We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

South Congress Cafe

1600 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704-3522 (South Austin)
512-447-3905
Website
Menu
Update restaurant details
Ranked #14 of 2,450 restaurants in Austin
Price range: $31 - $40
Cuisines: American, Southwestern, Café
More restaurant details
Restaurant details
Good for: Doing business, Local cuisine, Special occasions
Dining options: Breakfast/Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Reservations
Neighborhood: South Austin
Write a Review

218 reviews from our community

88% Recommend
    138
    56
    16
    1
    7
Rating summary
    Food
    Service
    Value
    Atmosphere
Date Rating
Austin, TX
Senior Contributor
46 reviews 46 reviews
22 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 16 cities Reviews in 16 cities
14 helpful votes 14 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed May 8, 2013

We had a nice lunch when some friends were in town. I loved my scallops. It was a small plate but plenty for lunch. This is a very popular restaurant. They do not take reservations, but you can call ahead and be put on their seating list. It is very popular.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 11 more reviews by CleosKeeper for Austin
Rocky Hill, Connecticut
Top Contributor
157 reviews 157 reviews
65 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 82 cities Reviews in 82 cities
30 helpful votes 30 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed May 7, 2013

We got here early so the wait was short. I had the blue cheese infused burger and it was great. My wife had the pulled pork, it was ok. Waitress very attentive and friendly. Recommend for lunch, didn't have the chance to try dinner.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 6 more reviews by Tree56LO for Austin
Austin, Texas
Contributor
18 reviews 18 reviews
7 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 10 cities Reviews in 10 cities
14 helpful votes 14 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 28, 2013

If you go here, be sure to try the calamari. It was the best I have ever had. The pieces were thick and not rubbery at all--very fresh. A friend and I also split the crab cake and she had a salad. Everything was very good and very fresh. I would definitely recommend this restaurant.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by TexasTink54 for Austin
Detroit, Michigan, United States
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 22, 2013

Ate here twice during our long weekend trip to Austin. Sat at the bar to eat the first time and enjoyed delicious drinks and great food. Had our hotel call ahead for us for Sunday brunch and only waited about 15 minutes once we arrived. Warm goat cheese salad was amazing! Did not disappoint at all!

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by Nina M for Austin
East Texas
Top Contributor
66 reviews 66 reviews
50 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 50 cities Reviews in 50 cities
37 helpful votes 37 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 20, 2013 via mobile

We are here at lunch on a very busy Saturday! I suggest you call ahead because it cuts your wait time " in half " when you get there. Actually we waited maybe 15 of a 30 minute wait. There were three of us, and each ordered something different. I had the crab cakes Benedict. Instead is eggs they use... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
San Diego, California, United States
Senior Contributor
22 reviews 22 reviews
15 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
10 helpful votes 10 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 19, 2013

They feature a distinctive menu that blends the exotic and the familiar. You can get wild boar, venison, and quail, as well as a great steak and creative fresh salads. At South Congress Cafe, you will have a meal you'll never forget.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 4 more reviews by Mike D for Austin
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Top Contributor
52 reviews 52 reviews
29 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 17 cities Reviews in 17 cities
23 helpful votes 23 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed April 18, 2013

We had a great meal here when visiting Austin. We came early before watching the bats at the Congress Street bridge. Since we were there early (6:30), we had no problem getting seated immediately - I believe it is much more difficult during peak hours. We had a great meal - I had quail and my husband had sea bass.... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 9 more reviews by richandtrudi for Austin
Greenfield, Massachusetts, United States
Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
3 restaurant reviews
4 of 5 stars Reviewed April 16, 2013

We had heard a bit about 'SoCo' but didn't know what to expect. Behind an unassuming facade there is a bright, nicely decorated restaurant. Our waiter, Christian, was helpful and knowledgable. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and would return again.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by Jeanne C for Austin
Orlando, Florida
Senior Contributor
25 reviews 25 reviews
15 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 11 cities Reviews in 11 cities
7 helpful votes 7 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 16, 2013

Went there twice for lunch / brunch. Interesting menu - grew food and service. Wonderful restaurant, not to be missed when visiting Austin. Great service.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 7 more reviews by tennisdr99 for Austin
Waco, Texas
Contributor
20 reviews 20 reviews
17 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 8 cities Reviews in 8 cities
6 helpful votes 6 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 16, 2013

This is one of my new favourites in Austin. A creative menu, perfectly executed with outstanding flavour in every dish. My husband and I ate here for his birthday and we went all out with appetizer, 2 entrees, cocktails and dessert. Not one item was a disappointment and the service was equally excellent. It's a semi-casual atmosphere at dinner but... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 4 more reviews by Leia D for Austin

Travelers who viewed South Congress Cafe also viewed

 

Been to South Congress Cafe? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage South Congress Cafe, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing