When it comes to luxury living and world-class dining, Austin, Texas, delivers in a big way. Known for its eclectic food scene, vibrant culture, and thriving real estate market, the city is a magnet for discerning homebuyers and food lovers alike. Whether you’re visiting, relocating, or already enjoying life in the Texas capital, you’ll want to know where to find the best upscale restaurants in Austin, TX.
No one knows Austin better than Phil Walker, the #1 real estate agent in Austin, TX, who not only helps clients find their dream homes but also knows exactly where to find the finest dining experiences the city has to offer. If you’re exploring luxury homes or simply indulging in a night out, Phil Walker has you covered with this expertly curated list of Austin’s top upscale restaurants.
Austin TX Real Estate and Homes For Sale
1. Jeffrey’s – Old West Austin
Nestled in the historic Clarksville neighborhood, Jeffrey’s is a legendary steakhouse offering elegant American fare with French influence. From dry-aged prime beef to decadent seafood towers and an award-winning wine list, Jeffrey’s defines sophistication.
With its plush velvet interiors, impeccable service, and private dining rooms, it’s a go-to for celebrating milestones or closing real estate deals in style. Phil Walker often recommends Jeffrey’s to his luxury homebuyers who want to enjoy fine dining just minutes from downtown Austin.
Must-Try: Prime bone-in ribeye, foie gras torchon, and the tableside martinis.
2. Uchi – South Lamar
For a high-end sushi experience with a contemporary twist, Uchi is unbeatable. This award-winning Japanese restaurant by Chef Tyson Cole has redefined sushi dining in Austin. With its minimalist-chic ambiance, innovative small plates, and flawless sashimi, Uchi sets the gold standard.
Uchi is perfect for both date nights and business dinners. Phil Walker points out that many luxury condo buyers in South Austin cite proximity to restaurants like Uchi as a huge draw.
Must-Try: Walu walu (oak-grilled escolar), hama chili, and the chef’s daily omakase.
3. Lenoir – South First
Located in the heart of South Austin, Lenoir offers a globally inspired “hot weather” menu in a romantic, intimate setting. Housed in a charming bungalow surrounded by lush greenery, the restaurant’s ambiance is as elevated as its cuisine.
Phil Walker loves to mention Lenoir when showing homes in the South First area, especially to clients who appreciate artisanal dining experiences with a local twist.
Must-Try: Rotating menu—expect seasonal produce, creative proteins, and fine wine pairings.
4. Emmer & Rye – Rainey Street
For true foodies, Emmer & Rye is a must. This hyper-local, grain-forward restaurant located on the popular Rainey Street uses heirloom grains and seasonal ingredients to craft innovative dishes. The rotating dim sum-style service adds flair and fun to the upscale atmosphere.
Phil Walker frequently brings clients to Rainey Street and often highlights Emmer & Rye as a sign of the area’s culinary sophistication and lifestyle appeal.
Must-Try: Cacio e pepe with aged rye pasta, wagyu tartare, and the rotating dim sum carts.
5. Aba – Music Lane, South Congress
Aba, meaning “father” in Hebrew, brings Mediterranean flair to South Congress. With a lush outdoor patio, modern decor, and an extensive cocktail list, Aba has quickly become a hotspot for stylish Austinites. Chef CJ Jacobson combines the flavors of Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece for a menu bursting with flavor.
Phil Walker notes that Aba’s presence on South Congress reflects the area’s rising luxury and walkability, often sought after by his upscale homebuyers.
Must-Try: Muhammara, short rib hummus, lamb ragu hummus, and frozen cocktails.
6. Hestia – Downtown Austin
Named after the Greek goddess of the hearth, Hestia centers its menu around a live-fire grill. With dark, moody interiors and a focus on smoke-kissed meats and vegetables, this is one of the most unique upscale dining experiences in Austin.
Phil Walker often highlights downtown luxury condos and penthouses, and Hestia is a staple when discussing the area’s high-end culinary scene.
Must-Try: Akaushi wagyu, embered carrots, and smoked potatoes.
