The Absolute Best Cajun Food in Austin [Updated 2025]

Having sampled a variety of dishes across the city, I’ve taken it upon myself to review 12 exceptional establishments that bring the bold flavors of Louisiana right to our doorstep.

From gumbo that warms the soul to spicy jambalaya that dances on your taste buds, Austin's cajun scene is bursting with culinary delights.

Join me as we dive into the rich spices, unique ingredients, and undeniable charm that make these eateries stand out in the bustling culinary landscape of our beloved city.

Let’s explore where you can indulge in authentic cajun cuisine that’ll leave you craving more!

KASIAN BOIL

Highlights
Exquisite hospitality
Amazing shrimp lovers boil
Friendly and accommodating staff
Great spice options
Delicious appetizers

Review of KASIAN BOIL in Austin

If you're on the hunt for a cajun experience that whisks you away to the bayou, look no further than KASIAN BOIL! Upon entering, I was greeted with exquisite hospitality that immediately set a warm tone for my culinary adventure. The cozy atmosphere made it the perfect spot to dive into their amazing shrimp lovers boil. I could practically hear the cajun spices calling my name!

The star of the show, of course, was the bountiful platter overflowing with perfectly cooked shrimp, infused with a medley of spices that danced playfully on my palate. What stood out most was the great variety of spice options—from mild to the fiery, each bite was an exhilarating journey. I’m all about those delicious appetizers, and KASIAN did not disappoint! The staff, ever so friendly and accommodating, made me feel right at home, ensuring I had everything I needed for a blissful meal.

In short, if a hearty dose of cajun goodness is what you crave, KASIAN BOIL is the ultimate destination in Austin. So round up your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable feast!

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Cypress Grill

Highlights
Casual and welcoming ambiance
Excellent lunch seafood platter
Tasty crawfish boil on Tuesdays
Good presentation and seasoning
Reasonable prices

Cypress Grill Review

Stepping into Cypress Grill, I was immediately enveloped by a casual and welcoming ambiance that made me feel right at home. The charming decor and friendly staff created an inviting atmosphere that set the perfect stage for a delightful meal. As I perused the menu, my heart quickened at the thought of diving into their famed seafood platter for lunch.

When it arrived, I was impressed by the clever presentation and generous portions. The dish was a treasure trove of flavors, showcasing the essence of Cajun cuisine. With each bite, I was greeted by perfectly seasoned shrimp and fish that danced on my palate, making me crave more. Oh, and the crawfish boil they host on Tuesdays? Pure magic in a bowl! The richness of the broth combined with the fresh crawfish was a taste experience worth every second of anticipation.

All this culinary bliss comes at reasonable prices, which is a refreshing surprise in the world of dining out. Cypress Grill fuels the soul with its delicious fare, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Cajun flavors in Austin. If you're ready to indulge, this is the place to be!

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New Orleans Gumbeaux 2 Geaux

Highlights
Incredible home cooking
Crispy, seasoned catfish
Welcoming and friendly staff
Rotating and versatile menu
Must-try combination gumbo

At New Orleans Gumbeaux 2 Geaux, I felt immediately at home amid the vibrant decor and the tantalizing aroma wafting from the kitchen. This joint offers an incredible home-cooked vibe, reminiscent of a Sunday feast in Louisiana. As I settled in, I couldn't resist trying the crispy, seasoned catfish—a dish that absolutely did not disappoint. The batter was perfectly golden and flaky, and the fish was juicy, dancing on my palate with each delightful bite.

What truly impressed me was their rotating and versatile menu that ensures there's always something new to tempt your taste buds. However, don’t skip the must-try combination gumbo! It’s an explosion of flavor, teeming with perfectly cooked shrimp, and rich sausage, all swimming in a robust, savory broth.

The staff members were welcoming and exuded a warmth that made me feel like part of the family. With hearty servings and a lively atmosphere, New Orleans Gumbeaux 2 Geaux has truly captured the essence of Cajun cuisine. If you're craving a taste of Louisiana, this place should be at the top of your list!

