Looking for the best brunch in Austin? Here are 28 spots worth the wait.
By DineGuides Team·Updated March 2026
Brunch in Austin is its own meal category. 28 spots here score 75+. About half offer outdoor seating, and the range covers everything from classic breakfast plates to full service restaurants with dedicated weekend menus. Austin brunch culture runs on breakfast tacos, kolaches, and migas, often all on the same menu.
What's the best time to visit brunch spots in South Austin neighborhoods to avoid long waits on weekends?
The South Austin brunch corridor (South Manchaca, Govalle, Holly, and Zilker areas) experiences peak crowds between 10am and 1pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Arriving before 9:30am or after 2pm significantly reduces wait times, and weekday brunch service is notably quieter across all neighborhoods.
Are there neighborhoods in this guide where cash payment is common or preferred, and should I plan accordingly?
The Ruta Independencia and Govalle areas have a higher concentration of cash-preferred establishments, though cards are accepted everywhere. Many locally-owned spots in these neighborhoods may offer small discounts for cash or have older POS systems, so arriving with some cash on hand is practical.
Which neighborhoods in this guide cluster brunch restaurants close enough together to visit multiple spots in one outing?
South Manchaca and Zilker have several brunch destinations within a 1-2 mile radius, making it feasible to visit multiple spots in a morning. Ruta Independencia and Govalle are more spread out and better suited for single-destination trips unless you have reliable transportation between them.
This food truck serves up some of the best paninis in Austin, with a focus on fresh ingredients and authentic Moroccan flavors. The entire menu is halal, offering delicious vegetarian and vegan options alongside their signature sandwiches. It's a welcoming spot perfect for a casual meal.
🍽️98Food
✨85Vibe
👋97Service
🔊75Noise
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“The BEST paninis out there! The owners are so kind and the food is always consistent. This is my favorite place to stop at!”
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“We came here on the most perfect sunny day. My friend got the normal chicken pesto pans i and i got the vegan impossible meat panini.”
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“The whole area has a laid-back, welcoming vibe, and it has easily become my go-to spot to grab lunch lately.”
This neighborhood spot feels like a warm hug, offering a cozy and stylish atmosphere perfect for any occasion. From its "no seed oils" commitment and locally sourced ingredients to its impressive bourbon selection, Cafe Largesse delivers a delightful culinary experience.
🍽️95Food
✨95Vibe
👋90Service
⏰80Wait
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“Olga and Frank have created an amazing restaurant where you feel welcome the moment you walk in the door.”
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“I had the chicken panini on sourdough. One of the best sandwiches I’ve ever eaten!”
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“Also the gluten free bread is outrageously good, 10/10 will be returning!”
Austin's Very Own Saltt is a vibrant, Black-owned spot that brings a lively R&B and 70s/80s feel-good music vibe to Sunday brunch. It's a place where the daiquiris are strong, the salt and pepper seafood is perfectly seasoned, and the atmosphere makes you feel instantly relaxed and at home.
🍽️90Food
✨95Vibe
👋92Service
🔊80Noise
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“Food was delicious. We ordered Salt and Pepper Wings, Catfish, and shrimp and theu were seasoned perfectly.”
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“The prices are in a similar range of somewhere like Pappadeaux, Saltt's food beating them by miles makes going here a no brainer.”
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“Austin’s Very Own Saltt is in the strip center across from Walmart off Burnet Road @ Anderson, so easy to miss.”
Vic and Al's offers a vibrant take on Cajun cuisine with a lively atmosphere that feels both casual and special. The scratch kitchen and bar turn out inventive cocktails and flavorful dishes, making it a go-to for a fun night out.
🍽️95Food
✨95Vibe
👋92Service
🔊65Noise
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“The Boudain Breakfast Sandwich - I'm attaching a picture because I want you to come in with no expectations and just try it.”
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“The texture and flavor of the fried chicken were perfect.”
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“Upscale Cajun fine dining yet with counter service so you can eat without breaking open the piggy bank!”
Perla's offers a lively seafood-centric escape with a vibrant patio that's perfect for any occasion. From casual lunches to special celebrations, the atmosphere buzzes with energy, complemented by a full bar and a menu that caters to various tastes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
🍽️92Food
✨95Vibe
👋90Service
🔊70Noise
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“The patio is my favorite part. Sitting outside under the trees feels relaxed and lively, with just the right atmosphere for a casual afternoon.”
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“The Mediterranean Sea bass recommended by our waiter Chip excellent choice”
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“The employees were all amazing and friendly, best restaurant for a date night <3”
Vida Verde Kitchen is a vibrant Mexican spot that shines with its colorful atmosphere and a menu designed for sharing. It's a place where generous portions meet a lively vibe, making it ideal for both casual family meals and lively date nights.
