Discover the Top 10 Mouthwatering Cajun Restaurants in Austin for Authentic Creole Cuisine

Get your taste buds ready for the best cajun food in Austin! From gumbo to jambalaya, our restaurants serve up authentic and delicious dishes.

Austin is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and Cajun cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines in the city. The combination of spicy, bold flavors and unique cooking methods make Cajun food a must-try for anyone visiting Austin. Whether you're a fan of seafood or meat, there's no shortage of restaurants in Austin that specialize in Cajun fare. Here are some of the best Cajun restaurants in Austin that will satisfy your cravings for authentic Louisiana-style cuisine.

First on our list is the legendary Crawfish Shack and Oyster Bar, located in the heart of Austin. This restaurant is famous for its delicious boiled crawfish, juicy oysters, and flavorful gumbo. The restaurant's casual atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot to enjoy a laid-back meal with friends or family.

If you're looking for something a little more upscale, head to Cypress Grill, which offers a sophisticated take on Cajun cuisine. The menu features classic dishes like jambalaya, red beans and rice, and po' boys, as well as more modern creations like wood-grilled Gulf shrimp and crawfish beignets. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.

For those who love spicy food, Evangeline Cafe is the perfect destination. The restaurant's signature dish is the Cajun explosion, a spicy mix of shrimp, crawfish, and chicken served over rice. Other popular dishes include the crawfish etouffee and the blackened catfish. The restaurant also features live music on most nights, making it a great spot for a night out.

If you're in the mood for some classic Cajun comfort food, head to Shoal Creek Saloon. This beloved Austin institution has been serving up hearty Cajun dishes like gumbo, red beans and rice, and fried catfish for over 40 years. The restaurant also features a cozy patio that's perfect for enjoying a cold beer and some live music on a warm Texas evening.

For those who want to try something a little different, Lucy's Fried Chicken is the perfect spot. While not strictly a Cajun restaurant, Lucy's offers a unique take on Southern cuisine that incorporates elements of Cajun cooking. The restaurant's famous fried chicken is seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices, and the menu also features dishes like boudin balls and fried oysters.

If you're looking for a Cajun restaurant with a modern twist, head to Revelry Kitchen + Bar. This trendy spot offers a creative take on Cajun cuisine, with dishes like blackened catfish tacos and shrimp and grits. The restaurant also features an impressive craft cocktail menu that perfectly complements the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.

Another great option for seafood lovers is Shuck Shack. This casual restaurant offers a variety of Cajun-inspired seafood dishes, including fried catfish, crawfish boils, and raw oysters. The restaurant also has a great selection of local craft beers and a fun, laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for a casual meal.

If you're in the mood for some classic Cajun barbecue, head to Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew. This popular Austin restaurant offers a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, pork ribs, and sausage, all seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices. The restaurant also has a great selection of local beers on tap, making it a great spot to enjoy some authentic Texas barbecue.

For those who want to experience Cajun cuisine in a fine dining setting, head to Olamaie. This upscale restaurant offers a refined take on Southern cuisine, with dishes like seafood gumbo and shrimp and grits. The restaurant also features an impressive wine list and a beautiful patio that's perfect for enjoying a romantic meal.

Last but not least, we have Hoover's Cooking, which offers a unique twist on Cajun cuisine by incorporating elements of Southern and Tex-Mex cooking. The menu features classic Cajun dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, as well as more unique creations like chicken-fried steak and green chile pork tamales. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails, making it a great spot for a night out.

The Best Cajun Food in Austin

1. French Quarter Grille

2. Roux

3. Evangeline Cafe

4. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

5. Cypress Grill

6. Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar

7. Stuffed Cajun Meat Market

8. Shoal Creek Saloon

9. Lucy's Fried Chicken

10. Magnolia Cafe

The History of Cajun Cuisine in Austin

Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant food scene, but one cuisine that stands out among the rest is Cajun. Cajun cuisine is a unique blend of French, African, and Caribbean influences, originating from the Acadian people who were expelled from Canada in the 18th century and settled in Louisiana. The cuisine has since spread throughout the United States, including Austin, where it has become a beloved part of the local food culture.

One of the earliest Cajun restaurants in Austin was Evangeline Cafe, which opened its doors in 1984. Owner Curtis Clarke grew up in Louisiana and wanted to bring the flavors of his home state to Texas. The restaurant quickly became a local favorite, serving up classic Cajun dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée.

Since then, Cajun cuisine has continued to thrive in Austin, with new restaurants popping up and old favorites still going strong. Today, both locals and visitors can enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine that transports their taste buds straight to the bayous of Louisiana.

