Austin’s food scene is legendary. From the smoky allure of Texas barbecue to the spicy kick of breakfast tacos, this city knows how to eat well. But beyond the big-name spots and tourist-packed food trucks lies a quieter, quirkier side of Austin’s culinary landscape—its hidden gem eateries and lesser-known food trails. These are the places where locals whisper recommendations over coffee, where unassuming storefronts and tucked-away patios serve up dishes that tell stories of creativity, culture, and community. At Austin's Elite Staffing, we’ve been exploring these secret corners of Austin’s food world to craft catering menus that bring a taste of this diversity to your next event. Let’s take a journey through some of these under-the-radar spots and show you how their flavors can inspire your gathering. Curious about our full range of offerings? Check out our services page to see how we can elevate your event.
East Austin’s Fusion Finds: Kemuri Tatsu-ya’s Smoky Magic
Tucked into the eclectic streets of East Austin, Kemuri Tatsu-ya is a love letter to both Japanese izakaya culture and Texas barbecue. This isn’t your typical sushi joint or smokehouse—it’s a fusion that shouldn’t work but absolutely does. Think brisket ramen, where tender, smoky meat swims in a rich broth, or chili cheese takoyaki that blends the creamy spice of Texas with the playful texture of Japanese street food. The vibe is laid-back yet intentional, with a patio that feels like a secret hangout.
For your next event, we’ve taken inspiration from Kemuri’s bold mashups. Imagine a catering spread featuring smoked brisket sliders with a miso glaze, or bite-sized takoyaki stuffed with spicy pulled pork and drizzled with a tangy soy-chili sauce. These dishes bring a little East-meets-South swagger to the table—perfect for a wedding rehearsal dinner or a corporate happy hour that needs a twist. It’s Austin’s spirit of innovation on a plate, and we’re here to serve it up fresh.
South Austin’s Cozy Comfort: The Little House’s Smash Burgers
Down in South Austin, hidden in the Central Courtyard, The Little House is a one-room wonder that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. This tiny eatery is all about comfort food with a punch—think smash burgers piled high with jalapeño bacon and caramelized onions, served on pillowy potato buns. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’ve stumbled into a friend’s backyard cookout, only the food is next-level good. Their limited-time specials, like a smoky BBQ burger, keep things exciting for regulars.
We’ve channeled that cozy, crowd-pleasing energy into a catering menu that’s all about handheld happiness. Picture a burger bar with mini smash patties—juicy, crispy-edged, and customizable with toppings like spicy aioli, pickled onions, and melty cheddar. Pair it with curly fries or fried pickles for that Little House flair. It’s a hit for casual gatherings like family reunions or birthday parties, where you want food that feels familiar but tastes extraordinary. Need rentals to pull it off? Explore our rentals-only options for tables, chairs, and more.
North Loop’s Nostalgic Nosh: Nervous Charlie’s Bagels
Over in North Loop, Nervous Charlie’s is a bagel haven that flies under the radar compared to Austin’s taco and BBQ giants. This spot churns out chewy, golden bagels that rival anything you’d find in New York, with flavors like everything seasoning and cinnamon raisin. Their breakfast sandwiches—stacked with eggs, bacon, and sharp cheddar—are the kind of morning fuel that makes you glad you got out of bed. It’s a no-frills joint with a loyal following, and it’s exactly the kind of hidden gem that makes Austin special.
For your next brunch event, we’ve crafted a menu inspired by Nervous Charlie’s straightforward deliciousness. Think bagel boards loaded with house-made schmears (jalapeño cream cheese, anyone?), smoked salmon, and crispy bacon, alongside mini breakfast sliders that pack a punch. It’s a nod to Austin’s love of breakfast done right, perfect for a baby shower or a morning team meeting. Plus, it’s portable enough to keep the party moving—because who doesn’t love a bagel on the go?
The Riverside Retreat: Kinda Tropical’s Laid-Back Vibes
Just off the buzz of East Downtown, Kinda Tropical is a renovated gas station turned patio paradise. This spot leans into its “kinda tropical” name with a menu that’s light, flavorful, and a little unexpected—think yellow coconut curry with a Texas twist, or sriracha carrot hummus that’s as bold as it is fresh. The burgers are a fan favorite, juicy and paired with crispy fries, but it’s the relaxed, island-meets-Austin atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
We’ve bottled that chill energy for a catering lineup that’s all about easy, vibrant eats. Picture a spread with coconut curry chicken skewers, zesty hummus platters with veggie dippers, and mini tropical burgers topped with pineapple salsa. It’s a menu that screams summer picnic or backyard bash, but it works year-round thanks to Austin’s endless sunshine. Add some frozen mango margaritas, and you’ve got a party that feels like a mini-vacation. Want to see our full menu options? Visit our packages page for inspiration.
The Thai-Vietnamese Treasure: NG Cafe’s Strip-Mall Surprise
Nestled in a strip mall, NG Cafe doesn’t look like much from the outside—but step in, and you’re hit with the aromas of authentic Thai and Vietnamese cooking. This family-run spot serves up generous portions of pho with silky noodles and fragrant broth, alongside pad Thai that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and spicy. It’s the kind of place where the food does the talking, and the prices make it a local secret worth keeping.
For your next event, we’ve drawn from NG Cafe’s soul-warming flavors to create a catering menu that’s both comforting and exotic. Imagine a pho station with steaming broth, tender beef, and all the fixings—fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a splash of sriracha. Or try our Thai-inspired spring rolls, packed with shrimp and veggies, served with a peanut dipping sauce that’s downright addictive. It’s a great fit for a dinner party or a cultural celebration, bringing a taste of Austin’s diverse roots to your table.
Bringing It All Together: Your Austin-Inspired Event
What ties these hidden gems together? They’re all about authenticity, creativity, and that unmistakable Austin vibe—unpretentious yet unforgettable. At Austin's Elite, we’re obsessed with translating that into catering that wows your guests without feeling fussy. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate gig, or a backyard shindig, we can mix and match these inspirations to suit your crowd. Want a little Kemuri fusion with your Kinda Tropical flair? Done. How about Nervous Charlie’s bagels paired with The Little House’s burger magic? We’ve got you. Learn more about our approach on our about page.
Austin’s lesser-known food trails aren’t just about eating—they’re about discovery. They’re the hole-in-the-wall taco stand you stumble across after a show, the patio cafe where you linger over coffee, the fusion spot that makes you rethink what food can be. Our job is to bring that sense of adventure to your event, one bite at a time. So next time you’re planning a gathering, let’s skip the usual suspects and dive into the secret life of Austin’s food scene. Ready to get started? Request a quote today, or give us a shout via our contact page to craft a menu that’s as unique as this city we call home.