🍽️88Food
✨95Vibe
👋95Service
💰75Value
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“Would definitely recommend for a brunch with friends, or a place to casually watch a game!”
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“Hank provided excellent service and recommendations to accommodate diverse food pallets of our family.”
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“It is a little tucked away near Quarry Lake, so you kinda have to look for it.”
This Austin bistro shines with its vibrant atmosphere, offering a lively setting perfect for dates, family outings, or group celebrations. The menu features thoughtfully prepared dishes, with many options catering to dietary needs, all served with a high level of attentive and friendly service.
🍽️95Food
✨92Vibe
👋90Service
🛡️70Safety
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“The manager, Bobby, also stopped by to check on us and truly went above and beyond to make sure our experience was perfect.”
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“We cannot say enough good things about Hunter! It was the best service we’ve had all weekend by far.”
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“The brunch and Sunday 10-3 is a neighborhood favorite, magnificent lox, wonderful atmosphere!”
This Austin institution offers a vibrant, casual Tex-Mex experience that feels like coming home. It's a place where familiar flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere, making it a go-to for generations of locals.
🍽️85Food
✨88Vibe
👋88Service
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“Gama is the absolute best waiter at El Mercado on Burnet Rd.! He always makes me feel special when he sees me, greeting me with a hug.”
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“Ask for Nancy!! She is wonderful!! Knowledgeable about the menu.”
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“It has a great happy hour menu of small meals and drink discounts, which lasts from 3 to close on Mondays.”
This Mexican kitchen offers a vibrant Tulum-inspired atmosphere with stunning hill views, perfect for both lively group celebrations and intimate date nights. The menu is entirely gluten-free by design, featuring flavorful dishes prepared with passion and attention to detail.
🍽️92Food
✨95Vibe
👋85Service
🔊70Noise
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“A manager who truly cares about quality—he was expediting dishes himself and checked in with us to ensure everything was perfect.”
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“The indoor space can get a little loud during busy services but the outdoor space is excellent.”
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“This is a fantastic place for gluten free folks - no gluten in the kitchen!”
Ling Wu at Lantana Place offers a vibrant atmosphere with dramatic decor, making it a prime spot for celebrations and group gatherings. The menu features expertly prepared Chinese dishes, with standout soup dumplings and a notable wine list.
🍽️90Food
✨95Vibe
👋78Service
🔊65Noise
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“It was very busy but the wait wasn't too bad. Recommend making a reservation and showing up a bit early.”
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“Ling Wu is hands down our favorite dumpling spot in Austin and a place we never skip when we’re in town.”
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“Ling Wu at Lantana Place is as much about the wow-factor room as the food . Think dramatic décor and a slick, semi-private banquet space perfect for a crowd.”
This Austin spot offers a laid-back vibe with a full bar and a menu that balances familiar favorites with creative twists. It's a versatile choice, suitable for casual meetups, family dinners, or even a date night, though noise levels can sometimes detract from intimate conversations.
🍽️88Food
✨90Vibe
👋80Service
🔊65Noise
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“I eat at Foxhole two or three times a week and everyone waiting on us knows our favorite dish.”
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“Came in for brunch, and so happy we did. Atmosphere and ambiance was incredible.”
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“The ambience was great, and our server D was phenomenal: attentive, and friendly.”
Ideal for
Weekend brunchGroup diningDate night (earlier in the evening)
This downtown Italian spot shines with its vibrant atmosphere, making it equally suited for a lively group dinner or an intimate date night. The menu offers well-executed classics, with a particular nod to accommodating dietary needs like gluten-free and vegetarian preferences.
🍽️88Food
✨92Vibe
👋85Service
🔊75Noise
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“Victoria was absolutely amazing! From the moment we arrived, she was so welcoming and made us feel right at home.”
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“This downtown location, combined with excellent food and a great atmosphere, makes it a perfect spot to enjoy both a meal and a leisurely walk afterward.”
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“The ambiance inside was elegant, while remaining casual and relaxing, making it perfect for date nights or solo dining.”
La Piscina offers a vibrant rooftop escape with a full bar and a menu that shines with its signature sizzling fajitas. The atmosphere is a major draw, perfect for lively group dinners or intimate date nights, complemented by attentive service.
🍽️90Food
✨95Vibe
👋85Service
🔊70Noise
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“Fajitas are really delicious, but there are so many great Mexican food options in Austin. Good, but not $50-a-fajita order great.”
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“Our server last night was Arlene, and she was amazing. She was super kind, knowledgeable, and professional.”