Authentic Cajun Restaurants in Austin You Need to Try

If you're looking for authentic Cajun cuisine in Austin, there are several restaurants that should be at the top of your list:

Evangeline Cafe

As mentioned earlier, Evangeline Cafe is one of the oldest and most beloved Cajun restaurants in Austin. The restaurant serves up classic dishes like gumbo, red beans and rice, and po'boys, as well as live music on the weekends. It's a great spot for a casual dinner with friends or a fun date night.

Cypress Grill

Cypress Grill is another popular Cajun restaurant in Austin, with a menu that features everything from crawfish and shrimp to alligator and boudin sausage. The restaurant also has a full bar, with plenty of beer and cocktail options to pair with your meal.

Shoal Creek Saloon

While not exclusively a Cajun restaurant, Shoal Creek Saloon has some of the best Cajun dishes in Austin. Their gumbo is a must-try, as well as their blackened catfish and crawfish étouffée. The restaurant also has a great selection of beers on tap and live music on the weekends.

Quality Seafood Market

Quality Seafood Market is a seafood market and restaurant all in one, serving up fresh seafood and Cajun dishes like gumbo, po'boys, and fried catfish. The restaurant also has a raw bar and a great selection of beer and wine.

The Top Cajun Dishes to Order in Austin

If you're new to Cajun cuisine, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are some of the top Cajun dishes to order in Austin:

Gumbo

Gumbo is a classic Cajun dish that is a must-try. It's a thick stew made with a roux (a mixture of flour and fat), meat or seafood, and vegetables like onions, celery, and peppers. Gumbo is typically served over rice and is a hearty, flavorful meal.

Jambalaya

Jambalaya is another popular Cajun dish that is similar to gumbo but has a drier consistency. It's made with rice, meat or seafood, and vegetables, and is typically seasoned with spices like cayenne pepper and paprika.

Red Beans and Rice

Red beans and rice is a staple Cajun dish that is often served on Mondays (known as red beans and rice day in Louisiana). It's made with red kidney beans, rice, and meat like sausage or ham hock, and is seasoned with spices like cumin and thyme.

Crawfish Étouffée

Crawfish étouffée is a rich, creamy dish made with crawfish, a roux, and vegetables like onions and bell peppers. It's typically served over rice and is a favorite among Cajun food lovers.

Po'boys

Po'boys are a classic Cajun sandwich made with French bread and filled with meat like fried shrimp, catfish, or roast beef. The sandwich is typically dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise, and is a popular lunch option in Cajun cuisine.

How to Make Cajun Food at Home: Tips from Austin Chefs

If you're feeling adventurous and want to try making Cajun food at home, here are some tips from Austin chefs:

Start with a good roux

A roux is the base of many Cajun dishes, so it's important to get it right. To make a roux, combine equal parts flour and fat (like butter or oil) in a skillet and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a dark brown color. This can take up to 30 minutes, but it's worth the effort for the depth of flavor it adds to your dish.

Use authentic Cajun spices

Cajun spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, and thyme are essential for giving your dish that authentic Cajun flavor. Don't be afraid to use a generous amount of spices, as they are key to making your dish taste great.

Experiment with different meats and seafood

Cajun cuisine is known for using a variety of meats and seafood, from chicken and sausage to crawfish and alligator. Don't be afraid to try something new and mix it up with different proteins in your dishes.

Don't forget the rice

Rice is a staple in Cajun cuisine and is often served with dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. Make sure to cook your rice according to the package instructions and serve it alongside your Cajun creations.

The Best Cajun Seafood in Austin

While Cajun cuisine includes a variety of meats, seafood is a big part of the cuisine as well. Here are some of the best places to get Cajun seafood in Austin:

Pearl's Oyster Bar

Pearl's Oyster Bar is a popular seafood spot in Austin, serving up fresh oysters, shrimp, and crab legs. Their Cajun-style boiled shrimp is a must-try, as well as their gumbo and seafood platters.

Deckhand Oyster Bar

Deckhand Oyster Bar is another great spot for Cajun seafood, with a focus on oysters and crawfish. They offer a variety of oyster preparations, as well as crawfish boils and po'boys.

Shuck Shack

While not exclusively Cajun, Shuck Shack has some great seafood options inspired by the cuisine. Their seafood gumbo and blackened catfish sandwich are both delicious, as well as their raw oysters and shrimp cocktail.

