If I were to draw a pie chart of one’s time spent at ACL, the music would take up 60%, 10% would be spent people-watching (keep Austin weird), 5% would be wandering around aimlessly, another 5% would be spent battling crowds trying to “meet your friend” in the front row and of course, the remaining 20% belongs to food.
So, it would stand to reason that just as any faithful ACL-attendee researches the bands prior to the festival, one would also make sure to brush up on their knowledge of the food vendors. I am not telling everyone to plan out each meal down to the condiments, but you should at least know where to find the good deals and where to go to get the classic ACL experience.
On a practical note, food vendors at ACL will be serving food all day, but watch out for popular menu items selling out. All vendors accept cash and ACL Cashless payments, or you can use one of the many ATM’s on site.
P. Terry’s Cheeseburger $4
Photo courtesy of burgertyme.com
For the easy-to-please carnivore.
Southside Flying Pizza Five Exotic Cheese Slice $7
Photo by Katie Walsh
This specific flavor is NOT SOLD anywhere except ACL so don’t miss out. Slices are huge and well worth the $7.
Torchy’s Green Chile Pork Tacos $6
Photo courtesy of www.htownchowdown.com
Although it won’t be available for ACL, check out the secret menu here.
The Mighty Cone’s Hot ‘N Crunchy $7
Photo by Morgan Katz
The ultimate ACL staple. You can’t leave without it.
East Side King’s Poor Qui Buns $8
Photo courtesy of myloveforfoodexpressed.com
Roasted pork belly on a steamed bun with hoisin sauce, cucumber kimchi and green onion. Uh… yum.
Chi’lantro’s Original Kimchi Fries $10
Photo courtesy of everythingnomlicious.blogspot.com
Caramelized kimchi, rib-eye beef, spicy chicken or tofu with grilled onions, cheese, cilantro, magic sauce, sriracha and sesame seeds on top of a pile of French fries (are you drooling yet?).
Coolhaus Ice Cream Sandwich $6
Photo courtesy of www.ocfoodiefest.com
You can find this stand in the HOPE Farmer’s Market section, not the Austin Eats section of the food court. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.