The Best Outdoor Dining Venues in Austin

Listed as one of the U.S.’s top foodie cities alongside Houston, Austin is every food-lover’s paradise. You’ll find every type of cuisine imaginable in this city with patio seating that ranges from eclectic to refined to charming. Best of all, you can enjoy its warm weather and rich culture at all times of the year.

It’s no wonder this city is a top getaway for most groups, and if you’re planning on exploring Austin’s outdoor restaurants with your friends, sports team, wedding party, or colleagues, you’ll need to find safe, reliable transportation.

While traveling in separate cars might seem like the most budget-friendly option, it’s a logistical nightmare. Imagine trying to find parking in the downtown area! Booking an Austin charter bus rental is a much better option, allowing you and your group to travel comfortably and safely. Get a charter bus rental quote for your outdoor dining adventure by ringing us at 512-827-0540.

Before Booking an Austin Outdoor Dining Venue

When considering Austin outdoor dining venues, you’ll want to take a few things into account.

Most restaurants are flexible when it comes to reservations and arrangements, especially if your group has less than six people. But if you’re planning to travel with a large group, you’ll want to plan for a few things to avoid mishaps.

• What’s the size of your group? You’ll want to choose a venue that has enough space for your group size. While COVID-19 restrictions could soon be lifted, most restaurants are operating at a limited capacity. If you’re traveling with a wedding party or a sports team, you might be required to book the entire patio, so be sure to add that to your budget.
• Is the restaurant accepting reservations for large groups? Many restaurants have capped reservations at six people due to COVID-19 restrictions. You can circumvent this by splitting your group into two and booking two different tables.
• Does the restaurant accept patio reservations? Some restaurants don’t allow groups to reserve the patio. Call in advance to ensure you can make a reservation, and if you can’t, consider going to the restaurant at a time that’s not too busy.
• What type of transportation are you using? Booking a bus is a much safer and more convenient option for groups. You have access to various types of buses:
  • 18-passenger minibus: A great fit for most small groups, this option can come with reclining seats, WiFi, and power outlets.
  • 20-passenger minibus and 25-passenger minibus: These bus rentals can come with climate-controlled cabins, flat-screen TVs, and power outlets.
  • 56-passenger motorcoach: You can enjoy ample space, reclining seats, and power outlets with this option.
• Are you planning on drinking? Typically, you’d choose a designated driver. But with a charter bus rental, you’ll be covered in this department. (Another reason to not drive in separate cars!)
• Has anyone in your group been exposed to COVID-19? They should stay home until their symptoms subside. If they do decide to come along, ensure they and everyone else wears a mask. Don’t forget to choose a charter bus company that follows COVID-19 regulations for bus providers.

Ready to eat? Let’s take a look at the top Austin restaurants where you can enjoy outdoor dining with your group.

 

Perla’s Austin

Perla’s Austin comes at the top of our list. A great fit for seafood lovers, this restaurant is famously known for its colorful, oak-shaded patio. With its string lights and open kitchen, this spot will be sure to delight you and your group.

Patio reservations accepted: No.

A good fit for: Small groups (6-12 people).

Address: 1400 S. Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78704

 

Kalimotxo

This refined eatery will serve you some of the best offerings from Spain, including tapas and, of course, Spanish wine. Its outdoor patio faces Shoal Creek—but because it’s located in the heart of downtown Austin, you can enjoy the urban scenery, too.

Patio reservations accepted: No.

A good fit for: Small groups (7 people max due to COVID restrictions).

Address: 607 W 3rd St 105 Austin, TX 78701

 

Suerte

In the mood for Mexican cuisine while enjoying the night (or afternoon) air? Suerte is the spot for you. Its outdoor patio is charming and homey, but if you want to switch to a more upscale scene, you can briefly step into the indoor bar. Its charm lies in its patio, though, with its plants, farmhouse chairs, and cinder blocks.

Patio reservations accepted: Yes.

A good fit for: Small groups (6 people max due to COVID restrictions).

Address: 1800 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

 

Justine’s Brasserie

Attention all French food lovers who are traveling in a group and want to eat outside: this is the perfect restaurant for you. Enjoy steaks, wine, cocktails, and escargots in a low-key patio with neon string lights.

Patio reservations accepted: Yes.

A better fit for: Small groups (6 people max due to COVID restrictions).

Address: 4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

 

Better Half Coffee & Cocktails

The pink picnic tables and colorful umbrellas make Better Half Coffee & Cocktails one of the most unique outdoor dining spots in Austin. With breakfast offerings such as breakfast sandwiches and granola bowls, as well as late-night favorites such as baby back ribs and hot chicken sandwiches, everyone in your group will have something to love.

Patio reservations accepted: Yes.

A good fit for: Medium groups (10 people max due to COVID restrictions).

Address: 406 Walsh St, Austin, TX 78703

 

The Little Darlin’

This lowkey spot allows you to walk in, choose a picnic table, and enjoy top favorites such as burgers and craft beer. While you can’t bring dogs on a charter bus, you can enjoy everyone else’s puppies rolling around on the grass.

Patio reservations accepted: No.

A good fit for: Medium groups (10 people max due to COVID restrictions).

Address: 6507 Circle S Rd, Austin, TX 78745

 

Enjoy Outdoor Dining in Austin with a Group

There’s no better time to enjoy outdoor dining than now. It’s much safer than indoor dining, and best of all, it’s easy to do it with a group. But you don’t want to skimp on transportation while planning a group trip to an eatery. With a charter bus rental, you won’t have to worry about designating a driver or finding parking in crowded areas. Your driver will do it for you. Call us at 512-827-0540 to get a complimentary quote for your trip.