Austin's Secret Cajun Food Scene: Hidden Gems to Discover

While the above mentioned restaurants are great spots for Cajun food in Austin, there are also some hidden gems that are worth discovering. Here are a few:

Boil House

Boil House is a Cajun restaurant located in a food truck park in North Austin. They specialize in seafood boils, where you can choose your seafood (like shrimp, crab, or crawfish), add in sides like potatoes and corn, and then have it all boiled together with Cajun spices. It's messy but delicious.

Cajun Pizza Place

As the name suggests, Cajun Pizza Place serves up Cajun-inspired pizzas, with toppings like andouille sausage, crawfish, and shrimp. They also have classic Cajun dishes like gumbo and jambalaya on the menu.

Baton Creole

Baton Creole is a food truck that serves up traditional Cajun and Creole dishes, like gumbo, red beans and rice, and fried catfish. They also have vegan and vegetarian options for those who don't eat meat.

Gluten-Free Cajun Food Options in Austin

For those who are gluten-free, there are still plenty of options for enjoying Cajun cuisine in Austin. Here are some restaurants that offer gluten-free options:

Papa Roux

Papa Roux is a Cajun restaurant in South Austin that offers gluten-free options for many of their dishes, including gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. They also have gluten-free po'boys and salads.

Southern Hospitality

Southern Hospitality is a restaurant in East Austin that specializes in Southern cuisine, including Cajun dishes. They offer gluten-free options for many of their dishes, like shrimp and grits and blackened catfish.

Jack Allen's Kitchen

While not exclusively Cajun, Jack Allen's Kitchen has some great Cajun-inspired dishes and offers gluten-free options for many of them. Their blackened redfish and Creole seafood pasta are both delicious gluten-free options.

The Perfect Cajun Food Pairings: Cocktails and Sides

No Cajun meal is complete without some tasty sides and a refreshing cocktail to wash it down. Here are some perfect Cajun food pairings:

Cocktails

A classic Cajun cocktail is the Hurricane, made with rum, passionfruit juice, and grenadine. Other great options include the Sazerac (made with rye whiskey and absinthe) and the Vieux Carré (made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters).

Sides

Some classic Cajun sides include cornbread, collard greens, and dirty rice (rice cooked with onions, peppers, and sausage). For something a little different, try sweet potato fries or hush puppies (deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter).

The Best Cajun Food Trucks in Austin

If you're looking for Cajun food on-the-go, there are several food trucks in Austin that serve up delicious Cajun cuisine:

Baton Creole

As mentioned earlier, Baton Creole is a food truck that specializes in traditional Cajun and Creole dishes. They have vegetarian and vegan options, as well as gluten-free options.

La Barbecue

While not exclusively Cajun, La Barbecue has some great smoked meats that are inspired by the cuisine. Their brisket and sausage are both delicious, as well as their sides like collard greens and mac and cheese.

Mighty Bird

Mighty Bird is a food truck that serves up fried chicken with a twist, using Cajun spices to give it a unique flavor. They also have sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw.

Cajun Brunch in Austin: Where to Get Your Fix

Cajun cuisine isn't just for dinner – it's great for brunch too. Here are some restaurants in Austin that serve up Cajun-inspired brunch dishes:

Hillside Farmacy

Hillside Farmacy is a restaurant in East Austin that serves up classic Southern dishes, including Cajun-inspired brunch options like shrimp and grits and biscuits and gravy with andouille sausage.

Launderette

Launderette is another East Austin restaurant that has some great Cajun brunch options, like their cornmeal pancakes with crawfish tails and their fried chicken and biscuit sandwich with Tabasco hollandaise.

Fixe

Fixe is a Southern restaurant in downtown Austin that has some delicious Cajun brunch dishes, like their crawfish and grits and their biscuits and gravy with house-made andouille sausage.

Cajun cuisine has become a beloved part of the food culture in Austin, with plenty of restaurants and food trucks serving up authentic dishes. Whether you're a fan of gumbo, jambalaya, or fried catfish, there's something for everyone in the vibrant Cajun food scene in Austin.

Best Cajun Food in Austin: A Foodie's Point of View

Introduction

Pros of Best Cajun Food in Austin

1. Unique and Bold Flavors - Cajun food is known for its bold and unique flavors. The mix of spices and herbs used in Cajun cooking creates a flavor profile that is hard to find in any other cuisine. From gumbo to jambalaya, every dish has its distinct flavor that leaves a lasting impression.

2. Fresh and Local Ingredients - Many restaurants in Austin use fresh and locally sourced ingredients in their Cajun dishes. This not only supports local farmers but also ensures that the food is of top quality and tastes better.

