Austin is full of reasons why it’s one of the most desired places to live in the US. One of the most beautiful and unique benefits of the Texas capital is our lakefront restaurants. Whether you’re embracing the water on a family day out on a boat or having a romantic moonlit dinner with your one-and-only, memories surrounding either Lake Austin, or Lake Travis, are never far away.

So, where’s the best place to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the beauty and close proximity of Austin’s lakes?

We’ve made it easy for you. Here’s our list of some of the best lakefront restaurants in or around Austin.

The Oasis on Lake Travis

Arguably Austin’s most famous Lakefront restaurant, The Oasis on Lake Travis, known as the Sunset Capital of Texas, offers outstanding views of Lake Travis over multiple outdoor terraces. Its casual dining offers TexMex, burgers, and seafood dishes perfect for couples, friends and family.

Started as a casual restaurant almost 40 years ago, the Oasis complex has grown by adding local shops, a brewery and other amenities to add to your evening. Reservations are recommended during the weekends and evenings since it’s one of the most popular destinations in the Texas hill country, so make sure to book ahead so you can enjoy the gorgeous sunset while sipping on a margarita or snacking on some chips and salsa.

Hula Hut

A delicious, quirky, informal TexMex restaurant that’s bound to be in your firm favorites of local restaurants in Austin, Hula Hut is truly a find. With a wide array of choices on the menu, there’s something for everyone at Hula Hut. A short drive from Downtown, you can take the entire family for a meal on the outdoor patio directly above the stunning Lake Austin.

Hula Hut aims to be a Hawaiin paradise (with the Texas twist). They pride themselves on fresh produce and tropical drinks. With the palm trees, thatched roofs, and summer umbrellas, you’ll feel like you’re on vacation the second you step foot in the door.

A fusion-style restaurant, combining Mexican and Polynesian culture, the Mexonesian will be a hit for kids and adults alike. Fruity cocktails, glistening water, and good food. What’s not to love?

Shack 152

If you’re searching for a casual bite to eat while in Volente, TX, Shack 152 could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Their website states “This is how we lake it. Best food on Lake Travis”, and the reviews more than confirm this opinion.

Sitting next to Sandy Creek Marina and the Volente Beach Resort, Shack 152 gives diners a meal to remember. Traditional Southern American meals are offered, like fried shrimp, St Louis BBQ ribs, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, and mouth-watering brunch meals like Eggs Benedict (Texan style, of course), and cooked to perfection.

Kids have a children’s menu with three meals to choose from: chicken tenders, quesadillas, or a cheeseburger. They all include a soft drink, and won’t set you back, costing only $6 for kids aged 10 and under.

Be sure to order some Lakeside S'mores for dessert. A sharing experience, you’ll feel the genuine atmosphere of Lake Travis while munching on melting marshmallows.

Ski Shores Cafe

Ski Shores Cafe has been serving burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food to Austinites since 1954. Tucked away on a quiet road on Lake Austin, Ski Shores is the definition of a casual lake joint with their proud slogan, “No Shirt, No Shoes, No Problem”.

Recently revitalized by new management, their menu expanded to include more appetizers and food items, summer cocktails, and a redecorated interior and deck. Even with all the new additions, Ski Shores continues to be a pure lake restaurant at heart. Show up in your car, or pull up to their dock on your boat to grab a frozen drink or quick bite to eat, Ski Shores is unlikely to disappoint.

Steiner Ranch Steakhouse

Looking for something a bit more fancy? Book a special meal at the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse overlooking the Texas Hill Country and Lake Travis.

While Steiner Ranch Steakhouse doesn’t sit directly on the water like some of the other restaurants on our list, it offers an unbeatable view of the Lake. Combine that with mouth watering Texas steaks, and you’ve got an evening that will be thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.

While famous for their steaks, Steiner Ranch Steakhouse also offers dishes like French onion soup, salads, coldwater lobster tail, and vegetable carbonara. So, if you’re not a meat fan, don’t be put off by the name of the restaurant. There is something for everyone here.

Little ones can savor dishes like beef tips, chicken fingers, and penne pasta from the children’s menu.

Not to mention, Steiner Ranch Steakhouse celebrates Happy Hour every day from Monday to Friday, from 4pm to 6pm.

Delicious food, happy hour prices, an extensive and impressive wine list, and views of Lake Travis. The stress falls off your shoulders just thinking about it.

P6 Lounge Bar

While more known as a bar rather than a full sit-down restaurant, P6 Lounge Bar at the Line Hotel offers a great selection of appetizers, plates, and delicious drinks in the heart of Downtown Austin.

Its amazing view of Lake Austin, and modern, lively vibe make this a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. By booking ahead of time, you can reserve a table at the terrace and sip on a number of their specialty cocktails, wines or beers. You can also enjoy some of their international food offerings, such as Patatas Bravas, charcuterie plates, fried chicken, fettuccine primavera, or a number of their amazing desserts.

Whether you go for a full evening, or a quick drink before hitting the town, P6 should definitely be on your list.

The Lighthouse Restaurant and Lounge

Interested in making a little road trip out to the Texas Hill Country and looking for a bite to eat? Favored by many locals in Briarcliff, Texas, The Lighthouse Restaurant and Lounge is a great place to soak up a busy atmosphere that contrasts the calming serenity of Lake Travis.

The menu is proudly modern American, and caters to diners for brunch, lunch, and dinner. You can even glide up and dock at the restaurant on your boat.

The Lighthouse Restaurant and Lounge puts on entertainment for their customers in the form of live music. Plus, it’s available to book for private events or parties.

Got little ones coming for dinner? They’ll be more than entertained with the kid’s play area and a children’s menu.

The names of the dishes on the kid’s menu are hilarious, titled “I don’t know” (tenders, potato chips, and broccoli), “I don’t care” (a child-sized burger with fries and broccoli), and a range of other amusing dishes. Your little one will relish in placing their order by saying “I’ll have the I don’t know, please!”

Become a Local and Embrace Austin’s Waterfront Restaurants

The Austin lakefront is something dreams are made of. Whether you’re looking for a property surrounding Lake Austin or Lake Travis, we’d be honored to help you find your perfect lakefront home.

Just make sure you use our list and choose one of the best lakefront restaurants in Austin for your housewarming meal!

Searching for your perfect property on the waterfront in Austin, Texas? Let us help. Get in touch today.