7. Arlo Grey – Inside The LINE Hotel
Run by Top Chef winner Kristen Kish, Arlo Grey fuses French and Italian cuisine with local Texas ingredients. Overlooking Lady Bird Lake, it’s a dreamy setting for a high-end dining experience. The interiors are modern and elegant, and the food is just as stylish.
Phil Walker enjoys recommending this restaurant to clients staying downtown while house-hunting and notes that the lakeside views pair perfectly with the refined ambiance.
Must-Try: Ricotta dumplings, Texas wagyu, and the rotating seasonal desserts.
8. Sammie’s Italian – West Sixth
For a glamorous yet nostalgic Italian-American dining experience, Sammie’s Italian is the place to be. It combines old-school red-sauce Italian charm with top-tier steaks, seafood, and house-made pasta. The vibe? Think Sinatra, martinis, and candlelit dinners.
Phil Walker says Sammie’s is a favorite among his clients who love both classic cuisine and downtown convenience.
Must-Try: Chicken parm, filet mignon with garlic butter, and tableside Caesar salad.
9. Juniper – East Austin
On East Austin’s evolving food scene, Juniper stands out as an upscale gem offering Northern Italian cuisine in a sleek, contemporary setting. The open kitchen concept, intimate booths, and creatively plated dishes make it ideal for special occasions.
Phil Walker often points out that East Austin is on the rise in both real estate value and lifestyle perks, and Juniper is one of the neighborhood’s crown jewels.
Must-Try: Duck confit lasagna, squid ink garganelli, and smoked trout roe with potato chips.
10. La Condesa – Downtown Austin
Located in the bustling Second Street District, La Condesa brings modern Mexican cuisine to a high-end level. With its colorful interior, award-winning margaritas, and elevated dishes, it’s a trendy yet refined choice for both lunch and dinner.
Phil Walker highlights La Condesa when showing homes in the downtown core—it’s a perfect example of the urban lifestyle buyers can expect in Austin’s hottest zip codes.
Must-Try: Cochinita pibil tacos, elotes, and the La Condesa margarita.
Why Phil Walker Knows the Best Upscale Dining in Austin
When it comes to finding the perfect balance between culinary excellence and real estate opportunity, Phil Walker is the go-to expert in Austin, TX. As the #1 real estate agent in Austin, Phil doesn’t just know the homes—he knows the neighborhoods, the lifestyle, and the little luxuries that make living in Austin unforgettable.
Phil has spent years exploring Austin’s finest restaurants with clients, partners, and friends. Whether you’re searching for a luxury estate in Westlake, a penthouse downtown, or a trendy bungalow near South Congress, Phil understands that proximity to upscale dining and entertainment is more than a perk—it’s a priority.
Bonus: Upscale Dining Meets Real Estate
Phil often reminds clients that Austin’s best upscale restaurants aren’t just great places to dine—they’re also indicators of rising neighborhood value and community prestige. When neighborhoods attract top culinary talent, they typically experience:
- Increased desirability
- Stronger property values
- More walkability and amenities
- Higher luxury rental potential
So, whether you’re savoring sashimi at Uchi or sipping a cabernet at Jeffrey’s, you’re also getting a glimpse into Austin’s evolving luxury landscape—one that Phil Walker navigates with unmatched expertise.
Conclusion
Austin’s upscale dining scene is as rich and diverse as its real estate market. From fire-grilled meats at Hestia to the Mediterranean flavors of Aba, there’s no shortage of elegant culinary destinations in the Texas capital. And if you’re looking to make Austin your home—or simply want to upgrade your lifestyle—Phil Walker is the person to call.
With his deep understanding of both Austin’s real estate and its fine dining culture, Phil Walker stands out as the #1 real estate agent in Austin, TX. He’s the guide you want by your side, whether you’re buying a luxury home or looking for the next unforgettable meal.
Ready to live where fine dining meets fine living? Reach out to Phil Walker today and discover how extraordinary life in Austin can be.
Legacy Luxury Group
(512) 694-2558
