10 Celebrity Owned & Approved Restaurants in Austin
Texas Tasty Team
January 22, 2025Austin isn’t just famous for its live music and vibrant culture; it’s also a food lover’s paradise. The city’s restaurant scene has grown by 20% in new openings, which is double the national average of 10%.
What makes Austin’s food scene even more exciting is its connection to celebrity culture. From restaurants loved by celebrities to places where they’ve dined, the city combines star power with local charm to create a unique dining experience.
You can check out celebrity-owned spots like Sandra Bullock’s Walton’s Fancy and Staple or iconic venues like Franklin Barbecue, where stars often stop by. No matter where you go, there’s always a chance to eat where your favorite celebrities have been.
10 Celebrity Restaurants in Austin
Let’s discuss 10 celebrity-owned and approved restaurants in Austin to help you discover your next dining destination.
1. Franklin Barbecue
Franklin is a must-visit BBQ restaurant in Austin for meat lovers. It is owned by celebrity chef Aaron Franklin and praised by Anthony Bourdain.
The legendary line by pre-ordering (minimum 5 pounds) and enjoy “from-the-heaven” tender brisket—a signature dish that lives up to the hype.
Google Maps- 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
- Website +1 512-653-1187
- Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM till 3:00 PM, Monday: Closed
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: No
- Reservation: No
- Takeout: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Parking: Yes (self-parking available, limited spots)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: No
- Payment Options: Cash and credit cards are accepted.
- BYOB: Yes
- Vegan Options: No
- Dogs Allowed: No
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Good For: Lunch, dinner
- Suitable for families, friends, and small groups
Note: Pre-orders are available for large orders (minimum five pounds).
2. Uchiko Austin
This restaurant is owned by celebrity chef Tyson Cole and praised by Alison Brie and Dave Franco on Fox 7 Austin, Uchiko is a must-try for upscale sushi lovers in Austin.
Their Omakase tasting menu is a highlight, featuring standout dishes like hamachi crudo and wagyu hot rock. While it’s a bit pricey, Uchiko’s expertly crafted seafood dishes and refined ambiance make it perfect for a special night out.
- 4200 N Lamar Blvd Suite 140, Austin, TX 78756
- Website +1 512-916-4808
- Sunday to Thursday: 4:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Friday to Saturday: 4:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
- Reservation: Yes
- Takeout: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: No
- Parking: Yes (self-parking is available in the lot)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (signature cocktails, sake, and wine)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Yes (several plant-based dishes available)
- Dogs Allowed: No
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Good For: Dinner
- Suitable for couples, friends, and small groups
3. Uptown Sports Club
Co-owned by Aaron Franklin, Uptown Sports Club is located near 6th Street and is a must-visit for burger and sandwich enthusiasts.
Their Shrimp Po’Boy, Uptown Burger, and chicken salad set a new standard for food lovers, while the brisket sandwich is an absolute must-try.
With great food and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot for families or anyone seeking a casual dining experience.
- 1201 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
- Website +1 512-551-2013
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: Monday to Friday: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Reservation: No (walk-ins only)
- Takeout: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Parking: Yes (self-parking)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (features craft beers and signature cocktails)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Limited
- Dogs Allowed: No
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- TVs: Yes
- Good For: Lunch, dinner
- Suitable for families, friends, and sports enthusiasts
4. Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar
Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar is co-created by chefs Aaron Franklin and Tyson Cole. The restaurant offers a unique fusion of Southeast Asian flavors and Texas barbecue.
The beef ribs, which are offered as a daily special, are smoky and tender, and the perfectly cooked salmon adds a touch of sophistication to the menu.
Its vibrant atmosphere and creative cuisine make this spot ideal for happy hours or a casual night out.
- 2115 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
- Website +1 512-916-4858
- Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM,
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: Monday to Friday, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Reservation: No (walk-ins only)
- Takeout: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Parking: Yes (self-parking)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (features creative cocktails and beer)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Yes (limited plant-based dishes available)
- Dogs Allowed: Yes (outdoor seating only)
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- TVs: No
- Good For: Lunch, dinner
- Suitable for colleagues, friends, and casual meet-ups
Aba Austin is a modern Mediterranean restaurant owned by celebrity chef CJ Jacobson.
Their Smoky Garlic Hummus, Whipped Feta Spread, and freshly baked pita are crowd-pleasers. The Shawarma-Spiced Skirt Steak and Hamachi will win your heart with a first bite.
If you’re looking for outdoor dining for a group gathering, Aba is an absolute gem.
- 1011 S Congress Ave Bldg 2, Suite 180, Austin, TX 78704
- Website +1 737-273-0199
- Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Friday: 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: No
- Reservation: Yes
- Takeout: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Parking: Yes (self-parking and valet available)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (featuring Mediterranean-inspired wines and cocktails)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Yes (several plant-based dishes available)
- Dogs Allowed: No
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Good For: Lunch, dinner, brunch
- Suitable for families, large groups, and special occasions
6. Walton’s Fancy and Staple
Walton’s Fancy and Staple is a charming brick-walled bakery, deli, and flower shop in Austin, owned by American actress and film producer Sandra Bullock.
