From spicy to crispy, these South Congress bites hit the spot between sets.

ACL season in Austin means packed patios, live sets spilling into the streets, and bites that taste like the weekend. Whether you’re fueling up before the next show, winding down with a cold drink, or chasing late-night flavor after the encore, these South Congress spots are serving bold, shareable eats built for festival energy — loud, lively, and full of Austin flavor. Grab a plate and keep the rhythm going.

Tigers Den

Tiger’s Den brings serious flavor and just the right amount of fire to your ACL weekend. Spicy wings, bold noodle bowls, and umami-packed rice dishes fuel you up like top-tier bar food with a street food edge — perfect before or after a set. Pair it with an ice-cold beer or house sake and soak up the laid-back South Congress vibes, inside or out. It’s the kind of spot where pre-festival dinner slides into late-night drinks, and no one’s watching the clock.

Tender pork belly, pillowy bao, and bold flavor in every bite.

A timeless Tex-Mex atmosphere where every table feels like a celebration.

Matt's El Rancho

Down on South Lamar, Matt’s El Rancho is an Austin institution for Tex-Mex classics, legendary margaritas, and family-style plates built for sharing. The colorful dining rooms buzz with energy, while the expansive patio is perfect for kicking back with a bowl of queso and a cold drink. Whether it’s a pre-game with friends, a laid-back dinner, or just an excuse for chips and salsa, Matt’s keeps the vibe lively and the flavors big.

Odd Duck

Odd Duck is Austin creativity on a plate — bold, local, and made for festival season. From smoky small plates to shareable bites stacked with flavor, every dish feels like a celebration of what Austin does best: keeping things fresh, fiery, and a little unexpected. The buzz of South Lamar sets the tone for pre-show dinners and post-set drinks, where farm-to-table meets laid-back fun. It’s the perfect stop to taste Austin’s rhythm — one bite at a time.

Refined bites and inventive sips that make lingering at the table worth it.