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Turf N' Surf Po Boy

Highlights
Superb freshness and balance
Best hush puppies in town
Generous portion sizes
Friendly and cheerful service
Delicious and filling tacos

Turf N' Surf Po Boy is an absolute gem tucked away in Austin that had me singing its praises from the very first bite. As I approached the counter, the cheerful aroma of spices wafted through the air, instantly igniting my taste buds. The hush puppies here deserve a special mention—they are, without a doubt, the best in town! Each bite is a delightful crunch, perfectly complementing the soft interiors.

The generous portion sizes made my heart sing, as I reveled in the sheer abundance of each dish. I savored their tacos, which were not only delicious but also incredibly filling, proving that you don’t need to compromise on quality when you’re hungry. Each taco was a unique flavor explosion that made me feel like I was dining right on the bayou.

What truly set Turf N' Surf apart was the friendly and cheerful service. The staff radiated positivity, adding to the inviting atmosphere of the place. Dining at Turf N' Surf Po Boy was an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and a dash of that irresistible Cajun spirit. If you're on the lookout for authentic cajun fare, this spot should be at the top of your list!

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French Quarter Grille

Highlights
Authentic Cajun flavors
Best gumbo in Austin
Romantic, cozy atmosphere
Soft jazz ambiance
Great for quiet dining

French Quarter Grille is a delightful getaway that captures the essence of Cajun cuisine right in the heart of Austin. The moment I stepped inside, I felt enveloped by a cozy atmosphere that echoes the enchanting spirit of New Orleans. With soft jazz playing in the background, it was the perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the gumbo. Undoubtedly, this is the best gumbo I've had in Austin. Each spoonful bursts with authentic flavors, reminding me of cozy family gatherings and vibrant street festivals back in Louisiana. The rich broth, packed with spices, is perfectly complemented by the tender chunks of chicken and Andouille sausage, making it a dish that demands your full attention.

If you’re seeking a romantic dining experience or just a serene spot to enjoy remarkable Cajun cuisine, French Quarter Grille delivers on all fronts. Their excellent service only adds to the overall charm. So, if you crave an authentic taste of Cajun life, look no further than this gem; it’s a culinary trip to New Orleans without leaving the city!

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Stuffed Cajun Meat Market

Highlights
Tender Fried Gator
Delicious Shrimp Po' Boy
Well-Seasoned Jambalaya
Authentic Louisiana Taste
Excellent Customer Service

Stuffed Cajun Meat Market is a hidden gem that tantalizes your taste buds with an authentic slice of Louisiana right in the heart of Austin. My culinary adventure kicked off with their tender fried gator, a dish that embodies the essence of Cajun cuisine. Each bite was a delightful crunch, followed by that unmistakable flavor that makes you wonder why you hadn’t tried it sooner!

Next, I savored their delicious shrimp po' boy, piled high with perfectly seasoned shrimp, nestled between toasted, freshly baked bread. It’s hard to explain the joy of biting into that crisp exterior, only to be embraced by the succulent shrimp and zesty remoulade.

But what truly stole the show was the well-seasoned jambalaya, a hearty dish that brings a symphony of flavors to your plate. The mix of spices dances with every spoonful, giving me a sense of home so effortlessly.

Lastly, the excellent customer service made my visit even more enjoyable. The staff here are not just servers; they’re passionate about sharing their love for Cajun cooking. Stuffed Cajun Meat Market is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Louisiana flavor—trust me; it’s a culinary journey you won’t forget!

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Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Generous portions
Must-try Boudin BALLZ
Fresh and delicious blue crabs
Excellent family-friendly atmosphere

Stepping into Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar felt like entering a vibrant corner of Louisiana right in the heart of Austin. The friendly and attentive staff immediately set the tone, making me feel right at home, as if I were at a family gathering where delicious food is abundant.

