Best Upscale Korean Restaurants in Austin | Upscale Korean Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Korean Restaurants in Austin | Upscale Korean Food

• Smokin Beauty BBQ Cocktails Beer — American · rated 5/5: The air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of slow-smoked oak and caramelized spice, drawing guests into a vibrant space where rugged pitmaster traditions meet a polished, high-energy bar scene. Glistening, bark-crusted meats take center stage alongside vibrant craft cocktails and frosty pints, offering a soulful dining experience that balances deep, smoky flavors with a spirited, modern flair.
• Chi'Lantro BBQ — Korean · rated 5/5: This high-energy eatery pulses with the vibrant fusion of Korean flavors and modern flair, where the aroma of caramelized BBQ pork and sizzling soy-glazed chicken fills the air. Guests craft their own culinary adventures through customizable bowls and signature ssäms, layering bold textures like crunchy K'Pop chicken and fresh avocado into a colorful, fast-paced feast that redefines the casual dining experience.
• Casper Fermentables — Korean · rated 4/5: The air at Casper Fermentables is thick with the comforting, tangy scent of slow-risen sourdough and the spicy allure of house-fermented treasures. Artisanal craft meets vibrant flavor in dishes like golden turmeric kraut layered over creamy avocado toast or hearty rice bowls brightened by family-recipe kimchi, creating a sanctuary for the senses. Every bite celebrates the patient magic of the fermenter’s art, from the chewy pull of a fresh sourdough bialy to the effervescent, botanical zing of small-batch kombucha.
• Eggroll Express — Chinese · rated 4/5: Eggroll Express is a lively destination for those craving the irresistible crunch of golden-brown treasures and the savory allure of classic comfort food. The air hums with the sizzle of the fryer as the kitchen turns out everything from delicate, steam-kissed dumplings to decadent crab rangoon bursting with creamy filling. Each visit promises a symphony of textures, where the smoky glaze of tender BBQ ribs meets the satisfying snap of a signature egg roll, creating a flavorful and comforting escape for the senses.
• Korean Grill — Korean · rated 4/5: The air at Korean Grill hums with the rhythmic sizzle of the kitchen and the savory aroma of golden-brown pancakes crisping to perfection. Tables come alive with the bold colors of fiery, chewy rice cakes and an array of light, airy tempura that offers a satisfying crunch alongside zesty, traditional flavors. This vibrant space invites guests to linger over shared plates, where every bite captures the spirited heat and communal heart of Korean soul food.
• Interstellar BBQ — American · rated 4/5: The air at Interstellar BBQ is thick with the intoxicating perfume of post oak smoke, drawing diners into a space where Texas tradition meets a meticulous, almost celestial attention to detail. Velvety slices of brisket with a peppery, obsidian crust melt alongside inventive sides like peach tea-glazed pork belly, elevating the humble backyard cookout into a sophisticated culinary journey. Every tray serves as a vibrant mosaic of slow-smoked mastery and bright, modern flavors, offering a transcendent experience that redefines the boundaries of classic barbecue.
• Fresh TOFU: Food to Go — Korean · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood hub hums with the comforting aroma of warm soy milk and the sight of freshly pressed blocks of tofu awaiting their turn in the wok. Guests can grab nourishing, plant-based treasures ranging from golden-crusted savory bites to delicate, ginger-scented puddings, all crafted with a dedication to freshness that turns a quick takeaway into a wholesome, soul-warming ritual.
• Charm Korean BBQ — Korean · rated 4/5: The air at Charm Korean BBQ hums with the lively sizzle of tabletop grills and the savory aroma of caramelizing marinades, drawing guests into a vibrant, communal celebration of flavor. Platters of marbled meats and an array of colorful, pungent banchan crowd the tables, where diners take the lead in searing tender cuts to smoky perfection. It is a high-energy sanctuary where the interactive art of the grill transforms a simple meal into a spirited, shared feast.
• Smokey Mo's BBQ — American · rated 4/5: The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating scent of slow-burning oak, drawing guests into a rustic haven where the time-honored art of Texas barbecue takes center stage. Pit-smoked meats boast a deep, peppery bark and melt-away tenderness, served alongside classic comfort sides in a lively atmosphere that celebrates the soulful, unpretentious joy of a true backyard feast.
