AUS

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is one of the fastest-growing airports in the country. As a focus city for Southwest Airlines and more recently, American Airlines, AUS is busier than ever, full of passengers visiting Austin or just passing through as they are connecting. I’ve been able to spend a little more time at AUS recently and have some recommendations on how best to eat this airport.

Tacodeli

Tacodeli is my top choice at AUS for one reason: the Akaushi Picadillo Taco. This taco is everything I need- Beefy, Cheesy, Oniony, Cilantro-ey goodness! All wrapped up in a chewy and fresh tortilla for the perfect bite that can be a major snack on the go with one taco or a whole ass meal with multiple. I tried the Mexico City Chicken as well, which was delicious in its own right- but absolutely blown away by the Akaushi Picadillo Taco. I’m gonna go out on a limb here- this is my all-time favorite airport bite. Find Tacodeli near Gate 23.

Annie’s Cafe and Bar

Annie’s Café and Bar is a great choice at AUS. I really love it for breakfast. Annie’s offers a great selection of pastries and sandwiches, as well as made to order coffee drinks. A few favorites here: the Croque Madame is to die for and the Oatmeal with fresh berries is a must when I’m feeling like keeping it light. Find it between Gates 27 & 29.

Second Bar & Kitchen

One of the few sit-down, table service restaurants at AUS, I really like Second Kitchen + Bar’s cocktail menu. It’s a great spot to enjoy a drink and do some people watching if you have an extended layover here. I do find the menu to be somewhat limited and boring, though. Expect Chicken Fingers, Pizza, a few sandwiches. Save your appetite for Tacodeli 😉 You can find it near Gate 16.

Not my favorite…

Ok- I don’t do this often but I have to give you a warning: do not go to I Vino. As a wine lover, I was excited to try I Vino as a new arrival to the AUS food scene. They lost me with the menu that had no prices listed and the fact that they served a $17 glass of wine in this plastic cup.

Where to go instead? Vino Volo has an Austin location- you’ll know this is one of my favorite chain spots around. Go there instead and enjoy a nice glass…in a proper glass.

A bonus

A bonus for bookworms- AUS features Book People, which is the most robust bookstores I can remember seeing in an airport. They offer an incredible selection and are located right in the middle of the concourse.

Take Away

AUS is one of my favorite airports in the US. The singular terminal building is so easy to navigate and there are some great shops and restaurants to help pass time. It’s a fabulous representation of the city of Austin and makes for one of the easiest and most enjoyable connections around.

-E.T.A.