Asti Trattoria
Neighborhood Italian spot; modern decor and open kitchen
408 E. 43rd, 512-451-1218
astiaustin.com
Follow @Asti_Trattoria
Location: Central
Category: Trendy

The Carillon
Upscale dining on the edge of the UT campus
1900 University Ave, 512-404-3655
thecarillonrestaurant.com
Follow @CarillonAustin
Location: Central
Category: Upscale

Fabi + Rosi European Kitchen
Cool cottage; outdoor dining; bistro
509 Hearn, 512-236-0642
fabiandrosi.com
Location: Central
Categories: Upscale, Romantic, Trendy

Fino
Modern, outdoor lounge scene; tapas
2905 San Gabriel, 512-474-2905
astiaustin.com/fino
Location: Central
Category: Trendy

Ruby’s BBQ
Barbecue in a relaxed, rustic space near UT
512 W. 29th, 512-477-1651
rubysbbq.com
Location: Central
Category: Comfy Cafes

Texas French Bread
Local bakery and favorite lunch spot also serving seasonal dinners
2900 Rio Grande, 512-499-0544
texasfrenchbread.com
Follow @TXFrenchBread
Location: Central
Categories: Tried & True, Comfy Cafes, Sweet Tooth

34th Street Cafe
Quiet, low-key spot that still charms the locals
1005 W. 34th, 512-371-3400
34thstreetcafe.com
Location: Central
Category: Tried and True

Uchiko
Artful plates of sushi in an uber-chic space
4200 N. Lamar, 512-916-4808
uchiaustin.com
Follow @uchikoaustin
Location: Central
Category: Trendy, Upscale

Vino Vino
Cavernous yet cozy wine bar serving New American
4119 Guadalupe, 512-465-9282
vinovinoaustin.com
Location: Central
Category: Romantic

Wink
Tiny, modern space serving New American; small portions
1014 N. Lamar Blvd, 512-482-8868
winkrestaurant.com
Follow @WinkRestaurant
Location: Central
Category: Trendy