Experience the Best Austin Restaurants During Formula 1

One of the most thrilling sporting events of the year, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix will be returning to Austin November 1-3, 2019. The weekend promises to be full of exhilarating races and one-of-a-kind experiences, including live music performances from Imagine Dragons and P!nk. With Heywood Hotel’s proximity to the track and to downtown Austin, we’re one of the closest hotels to all of the action. 

Austin is not only a destination for Formula 1 each year, it’s also home to some of the country’s best restaurants and bars. While you’re in town for the race, it’s mandatory to partake in the best dining experiences Austin has to offer. 

Here are our top recommendations for the best restaurants and can’t-miss bars to experience while you’re in Austin for Formula 1.

Kemuri Tatsu-ya

Named one of the top eight new restaurants in the US, according to Bon Appétit magazine, Kemuri Tatsu-ya is a nearby Japanese izakaya and bar. The restaurant has an adventurous menu with a focus on Texas smoked meats. They also have an extensive sake list and inventive cocktails, making it an ideal spot for late night, after dinner drinks. Kemuri Tatsu-ya accepts reservations through their website for parties of up to seven people, which our concierge team will gladly assist with. Otherwise it is first come, first served.

Juniper

Photo courtesy of Juniper

Located just a few blocks away from the Heywood, Juniper is probably the most cosmopolitan restaurant in the neighborhood. The interior design with exposed kitchen is really striking and the atmosphere is lively. With a focus on Northern Italian cuisine, Juniper serves pasta dishes as well as small shareable plates. Reservations are accepted.

Ah Sing Den

Just a 15 minute walk from our boutique hotel, Ah Sing Den is a quaint bar and restaurant named after one of the owners of an infamous East London opium den. While their menu focuses on Asian small bites and spirits, their talented team of bar staff will make you any drink you have in mind. Ah Sing Den is one of the prettiest bars in Austin and always makes for a fun yet intimate night.

Emmer & Rye

Photo of Emmer & Rye by @aaron

Named “Best Restaurant in Austin in 2018” by the Austin-American Statesman, this unique restaurant focuses on whole-animal butchery and house-milled grains, with a dim sum style presentation. Servers circle the dining room with dim sum carts, serving inventive small plates as well as larger dishes. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list. Located in the nearby Rainey Street district, Emmer & Rye is just one mile west of the Heywood.

Uchi and Uchiko

Uchi and Uchiko are two of Austin’s best restaurants. Serving outstanding sushi and Japanese fusion cuisine from owner and James Beard award-winning chef, Tyson Cole, the restaurants are an example of contemporary dining at its finest. The original Uchi is located just south of downtown. The second location, Uchiko, is located in Central Austin and has more seating and a slightly more adventurous menu.

Both locations accept walk-in seating at the bar, however, because of the popularity of these restaurants, reservations are highly recommended. As a guest of the Heywood, our concierge team will take care of reservations so the only thing on your to-do list will be to enjoy one of the best meals in town.

Midnight Cowboy

Photo courtesy of Midnight Cowboy

A thoughtful speakeasy in the middle of the bustling Sixth Street district, Midnight Cowboy is a destination for those seeking a truly unique cocktail experience. With no signage out front to guide you inside, guests with reservations must buzz themselves in at the door in order to gain access. A night at this intimate speakeasy promises outstanding cocktails and a memorable experience. Reservations are required at Midnight Cowboy as space is limited each night, so ask the Heywood crew to reserve your spot!

Comedor

A newcomer to Austin’s restaurant scene, Comedor is located in a stunningly-designed downtown building, a little more than a mile away from Heywood Hotel. The new restaurant serves up modern Mexican cuisine and features inventive dishes like bone marrow tacos and octopus tostadas. Comedor also offers an impressive mezcal list, in addition to wine, tequila and specialty cocktails.

Half Step

Photo courtesy of @halfstepbar

Amidst the sometimes frenetic and lively energy of Rainey Street, Half Step is a cocktail lover’s reprieve. Here you’ll find hand crafted cocktails, a sophisticated ice program, and free live music most nights. There’s even an option to have the bartender create a drink around your personal preferences. Plus, it’s just a 15 minute walk from the Heywood!

While these are just a few of our top recommendations for the best restaurants and bars in Austin, our concierge team loves to provide personal recommendations for each of our guests and assist with any plans throughout your stay. 

Feature image courtesy of Juniper.

 


Book your stay for Formula 1 2019!

Heywood Hotel provides a free, all-local welcome gift for all Formula 1 reservations.