Austin, TX + Add a trip

Wow. This is a hard question to answer… there are so many. On the Tex-Mex side I like Chuy's and Trudy's. Both are Austin institutions and the Chuy's on Barton Springs is the original. Make sure to get the jalapeño ranch with your chips and salsa at Chuy's. The Mexican Martinis at Trudy's are not to be missed.

If you are looking for good soul food and the best chicken-fried steak in town, head over to Hoover's. Their muffaletta is awesome, too.

The best burgers downtown can be found at Casino El Camino on 6th Street. This is one of my favorite bars. Be prepared to wait if it is busy.

I've left out a ton of places, but those are a few of my favorites. Oh… if you are looking for great BBQ, you'll have to drive an hour or so out of town. Salt Lick is overrated – head to Kreutz Market or Smitty's in Lockhart, or Louie Mueller's in Taylor.

My current favorite is Fonda San Miguel at 2330 W North Loop Blvd (512-459-4121‎) for excellent Mexican fare.

Threadgill's at S. Congress and Riverside for Southern comfort food Green Mesquite BBQ on Barton Springs near Lamar - Good value and generous portions Uncle Billy's on Barton Springs for craft beer brewed onsite Chuy's for Tex-Mex

Or check out some of my local dish reviews at http://www.dishola.com/users/view/snax/

uchi was fantastic, especially since it's about as far away from japan as you can get. but the fusion sushi rolls were great, made by your own chef in front of you, the sake was flowing, the desserts were incredible and the service pretty decent. just uh... be prepared to shell out a few clams for the experience!