Austin’s Live Music Venues with Great Food

Austin may be the Live Music Capital of the World, but let’s be honest—sometimes the food at music venues feels like an afterthought. Thankfully, this city does things differently. Here, some of the best stages also serve meals worth writing home about. Whether you’re looking for smoky barbecue, creative Tex-Mex, or elevated pub grub to go with your tunes, Austin has spots where music and food harmonize perfectly.

Loaded Nachos
Loaded Nachos

1. The Continental Club – South Congress Classic

If you’re talking about live music in Austin, you start with The Continental Club. Since 1955, this legendary South Congress venue has hosted everyone from Stevie Ray Vaughan to Gary Clark Jr. The music is raw, bluesy, and unapologetically Austin.

And while the club itself doesn’t serve full meals, you’re a stone’s throw from South Congress eateries like Home Slice Pizza and Guero’s Taco Bar. Many locals grab a bite before a show, then let the music carry the night away. The magic of Continental is the seamless blend of street food culture and live music tradition.

Home Slice Pizza
Home Slice Pizza

2. Stubb’s Bar-B-Q – BBQ Meets Big-Name Acts

Few places embody Austin like Stubb’s. Part barbecue joint, part live music amphitheater, this Red River District institution has fed and entertained Austinites since the early ’90s.

  • • Food: Famous for smoked brisket, ribs, and spicy BBQ sauce that locals swear by.
  • • Music: Acts range from indie darlings to national headliners—everyone from Willie Nelson to Erykah Badu has played here.

There’s something uniquely Austin about standing in the outdoor amphitheater with brisket in one hand and a Lone Star in the other while music rattles the skyline.

Stubb's BBQ
Stubb's BBQ

3. Mohawk Austin – Rooftop Vibes + Local Flavor

Mohawk, located on Red River, is known for its eclectic lineup—punk, indie, hip hop, you name it. The multi-level indoor/outdoor venue offers one of the best views of downtown from its rooftop stage.

The food? Simple, satisfying, and perfect for a night out. Think loaded nachos, tacos, and hearty bar bites—easy to grab while bouncing between sets. Mohawk feels like a true community hub: the kind of place where you can discover your new favorite band and a new favorite late-night snack in one visit.

4. Saxon Pub – Cozy Tunes with Elevated Bites

For a more intimate experience, The Saxon Pub on South Lamar delivers. Known for its singer-songwriter showcases, this venue gives you an up-close connection with Austin’s storytelling roots.

What makes it stand out is the menu—surprisingly polished for a small venue. Expect dishes like quesadillas, hearty sandwiches, and rotating specials that go far beyond basic bar food. Pair it with a whiskey, settle in, and prepare for a night of soulful music and comfort eats.