Nestled just west of downtown, the Tarrytown neighborhood is one of Austin’s most charming and historic enclaves. Known for shady oak-lined streets, elegant homes, and a laid-back vibe, Tarrytown might not immediately pop to mind when you think of Austin’s food scene. But locals know: this neighborhood harbors some of the city’s best-kept culinary secrets. Whether you’re after a rustic pastry, a gourmet dinner, or globally-inspired street food, Tarrytown offers up a memorable mix of classic favorites and under-the-radar treasures. Here’s your food-lover’s guide to Tarrytown’s standout eats and best-kept bites.
Clarksville and Windsor: The Bustling Edges
While Tarrytown itself is mostly residential, many of its signature restaurants cluster around bordering streets—particularly along West 35th, Exposition Boulevard, and Windsor Road. These corridors buzz with everything from family-friendly pizza joints to chic farm-to-table restaurants:
- Fabi + Rosi (509 Hearn St at Lake Austin Blvd)
One of Tarrytown’s culinary crown jewels, Fabi + Rosi is tucked into a quaint bungalow just off Lake Austin Boulevard. This Euro-inspired restaurant offers inventive modern German and French fare—think house-smoked trout, bistro-style steak frites, and artisanal gnocchi. It’s both romantic for date night and cozy for a special family meal. Entrees run $20–$40, with well-priced house wines and seasonal specials. Reservations recommended—locals love this spot for anniversaries and celebrations.
- Cafe Medici (1101 W Lynn St at Windsor Rd)
Born in Clarksville and beloved by Tarrytown’s caffeine devotees, Cafe Medici is a corner café with serious barista cred. Their expertly poured lattes, homemade pastries (try the almond croissant!), and spacious patio make this a morning must-stop. Settle in with an espresso and catch glimpses of neighborhood regulars strolling by. Prices are typical for specialty coffee ($3–$6 per drink), but the atmosphere is priceless.
Tarrytown’s Classic Favorites
Within the heart of Tarrytown, a few stalwart eateries have become neighborhood mainstays:
- Hula Hut (3825 Lake Austin Blvd)
A lakeside legend, Hula Hut is Tarrytown’s answer to Tex-Mex with a twist. Their menu fuses Mexican comfort food with Hawaiian touches—picture coconut shrimp tacos, creamy jalapeño dip, and mango margaritas. What makes Hula Hut truly special is the waterfront setting—order a sizzling plate of fajitas ($16–$25) and watch paddle-boarders drift by. It’s great for groups and families and always buzzing when the sun is shining.
- Mozart’s Coffee Roasters (3825 Lake Austin Blvd)
Right next door to Hula Hut, Mozart’s is an institution for lovers of fresh-baked pastries, lakeside views, and live music evenings. Their spacious dock is a popular study spot by day and a romantic hangout at night. Sip their locally roasted beans, sample the daily selection of cakes and kolaches ($4–$8), or just grab a seat and watch the sunset—Mozart’s is open late, and there’s always something new on the dessert menu.
Hidden Gems on Exposition Boulevard
Exposition Boulevard is the true food backbone for Tarrytown residents—lined with small bakeries, casual cafés, and global eats. Here’s what not to miss:
- Texas French Bread (2900 Rio Grande St; near Exposition Blvd)
Early birds and pastry lovers flock here for some of Austin’s best croissants, crusty baguettes, and rotating savory quiches. Texas French Bread has been baking since 1981; their rustic loaves, sandwiches ($8–$14), and breakfast pastries have earned a loyal following from Tarrytown commuters. Come early for the almond bear claw or grab a seat on the shady patio.
- Littlefield’s Tacos + Coffee (2401 Winsted Ln at Exposition Blvd.)
A newer addition to the neighborhood, Littlefield’s is a bright, family-friendly oasis with something for everyone: Veracruz All Natural (Austin’s taco royalty) serves up legendary breakfast tacos ($3–$5) filled with eggs, potatoes, and house-made salsas, while Medici Coffee pours top-tier espresso drinks. There’s a fenced play area for kids, plenty of shaded seating, and food trucks rotating throughout the week. It’s a true “local hang,” especially on weekend mornings.
- Flo’s Wine Bar & Bottle Shop (3111 W 35th St at Exposition Blvd.)
A cozy neighborhood bar with a select wine list and gourmet pizza, Flo’s is the place to unwind after a long day. Their Margherita and wild mushroom pies are top sellers (pizzas ~$14–$18), and the small patio fills up quickly with folks savoring cheese boards and bubbly. Don’t miss the weekday happy hour for deals on wine by the glass.
Sweet Treats, Afternoon Bites, and Global Flavors
Tarrytown isn’t just about comfort food—adventurous palates and sweet tooths are covered too:
- Stinson’s Bistro (3801 Lake Austin Blvd)
A casual-cool hybrid of coffee shop, deli, and craft beer spot, Stinson’s serves up delicious breakfast tacos, gourmet sandwiches, and pastries in a laid-back space. It’s the perfect midday pit stop for remote workers or families taking a break from the lake. Their turkey and pesto panini ($8.50) is a sleeper hit.
- Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery (411 E 43rd St, just east of Tarrytown border)
Worth the short jaunt, Quack’s old-school bakery offers dazzling cookie displays, impossibly moist cupcakes, and pecan pies worthy of grandma’s cookbook. Everything is baked fresh daily; grab a cinnamon roll or a slice of cake to go and eat under the shade trees at a nearby park.
- Eberly at Home Food Truck (near Lake Austin Blvd)
Periodically parked near Tarrytown, this food truck brings creative, chef-driven small plates—think Korean fried chicken sliders, vegan grain bowls, and fresh ceviche ($10–$15). Follow their Instagram for up-to-date locations and specials.
The Tarrytown Food Adventure Awaits
Tarrytown’s food scene is a microcosm of Austin’s quirky, creative spirit—never fussy, always welcoming, with high-quality eats tucked behind unassuming doors. Whether you’re hunting buttery breakfast tacos, sipping perfect cappuccinos, or indulging in a memorable dinner by the lake, this neighborhood rewards the curious.
Wander along Exposition or Lake Austin Boulevard, chat up passionate local baristas, or linger over an outdoor brunch—your next favorite meal in Tarrytown is always just around the corner.