Where to eat near the UT Austin campus while you’re in town for ISOJ


Austin’s diverse food cuisine has something for everyone, whether you’re craving Tex-Mex, a classic burger or the perfect coffee to fuel your conference day.

Don’t have a ton of time? Check out these options right inside the Union.

The Texas Union | 2308 Whitis Ave, Austin, TX 78712 

  • Panda Express
    • Panda Express prepares and serves American Chinese food fresh from the wok!
  • Chick-fil-A
    • Chick-fil-A is the Home of the Original Chicken Sandwich!
  • Shake Smart
    • Shake Smart features healthy options for your on-the-go lifestyle.
  • Tower Burgers and Fries
    • Tower Burgers and Fries features a menu that includes freshly prepared burgers, fries, hot dogs, shakes and chicken tenders.
  • Union Coffee House
    • Union Coffee House proudly serves Starbucks coffee and beverages, bakery items and grab and go options.

These restaurants are within walking distance of the Texas Union, the venue for ISOJ.

Dirty Martin’s Burgers | 2808 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

Since 1926, Dirty Martin’s has been a local favorite, serving up delicious, no-fuss burgers in a charming, laid-back atmosphere. Dirty’s has something to satisfy your classic burger cravings.

What I recommend:

  • Fried pickle slices
  • Habanero burger
  • Val’s chicken sandwich

Kerbey Lane | 2606 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

Kerbey Lane offers home-cooked meals with a Tex-Mex twist. Known for its extensive menu of comfort foods and breakfast served all day, it’s also famous for its Texas-sized pancakes.

What I recommend:

  • Cowboy Queso
  • Green Chile Mac
  • Southwest Salad

Cabo Bobs | 2828 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705

Famous for its hand-pressed tortillas and flavorful ingredients, whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a casual dinner, Cabo Bob’s offers a variety of options to customize your perfect burrito or taco.

What I recommend:

  • Chips and Queso
  • Chicken Burrito
  • Fish Tacos

Lucky Lab Coffee Co. | 2421 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78705

Lucky Lab Coffee Co. is a cozy coffee shop offering a variety of specialty drinks and delicious baked goods.

What I recommend:

  • Cowboy Quiche
  • Brown Sugar Maple Latte
  • Pineapple Hibiscus Iced Tea

Via 313 | 3016 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

Via 313 is famous for its Detroit-style pizza, featuring thick, crispy crusts and creative toppings. This Austin favorite serves up flavorful, satisfying pizza with both classic and unique options.

What I recommend:

  • Roasted Artichokes
  • Funkadelic Chicken Bar Style Pizza
  • The Detroiter Detroit Style Pizza
  • The Cadillac Detroit Style Pizza

Black’s BBQ | 3110 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

Black’s BBQ is an iconic Texas BBQ spot and a must-visit if you’re in the mood for tender brisket, ribs and delicious Southern sides.

What I recommend:

  • Beef Brisket
  • Pork Spare Ribs
  • Creamed Corn
  • Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes

Medici Roasting | 2222 Guadalupe St B, Austin, TX 78705

Medici Roasting offers expertly crafted espresso drinks and a great atmosphere for catching up on work or to unwind.

What I recommend:

  • Badam Cappuccino
  • Cortado
  • Freedo

CAVA | 2426 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

CAVA is a Mediterranean-inspired fast-casual eatery known for its fresh and customizable bowls, pitas and salads.

What I recommend:

  • Spicy Lamb + Avocado Bowl
  • Garlic Chicken + Veggie Pita
  • Build Your Own Bowl

Sweet Green | 2234 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

Sweetgreen offers delicious, made-to-order salads and bowls packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

What I recommend:

  • Ripple fries with garlic aioli
  • Crispy rice bowl
  • BBQ chicken salad
  • Kale caesar steak salad

Potbelly | 2316 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

Potbelly is a popular sandwich shop offering hearty, toasted sandwiches, soups and salads. A perfect spot for a quick, filling lunch with plenty of comfort food favorites.

What I recommend:

  • Chicken pot pie soup
  • Mac and cheese
  • Cubano sandwich
  • BLTA sandwich

Pluckers | 2222 Rio Grande St Ste D116, Austin, TX 78705

Pluckers is a local favorite for wings and other casual eats. Known for their wide variety of wing flavors and fun, energetic atmosphere.

What I recommend:

  • Holy macaroni
  • Chicken cheesesteak
  • And for the wing flavors you can’t go wrong with: Lemon Pepper, Cajun, Goldrush, Mangerno and Garlic Parmesan.