Day restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1069)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • South Austin
Booked 56 times today
June’s All Day is a delightful fusion of French American cuisine nestled in the heart of South Austin on bustling South Congress Avenue. This neighborhood café transports diners to a Parisian bistro with its authentic offerings like Croque Madame, Steak Tartare, and Escargot. Patrons rave about the "amazing food and service," highlighting dishes such as the "fried chicken sandwich" and "world-class biali with smoked salmon" as standout selections. With its charming atmosphere and attentive staff, June’s All Day is "a gem worth visiting," promising a culinary experience that combines the elegance of French dining with the vibrant flair of American cuisine.
A photo of Hestia restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1942)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 44 times today
Hestia, located in Downtown Austin, is a standout destination for lovers of authentic Grill cuisine. Inspired by its namesake, the Greek goddess of the hearth, Hestia masterfully utilizes a custom 20-ft hearth, creating dishes that highlight the primal beauty of fire. Awarded a Michelin One Star in 2024, it offers an “unmatched dining experience” where “every dish is unique, delicious, and cooked perfectly.” Guests rave about the halibut and scallops, both crafted to perfection over an open flame. The restaurant's commitment to quality and innovative techniques ensures an unforgettable culinary journey for every diner.
A photo of The Well restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(573)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 72 times today
The Well in Downtown Austin is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending top-tier nutrition with rich flavors that truly "redefine healthy food." Diners rave about the exceptional quality of ingredients, with organic produce and grass-fed beef taking center stage. One reviewer gushed, "The healthiest, tastiest food in Austin," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to authentic, pure flavors devoid of common allergens and seed oils. The vibrant menu offers a delightful variety, ensuring there's something for everyone, including gluten-free and vegan options. The inviting ambience and attentive service make dining at The Well a truly memorable experience.
A photo of P6 restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1132)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 58 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Austin, P6 offers a vibrant American dining experience that's sure to impress. With its stunning rooftop garden lounge, diners are treated to “sweeping views of Town Lake” and the mesmerizing South Austin skyline. The menu features Contemporary American small plates that are nothing short of delectable, with patrons raving about dishes like the seared scallops and beef tenderloin. The inventive seasonal cocktails complement the cuisine perfectly, making it a delightful spot to unwind. One reviewer aptly described P6 as “the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed evening in Austin,” highlighting its exceptional food, ambiance, and service.
A photo of Jeffrey's Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2241)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Central Austin
Booked 44 times today
Jeffrey's Restaurant in Austin is a beacon of Contemporary French and American cuisine, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. Nestled in the charming Clarksville neighborhood, it has been a fine dining institution since 1975. The revamped menu by Executive Chef Mark McCain showcases impeccable dry-aged prime steaks and locally sourced produce, earning rave reviews for its "inspired and perfectly executed" dishes. Diners are consistently wowed by the "phenomenal service, food, atmosphere, and experience," making every visit unforgettable. The wine list is among the largest in Texas, offering a diverse selection of sought-after vintages, which perfectly complements the outstanding culinary offerings.
A photo of Emmer & Rye restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3526)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 40 times today
Emmer & Rye, nestled in the vibrant Downtown Austin, offers an exquisite Contemporary American dining experience that stands out for its dedication to seasonal and local ingredients. Praised for its "mind-boggling food and wine" and "fantastic" service, the restaurant is a culinary haven for diners seeking inventive dishes that are both authentic and memorable. The ever-changing menu, driven by fresh heirloom grains and in-house fermentation, ensures a unique experience with every visit. Guests rave about the "incredibly unique" dishes like the Johnny Cakes and Cacio de Pepe, making Emmer & Rye a must-visit for those craving exceptional Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Serenade American Brasserie restaurant
4.0
Excellent(44)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 10 times today
Serenade American Brasserie, nestled in the heart of Downtown Austin, offers an exceptional French American dining experience with a Lone Star twist. This restaurant beautifully blends the elegance of a classic French brasserie with the charm of Texas, creating a unique culinary journey. "A real new GO TO in the heart of downtown," Serenade impresses with dishes like the tender duck confit and spectacular crab Benedict, echoing the rich flavors of Paris. The inviting ambiance, featuring soft, golden light and stunning avian motifs, complements the exquisite menu. With rave reviews for both its cuisine and service, Serenade is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic French American fare.
