SXSW will soon take over Austin to highlight the best in film, technology, music, comedy and much more. People from around the globe flock to the city to experience the interactive festival hoping for a chance to hear keynote speakers and panelists such as Wendy Williams, the This Is Us cast, the Westworld cast, Keith Urban and more. While some Austinite’s hibernate in their homes to avoid the influx of tourists, others choose to embrace the event and take advantage of all that it has to offer. We have put together a concise of where to dine out and drink during the week of SXSW.


Choosing a restaurant during SXSW can be tricky, each of these places allow reservations ahead of time on Opentable…. and we suggest booking them ASAP:

Second Bar and Kitchen offers new American cuisine in a sophisticated space at The Austonian, 200 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701. Uchi features world-famous sushi from Chef Tyson Cole in an inventive space at 801 South Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX, 78704. Parkside is known for small plates and an extensive drink menu at 301 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701. ATX Cocina offers trendy Mexican fare with amazing cocktails at 110 San Antonio St Suite 170, Austin, TX 78701.

Drinking is a necessary evil during the festival and luckily bars surround the event spaces. Be sure to check out these authentically Austin spots.

The Roosevelt Room features inventive craft cocktails in a cozy space at 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701. Half Step, a Rainey Street favorite offers craft cocktails at 75 1/2 Rainey Street, Austin, TX 78701. Garage Bar is a unique bar located in a secret spot below a parking garage in downtown Austin. To experience this exclusive bar head over to 503 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701.