I dove straight into their must-try Boudin BALLZ, which are simply out of this world! These little gems burst with flavor and perfectly balance spice and richness. Each bite had me rethinking my life choices — how had I gone so long without them?

Next, I couldn't resist trying their fresh blue crabs. Let me tell you, they were delicious and sweet, cooked to perfection and drenched in their house seasoning. The generous portions left me thoroughly satisfied, making it clear that this place truly believes in feeding their guests well.

With an excellent family-friendly atmosphere, I could easily see this becoming a favorite spot for gatherings. If you find yourself craving authentic Cajun cuisine, make sure to check out Crawfish Shack—your taste buds will thank you! This spot certainly adds a sprinkle of Southern charm to Austin's food scene!

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Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar

Highlights
Amazing seafood boil options
Family-friendly atmosphere
Top-notch service
Flavorful seasonings
Daily happy hour deals

Walking into Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar, I was immediately struck by the lively, family-friendly atmosphere that envelops you like a comforting embrace. The flavorful seasonings wafting from the kitchen made my mouth water in anticipation of what was to come. I decided to dive into their seafood boil, and let me tell you—this is where the magic happens.

The boil was a vibrant medley of shrimp, crab, and sausage, each morsel perfectly cooked and generously coated in a robust seasoning blend that speaks volumes about Cajun culinary art. The generosity of portions had me grinning ear to ear. What's more, I was delighted to discover their enticing daily happy hour deals, making it easy to indulge a bit more.

Throughout my meal, the top-notch service kept my glass full and my spirits higher. The attentive staff made sure I had everything I needed without being overbearing—an ideal balance. Overall, Hook & Reel has definitely earned its place among the best Cajun food spots in Austin. I can’t wait to return for another flavorful feast!

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Evangeline Cafe

At Evangeline Cafe, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of New Orleans charm. The moment I had a taste of the Jambalaya, it transported me straight to the bayou—spicy, aromatic, and brimming with flavor! The Crawfish Étouffée was a delightful symphony of richness and heat that danced on my palate. Don’t skip their beignets for dessert; they’re fluffy clouds of sweetness. The friendly staff and a cozy ambiance make it a perfect spot for a spirited meal. Overall, this cafe truly captures the essence of Cajun cuisine—a culinary journey worth savoring!

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Big Easy Bar and Grill

At Big Easy Bar and Grill, the vibrant atmosphere instantly transports you to the heart of Louisiana. The Cajun gumbo is a flavorful symphony, rich with spices that dance on your palate. Their Blackened Catfish is seasoned to perfection, with a crispy exterior that yields tender, flaky fish inside. Don't miss their beignets, an indulgent sweet finish that’s truly heavenly! The staff is warm and welcoming, adding to the overall charm of the place. If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Cajun cuisine, this gem in Austin should be at the top of your list!

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Louisiana Crab Shack

Stepping into Louisiana Crab Shack felt like a delightful journey to the bayou! The atmosphere buzzed with a lively charm that warmed my heart. I indulged in the signature crab boil, where the vibrant spices danced with each bite. The seafood was fresh and cooked to perfection, exuding a taste that whispered secrets of Cajun shores. Don't miss the homemade dipping sauces—absolutely heavenly! The friendly staff added a sprinkle of Southern hospitality to the experience. For anyone craving authentic Cajun flavors in Austin, this place is a must-visit. I left with a satisfied smile and a hunger for more!

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Queeney'z Kitchen

Queeney'z Kitchen is a delightful gem that brings the heart of New Orleans right to Austin. From the moment I stepped inside, the vibrant decor and welcoming vibe had me feeling like I was in the heart of Cajun country. I sampled the shrimp gumbo, which was a perfect blend of spices that danced on my palate, and the jambalaya—oh, that smoky depth! Each bite felt like a warm hug. Don't skip the beignets for dessert; they are a sugary cloud of joy! If you’re craving authentic Cajun comfort food, Queeney'z is an absolute must-visit. 🌶️✨

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