It sounds ideal to always cook healthy meals, but in reality, it’s not always practical or fun. Life gets busy, and sometimes you need a healthy, convenient option without compromising on quality. Dining out or grabbing food to-go can be a chance to enjoy a stress-free meal, savor dishes you’d never make at home, spend time with good company, and-best of all-skip the cleanup. If you're looking to treat yourself to something satisfying that won't leave you needing a nap afterward, this list has you covered.
These restaurants offer balanced, flavorful meals made with real food ingredients. These spots check all the boxes:
- Real, whole food ingredients
- High-quality protein options (i.e., meat, fish, and eggs)
- Mostly anti-inflammatory oils (many exclusively use anti-inflammatory oils)
- Gluten-free options for those with Celiac or a gluten intolerance
- Minimal sugar, additives, and preservatives
- Reasonably priced
- Deliciousness!
From sit-down restaurants to grab-and-go spots, these Austin gems offer balanced, flavorful meals made with real food ingredients.
Top Healthy Restaurants in Austin
Here are fifteen restaurants (plus six bonus spots!) in Austin that prioritize health without sacrificing flavor:
1. True Food Kitchen
True Food Kitchen was inspired by the anti-inflammatory food pyramid and founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, a globally recognized doctor in the field of integrative medicine. They offer a seasonal, nutrient-rich menu and they cater to various dietary needs (including vegan, gluten-free, keto, and paleo). It’s a great spot for a healthy, balanced meal, whether you're with family, on a date, or dining solo.
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- What to order: Tuna poke bowl, or the teriyaki quinoa bowl (add chicken).
2. Civil Goat
Civil Goat is known for their delicious coffee, but it's also a hidden gem for a tasty, balanced breakfast. The indoor space is a great escape from the Summer heat and a cozy spot on cold Winter days.
What to order: Soft scramble with avocado and a half-caf flat white. Friends have also loved the avocado toast with a poached egg.
3. Local Foods
Local Foods is all about bringing farm-fresh produce to the table, and their dishes never disappoint. You can taste the quality of their ingredients in every bite. It's the perfect place for a quick, healthy lunch that doesn't compromise on flavor.
- Why I love it: Local Foods has my favorite poke bowl in town.
- What to order: Summer harvest salad, poke bowl, or gluten-free crunchy chicken sandwich with kale salad and watermelon.
4. Honest Mary’s
Honest Mary’s prides themselves on life-giving “fast food”. They have tasty “signature bowls”, but they also offer a build-your-own-bowl option. You get to choose from a variety of whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh veggies, plus their house-made sauces are incredible. You can even add a splash of apple cider vinegar (they keep it by the drinks/silverware) for extra digestion/blood sugar support. It's an easy go-to when you want something quick but still packed with nutrients and flavor.
- What to order: Grilled chicken bowl with arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, roasted beets, crispy chickpeas, avocado, and creamy poblano sauce. You can add pumpkin seeds for an extra dollar for a satisfying crunch and extra magnesium.
5. Fresa’s
Fresa’s takes wood-grilled chicken to the next level, and their lively outdoor patio, adorned with string lights, is always a great vibe. They bring a vibrant, Mexican flair to their dishes that you don't find at many health-focused restaurants.
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- Why I love it: The atmosphere and unique flavor combinations.
- What to order: Chips + their special guacamole (feat. green apple and mint) and a power bowl.
6. The Well
The Well is a top pick when it comes to healthy, sit-down restaurants in Austin. While it’s a bit more of a splurge compared to other spots on this list, it’s definitely worth it for a special occasion. Whether you’re planning a date night dinner or a weekend brunch with friends, The Well offers an elevated experience.
Their menu is completely gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, refined-sugar free, and non-GMO making it easy for friends with food sensitivities and health challenges. They use high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, and they use organic produce for anything listed on the Dirty Dozen list. They only use healthy, anti-inflammatory cooking oils - olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil.
- Why I love it: The commitment to accommodating dietary restrictions and using high-quality ingredients.
- What to order: Guacamole and ceviche, beet salad, and the coconut curry squash with chicken. Get the breakfast tacos if you go for breakfast/brunch.
7. Koriente
Koriente is a great option for Asian-inspired food that’s fresh and on the lighter side. They keep things simple with minimally processed ingredients, and house-fermented kimchi that’s great for gut health. They offer the option of subbing your rice for extra veggies.
- What to order: Obake bowl with chicken or miso glazed salmon.
8. Sweetgreen
Sweetgreen has become a favorite spot for salads and bowls, and one of the things I love most is their recent switch to using anti-inflammatory olive oil. It's a fast-casual dining experience with a counter-service setup, where you can either opt for a ready-made signature dish or build your own bowl. As you move down the line, you can start with a base like greens or grains and add your favorite protein, veggies, toppings, and sauces. You get to craft a fresh, personalized meal that satisfies your cravings, exactly the way you want it.
- What to order: Greens and grains bowl with arugula and wild rice, basil, chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, goat cheese, blackened chicken, and pesto vinaigrette. The autumn harvest bowl (add chicken for protein) is a good signature dish.