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“The patio is our favorite place to sit because the views and atmosphere are so …”
Mi Madre's is a casual East Austin spot that shines with its dog-friendly patio and full bar, making it a versatile choice for groups, families, and even date nights. The breakfast tacos and margaritas are frequently highlighted as reasons to return, cementing its status as a local favorite.
🍽️85Food
✨85Vibe
👋88Service
🔊70Noise
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“My go-to was the avocado taco. I liked the combination of everything and the flavor of the black beans.”
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“The food was actually the best mexican food I've had since moving to Austin.”
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“As a regular devoted #9 I enjoy the best tortilla chips and salsa (red and diablo) in the area.”
This is what happens when a brunch place commits to the bit: excellent French toast, pancakes that actually taste like something, benedicts that justify the wait. The staff is consistently warm, the ingredients are fresh, and the menu has actual options for dietary preferences. The downside is noise—you will have to yell across the table to have a conversation—and the wait, which routinely hits 45 minutes to over an hour on weekends. But if you're going to lose an hour of your Saturday, this is the place to lose it.
Pro tip: Parking is validated, which eases the pain. Arrive before 9 a. M. Or after 11 a. M. To dodge the worst of the wait.
🍽️90Food
✨85Vibe
👋88Service
🛡️70Safety
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“Dedicated covered parking was a big plus and the service was outstanding and I tipped well because of it.”
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“I absolutely love visiting Snooze! The staff is always so warm and welcoming, and the food is consistently amazing.”
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“Lots of gluten free options and cage free eggs - fresh juice. Highly recommend”
This Austin spot brings the vibrant flavors of Veracruz, Mexico, to life with a lively atmosphere and a menu that shines with authentic dishes. It's a place where family recipes meet modern Austin cool, offering everything from expertly crafted cocktails to comforting home-style meals.
🍽️88Food
✨95Vibe
👋85Service
🔊60Noise
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“Three tacos: $28. I said to myself that the tacos are going to be amazing. Simply put, they were ok.”
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“Eliza is hands down the best server here. She handled a large table for my family’s dinner and was incredibly patient, attentive, and calm, even though it was clearly busy.”
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“The taco plates tasted great and our favorite was the vegetarian El Reyna.”
Ezov offers a vibrant culinary journey through Mediterranean flavors, with a lively atmosphere that makes it suitable for both intimate dates and group celebrations. The kitchen consistently delivers inventive dishes, from perfectly prepared lamb shanks to excellent falafel, all served with a welcoming and attentive staff.
🍽️95Food
✨90Vibe
👋85Service
🛡️65Safety
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“Came out for anniversary date night and had such an amazing time. Food was immaculate, service was great, atmosphere was fun and quirky.”
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“Great place to take visiting friends/family! Unique and artistic atmosphere in the heart of Austin with incredible service and of course amazing food.”
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“Incredible food and Miranda M was one of the best servers I’ve ever had. Just favorite of a soul and made our experience.”
Geraldine's pulses with Austin's vibrant energy, offering a lively atmosphere fueled by live music and creative craft cocktails. It's a place where attentive service elevates meals, from hearty brunches to sophisticated dinners, making it a go-to for celebrations and casual nights alike.
🍽️86Food
✨92Vibe
👋88Service
🛡️70Safety
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“Gray was our serve tonight who’s absolutely amazing! He was so knowledgeable About the menu and made sure to answer all our questions!!”
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“The food was LOVELY. Our steak was cooked to the perfect temperature. Pearl was a wonderful and attentive waitress.”
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“The food was amazing. Pearl was the absolute sweetest. She gave our friend a cute birthday surprise.”
This Austin institution serves up hearty, no-frills breakfast classics that feel like home. Portions are generous, and the pancake selection is vast, with options for gluten-free diners. It's a lively, casual spot perfect for fueling up before a day exploring the city.
🍽️88Food
✨85Vibe
👋78Service
🛡️65Safety
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“Fluffy, delicious pancakes that were perfectly cooked and not too sweet. Great texture, great taste, and a very satisfying breakfast.”
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“The Apple baked pancake was the way to go. Served us a beautiful, glistening, huge Apple pancake that was very fresh.”
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“Always a Hot and Delicious Breakfast 😋 served by a Warm and Friendly Staff!! 🤩🤩”
This Austin bar is a welcoming haven for diverse communities, offering a casual vibe with a full bar and a spacious outdoor patio. It's a place where everyone feels comfortable, whether for a lively drag show or a relaxed weeknight gathering.
🍽️85Food
✨95Vibe
👋85Service
🔊70Noise
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“Darrell took care of me. I would highly recommend this bar! It is so friendly and accepting of everyone.”
