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After spending a day exploring Austin and playing by the lake, nothing beats a great meal couple with some drinks with your friend. With the natural beauty in its surroundings and the lovely spring-like weather, there is no shortage of restaurants you can go to for a weekend getaway. A healthy number of locals visit lakeside restaurants nearby Lake Austin, where they get more than just food; they get an experience.
It doesn’t matter if you’re an indoor cat or an avid outdoor enthusiast; getting out of town and experiencing the change of space with a glass of wine in hand will always feel heavenly. Austin is a small down with its own charms that are appealing all year long – especially the low-key, quiet, and cozy places. So if you’re planning to spend a lovely evening with a special someone, here are some amazing restaurant picks for you nearby Lake Austin.
Are we missing a lakeside restaurant on Lake Austins? Let Things To Do In Austin know in the comments or over the tipline.
Abel’s on the lake
If you’re looking for a premium spot by Lake Austin to enjoy drinks with your friends, Abel’s in the place for you. Other than the magnificent beauty of the lake, you’re getting great food, mixed drinks, and a selection of over sixty beers on the tap. What more could anyone want. Established in 2014, Abel’s is known as one of the prime locations for throwing holiday parties for your friends – Don’t forget to check it out.
Contact information
Phone number: (512) 904-0570
Location: 3825 Lake Austin Boulevard Austin, TX 78703
County Line on the lake
If you love old-retro style old lake lodges, head over to County Line on the Lake first chance you get. Located right on the Bull Creek near Lake Austin, this place is known for years for people who like to take their guests for an out-of-town extravaganza. At County Line on the Lake, you can enjoy a cold beer or a glass of margarita on the large redwood deck over-looking the lake.
Contact information
Phone number: (512) 346-3664
Location: 5204 Ranch Rd 2222
Hula Hut
Enjoy Hula Hut’s Famous “Mexonisian” twist on life under our open-air Palapa. It’s located right outside Hula Hut, with a view of Lake Austin. We’ve hosted many types of events, including birthday gatherings, corporate functions, rehearsal dinners, and even a wedding. This traditional Tex-Mex with a Polynesian twist culminates into the Finest "Mexonisian" cuisines. The Hula Hut Austin is decked out with tiki torches, bamboo walls, grass-thatched bars, and thousands of colored lights. Music from traditional Hawaiian to surf rock floats out over the water.
Contact information
Phone number: (512) 476-4852
Location: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd
Ski Shores Café
This is a classic hangout place by Lake Austin. Established in 1954, Ski Shores Café has served some of the most amazing and succulent burgers, chicken baskets, wings, and beers for visitors to enjoy. If you want, you could also get a breakfast taco that you can enjoy with a glass of beer. Ski Shores Café has had a special place in the hearts of Austinites with its laid-back fun, made fresh-to-order easy-going menu, full bar, game room, playground, and live music. There’s nothing better than relaxing on the expansive patio along Barton Springs Road or at our original location along the shores of Lake Austin to make you feel like you’re permanently on vacation.
Contact information
Phone number: (512) 394-7511
Location: 2905 Pearce Road
Mozart's Coffee Roasters
What’s there to say? Mozart’s is a huge local favorite. They go all out every year for the holidays and deck the deck out with lights and sparkle to the maximum. Get a good book, grab a warm cup of joe, and head to this stunning spot on Lake Austin. They pair beautifully with our coffees and round out the experience. Wireless internet is complimentary. Since 1993 Mozart's have roasted their own coffee and prepared their own baked goods, providing a peaceful refuge, a romantic date spot, and a productive workspace for our diverse customer base.
Contact information
Phone number: (512) 477-2900
Location: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd
Lake Austin planning notes
Lake Austin is usually the easier lake for visitors staying downtown, near South Congress, Rainey, Zilker, or West Austin. It is better for scenic cruises, smaller private rentals, quick lake plans, and groups that do not want a long drive. If you are booking a rental, confirm the pickup ramp, capacity, what is included, and whether the provider lists a cancellation policy in the live calendar.
Good next steps: compare Lake Austin boat rentals, look at kayaks and paddleboards for a lower-cost plan, or use the trip planner if you are building a full weekend.
Quick checklist
- Confirm the address and travel time from where you are staying.
- Check whether reservations, tickets, or live availability are required.
- Look for recent reviews when choosing between similar options.
- Keep a nearby backup plan for weather, sellouts, or timing changes.