• Miso Korean & Japanese Dining — Japanese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of miso and chicken soup anchor the experience at this inviting fusion spot, where the air is often scented with the savory aroma of toasted garlic and crisp, golden tempura. Guests can linger over vibrant sashimi sunomono salads and hand-rolled appetizers that celebrate the clean, bright flavors of Japanese and Korean traditions. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, perfect for those seeking a light yet deeply satisfying meal in a warm, welcoming environment.
• SLAB BBQ & Beer — American · rated 4/5: The air at SLAB BBQ & Beer is thick with the intoxicating scent of slow-smoked brisket and tangy house-made sauces, drawing diners into a high-energy space where Texas tradition meets modern flair. Guests gather around communal tables to feast on towering BBQ sandwiches and tender ribs, washing down the bold, smoky flavors with a rotating selection of crisp craft beers from the tap.
• Bouldin Acres — American · rated 3/5: This lively social destination pulses with the energy of a sun-drenched Texas afternoon, where the smoky aroma of slow-cooked meats invites guests to settle into its vibrant, communal atmosphere. The kitchen reimagines nostalgic comfort food through a bold, shareable lens, serving up everything from decadent, cheese-smothered "totchos" and crispy pork belly burnt ends to the playful snap of a footlong corn dog. It is a spirited retreat where the crunch of loaded nachos and the rich flavors of BBQ Frito pie create the ultimate backdrop for long, leisurely hours spent with friends.
• Moreno's BBQ — American · rated 3/5: The air at Moreno’s BBQ is thick with the intoxicating aroma of slow-burning wood, inviting guests to settle in for a feast of glistening brisket and snap-skinned jalapeno cheese sausages. Midweek visits are rewarded with legendary whole racks of spare ribs and tender tri-tip, each cut meticulously smoked until it reaches a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that honors the patient craft of the pit. From the peppery bark of the turkey breast to the rich, rendered fat of the pork belly, every platter captures the soulful, smoky essence of a true backyard celebration.
• Pok-E-Joe's BBQ — American · rated 3/5: The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating perfume of slow-burning wood and savory spice, drawing guests into a bustling space where the art of the pit is celebrated daily. Generous platters arrive piled high with glistening, salt-and-pepper crusted brisket and an array of smoky favorites, all served alongside comforting sides that capture the soulful, unpretentious heart of traditional barbecue culture.
• Velvet Taco — Mexican · rated 3/5: This high-energy urban haunt reimagines the taco as a canvas for global fusion, where the sizzle of the open kitchen meets a backdrop of bold neon and industrial flair. Diners embark on a flavor-packed journey through inventive combinations like crisp Korean fried rice or tender rotisserie chicken, all wrapped in hand-pressed tortillas and served with a side of rebellious spirit.
• K BBQ — Korean: The air hums with energy and the intoxicating scent of caramelized soy as guests gather around built-in tabletop grills to sear premium cuts of meat to smoky perfection. A vibrant tapestry of banchan crowds the table, offering a kaleidoscope of fermented spices and crisp textures that transform every hand-pressed wrap into a personalized explosion of bold, traditional flavors.
• ChoSun Galbi — Korean: The rhythmic sizzle of tabletop grills provides a lively soundtrack to this refined space, where the sweet, smoky aroma of caramelizing short ribs fills the air. Vibrant arrays of house-made banchan bring pops of color and fermented tang to every table, creating a communal feast that honors traditional Korean flavors with sophisticated, modern elegance.
• KG BBQ — American: The intoxicating aroma of slow-smoked meats infused with Middle Eastern spices fills this vibrant eatery, where Texas pitmaster techniques meet the soulful flavors of Cairo. Succulent pomegranate-glazed ribs and tender lamb shoulder are served alongside fragrant mounds of cinnamon basmati rice and bright, zesty baladi salads, creating a bold fusion of smoke and spice that feels both adventurous and deeply comforting.
• Nido — Nido" (Nido: Nido serves as a sophisticated culinary sanctuary where the smoky allure of a BBQ plate finds unexpected harmony alongside the delicate, umami-rich depths of artisanal vegan ramen. The space pulses with the creative energy of its celebrated chef series, inviting guests on themed multi-course journeys that range from the bold flavors of Houston to the refined spirit of New York. It is a destination for the curious palate, where an afternoon might begin with a curated cheeseboard and a crisp beer tasting before unfolding into a masterful, chef-led exploration of seasonal artistry.
• Koriente Restaurant — Korean: Lush foliage and a serene, light-filled interior create a peaceful urban sanctuary where the focus remains on vibrant, health-conscious Asian fare. Each colorful bowl is a masterclass in balance, pairing crisp, garden-fresh vegetables with savory house-made sauces and wholesome grains for a nourishing meal that feels as refreshing as the tranquil atmosphere.
