Where to eat now
Where to eat in Austin right now: 7 new restaurants on 2019 ACL Fest lineup
The Austin City Limits Music Festival always brings in as many culinary stars as it does marquee acts, but the food lineup has remained relatively static the past few years. In 2019, however, the fest is bringing in a rush of new energy.
Along with mainstays like Mmmpanadas and Mighty Cone, a host of newcomers are making their ACL debut. Check them out October 4-6 and 11-13 when the party returns to Zilker Park.
Chispas
The first Austin restaurant from San Antonio superstar chef Jason Dady’s is making a big splash in the Warehouse District with creative tacos like tofu al pastor. Munch on a curated version of the main menu, including both meaty and vegetarian tacos. Junk food connoisseurs won’t want to miss the Cool Ranch Doritos nachos.
Dean’s One Trick Pony
The Line Austin’s casual concept is focusing on burgers for its ACL debut. The Pony Boy with queso, charred onion mayo, and pickles is a sure bet, but the booth will also be serving the popular Beyond Burger with roasted tomatoes, basil, and a gluten-free bun. Strawberry basil or passionfruit coconut Bat Pops will keep music fans cool.
Happy Chicks
When revelers have to book it across to park to catch both Billie Eilish and 21 Savage, finger foods are a must. Balance a boat of this casual concept’s chicken fingers while making the trek, but try not to get a glob of pineapple sweet and sour sauce on your breezy white top.
Ranch Hand
One might expect this locally minded food truck to heavily focus on beef, but the Heartbrand Plate with grilled kale, sweet potatoes, avocado, roasted pepitas, and habanero chimichurri is an easy way to get in some festival veggies. Carnivores will delight in the rosemary and garlic chicken breast or the coffee and pepper Akaushi sirloin.
Scholz Garten
This historic Austin restaurant will be parking at the beer hall with some very convenient pairings. Bratwursts are friendly with everything from kölschs to IPAs, but hop heads should consider trying something bolder with the chili cheese dog. Pretzels and bier cheese are also available to soak up all the booze.
Shawarma Point
Portable and sturdy, wraps are ideal for a picnic in the park. This family-owned eatery offers them with chicken shawarma, beef and lamb gyro, or falafel. Fuel up even further by adding a side like seasoned fries or classic hummus and pita.
Tiny Pies
No ACL feast is complete without dessert. This diminutive pie shop offers plenty of temptations like tart cherry, chocolate cream, key lime, or the popular Texas Two-Step (chocolate brownie) with a gooey center of CBD-infused caramel. Want an all-pie meal? Try the savory spinach, red bell pepper, and ricotta version with a cheddar crust.