Best African Restaurants in Austin
Elena Ivonye
May 15, 2025When people think of food in Austin, they often think of barbecue or tacos. But Austin also has some amazing African restaurants that many people don’t know about. These places serve food that is full of flavour, made with special spices, and often cooked using old family recipes.
African food comes from many different countries, like Nigeria and Ethiopia. Each country has its own tasty dishes. In these restaurants, you might find jollof rice, spicy stews, or soft bread called injera. Many of these spots are run by families who want to share their culture and love for food with others.
In this guide, you’ll find some of the best African restaurants in Austin. Whether you’ve tried African food before or it’s your first time, these places will give you a delicious meal and a warm welcome.
Best African Restaurants in Austin
Tailat Kitchen first made its way into Austin as a ghost kitchen operating out of 5610 Food Co. off I-35. Now, the restaurant has its own location, which opened on September 1, 2024.
This fresh spot offers delicious and authentic Nigerian flavors such as Jollof Rice & Chicken, Egusi & Swallow, and, of course, a side of Dodo.
Customers can order individual plates or larger catering trays. While the prices at Tailat might be considered high, the taste of home makes it all worthwhile.
Google Maps- $20-$30 Nigerian
- 5933 Westminster Dr, Austin, TX 78723
- Website +1 512-809-4839
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- Mentioned on
- Best African Restaurants in Austin
- Monday to Saturday: 11am - 9pm
Palatable Kitchen took over Tailat’s former spot in 5610 Food Co. This ghost kitchen offers online orders of individual plates, featuring a wide variety of rice dishes, soups, meats, and stews.
Their Nigerian chefs craft dishes just as they would back in the “Heart of Africa.” A perfect takeout option for exploring West African flavors, Palatable Kitchen delivers plenty of authenticity
- $20-$30 Nigerian
- 5610 N Interstate Hwy 35, Austin, TX 78751
- Website +1 512-383-5738
- Monday to Saturday: 11am - 9pm, Sunday: 12pm - 6pm
Southwest Farmers Market is on a mission to make African food affordable and accessible. It offers authentic flavors at a lower price.
As a grocery store with a full prepared-food menu, it features a wide array of West African dishes. From small appetizers, or “small chops,” to full plates, this African food spot provides bold flavors, generous portions, and budget-friendly prices.
- $10-$15 West African
- 9821 N Interstate Hwy 35, Austin, TX 78753
- Website +1 512-339-6128
- Monday to Sunday: 7am - 10pm
Moving across the continent, Aster’s Ethiopian Kitchen brings the flavors of East Africa to Austin. Known for serving food from the “Birthplace of Humanity,” this spot offers large plates designed for sharing.
With a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes, Aster’s provides generous portions at fair, shareable prices. The vibrant colors and homey aromas make it the perfect spot to try something new or satisfy your cravings for familiar flavors
- $10-$20 Ethiopian
- 2804 N Interstate Hwy 35, Austin, TX 78705
- Website +1 512-469-5966
- Tuesday - Saturday: 11am - 10pm, Sunday: 3pm - 10pm
Habesha combines authentic East African flavors with a full cocktail bar. With a diverse menu that includes vegan and vegetarian options, this restaurant adds an elevated touch to Austin’s African food scene.
Habesha also features a brunch menu and a café serving coffee and other hot drinks. While this spot offers a trendy atmosphere, it stays true to the genuine flavors of authentic African cuisine.
- $10-$20 Ethiopian
- 6019 N Interstate Hwy 35, Austin, TX 78723
- Website +1 512-358-6839
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- Mentioned on
- Best African Restaurants in Austin
- Sunday - Thursday: 11am - 9pm, Friday - Saturday: 11am - 10pm
Conclusion
African food in Austin is full of flavour, history, and heart. From the spicy dishes at Nigerian spots like Tailat Kitchen and Palatable Nigerian Cuisine to the warm, welcoming meals at Ethiopian places like Aster’s and Habesha, each restaurant brings something special to the table.
These restaurants don’t just serve food—they share stories, traditions, and a taste of home. Whether you’re trying African food for the first time or it’s one of your favourites, these spots will leave you full and happy.
So next time you’re hungry in Austin, try something new and support one of the best African restaurants in the city. You might just find your new favourite meal.
Born in Houston, Texas, Elena is a senior Advertising major at the University of Texas at Austin. In her free time she loves both attending and planning events, traveling, and doing art projects with her friends. Elena is passionate about culture and bringing people together through experiences.
