3 Best Restaurants in West Austin and Zilker Park, Austin

Local critics consistently rank this West Sixth Street hot spot as one of the area's best restaurants, and the sprawling patio is almost always packed. It's a lovely downtown-adjacent atmosphere to enjoy upscale, indulgent takes on juicy burgers and pastrami (as a sandwich or a queso topping), and with great coffee and cocktails served all day to boot. There are even more burgers at the Quonset hut next door, where Hold Out Brewing slings food and beer all day. Both eateries have a hot weekend brunch ticket and host live music, outdoor vintage markets, and other special events periodically.

For quite possibly the best coffee in Austin, visit this little bungalow on West Lynn that draws quite a crowd for the laid-back, cozy vibes that are great for casual patio hangouts or quick business meetings. Here, baristas pull exquisite shots for espresso drinks and leave creative designs in latte and cappuccino foam. It's a great neighborhood feel, tucked just above the bustle of downtown, with friendly staff and regulars. There are other Medici locations in town, but this is the original.

On any given sunny day, Austinites flock to Mozart's spacious lakeside patio to enjoy great coffee and indulgent baked goods. The expansive, multitiered deck overlooking Lake Austin can get crowded with weekend patrons, and weekdays are equally popular times for locals to post up and work remotely. There's an extensive bakery selection, plus an assortment of smoothies, sandwiches, signature sweet treats, and light breakfast fare. Live music on weekends is an added bonus, and their annual Christmas lights display is a seasonal sight to behold.