Best Restaurants for People Watching in Austin

I had the honor of scheduling a business lunch with Corner today, originally expecting 8 and ended up with 9 people. Corner was so quick to pivot to accommodate our larger group, and the service and food were exceptional. I will be coming back for more business lunches!!

I’ve visited Prélude three times now, starting about six weeks after they opened, and each visit has offered something unique. Helmed by Matthew Peters, known for his work at the three-Michelin-starred Per Se and French Laundry, Prélude focuses on French canapés and cocktails, and it’s truly a feast for the senses. I’ll admit, I didn’t have much experience with French canapés before dining here, and I’d never even heard of Gougères. But after being introduced to these delightful cheese puffs at Prélude, I’ve become a devoted fan. Their execution here is flawless: airy, flavorful, and indulgent in the best way. On the cocktail front, I’ve worked my way through a variety of their creative concoctions: Chili & Chocolate, Quatro Negroni, Carrot & Oat, Apples & Elderflower (a refreshing non-alcoholic option), Pines & Miso, and Carrot & Hazel. During my first visit, after chatting with the server about my preferences, I was lucky enough to be brought a Wasabi Penicillin: a cocktail they were experimenting with that hasn’t yet made it to the menu. It was bold, balanced, and completely unforgettable. Much to my disappointment, I wasn’t able to order it during my second visit. The Maître d’ always treats me like royalty here, which adds a touch of elegance to the experience and makes me feel genuinely valued as a guest. My second visit was marred by inattentive service, and the music was distractingly loud, making it difficult to hold a conversation. Thankfully, the ambiance at Prélude always makes up for it. If you were lucky enough to experience the Here Nor There pop-up back in February 2023, you’ll recognize the stunning space: breathtaking chandeliers, warm fireplaces, French pocket doors, unique wallpaper, sumptuous curtains, and luxurious finishes that transport you far from the bustle of the city. The exterior is just as enchanting as the interior. The glowing tree and gas sconces out front create a romantic and elegant atmosphere, and they double as the perfect

Amongst a plethora (“oh yeees El Guapo, you have a plethora.”) of the eclectic, demure, stylish, artistic restaurants in downtown, it’s the one I’ve chosen a few times over other notable cocktail-centric venues. Perhaps most notable for a person like me that is primarily there to connect to others is their music selection, acoustics, and volume. Perhaps that it’s subterranean has folks speak-easy. Keep it up.

I love this place. I would love to go hear a good jazz band or soulful band play here.

One of the best views in Austin! Great drink menu. Not a lot of food options.