Round Rock isn’t just about outlets and Dell anymore—the food scene has grown a ton, especially around downtown, the Chisholm Trail area, and along I‑35.
You’ll find everything from craft‑beer gastropubs to legit Tex‑Mex and chef‑y brunch spots. These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy restaurants are great reasons to stay in Round Rock instead of driving into Austin.
1. Salt Traders Coastal Cooking (Round Rock)
Salt Traders brings a polished, coastal‑vacation vibe right off I‑35. Light woods, big windows, a lively bar, and a buzzy dining room make it feel special but not stuffy—perfect for date night, family dinners, or a nicer lunch.
The menu leans Gulf and East/West Coast seafood with Texas flair: wood‑grilled fish, oysters on the half shell, fish tacos, shrimp and grits, fried Gulf oysters, and daily specials based on what’s freshest. Non‑seafood eaters aren’t left out—there are burgers, chicken, and hearty salads too.
Best for: Seafood lovers, happy hour, groups that want a “nice but relaxed” spot.
2. URBAN Eat.Drink
Right in downtown Round Rock, URBAN Eat.Drink hits that sweet spot between neighborhood hangout and elevated bar‑restaurant. Think exposed brick, patio seating, live music nights, and a big cocktail list.
Food is modern American comfort with a Texas tilt: burgers, chicken sandwiches, flatbreads, loaded fries, nachos, salads, and a few bigger plates like steaks or fish. Brunch is popular, with things like chicken & waffles, benedicts, and breakfast tacos paired with mimosas or Bloody Marys.
Best for: Casual date night, cocktails and apps, downtown evenings.
3. Cork & Barrel Craft Kitchen + Microbrewery
Cork & Barrel feels like a hybrid of a Hill Country brewery and a modern gastropub. There’s tons of outdoor space, fire pits, and a relaxed but stylish interior—great for lingering over beers or bringing friends and family.
They brew their own beer on site and pair it with elevated pub food: soft pretzels, burgers, flatbreads, fish and chips, short rib, hearty salads, and seasonal specials. The menu often leans slightly Irish/British gastropub in feel, with rich, comforting flavors and shareable starters.
Best for: Craft beer fans, big groups, sunny patio afternoons.
4. Fuego Latino Gastropub
Fuego Latino brings a fun, colorful energy to Round Rock with a menu that pulls from across Latin America. The space is vibrant and casual‑cool, with murals, music, and a bar that gets busy on weekends.
The food spans tacos, ceviche, empanadas, arepas, grilled meats, and creative small plates with Peruvian, Mexican, Caribbean, and Central/South American influences. Expect bold sauces, fresh herbs, citrus, and lots of shareable dishes. Specialty cocktails—mojitos, margaritas, pisco‑style drinks—fit the vibe perfectly.
Best for: Flavor‑packed small plates, cocktail night, friends who like to share lots of dishes.
5. Liberty Barbecue
Liberty Barbecue blends Central Texas barbecue with a modern bar feel right in downtown Round Rock. It’s casual and lively, with long tables, a strong beer and cocktail program, and that unmistakable smoke aroma as soon as you walk in.
You’ll find all the classics—brisket, ribs, sausage, turkey—plus sandwiches, burgers, loaded fries, and sides like mac and cheese, beans, and slaw. Portions are generous, and it works just as well for a tray of meat and a beer as it does for a family feast.
Best for: BBQ cravings, casual group dinners, meat‑centric lunches.
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