I've lived in Brentwood since 2002, and a big part of why I love this corner of Central Austin is that so many great spots are a short walk or bike ride from home. These are the places my family and I keep going back to, from Burnet Road staples to newer neighborhood favorites.
The founders saw the potential of Burnet Road early and helped kick off the wave of restaurants and bars that now line the street north of 45th. When that brick building was going up, neighbors in Brentwood, Rosedale, and Allandale were all trying to guess what was coming. Today Pinthouse brews award winning beer on a seasonal rotation, keeps its original brews on tap year round, and pours a great selection of craft beer from around the country.
Highlights: Excellent house brews, picnic table seating, and plenty of TVs for catching the game
Menu Faves: Pepperoni and basil pizza with the Pinthouse Salad
Top Notch is one of the coolest places on Burnet Road, and the list of reasons is long. It feels like a walk back in time with drive up ordering stations (you can still dine inside), summer movie nights shown on a vintage TV mural, timeless recipes, and Hot Rod nights when classic cars fill the parking lot. Oh, and Dazed and Confused filmed some legendary scenes here. The owner lives in Crestview and supports neighborhood events and Brentwood Elementary. They also serve local beer now.
Highlights: The kid's meal comes in a classic Ford Fairlane cruiser
Menu Faves: The burgers are great, but seriously, try the fish sandwich
When I moved to the neighborhood, that corner of Koenig was an old gas station and garage that later became Thunderbird Coffee. The same local owners went on to open Bird Bird Biscuit there, and it has quickly become a Brentwood morning ritual. Everything comes on a warm, house made buttermilk biscuit, and the fried chicken sandwiches draw people from all over Austin. For us, it's just our neighborhood breakfast spot.
Highlights: An easy walk for a weekend breakfast with my son, and the friendly staff
Menu Faves: The Queen Beak, plus an order of Dough Doughs to share
The secret is out, and Little Deli now draws people from all over town to enjoy a pie under the giant oak tree out front, where you can bring your own wine or beer. It was originally known for killer sandwiches, but when Tony bought it from the previous owner, he installed pizza ovens and expanded the hours. The picnic benches out front fill up with neighbors who call ahead and stay to eat, or just walk over for a family dinner.
Highlights: Walking to dinner and getting some of the best pizza in Austin
Menu Faves: Pepperoni and mushroom with a Greek salad is our Friday night regular. For lunch I always get the club sandwich all the way.
Honest Mary's started in the owners' own small kitchen. They were busy, always on the go, and couldn't find enough healthy options, so they built the restaurant they wanted to eat at. The bowls are flavorful and filling, made with no refined sugars, no artificial flavors, and non GMO oils. It's my go to when I need a quick, healthy lunch.
Highlights: It's close to my office, so if I'm taking a break, you'll probably find me here
Menu Faves: Golden Grain bowl with chicken
Compass
9600 N. Mopac Expressway Ste. 500 Stonebridge Plaza 2
Austin, TX 78759
John Dunham