Introduction
Are you staring blankly into the abyss of your refrigerator, a familiar pang of hunger gnawing at your stomach? Or perhaps you’ve had a long day, the kind where the mere thought of chopping vegetables sends shivers down your spine. In today’s bustling world, takeout has become more than just a convenience; it’s a lifeline. A delicious, sanity-saving lifeline. But with countless restaurants vying for your attention through a dizzying array of delivery apps, finding the *best* takeout in Austin, Texas, can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Endless scrolling through delivery apps can be overwhelming. Not all takeout is created equal – some is soggy, overpriced, or just plain bland. That’s why we’ve embarked on a culinary quest, braving traffic, battling indecision, and sampling an impressive amount of food, all in the name of bringing you a curated list of the absolute best takeout options Austin has to offer. We’ve considered taste, quality of ingredients, value for money, consistency, and how well the food travels, ensuring that your takeout experience is nothing short of exceptional. Get ready to say goodbye to cooking (at least for tonight!) and hello to these delicious havens.
Veracruz All Natural: Tacos That Travel Like a Dream
(Image: High-quality photo of Veracruz All Natural tacos, looking fresh and vibrant)
Veracruz All Natural is a beloved Austin institution, known for its authentic, flavorful tacos and vibrant atmosphere. Started as a humble food truck, it has blossomed into a mini-empire of deliciousness, with multiple locations across the city. While dining in is always a treat, their tacos are perfectly suited for takeout, making them an ideal choice when you need a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
What makes Veracruz All Natural so great for takeout? Several factors contribute to their success. First and foremost, their tacos are built to last. The sturdy corn tortillas, filled with generous portions of perfectly cooked meats, flavorful vegetables, and their signature sauces, hold up remarkably well during transport. They don’t get soggy or fall apart, even after a reasonable amount of time in a takeout container.
We highly recommend the *Migas* taco, a breakfast staple that’s equally delicious any time of day. The combination of scrambled eggs, crispy tortilla chips, pico de gallo, avocado, and cheese is a symphony of textures and flavors that will awaken your taste buds. The *El Tradicional* is another excellent choice, featuring your choice of meat (try the al pastor!), cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime. For vegetarians, the *Vegana* is a must-try, packed with grilled veggies, black beans, avocado, and their signature salsa.
Expect to spend around ten to fifteen dollars per person. You can find Veracruz All Natural at various locations throughout Austin; check their website for the nearest one and to order online for quicker pickup.
*Pro Tip:* Order extra salsa! Their homemade salsas are the perfect accompaniment to any taco, and you’ll want to have plenty on hand. Also, if ordering online, specify any dietary restrictions or preferences to ensure your tacos are made to your liking.
Uchi: Sushi That Transcends Takeout Boundaries
(Image: High-quality photo of beautifully arranged Uchi sushi in a takeout container)
Uchi is a culinary landmark in Austin, renowned for its innovative and exquisite sushi. While it’s known as a fine dining restaurant, Uchi offers takeout options that maintain the same level of quality and artistry, proving that exceptional sushi can indeed be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home.
The key to Uchi’s successful takeout sushi lies in its meticulous attention to detail. From the sourcing of the freshest ingredients to the expert preparation and careful packaging, every step is designed to preserve the integrity of the dish. Their takeout containers are specifically designed to keep the sushi at the optimal temperature and prevent any damage during transport.
For a truly unforgettable takeout experience, order the *Omakase* (chef’s choice). This allows you to sample a variety of Uchi’s signature dishes, showcasing the chef’s creativity and expertise. If you’re looking for specific recommendations, the *Bigeye Tuna* is a classic, melt-in-your-mouth delicacy. The *Hamachi Crudo* is another standout, featuring thinly sliced yellowtail with citrus and jalapeno. And don’t miss the *Hot Rock*, a unique dish where you sear your own Wagyu beef on a hot stone right at your table (or, in this case, your takeout container!).
Prepare to spend a bit more for Uchi, with prices ranging from thirty to sixty dollars per person. Uchi is located on South Lamar Boulevard. Ordering online is highly recommended to secure your takeout order, especially during peak hours.
*Pro Tip:* Check their website for daily specials and seasonal offerings. Uchi is constantly experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, so you might discover a hidden gem. Also, if you’re unsure what to order, don’t hesitate to call and ask for recommendations. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to help you create the perfect takeout feast.
Franklin Barbecue: The Legend You Can (Sometimes) Take Home
(Image: High-quality photo of Franklin Barbecue’s brisket, ribs, and sausage in a takeout container)
Franklin Barbecue needs no introduction. It’s a barbecue mecca, a pilgrimage site for meat lovers from around the globe. While the legendary lines are part of the Franklin experience, they also offer takeout, albeit with some strategic planning required. Getting your hands on Franklin’s brisket to enjoy at home is a true Austin bucket-list item.