9. Cabo Bob’s
Cabo Bob’s is one of Austin’s best-kept healthy food secrets. Their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients blows me away, and they manage to pull it off at an affordable price with kind, efficient service. Their tortillas are made on-site, their protein options are wood-grilled with no additives, and they use grass-fed beef and always fresh, never frozen white chicken breast. Their salsas, sauces, and guacamole are all made from scratch with whole food ingredients, and no additives or preservatives. They even shred their cheese themselves several times a week instead of using pre-shredded cheese with weird anti-caking agents.
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- Why I love it: The fresh ingredients and affordable prices.
- What to order: Chicken bowl with white rice, black beans, zucchini & squash, lettuce, cilantro, tomatillo salsa, mango pico, guacamole, and lime juice.
10. Picnik
Picnik’s entire menu is gluten-, soy-, and refined sugar-free, and they exclusively use healthy cooking oils (cold-pressed avocado oil and extra virgin olive oil) in their dishes. While they serve plenty of healthy, balanced meals, they also know how to have fun with indulgent options like crispy chicken tenders, a Nashville hot chicken sandwich, and a bison breakfast sandwich-rare treats for those with dietary restrictions.
- What to order: Harvest bowl or a burger with crispy Brussels.
11. Two Hands
Two Hands is an Australian-inspired café with a strong focus on ethically sourced ingredients, and you can taste the quality in every bite. Located on South Congress, it's perfect for brunch before hitting the shops, or swing by after an early morning stroll around Town Lake. The space is bright and cheery, the vibe is fun and lively.
- What to order: Seasonal scramble if you go for breakfast, salmon quinoa bowl if you go for lunch/dinner.
12. Flower Child
Flower Child's menu is packed with fresh, organic ingredients and the bright, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place for a casual, healthy meal. Their salads and wraps are ideal for a light lunch, while the heartier bowls and entrées make a great dinner option.
13. Better Half
Better Half is an award-winning all-day café in downtown Austin, with tons of outdoor seating and tasty coffee - perfect for working if you have the luxury of working remote. Inside, the cozy, fun café vibes make it a great spot for a meal with friends or a laid-back date.
- Why I love it: The fresh, light, and flavorful food made with locally sourced ingredients.
- What to order: Burrata with smoked chicken or the big salad (half size) with smoked chicken.
14. Cenote
Cenote is a cozy, laid-back spot in a converted house on the Eastside, complete with a spacious and welcoming patio. They offer gluten-free bread (that’s actually good) so sandwiches can easily be made gluten-free.
- What to order: Cenote scramble if I go for breakfast, and a veggie sandwich with chicken or turkey if I go for lunch.
15. KG BBQ
KG BBQ isn’t your average barbecue joint - it’s where classic Texas barbecue meets bold Middle Eastern flavors. Think tender smoked chicken thighs paired with herb-packed sides like tomato cucumber salad and mediterranean rice. It’s barbecue that’s packed with flavor, but without the heavy, nap-inducing feeling afterwards.
- What to order: The chicken rice bowl.
Bonus Spots for Healthy Eats
Here are six additional places to find healthy and delicious food in Austin:
1. Nourished ATX (Food Truck)
This food truck is a bit of a hidden gem in Austin, tucked away on South Congress. All of their menu items are locally and regeneratively sources, gluten-free, dairy-free, refined-sugar free, and organic when possible. Nourished ATX makes a way for you to nourish your body without compromising on taste. Their dishes are satisfying and it’s fun to go back and see new menu items as the seasons change.
- What to order: Breakfast tacos, or the nourish bowl with chicken. Just a heads up-they’re only open Thursday through Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM, so plan accordingly.
2. People’s Pharmacy
People’s Pharmacy is also a hidden gem for grabbing a quick, healthy lunch. Their chicken salad is made with high-quality ingredients and skips the inflammatory oils (unlike the usual mayo loaded with canola oil), and their beet & citrus salad is always fresh and delicious.
- What to order: Chicken salad for protein and the beet & citrus salad for fruits and veggies.
3. Zucchini Kill Bakery (Food Truck)
The entire menu was gluten-free! Every single dessert was delicious, moist, and full of flavor without being overly sweet.
- What to order: Coffee cake muffin, matcha cheesecake, or the peanut butter cookie.
4. SNAP Kitchen
If you’ve had a hectic day and can't be bothered to cook but still want a balanced, healthy meal at home, SNAP Kitchen is a lifesaver. Their ready-made meals are crafted with whole ingredients and balanced macros (carbs, fat, and protein), so you can grab something quick without second-guessing what's inside. Everything is gluten-free, and they have keto, paleo, vegetarian, and vegan options too if you need them.
- What to order: Bison quinoa bowl with peppers and onions, chicken Caesar wrap, or blackened shrimp with quinoa grits.
5. Gati Ice Cream
Their entire lineup is gluten-free and dairy-free, made with just five wholesome ingredients, including a creamy coconut milk base. No stabilizers or gums, just simple ingredients you can actually pronounce. With forty rotating flavors, every visit is a chance to discover something new, whether you’re in the mood for a classic favorite or feeling adventurous enough to try something unexpected.
- What to order: Chocolate or mint chip ice cream for a classic, and Thai basil when I want to mix things up.
Conclusion
With real ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and plenty of variety, each spot on this list proves that you can enjoy dining out without compromising on health or taste. So the next time life gets busy or you just want a break from cooking, you’ll have a go-to list of places that leave you feeling recharged.