Austin’s Best New Restaurants in July 2025: BBQ, Bistro, and Brunch Reinvented
Austin’s food scene is never short on surprises, and July 2025 is no exception. Whether you’re craving smoky barbecue, reimagined brunch classics, or a French bistro with Texas swagger, this month’s openings prove that Austin’s culinary creativity is in full swing. From Fredericksburg to the city’s East Side, here are the best new restaurants to check out now.
Junebug’s BBQ: A Hill Country Classic Reimagined
Out in the scenic Hill Country town of Fredericksburg, Junebug’s BBQ is breathing new life into a historic setting. Housed in the Brockmann-Kiehne house — now part of the Albert Hotel complex — Junebug’s brings traditional Texas barbecue to a charming backdrop. Helmed by chef Justin Spencer, the menu sticks to smoky staples like brisket, turkey, pulled pork, sausage (regular and jalapeño), baby back ribs, and chicken.Don’t overlook the lineup of sides, which include nostalgic favorites like potato salad, baked beans, mac and cheese, coleslaw, and a hearty baked potato casserole. There’s even a stage for live music, adding a signature dose of Hill Country hospitality to the experience.
East End Ballroom: Day-to-Night Dining in East Austin
Despite its glamorous name, East End Ballroom is anything but conventional. Located in a converted corrugated metal warehouse, this East Austin newcomer seamlessly transitions from a casual daytime café to a vibey cocktail bar by night.During the day, find brunch-friendly bites like brioche French toast, breakfast sandwiches, steak and eggs, and a standout double smash burger. Beverages range from expertly pulled espresso (thanks to Figure 8 Coffee) to refreshing matchas and teas. Once the sun sets, the menu leans into playful cocktails like the Tiki Too Much (rum, pineapple, banana, coconut, and pomegranate) and Puerto Punch (mezcal, cassis, and blackberry).
Le Calamar: French Cuisine with a Texas Twist
Located in the former home of Korean-American wine bar Underdog, Le Calamar is the bold new French-Texan concept from co-owners Claudia Lee and Richard Hargreave with chef Casey Wall at the helm. It’s a bistro where Gulf Coast oysters meet Texas hot links, and grilled trout comes dressed in brown butter salsa macha.Signature dishes include rotating cuts of charcoal-grilled steak, refined French chicken wings à la Koffman (deboned and stuffed with mousseline), and fresh Gulf seafood with subtle international accents. Hargreave’s French-heavy wine list is paired with a thoughtful spirits selection highlighting Texas and Mexican producers.
From elevated comfort food to inventive mashups, July 2025 proves that Austin’s culinary heart continues to beat with bold flavor and serious creativity. Whether you’re road-tripping to Fredericksburg or brunching hard in East Austin, these new spots promise unforgettable meals worth every bite.