The cozy ambiance, enriched with Sandra’s personal touch, creates the perfect setting for a breakfast date.
Their hearty Farmer’s Sampler and flavorful avocado toast are the standout dishes. Walton’s is ideal for those seeking quality food.
- 609 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78701
- Website +1 512-542-3380
- Monday to Sunday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: No
- Reservation: No (walk-ins only)
- Takeout: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Parking: Yes (limited self-parking)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (limited options, including specialty lattes)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Limited
- Dogs Allowed: Yes (outdoor seating only)
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Good For: Breakfast, brunch, lunch
- Suitable for couples and small groups
7. QI Austin: Modern Asian Kitchen
QI Austin is a stylish Chinese farm-to-table restaurant owned by Chef Ling; he focuses on healthier cooking, making it a wholesome fine dining option.
The elegant ambiance sets the perfect tone for enjoying their all-time famous soup dumplings, shrimp and pork fried rice, and shrimp dumplings.
- 835 W 6th St, Suite 114, Austin, TX 78703
- Website +1 512-474-2777
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM, Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: Monday to Friday, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Reservation: Yes, recommended for lunch and dinner.
- Takeout: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: No
- Parking: Yes (self-parking)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (specialty cocktails, wine, and beer)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Yes (several plant-based dishes available)
- Dogs Allowed: No
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Good For: Lunch, dinner
- Suitable for families, small groups, and casual outings
8. Arlo Grey by Kristen Kish
Arlo Grey is a modern French and Italian-inspired restaurant owned by Kristen Kish, who is an American chef known for winning the tenth season of Top Chef.
It is situated in the serene lakeside setting of the LINE Hotel; it offers a romantic atmosphere, making it perfect for both date nights and family dining.
Their standout dishes include creamy burrata and the signature Malfadini pasta—Kristen Kish’s personal favorite.
- 111 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
- Website +1 512-478-2991
- Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Saturday to Sunday, 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Friday to Saturday, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: No
- Reservation: Yes, highly recommended
- Takeout: No
- Outdoor Seating: Yes (lake views available)
- Parking: Yes (discounted valet for diners)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (signature cocktails, wine, and beer)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Yes (several plant-based dishes available)
- Dogs Allowed: No
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- TVs: No
- Good For: Breakfast, brunch, dinner
- Suitable for couples, families, and special occasions
9. County Line
The County Line in West Austin is a classic barbecue spot known for its casual dining experience. It’s owned by celebrity chef Aaron Franklin and is famous for its stunning views and celebrity visits, including Julia Roberts.
Be sure to pre-order (minimum 5 pounds) to enjoy their tender brisket, smoky ribs, and delicious homemade bread. Its relaxed atmosphere and bold Texas flavors make it a must-visit spot.
- 6500 Bee Cave Rd, Austin, TX 78746
- Website +1 512-327-1742
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:30 AM - 8:30 PM, Friday to Saturday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: No
- Reservation: Yes, recommended for peak hours.
- Takeout: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: Yes (with scenic views)
- Parking: Yes (self-parking)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (wine, beer, and cocktails available)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Limited
- Dogs Allowed: No
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- TVs: No
- Good For: Lunch, dinner
- Suitable for couples, families, and large groups
10. The Driskill Bar
Driskill Bar is a go-to place for those seeking a luxurious dining experience. It is located in the historic Driskill Hotel.
It’s known for hosting celebrities like Lyndon Johnson and Sandra Bullock. The elegant ambiance creates the perfect setting for a memorable evening.
Their menu highlights include rich Lobster Bisque, perfectly cooked salmon, and halibut. Driskill Chocolate Cake is a must-try dessert that is unarguably the best in town.
- 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
- Website +1 512-391-7162
- Sunday to Thursday: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Friday to Saturday: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
- Menu: Online Menu
- Happy Hour: No
- Reservation: Yes, highly recommended
- Takeout: No
- Outdoor Seating: No
- Parking: Yes (valet parking)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Serves Alcohol: Yes (premium cocktails, wine, and beer)
- Payment Options: Yes (credit cards accepted)
- BYOB: No
- Vegan Options: Yes (limited options)
- Dogs Allowed: No
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Good For: Dinner, special occasions
- Suitable for couples, friends, and group celebrations
Conclusion
Austin shines as a high-profile dining destination with many celebrity restaurants in Austin.
Arlo Grey by Kristen Kish offers the perfect combination of sophistication and comfort, making it a standout for special occasions like anniversaries or family dinners. The Driskill Grill provided a luxurious, historic dining experience rich in celebrity charm, perfect for reunions or upscale celebrations.
Each restaurant brings unique spark and flavors, from celebrity-approved dishes to comforting atmospheres. Reserve a table at any celebrity hot spot in Austin and feel like one with star-studding dining options.
The Texas Tasty Team is a dedicated group of writers and editors who love all things Texas. From food to culture, they share the best of the Lone Star State through engaging articles and captivating stories. Their mission is to inspire readers to explore and embrace the rich heritage and diverse offerings of Texas.
