Austin

Proprietor Aaron Franklin is to barbecue as homebrewers are to beer. He has created his own niche with craft brisket on par with the dispensaries in legendary Lockhart. — BlackBook

Lambert's serves intelligent updates of American comfort-food classics – some might call it 'uppity barbecue' – in a historic stone building run by Austin chef Lou Lambert. — Lonely Planet

Set in a "seriously industrial" neighborhood in East Austin, this "hip" little bungalow serves an "all-out French" brasserie menu highlighting steak frites and duck confit. — Zagat

Faithful sushi lovers migrate to this crimson-colored, cozy house for quality sushi and imaginative Japanese fusion fare. — Gayot

"Long waits" are par for the course at this midpriced SoCo Italian, "hands down one of the best in Austin" thanks to its "superb" cooking, "wonderful wines" and a warm setting. — Zagat

Barley Swine chef Bryce Gilmore has returned to his culinary roots, opening this brick-and-mortar version of his popular first project on the site of the original food trailer in South Austin. — Zagat

Husband and wife team Todd Duplechan and Jessica Maher are creating ever-changing prix fixe courses they refer to as “hot weather food”—flavors inspired by the cuisine in hot climate regions. — Time Out

It's an assemblage of flavors...that's evocative, a little mysterious and a lot of fun. — Travel + Leisure

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. — Zagat

The food is hard to categorize, with elements of Latin, Southwestern, and Continental cuisine. Some have called it "New Texan," but we simply call it tasty. — Concierge

Barley Swine has cornered most of the buzz in Austin these days, but locals will tell you it's all well-deserved...The menu? Offbeat and ever-changing. — Frommer's

Elizabeth Street serves everything from baguettes, nice hot curries, coffee, and phở, to The New York Times and cold beer. — Frommer's

In this striking hacienda, lush with towering foliage and Latin American art, you'll experience authentic interior Mexican cuisine. — Gayot

At a typical event, guests are seated at long, communal tables beneath the shade of pecan trees and enjoy a five-course meal featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. — Travel + Leisure

Warm and well-run izakaya serves fresh sushi and a wide variety of noodle dishes and small plates. — BlackBook

Perla's nautically-inspired atmosphere complements the fresh oyster menu and Porch Punch, fostering sun-soaked vacation vibes — Condé Nast Traveler

This is a place known for its ambiance, destined for day-drinking or evening-chilling glory while being surrounded by all that is good in the state of Texas. — The Infatuation

Tacos al pastor are a specialty (about $9) at this busy, sprawling restaurant located across the bridge, south of downtown. — Rough Guide

An eye-poppingly gorgeous space that's colorful, supermodern and artsy, with a dazzling mural taking up an entire wall. — Lonely Planet

This is a restaurant where everyone is treated like a VIP - and treated to the kind of food that makes you feel great about the life decisions that have brought you here. — The Infatuation