• K-Bop — Korean: K-Bop pulses with the vibrant energy of a Seoul street market, where the air is thick with the savory-sweet aroma of marinated meats and the rhythmic sizzle of hot stone bowls. Diners craft colorful, customized bowls overflowing with crisp vegetables and perfectly seasoned proteins, all brought together by the bold, fermented kick of house-made sauces. It is a lively, modern destination where traditional Korean soul food is reimagined into a fast-paced and flavorful experience that warms the spirit.
• Chi'Lantro — Korean: Vibrant energy pulses through this modern eatery, where the bold heat of Korean spices meets the soulful comfort of Mexican street food in a celebration of unexpected fusion. Guests dive into signature heaps of crispy fries topped with caramelized kimchi and savory bulgogi, or craft colorful bowls that balance zesty citrus with the deep, smoky char of the grill for a truly electric dining experience.
• Chi'Lantro BBQ — Korean: This high-energy eatery pulses with the vibrant spirit of Korean-Mexican fusion, where the aroma of caramelized BBQ pork and zesty soy glazes invites guests to build their own bold, flavor-packed masterpieces. From the satisfying crunch of K’Pop chicken to the fresh, layered harmony of a signature Ssäm, every bowl is a colorful celebration of textures and spices designed for a modern, fast-paced culinary adventure.
• Chi'Lantro BBQ — Korean: This vibrant fusion destination pulses with urban energy, blending the bold, fermented tang of Korean staples with the soulful comfort of Mexican street food. Sizzling bulgogi and spicy pork are transformed into inventive masterpieces like the iconic Kimchi Fries, where layers of melted cheese and signature "magic sauce" create a crave-worthy symphony of flavor and texture. It is a lively, modern space where traditional boundaries dissolve into a colorful celebration of cross-cultural culinary creativity.
• An Nyeong K Tofu & BBQ — Korean: Bubbling stone pots of silky tofu soup take center stage, releasing fragrant plumes of steam as they arrive at the table infused with the bold heat of kimchi or the delicate brine of fresh seafood. This soulful warmth is perfectly balanced by the satisfying crunch of golden-fried mandu and the bright, crisp notes of fresh salads, creating a vibrant dining experience that celebrates the heart of Korean comfort food.
• Chi'Lantro — Korean: Chi'Lantro pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern street-food market, where the bold, fermented heat of Korean spices meets the soulful comfort of Mexican classics. Sizzling bulgogi and toasted sesame aromas fill the air as guests dive into the legendary Kimchi Fries, a decadent mountain of crispy potatoes and tangy toppings that perfectly captures the restaurant's playful spirit. Each customizable bowl and taco becomes a colorful canvas of textures, blending zesty "magic sauce" and fresh cilantro into a high-energy celebration of cross-cultural flavors.
• True Texas BBQ — American: The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating aroma of slow-burning post oak, drawing diners into a rustic space where the time-honored art of low-and-slow pit smoking is celebrated daily. Trays piled high with salt-and-pepper crusted brisket and snap-skinned sausages are served atop butcher paper, offering a soulful, unpretentious taste of the Lone Star State that feels both timeless and deeply satisfying.
• Jet's Pizza — Italian: The air hums with the savory aroma of baking dough and bubbling cheese at this vibrant spot, where the legendary 8 Corner Pizza reigns supreme with its signature caramelized edges and thick, golden crust. Diners dive into a world of bold textures and inventive toppings, from the smoky sweetness of Aloha BBQ chicken to the satisfying snap of the Ultimate Pepperoni, creating a hearty experience that celebrates the art of the perfect deep-dish slice.
• bb.q Chicken — Korean: This lively destination celebrates the art of the perfect crunch, where golden-fried chicken is transformed by a kaleidoscope of bold, glistening glazes that range from sweet honey garlic to the smoky, charred notes of traditional galbi. Each bite offers a sensory explosion of textures and heat, inviting guests to linger over vibrant platters of spicy, saucy wings and savory-sweet specialties in a modern, high-energy atmosphere.
• Café at the Loren — American: Sun-drenched and sophisticated, this versatile retreat welcomes the morning with the scent of buttery artisanal pastries and crisp, garden-fresh salads. The evening air shifts toward culinary spectacle, where the comfort of smoky BBQ and rich vegan ramen meets the elevated artistry of exclusive, multi-course chef collaborations that transport the palate across a map of global flavors.