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“The management and staff at the Eagle are AWESOME! They treat everyone with respect and dignity as well as catering to some of the best groups in the Austin area.”
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“The Austin Eagle is an amazing place. It's a great experience and more.”
Yamas transports diners to a Greek island with its stunning decor and lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for celebrations and date nights. While the ambiance is a major draw, the food aims to match the vibrant setting, offering a range of traditional and modern Greek dishes.
🍽️88Food
✨95Vibe
👋75Service
🔊60Noise
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“I highly recommend getting a reservation in advance! I made the reservation 2 weeks before Valentine's Day, for the.”
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“The ambiance is gorgeous with great DJ vibes, and the food was fantastic.”
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“Yamas strikes that rare balance of being incredibly family-friendly while still carrying an effortless, sexy energy—perfect for date nights or a girls’ night out.”
Sour Duck Market is a neighborhood bakery and beer garden that shines with its vibrant patio and creative, fresh dishes. It's a go-to for happy hour, offering a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual meetups or a solo work session.
🍽️88Food
✨90Vibe
👋65Service
👔55Management
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“This place is fantastic!!! The prices are so low and for the service, atmosphere and great tasting food! You can’t beat that anywhere in Austin!”
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“Easy to seat large crowds in a come and go basis so excellent for meetups and happy hours, or a quick delicious lunch for two inside the back bar.”
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“I’ve been here a couple of times and kept thinking about the olive bread. Finally came back for it and can confidently say it’s the best I’ve ever had.”
Colleen's Kitchen serves up comforting Southern fare with a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for brunch and happy hour. The charming decor and friendly service create a welcoming vibe, though some dishes can be inconsistent.
🍽️85Food
✨92Vibe
👋88Service
🛡️65Safety
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“The food was good we ordered the Buttermilk Fried Chicken and Waffles that came with a really delicious maple butter honey syrup.”
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“It's a beautifully located spot with many couples sitting on the patio having wonderful conversations.”
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“Emma was an excellent serve. Sweet and prompt. Deviled eggs and crab cakes were outstanding.”
This food truck serves up hearty, scratch-made biscuits and gravy with a range of creative toppings. It's a popular spot for breakfast and brunch, offering generous portions and options for vegans and vegetarians.
🍽️90Food
✨80Vibe
👋70Service
📍55Location
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“Absolutely delicious breakfast (we got the Gloria, and a biscuit with peach jam) and loved them both.”
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“My suggestion is to put brick down or something. Other than that I would recommend this place!”
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“Excellent food trailer, top quality biscuits and gravy with lots of vegan and vegetarian options.”
Josephine House feels like dining in a charming, slightly upscale friend's home, offering a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxed meals. It's a popular brunch and breakfast spot with a refined menu that caters to various dietary needs.
🍽️85Food
✨95Vibe
👋70Service
🔊65Noise
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“The Panzanella and Hatch Chilli Feta is one of the best tomato based salads I have had.”
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“It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon treat or a low-key date”
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“Josephine House is a charming little blue cottage turned restaurant. The interior is cozy and intimate, almost like you’re dining in a friend’s home.”
This neighborhood spot offers a casual vibe with a full bar, making it a great place for socializing or working. While the scratch kitchen serves up unique takes on classics, the ordering system can be a point of frustration for some.
🍽️85Food
✨88Vibe
👋70Service
💰55Value
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“The breakfast sandwich is AMAZING and they make the best French toast I've ever had.”
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“Everything is from scratch, has its own unique flavor and composition, and is always fresh a delicious.”
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“This place is absolutely lovely! The staff is personable and always ready to answer any questions about the menu.”
This Austin institution offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for a relaxed breakfast or brunch. It's a spot where you can bring your dog, catch some sports on TV, or just enjoy a quiet moment with a coffee.
🍽️80Food
✨88Vibe
👋68Service
💰65Value
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“LOVED the fact that there was Spongebob playing on one of the tvs — just made my inner child smile.”
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“Incredible smoked salmon benedict. Great Coffee. My favorite breakfast spot in all of Austin.”
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“Best place to have a really great traditional nothing-fancy breakfast in Austin”
This hotel buffet offers a vast spread, particularly strong on seafood and international dishes, with attentive service that aims to please. It's a lively spot, especially popular for weekend brunches and breakfasts.
🍽️78Food
✨80Vibe
👋85Service
💰60Value
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“Thank you again for a wonderful experience. (Another plus as they have baby chairs)”
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“It is at the sixth floor in the W hotel Hong Kong. Location is convenance and kinda easy to find.”
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“We used to come to Kitchen often before COVID. Although we did come back a couple of times during COVID, it's been a while.”