The sun casts a blinding glare onto the screens onstage, a sheen of sweat clings to your skin, and the bass from the music relentlessly pounds in your chest. By the time the set is over, you’re drained, dripping in exhaustion, and craving a quick bite. The question is, where should you eat?
There are over 70 vendors across Zilker Park for Austin City Limits, and anyone who has attended the festival before knows that the real endurance test happens between sets as you try to find something to eat. ACL’s food lineup is just as robust as the band selection, and if you’re an indecisive person (like myself), it can be hard to narrow down to a select few that are worth standing in line for.
I consulted my friends who went to ACL last weekend and TikTok to compile a shortlist of ACL eats you have to try. In other words, let’s make sure you’re not leaving Zilker Park hungry this weekend. Food lines are the longest right before the 7 p.m. sets, so it’s best to grab something to eat in the dead zone around 5 p.m. Aside from that, have fun exploring ACL Eats this upcoming weekend.
Gus’s Fried Chicken
Prepare yourself for perfectly crispy, golden-brown fried chicken with that signature Southern kick. Gus’s Fried Chicken serves up juicy, spicy goodness that always hits.
Chi’Lantro
Chi’Lantro is often catered for student organization events on campus, and it’s safe to say that it’s always a hit. Chi’Lantro combines Korean BBQ ingredients with signature Austin flavors, and their kimchi fries and bulgogi bowls are always a reliable choice.
Brotherton’s BBQ
Brotherton’s captures the essence of Texas barbecue with its tender brisket and melt-in-your-mouth burnt ends. The flavor is so rich (and the smoke is so real) that you’ll be wearing it on your clothes for the rest of the day.
Southside Flying Pizza
Sometimes, all you really want is a cheesy slice of pizza. Southside Flying Pizza’s NY-style pies are large, crispy, and gooey in the perfect way. It’s quick, classic, and comforting.
Cavalier Dogs + Tots
Cavalier’s take on the American hot dog pairs a loaded dog with crispy, golden tater tots. It’s perfect for a quick mid-set snack.
Happy Chicks
Crispy chicken tenders, house-made sauces, and TikTok approved – @soblogvibes went twice in one day, and you might too!
Cuantos Tacos
Cuantos offers Mexico City-style street tacos with handmade tortillas and seasoned meats. Cuantos keeps it pretty classic, and one of my friends has a pro tip: order more than one, you’ll want them.
JABS
JABS won first place in an Austin burger contest from both the judges and popular vote. It’s juicy with bold flavors, and definitely one of the most memorable burgers I’ve had in the city so far.
Tiff’s Treats
As someone with a big sweet tooth, I know just how crucial it is to have a dessert lined up after a savory dish. Tiff’s is an Austin classic, and their warm, gooey cookies are the right move after a long day of music, sun, and dancing.
Gati Ice Cream
If you’re more of an ice cream person, Gati’s Thai-inspired, plant-based ice cream is a creamy, refreshing cool-down from the Austin heat. It’s made with coconut milk, packed with unexpected flavors, and definitely worth a try.