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Austin, Texas, is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, where innovative cuisine meets creative ambiance. Among the plethora of eateries dotting the city, several stand out not only for their delectable dishes but also for their stunning interior designs. Join me on a virtual tour of some of Austin's most aesthetically pleasing dining establishments, where every meal is a feast for the senses. Here are our picks for Austin's Top 5 Restaurants With Captivating Interiors!
Fonda San Miguel: Step into the colonial charm of Fonda San Miguel, where the timeless elegance of Spanish colonial architecture meets the vibrant warmth of Mexican hospitality. From the moment you enter, you're enveloped in a world where every detail speaks of tradition and artistry.
The walls adorned with colorful murals and the intricate tile work underfoot set the stage for an immersive dining experience. Each corner reveals a treasure trove of Mexican folk art, from handcrafted wooden furnishings to exquisitely embroidered textiles.
As you take your seat, the table is set with Talavera plates, each one a masterpiece in itself, showcasing the intricate patterns and vibrant colors synonymous with Mexican ceramics. It's not just a meal; it's a journey through the flavors and culture of Mexico, where every bite is a celebration of heritage.
Justine's: Justine's, nestled in East Austin at 4710 East 5th Street, exudes an air of Parisian elegance combined with chic and eclectic charm. The decision to settle here was instinctive, with the location's industrial edge adding to its allure. Inside, vintage-inspired décor transports patrons to a bygone era, featuring Parisian furniture, much of which was curated by Justine Gilcrease and her husband Pierre in France and then sent to Texas, along with ornate chandeliers, and antique mirrors.
Central to Justine's ambiance is its long, beautiful bar, a deliberate nod to the
gravitational pull of beloved gathering spots. Surrounding this focal point is an
impressive collection of signed artworks by renowned artists such as Diane Arbus
and Cindy Sherman, infusing the space with a subliminal creative energy.
Beyond its doors lies a charming courtyard adorned with string lights, providing an
inviting space for al fresco dining or enjoying live music under the stars. Justine’s
effortlessly combines elegance with bohemian flair, offering diners a timeless and
enchanting experience that lingers long after the last bite.
ABA: Nestled in South Congress Avenue, ABA enchants guests with its whimsical and eclectic design aesthetic, inspired by summer in the Mediterranean. Stepping through its doors, visitors are immediately immersed in a world of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and rich textures that create a captivating kaleidoscope of visual delight. What sets ABA apart is not just its use of natural materials but also its commitment to an organic, earthy ambiance, achieved through thoughtfully curated décor. With a Mediterranean summer vibe, the restaurant space was designed by Lettuce Entertain You's internal design team, led by Director of Interior Design Avril Zayas in collaboration with Executive Partner and Divisional President Marc Jacobs.
But the magic doesn't stop indoors. Step out onto the stunning patio, where a magnificent tree takes center stage in the courtyard, casting dappled shadows across the space. With its lush greenery and charming ambiance, the patio transports diners to the shores of the Mediterranean, evoking the feeling of dining al fresco in a quaint European village.
Lutie's: Nestled within the iconic Commodore Perry, Lutie's is a haven of mid-century modern elegance. Stepping through its doors, guests are transported to an era of timeless style and refined comfort. The restaurant's interior design is a symphony of sophistication, seamlessly blending sleek lines with retro charm.
One of the standout features of Lutie's is its use of rich green accents throughout the space. From plush upholstery furniture to vibrant emerald tones scattered across the décor, every detail is meticulously curated to evoke a sense of natural allure. Lush greenery further enhances the ambiance, infusing the restaurant with a refreshing vitality that invites guests to unwind and savor the moment.
Whether you're grabbing a quick bite at the counter or settling in for a leisurely meal in the dining area, Lutie's effortlessly combines nostalgia with contemporary flair. Each corner of the restaurant is adorned with thoughtful touches, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons patrons to linger and indulge in culinary delights.
Higher Ground: Higher Ground's decor is a captivating blend of history and innovation. The stained-glass window panels and wooden archways, sourced from churches and homes across the US, evoke a sense of timeless charm. Highlights include pews from a West Texas church and a private altar from a Louisiana Victorian home. Adding a modern twist, a nineteenth-century organ has been repurposed into an LED-lit DJ booth, merging old-world elegance with contemporary flair. Each element tells a story, inviting guests to explore the rich tapestry of Higher Ground's eclectic atmosphere.
