East Austin

History & Character

The Story of East Austin

East Austin's story is one of resilience and reinvention. Historically home to Austin's African American and Mexican American communities — shaped in part by the city's 1928 master plan that concentrated minority residents east of I-35 — the area became a cradle of blues, jazz, and Tejano culture. Landmarks like the Victory Grill on East 11th Street hosted legends from B.B. King to Billie Holiday. In the 2000s, artists priced out of SoCo and downtown discovered cheap warehouse space east of the highway, sparking a creative explosion. Today, East Austin anchors the city's gallery scene, mural culture, craft breweries, and some of its most exciting restaurants — while ongoing community investment works to honor and preserve its deep cultural roots.

Where to Eat

Top Restaurants in East Austin