The secret to Franklin Barbecue’s success is simple: unwavering dedication to quality. They use only the finest cuts of meat, smoke them low and slow for hours, and season them with a simple yet perfect blend of spices. The result is barbecue that is tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky flavor. While the line can be a deterrent, the takeout option offers a way to bypass (some of) the wait and savor their award-winning barbecue in the comfort of your own space.
Of course, the *Brisket* is the star of the show. It’s fall-apart tender, with a rich, smoky flavor and a perfectly rendered fat cap. The *Ribs* are another must-try, boasting a beautiful bark and a juicy, meaty interior. And don’t forget the *Sausage*, made in-house with a blend of pork and beef. Order by the pound, and don’t be afraid to get a little bit of everything.
Franklin Barbecue is moderately priced, but the quality justifies the cost. Plan to spend around twenty to forty dollars per person, depending on how much meat you order. Franklin Barbecue is located on East Eleventh Street. Pre-ordering is highly recommended to secure your takeout, as they often sell out early. Check their website for ordering details and availability.
*Pro Tip:* Place your order well in advance! Franklin Barbecue’s takeout orders often sell out weeks in advance, so plan ahead. Also, consider ordering extra to have leftovers for the next day. Franklin’s barbecue is just as delicious (if not more so) the next day.
Odd Duck: Farm-to-Table Goodness, To Go
(Image: High-quality photo of Odd Duck’s inventive and seasonal dishes in takeout containers)
Odd Duck is a farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates the bounty of Central Texas. Their menu is constantly evolving, reflecting the seasonal availability of local produce. While their dining room is cozy and inviting, their takeout options allow you to experience Odd Duck’s innovative cuisine from the comfort of your own home.
Odd Duck’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients is evident in every dish. They work closely with local farmers and ranchers to source the highest quality ingredients, ensuring that their food is not only delicious but also sustainable. Their takeout containers are eco-friendly, reflecting their commitment to environmental responsibility.
The menu changes frequently, so it’s always a good idea to check their website or call ahead to see what’s currently available. However, some perennial favorites include their *Duck Fat Fries*, crispy and decadent, and their *Pork Belly Sliders*, featuring tender pork belly with pickled vegetables and a spicy aioli. They also offer a variety of small plates that are perfect for sharing, such as their *Roasted Vegetables* and *Charcuterie Board*.
Odd Duck is moderately priced, with prices ranging from twenty to thirty-five dollars per person. They are located on South Lamar Boulevard. Ordering online is recommended, especially during peak hours.
*Pro Tip:* Don’t be afraid to try something new! Odd Duck’s menu is full of surprises, so step outside your comfort zone and order something you’ve never had before. You might just discover your new favorite dish. Also, ask about their wine pairings. They offer a curated selection of wines that complement their dishes perfectly.
Via 313 Pizza: Detroit-Style Delight, Straight to Your Door
(Image: High-quality photo of Via 313’s Detroit-style pizza, showcasing its thick crust and crispy edges)
Via 313 Pizza has brought the iconic Detroit-style pizza to Austin, and it’s a game-changer. Known for its thick, rectangular crust, crispy cheese edges, and generous toppings, Via 313’s pizza is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing (or not!). Their takeout options are just as delicious as dining in, making them a popular choice for pizza lovers across the city.
What sets Via 313 apart is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and their unique baking process. The dough is made fresh daily and allowed to rise for hours, resulting in a light and airy crust. The cheese is spread all the way to the edges of the pan, creating a crispy, caramelized crust that is the hallmark of Detroit-style pizza.
The *Detroit Square* is a must-try, featuring pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of tomato sauce. The *Cadillac* is another popular choice, topped with gorgonzola, fig jam, prosciutto, and balsamic glaze. For vegetarians, the *Herbivore* is a delicious option, featuring a variety of fresh vegetables.
Via 313 Pizza is reasonably priced, with pizzas ranging from fifteen to thirty dollars. They have multiple locations throughout Austin; check their website for the nearest one and to order online.
*Pro Tip:* Order the *Cannoli* for dessert! It’s the perfect sweet ending to a savory meal. Also, be sure to specify any dietary restrictions or preferences when ordering. They offer gluten-free crust and vegan cheese options.
Wrap-Up: Your Austin Takeout Adventure Awaits
So, there you have it: our curated list of the best takeout options in Austin, Texas. From the authentic tacos of Veracruz All Natural to the exquisite sushi of Uchi, the legendary barbecue of Franklin Barbecue, the farm-to-table goodness of Odd Duck, and the Detroit-style delights of Via 313 Pizza, there’s something for everyone on this list. Next time you’re craving takeout, skip the usual suspects and give these amazing spots a try! You won’t be disappointed.
What are *your* go-to takeout restaurants in Austin? Share your recommendations in the comments below! We’re always on the lookout for new and delicious takeout options to add to our list. Happy eating!
