Finding the best restaurant in Austin means stepping into one of the cityâs oldest buildings, where Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill has served Southern comfort food since 2003.
The historic building at 303 Red River Street features a timeless antique interior with both public and private dining rooms.
Moonshineâs reputation rests on two pillars: their legendary Sunday Brunch Buffet and attentive, hospitable staff that treats every guest like family.
What Makes Moonshine the Best Restaurant in Austin
The secret to earning the title of best restaurant in Austin lies in perfecting Southern comfort food classics while maintaining generous portions.
The Chicken Fried Steak features a massive breaded cutlet served with creamy mashed potatoes, representing everything great about Texas comfort food.
At reasonable prices for downtown Austin, diners get huge portions that often require taking half home, delivering exceptional value alongside quality.
The Story Behind Austinâs Best Restaurant
Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill opened in 2003 in one of Austinâs oldest buildings, bringing authentic Southern hospitality to downtownâs Red River district.
The historic structure features a Texas historical marker, recognizing its significance to Austinâs architectural heritage and cultural importance.
Over the years, Moonshine developed a reputation for their bountiful Sunday Brunch Buffet that draws crowds every single weekend.
Austinâs Favorite Menu Items
Food Highlights
- Chicken Fried Steak: This massive Texas classic features a breaded cutlet fried to golden perfection, served with creamy mashed potatoes and country gravy. The breading delivers a satisfying crunch while the meat stays tender inside with well-seasoned flavor throughout representing Southern comfort food perfection. đ„©
- Chicken and Waffles Plate: Sweet and savory combine perfectly in this Southern brunch staple with crispy fried chicken atop fluffy Belgian waffles. The contrast between crunchy chicken skin and soft waffles creates textural perfection that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. đ§
- Shrimp Corn Dogs: The Original Moonshine creation features four pieces with honey mustard and blueberry swirl dipping sauces that pair beautifully. This creative appetizer showcases Moonshineâs willingness to innovate within Southern cuisine traditions with unique preparation found nowhere else. đ€
- Jalapeño Hanger Steak: Tender, flavorful steak gets elevated with jalapeño seasoning that adds heat without overwhelming the quality beef flavor. The preparation lets quality beef shine while adding Southwestern flair with generous portions and expert cooking throughout. đ¶ïž
- Center Cut Pork Chop: Juicy, perfectly cooked pork arrives with chutney that has a surprising hint of spice and fresh dill garnish. All ingredients complement each other beautifully, creating a memorable entrĂ©e that showcases why Moonshine excels at Southern classics. đ
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes get served with smoked shrimp and pimento, creating a Southern appetizer elevated beyond standard versions. The combination adds extra flavor layers that make this starter special through quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation techniques. đ
Legendary Sunday Brunch Buffet
The all-you-can-eat spread features Southern breakfast and lunch favorites, making it an Austin brunch institution that draws weekly crowds.
Regulars plan their weekends around this buffet, while visitors add it to their must-do lists when exploring Austinâs food scene.
Free popcorn and homemade biscuits with honey butter start meals on a welcoming note that sets the tone.
Atmosphere
The restaurant occupies a historic building in downtown Austin at 303 Red River Street, less than a block from Cap Metro rail.
The buildingâs character shines through antique interior design that creates a timeless farmhouse feel throughout multiple dining areas.
Multiple dining areas include a main room, private spaces for groups, and a back patio that creates intimate settings.
Bottom Line
Visit Moonshine Grill for the best restaurant in Austin featuring authentic Southern comfort food in a historic downtown building.
Legendary Sunday Brunch Buffet draws crowds weekly, generous portions provide excellent value, and attentive service treats every guest like family.
With over 20 years of consistent excellence, this downtown gem proves why it remains an Austin institution since 2003. đ
Address: Moonshine Grill
303 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
đ (512) 236-9599
đ Mon-Fri: 11:00 AM â 10:00 PM | Sat: 10:00 AM â 10:00 PM | Sun: 9:00 AM â 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM â 9:00 PM