I am going with girls to Austin and we are each supposed to pick one restaurant to dine. Do not want stuffy or $$$$, just really good food and fun. It's kind of a competition, so need to find THE BOMB RESTAURANT!!! LOL Thanks.

How old are you, what is your budget and what are your food preferences? Will you have a car? We could be more helpful if you shared a little more about yourselves.

Austin has some of the best BBQ in America. Most of the best ones are not in town but they are less than 20/30 miles from town. Salt Lick is outstanding. Kreuz is another good one.

http://www.saltlickbbq.com/

Ages 20 to 50, American cuisine and $$

Oops, yes we'll have a car

We loved the South Congress Cafe. Great food and Trudy's Mexican Martinis!

Based on your information, I think you might want to check out Shady Grove,Hyde Park Grill or Eastside Cafe. These are unique to Austin and have good "American" food in your price range. They are very different, so you will probably want to look at more information about each online. http://www.theshadygrove.com/
http://hpbng.com/
http://www.eastsidecafeaustin.com/

Moonshine I think fits that bill.

Delish Cupcakes on West 3rd when you need a small treat or a pick-me-up.

When are you coming to Austin?

TTT

Adding on to this post! My best friend from college and I (both 30) will be in Austin for a long weekend in mid May. We only get to see each other a few times of year (she is from MD, I am from NY).

We are into seeing the sights, great food & drinks, shopping.

Does anyone have any suggestions as 'must see/do in Austin'?