Nestled in North Central Austin, the Highland neighborhood is quickly making a name for itself as a culinary hotspot. Whether you’re searching for the next crave-worthy taco truck, a cozy brunch hideaway, or a buzzy spot for craft beer and global cuisine, Highland’s food scene delivers. As someone who’s spent way too many delicious afternoons exploring its streets, I can confidently say this neighborhood deserves a spot on every Austin food lover’s map.
Where Flavor Meets Community
Bordered by North Lamar Boulevard, Airport Boulevard, and I-35, the Highland area is known for its quirky charm and thriving creative community. Just steps from the sprawling ACC Highland campus and the bustling Highland Mall redevelopment, its dining scene perfectly reflects Austin’s spirit: welcoming, inventive, and always delicious.
Standout Restaurants: Savor the Best of Highland
- Kome Sushi Kitchen
*Location: Airport Blvd & E 51st St*
This family-owned sushi hotspot seamlessly fuses casual Austin vibes with top-notch Japanese fare. The sushi’s gorgeously fresh, the ramen bowls are warming perfection, and unexpected treats—think house-made pickles and inventive bento specials—shine. Don’t miss the weekday lunch specials for a delicious deal (around $15-$20 per meal).
- Vigilante Gastropub & Games
*Location: 7010 Easy Wind Dr (near Airport & Lamar)*
Part board game lounge, part eatery, Vigilante keeps groups entertained with an epic library of games and a menu full of comfort eats. Try the Korean fried chicken or the surprisingly solid vegan options. Communal tables, self-service taps, and late-night hours make this a Highland essential. Entrées average $12-$18.
- JewBoy Burgers
*Location: 5111 Airport Blvd*
This beloved burger spot is all about the mash-up: Texas-sized patties, El Paso-style green chile, and serious New Mexican-Jewish comfort food. The burgers (around $12) are juicy and massive, the latkes come piping hot, and the vibe is ultra-casual. It’s an only-in-Austin flavor combo you’ll crave again and again.
Coffee, Cafés, and Bakeries: Neighborhood Nooks to Savor
- Epoch Coffee – Highland
*Location: 3900 Far West Blvd (just outside Highland core; worth the short trip)*
Known for funky décor, extended hours, and some of the best cold brew north of the river, Epoch is a local favorite for studying, catching up, or unwinding. Their pastry case always offers something surprising—try the vegan scones or legendary cinnamon rolls. Coffee drinks are $3-$6.
- Café Nena’i
*Location: Airport Blvd at Highland Mall Dr (inside Austin’s International Food Court)*
Run by a mother-daughter duo from Paraguay, Café Nena’i serves up strong coffee, perfectly flaky empanadas ($4 each), and insanely good alfajores. It’s a burst of warmth and South American flair tucked in a humble food court setting. Locals swear by their weekend specials!
- OMG Squee
*Location: 4607 Bolm Rd (a quick detour East; worth every minute)*
This cheerful Asian American bakery is famous for its boba teas, adorable mochi donuts, and soft Japanese-style cheesecakes. Gluten-free options abound. Expect a line—especially for their pastel-hued treats ($3-$8)—but it’s well worth the wait.
Food Trucks: Highland’s Hidden Stars
- Guerilla Suit Tacos
*Location: 7601 N Lamar Blvd*
A truly inventive taqueria-on-wheels, Guerilla Suit serves brisket tacos, panko-fried avocado, and birria that’ll ruin you for everywhere else. Prices are super reasonable ($3-$5 per taco), and sides like elote-in-a-cup seal the deal.
- Venezia Italian Street Food
*Location: Airport Blvd Food Pod (near 53rd St)*
Find fresh hand-stretched pizzettas, crisp arancini, and seasonal Italian snacks in this cheerful trailer. With big flavors and fair prices ($6-$12), it’s perfect for casual date nights or lunch on the fly.
Global Eats & Unmissable Local Traditions
Highland’s dining scene is beautifully diverse. For something truly unique, check these out:
- T-Loc’s Sonora Hot Dogs
*Location: 500 W Croslin St (off North Lamar)*
Serving authentic Sonoran hot dogs (bacon-wrapped, topped with beans, jalapeños, and salsa) out of a tiny food truck, T-Loc’s is a late-night legend. At under $6 a dog, this is Highland’s answer to 2 a.m. cravings.
- Balkan Cafe and Grill
*Location: 11800 N Lamar Blvd, a quick drive up Lamar from Highland*
Sample ćevapi, kebabs, and pillowy flatbreads—some of the only authentic Balkan eats in Austin. The casual café atmosphere, affordable prices ($8-$15), and food done right make this a neighborhood favorite.
Sweet Spots and Dessert Dreams
Highland also spoils its locals with sweet treats:
- Julie Myrtille Bakery
*Location: 1023 Springdale Rd (inside Springdale General, a bit east of Highland, but still a local go-to)*
Award-winning French pastry chef Julie Myrtille brings impossibly flaky croissants, fruit tarts, and galettes to Austin. The patisserie’s pretty location makes it worth the trip for breakfast or a midday splurge.
- Big Top Candy Shop Satellite
*Location: Inside ACC Highland, on the ground floor*
This offshoot of the famous South Congress candy emporium stocks nostalgia-packed treats, handmade fudge, and sodas. Perfect for treating kids—or feeling like one!
Why Highland’s Food Scene Stands Out
What makes Highland so special?
- The mix of old-school local institutions and next-gen ventures—little family-run bakeries just steps from modern gastropubs.
- Its food pods and trailers cluster along Airport and North Lamar, making it easy to sample new bites every weekend.
- The casual, come-as-you-are vibe: no pretense, just delicious food and friendly faces.
- You’ll often find musicians busking near food truck parks, or pop-up markets next to coffee shops—the Highland spirit is always lively, and something new always beckons from around the corner.
Final Thoughts: Eat Here, Eat Often
Whether you’re new to Austin or a lifelong local, the best way to get to know Highland is truly through your taste buds. Grab a friend (or show up solo, you’ll make friends fast), wander down Airport Boulevard, and let your cravings lead the way. Just be ready—Highland’s tastiest secrets will keep calling you back!