3. Variety - Cajun food offers a wide variety of dishes to choose from. Whether you are a seafood lover or prefer meat-based dishes, there is something for everyone. It's a great way to explore different flavors and ingredients.

Cons of Best Cajun Food in Austin

1. Heavy on the Stomach - Cajun food is known for its rich and hearty dishes. While this makes it delicious, it also makes it heavy on the stomach. It's not the ideal cuisine if you are watching your calorie intake or have a sensitive stomach.

2. Spicy - Cajun food is notorious for its spicy flavor. While some people love it, others may find it too hot to handle. It's important to check with the restaurant about the spice level before ordering.

3. Limited Vegetarian Options - Cajun food is heavily meat-based, and therefore, vegetarian options can be limited. However, some restaurants offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes, so it's worth checking beforehand.

Table Comparison of Popular Cajun Dishes

Conclusion

The Best Cajun Food in Austin

Thank you for stopping by to read our article about the best Cajun food in Austin. We hope that it has been an informative and enjoyable read for you. As you may have gathered, Austin has no shortage of fantastic Cajun restaurants, each with their own unique take on this delicious cuisine.

From the classic gumbo and jambalaya to the more contemporary twists on traditional dishes, there is something for everyone when it comes to Cajun food in Austin. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor to this cuisine, we encourage you to try as many of these amazing restaurants as possible.

If you are a fan of seafood, we highly recommend checking out the offerings at Crawfish Shack and Oyster Bar. Their seafood boils are a true feast for the senses, and their oysters are some of the freshest you will ever taste. Be sure to grab a seat at the bar and enjoy a cold beer or cocktail while you soak up the atmosphere.

For those looking for a more traditional dining experience, Evangeline Cafe is the place to be. Their classic Cajun dishes are prepared with love and attention to detail, and their live music makes for a truly unforgettable night out. Don't miss their famous red beans and rice, which is a staple dish in Louisiana cuisine.

If you are in the mood for something a little different, give Stuffed Cajun Meat Market a try. This restaurant specializes in Cajun-style stuffed meats, from boudin to stuffed chicken breasts. Their unique take on traditional dishes is sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Another great option for those seeking a more contemporary twist on Cajun cuisine is Sawyer & Co. This restaurant combines classic flavors with modern techniques to create dishes that are both innovative and delicious. Their brunch menu is particularly noteworthy, with dishes like crawfish Benedict and chicken and waffles that are sure to satisfy any cravings.

For those on a budget, we recommend heading to Mouton's Southern Bistro. This casual eatery offers great value for money without skimping on flavor. Their fried catfish is a crowd favorite, and their po' boys are some of the best in town.

If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience, check out Fixe Southern House. This restaurant specializes in elevated Southern cuisine, with a focus on Cajun flavors. Their seafood gumbo is a must-try dish, and their cocktails are some of the best in the city.

No matter where you decide to go for your Cajun fix in Austin, we encourage you to try something new and step outside of your comfort zone. The flavors and spices of Cajun cuisine are truly unique, and there is something special about experiencing them in the heart of Texas.

Finally, we would like to thank you for taking the time to read our article. We hope that it has inspired you to explore the amazing Cajun food scene here in Austin. Whether you are a local or just passing through, we promise that you won't regret indulging in some of the best food that this city has to offer.

People Also Ask About Best Cajun Food in Austin

What is Cajun cuisine?

Cajun cuisine is a style of cooking that originated from the French-speaking Acadian people who migrated to Louisiana. It is known for its bold and spicy flavors, which are derived from a combination of French, African, and Native American culinary traditions.

Where can I find the best Cajun food in Austin?

Austin has several restaurants that serve delicious Cajun food. Some of the best places to try include:

1. Evangeline Cafe - known for its gumbo and po'boys
2. Cypress Grill - offers a variety of Cajun-inspired dishes
3. Shoal Creek Saloon - has a great crawfish boil during crawfish season
4. Stuffed Cajun Meat Market - sells Cajun meats and sausages for cooking at home

What are some popular Cajun dishes?

Some popular Cajun dishes include:

• Gumbo - a stew made with seafood or meat and served over rice
• Jambalaya - a rice dish with meat, vegetables, and spices
• Crawfish étouffée - a thick and creamy crawfish stew
• Po'boys - sandwiches made with meat, seafood, or vegetables

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best Cajun food in Austin, there are several great options to choose from. Whether you prefer dining out or cooking at home, you're sure to find something delicious that satisfies your Cajun cravings.