Austin Scores 3 Spots on America’s 100 Greatest Restaurants Ranking

Three Austin eateries have earned recognition on Robb Report’s inaugural “100 Greatest American Restaurants of the 21st Century” list, the only Texas establishments to make the ranking. The list was compiled from a poll of 250 food industry experts, including chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and seasoned diners.

Franklin Barbecue tops the Texas entries at No. 17. What began as a small trailer has grown into a globally renowned destination for brisket lovers. Founded by Aaron and Stacy Franklin in East Austin, the restaurant was praised as the “epicenter of the modern barbecue movement… cementing barbecue as a vital American cuisine.”

Uchi, at No. 60, brings Japanese-inspired cuisine to the Texas capital. Opened in 2003 by James Beard award-winning chef Tyson Cole, the restaurant is recognized for elevating Austin’s dining scene with high-quality, inventive Japanese dishes with ingredients flown directly from Japan.

Birdie’s, at No. 99, rounds out the local honorees. Established in 2021 by chef Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and beverage director Arjav Ezekiel, the restaurant has been noted for its modern approach to fine dining, offering seasonal American dishes with French and Italian influences through a successful counter-service model.

The Robb Report list celebrates restaurants that have made enduring cultural and culinary impacts since 2000. While the ranking is geographically concentrated in major metropolitan areas, with New York and Northern California dominating the top spots, Chicago’s Alinea claimed No. 1 for its groundbreaking molecular gastronomy and innovative dining experiences.

With Austin representing Texas so proudly, which one will be next on your list to try?