Planning a family picnic in Austin? This list covers 10 iconic and delicious Austin foods perfect for sharing outdoors with loved ones. Whether you want something savory, sweet, or easy to pack, these local favorites bring the city’s unique flavors to your picnic blanket.
Franklin Barbecue Brisket
Franklin Barbecue is world-famous for its perfectly smoked brisket, tender and flavorful with a smoky bark that’s hard to beat. Bringing a tray of their sliced brisket to your picnic means succulent meat that pairs well with simple sides like pickles and white bread. While it requires some planning due to the long lines and limited daily supply, the payoff is an authentic Austin barbecue experience your family won’t forget.
Home Slice Pizza
Home Slice serves New York-style pizza by the slice or whole pies, making it an easy grab-and-go option for a family picnic. Their thin, crispy crust with fresh tomato sauce and quality toppings is satisfying and kid-friendly. You can customize slices for picky eaters, and the pizza travels well if kept warm in an insulated bag.
Kerbey Lane Cafe Pancake Bites
Kerbey Lane Cafe’s pancake bites are a fun twist on a breakfast classic, perfect for kids and adults alike. These mini pancakes come with a side of syrup and are easy to eat by hand, making them a sweet picnic treat. Plus, Kerbey Lane offers gluten-free and vegan options if your family has dietary restrictions.
Gourdough’s Donuts
Known for their decadent, oversized donuts, Gourdough’s offers a variety of creative flavors like the “Flying Pig” topped with bacon and maple glaze. Their donuts are indulgent but portable, ideal for a picnic dessert or snack. Just be sure to pack napkins and wet wipes—the sticky sweetness is worth the mess.
Hat Creek Burger
Hat Creek Burger serves classic Texas burgers with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a laid-back vibe. Their burgers are juicy and come with house-made pickles and soft buns, easy to hold and eat outdoors. They also offer kid-friendly options and a full menu of sides like fries and onion rings to round out your picnic spread.
Elizabeth Street Cafe Banh Mi
For a picnic with a Vietnamese twist, Elizabeth Street Cafe’s banh mi sandwiches are flavorful and convenient. These sandwiches combine crusty French bread with savory pork, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, offering a balance of textures and tastes. They’re portable and less messy than some other sandwiches, making them ideal for outdoor dining.
Whole Foods Market Deli Selections
Whole Foods Market’s flagship downtown location offers an extensive deli with ready-made salads, sandwiches, and sides sourced from local producers. Their offerings include fresh fruit, organic pasta salads, and rotisserie chicken, all easy to pack and share. This is a great option for families wanting variety and dietary accommodations in one convenient stop.
Lick Honest Ice Creams
Lick Honest Ice Creams crafts small-batch ice creams using local, seasonal ingredients like Texas pecans and seasonal fruits. While ice cream can be tricky for picnics, their pints keep well in coolers and provide a refreshing treat on a warm Austin day. Flavors rotate frequently, offering something new to try each visit.
La Barbecue Sausage Link
La Barbecue is another Austin staple known for juicy, smoky meats. Their sausage links are a picnic-friendly option that’s packed with bold flavors and can be eaten cold or slightly warmed. Pair them with mustard and pickles for a simple yet satisfying bite that holds up well outdoors.
Taco Deli Breakfast Tacos
Breakfast tacos are a beloved Austin specialty, and Taco Deli is a local favorite with creative fillings like migas, potato and egg, or chorizo. These tacos are individually wrapped and easy to transport, making them a convenient, handheld meal for your picnic. Their fresh ingredients and flavorful combinations highlight Austin’s vibrant taco culture.
How to Choose
When selecting Austin foods for a family picnic, consider portability, temperature sensitivity, and dietary needs. Meats like brisket and sausage are hearty but may require refrigeration or insulated packaging. Sandwiches and tacos offer convenience and easy portion control, while sweet options like donuts and ice cream require careful timing or cooling. Also, think about your family’s preferences: kid-friendly flavors, vegetarian options, and any allergies. Finally, local favorites with iconic status ensure your picnic captures the authentic taste of Austin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I buy Franklin Barbecue for a picnic?
Franklin Barbecue is located at 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX. You’ll need to arrive early or preorder to secure brisket for your picnic.
Q: How long do these picnic foods stay fresh outdoors?
Perishable items like meats and dairy-based foods should be kept below 40°F and consumed within 2 hours if unrefrigerated. Use coolers or ice packs to maintain freshness.
Q: Are there vegetarian options among these foods?
Yes, places like Kerbey Lane Cafe and Whole Foods offer vegetarian and vegan choices, including pancake bites and salads.
Q: Can I find gluten-free options for a picnic in Austin?
Many Austin eateries, including Kerbey Lane and Whole Foods, provide gluten-free menu items suitable for picnics.
Q: What’s the best way to transport Austin barbecue?
Use insulated containers or coolers to keep meats at safe temperatures and prevent drying out during transport.
Final Thoughts
Austin’s food scene offers a vibrant selection of picnic-perfect dishes, from smoky brisket to creative tacos and indulgent donuts. Choosing a mix of savory and sweet, hot and cold, ensures everyone in the family finds something they love. With a bit of planning for transport and temperature control, you can bring the best of Austin’s flavors to your next family outing and create delicious outdoor memories.
Related
- Cherry Tomato and Brown Rice Meals Kids Will Actually Eat
- Cherry Tomato Rice vs Quinoa: Which Is Best for Fast Meals?
- Quick Cherry Tomato Rice Dish Without Oil: 10 Easy Recipes