A photo of Eberly restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1817)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Bouldin Creek
Booked 56 times today
Eberly in Bouldin Creek, Austin, is a standout destination for exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. Housed in a beautifully repurposed old print shop, Eberly offers a unique dining experience that melds creativity with sophistication. Guests rave about the "absolutely delicious" dishes, such as the renowned salmon and inventive takes on timeless favorites. The artisan kitchen emphasizes freshness and seasonality, crafting every dish from scratch with bold flavors and precise execution. The ambiance, described as "amazing" and "magnificent," complements the culinary experience, creating a perfect blend of elegance and comfort. Eberly promises an unforgettable dining journey that is not to be missed.
A photo of Pecan Square Cafe restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(558)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 57 times today
Pecan Square Café is a standout in Austin's vibrant cocktail scene, offering an exceptional Cocktail Bar experience. Nestled in the heart of Clarksville, this café is renowned for its "sublime cocktails" that delight patrons with dynamic variations on classic favorites. Guests rave about the "best cosmos" they have ever tasted, highlighting the bar's commitment to quality and creativity. The warm and welcoming ambiance, combined with a sophisticated beverage program, makes it an ideal spot for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations. Whether you're enjoying a drink at the bar or dining under the stars, Pecan Square Café promises an unforgettable cocktail experience.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • AaronVIP
    Austin •30 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Nice brunch spot. Small inside and crowded. Food was good. The French Cruller was very good.
    More info
    June's All DayPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• South Austin
    4.8
  • Jessica
    Austin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This was my first time visiting Nido. A friend came into town for a girls’ weekend, and Nido was the perfect place to end our day with dessert and drinks. Nick was our waiter, and he was great! The views of the river and city are stunning, and the atmosphere is a dream for GNO, date night, or just a nice outing. Will definitely be back to try more of the menu!
    More info
    NidoPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French / American• Bouldin Creek
    4.7
  • Chantal
    Dallas - Fort Worth •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    So delicious. Amazing staff and food. Everything came out timely and warm. Beautiful plating and so many options for my dietary needs!
    More info
    The WellPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.8
  • Jake
    Dallas - Fort Worth •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Finally, a dining experience in Austin that truly lives up to the hype! Hestia's dedication to live-fire cooking creates magic on every plate. From the moment we walked in, the staff treated us like valued guests, demonstrating an impressive knowledge of both the menu and cooking techniques. The pork belly was nothing short of revelatory - perfectly rendered with a crackling exterior that gave way to melt-in-your-mouth meat beneath. My wife's bavette was cooked to absolute perfection, showcasing the restaurant's mastery of open-flame cooking. The attention to detail in every dish proves why Hestia stands at the pinnacle of Austin's dining scene. What truly sets Hestia apart is the combination of exceptional food and impeccable service. Our server was attentive without being intrusive, and their passionate knowledge of each dish enhanced our dining experience. The elegant atmosphere and open kitchen add to the theatrical experience of watching the chefs work their magic over the flames. Without hesitation, this was the best meal we've had in Austin. If you're looking for a truly memorable dining experience, Hestia is absolutely worth every penny.
    More info
    HestiaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.7
  • Anwar
    Austin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 2, 2025
    I like the place and the food overall thank you for your host .
    More info
    P6Price: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.5

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in South Austin

Discover the vibrant flavors of Contemporary American cuisine in South Austin, where culinary creativity meets comfort. The dining scene in this eclectic area showcases a range of restaurants that excel in delivering innovative dishes that blend traditional American ingredients with modern twists. These establishments are known for their commitment to freshness and seasonality, often updating their menus to reflect the best local produce available. Each restaurant in South Austin provides a unique atmosphere, from cozy, intimate settings to lively, bustling spaces, ensuring a memorable dining experience for every occasion. The emphasis on quality service and a diverse menu selection, including expertly curated wine lists, makes each visit truly exceptional. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor exploring Austin's culinary delights, the Contemporary American restaurants in South Amstin offer a rich tapestry of tastes that promise to delight your palate.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo