In Austin, there's a mouthwatering restaurant on every block. New places pop up every month, and beloved diners often change hands or go out of business. In a city that's known for its unique and adventurous recipes, it can be difficult for businesses to stay open. Some places, however, have had no trouble serving the hungry masses. Here are some of the oldest restaurants in Austin.
1. Scholz Garten
This epic beer garten has been open since 1886 and is a popular game day destination. Sholz Garten became an official Texas landmark in 1967. Come by for a salty pretzel, cold beer, or epic sandwich. No matter what you order, you're certain to have a great time at Scholz Garten.
2. Cisco's
Open since 1943, Cisco's is famous for their breakfast tacos and decadent brunch spread. I personally love coming here after exploring the bars on the east side. Nothing satisfies my hunger quite like their creamy queso and delicious enchiladas.
3. Avenue B Grocery
Avenue B Grocery was built back in 1909, and even though it closed its doors for a brief moment, it is back and better than ever. Embrace its nostalgic charm and dig into one of their classic sandwiches. This place is a gentle reminder that, even though our city changes every day, there are a few things that remain constant.
4. The Tavern
Opened in 1933, The Tavern is an Austin institution. Here, you can belly up to the bar and throw back a local lager. Bask in its classic German architecture and chat with the bartenders. Rumor has it -- this is one of the most haunted places in Austin.
5. Quality Seafood
Quality Seafood has served fresh and delicious dishes since 1938. Whether you're buying fish to cook for dinner or eating inside their restaurant, you're in for a treat.
6. Sandy's Hamburgers
On a hot summer day, nothing beats a cold cup of custard. Sandy's has been serving up the hits since 1946. It's the ultimate refreshment after a day at Barton Springs Pool.
7. Mrs. Johnson's Bakery
You can satiate your donut craving at Mrs. Johnson's Bakery
This donut shop has been keeping sugar fiends happy since 1948.
8. El Patio
There's no shortage of amazing Mexican food restaurants in Austin, but when one of them has been around as long as El Patio, you know it's good. This historic restaurant has served refreshing margaritas and spicy fajitas for about 70 years!
9. Dirty Martin's Place
The roaring twenties saw flapper girls, prohibition and speakeasies, but it also saw the beginning of the Austin restaurant, Dirty Martin's Place. The first twenty years of business mostly took place in the parking lot with car hops. A lot has changed since this joint opened its doors in 1926, but the great food remains the same.
10. Lamme's Candies
William Lamme started selling candy in 1878, but the family business almost got lost forever. In a heated poker game, William Lamme lost his delicious candy store. Luckily, his son repaid the $800 debt and claimed the business as his own.
Lamme's Candies is famous for their gooey, sweet pralines.
11. Matt's El Rancho
Whether you're scarfing down their famous Bob Armstrong dip or crunching into their freshly made tortilla chips,
Matt's El Rancho is always a hit. Their dishes are so good, President LBJ had them delivered via plane!
Have you been to any of the oldest restaurants in Austin? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
For more historic eats, check out our list of the oldest restaurants in Texas.
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