All of these are fairly overrated, though still not bad.
Torchy's Tacos. It's one of my favorite places. It's more like food truck type food, but it is awesome. If you go, you have to get their Queso.

Don't go to Guero's. The only special thing about that place is the patio with live music. Their food is sub-par compared to other austin places.

J Mueller BBQ This is one of the best bbq places in town and you usually don't have to wait too long to get your food. It's a food truck, but it is awesome. If you like Brisket, go here. Don't waste 2 hours in line at Franklin BBQ. Don't get me wrong, their BBQ is legit but it is not worth the wait. Plus they ALWAYS run out of food. It's really annoying. Salt Lick is OK, but also overrated and is a long drive outside of town.

Gourdough's - Gourmet donuts. I haven't been here but I've only heard good things.

Hopdoddy - Burger Bar. This place has some of the best burgers I have ever had. They grind their beef on-site and you can order your burgers medium. It also has a good beer selection, but is a little pricey ($6 for a beer).

quote:
Stubbs BBQ is pretty damn good

WTF? This place is not known for good food but is more known for being a great music venue. I've had their bbq and it is some of the worst I've had in Austin. I got a big plate and tried everything.

Uchiko or Uchi - Sushi and Small Plates. This place is really pricey, but very good. Don't bother with the Sushi, it is pretty mediocre. Their small plates however are amazing. Get 2 orders of the brussell sprouts (you'll thank me later).

quote:
East Side King is damn good food truck food. Paul Qui (top chef) is the owner.

I agree.

There are tons of awesome Tex-Mex and Mex places, which include:
Curras
Trudy's
Chuy's
Polvos

There are also some decent pizza places which include:
Home Slice (famous)
House Pizzeria
East Side Pies
Little Deli and Pizzeria (awesome sandwiches too)

Hit up Rainey St if you have time. There is a good Indian Food truck called G'raj Mahaul. There's also a new place, Bangers, that has custom made sausages and a ton of beer on tap.

There are some good Asian places, but my favorite is Madam Mam's (Thai).

This post was edited on 1/23/13 at 2:49 pm