The Absolute Best Crawfish in Austin [Updated 2025]

Having reviewed a dozen local spots, I've tasted everything from traditional preparations to creative twists on this Southern delicacy.

In this article, I'll share my favorites, highlighting what makes each one unique and worth a visit.

Whether you're a lifelong crawfish lover or a curious newcomer, there's something here to satisfy your cravings.

Get ready to dive into the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere that make Austin a must-visit destination for crawfish enthusiasts!

The Boat

Highlights
Amazing gumbo
Laid back atmosphere
Attentive service
Best key lime pie
Unique restaurant design

The Boat captured my heart and taste buds with its laid-back atmosphere and fabulous crawfish offerings. Upon entering, I was greeted by a uniquely designed space that felt warm and inviting, perfect for a casual night out with friends. As I settled in, I couldn’t resist ordering their acclaimed gumbo, which turned out to be a brilliant introduction to the evening.

When the crawfish arrived, I instantly knew I was in for a treat. Each bite was bursting with spicy goodness, cooked to perfection and seasoned just right. It’s the kind of meal that bespeaks camaraderie, where you find yourself laughing and sharing stories over the table, hands stained with deliciousness.

The service was remarkably attentive, ensuring my glass was never empty and that I had everything I needed to revel in my feast. As a sweet finish, the best key lime pie I’ve ever had practically danced off the menu and into my heart. If you're hunting for crawfish in Austin, The Boat is the place to be—it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that’s equal parts flavorful and fun!

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Cypress Grill

Highlights
Tasty Crawfish Boil
Casual Ambiance
Reasonable Prices
Excellent Bartender
Outdoor Patio Seating

At Cypress Grill, I had the pleasure of digging into what might just be the best crawfish this side of the Mississippi. The moment I entered, I was greeted by a laid-back atmosphere that encouraged you to kick back and enjoy the good times. The outdoor patio seating was nothing short of delightful, allowing me to soak in the Texas sun while savoring my meal.

Now, let's talk about the crawfish boil—it was a feast for the senses! Each bite was packed with flavor, and the spice level was just right to keep my taste buds dancing. What impressed me even more were the reasonable prices, making it perfect for a casual hangout or a lively gathering.

To wash it all down, the excellent bartender mixed up some refreshing beverages that complemented the crawfish perfectly. All in all, Cypress Grill offered an experience that was both satisfying and memorable. Whether you're a seasoned crawfish lover or a curious newcomer, this gem in Austin is a must-visit. Grab your friends and dig in—your taste buds will thank you!

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KASIAN BOIL

Highlights
Amazing hospitality
Exquisite food options
Great spicy and mild options
Recommended for first-timers
Friendly and accommodating staff

KASIAN BOIL is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Austin, and my visit there was nothing short of a culinary adventure! As soon as I walked in, I was embraced by the amazing hospitality that set the tone for a fantastic meal. The ambiance struck the perfect balance between casual and fun, making it ideal for both families and crawfish enthusiasts.

Now, let's get to the star of the show: the crawfish. I was thrilled to discover an exquisite selection of food options that catered to every palate, from the spice-savvy to those who prefer a milder kick. The crawfish, fresh and succulent, was expertly cooked and seasoned. Whether you like it hot or mild, KASIAN BOIL has great spicy and mild options that tantalize your taste buds!

As someone who often seeks out the best crawfish, I found KASIAN BOIL to be incredibly friendly and accommodating, which is no small feat in such a bustling city. This spot comes highly recommended for first-timers eager to dive into an authentic Louisiana experience. Trust me, you won't be disappointed—you'll leave craving more of their deliciously seasoned crawfish!

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Turf N' Surf Po Boy

Highlights
Fresh seafood with generous portions
Best hush puppies in town
Friendly and cheerful service
Delicious tilapia tacos
Unassuming yet impressive quality

When I stepped into Turf N' Surf Po Boy, I was immediately drawn into the friendly atmosphere and the mouth-watering aroma of fresh seafood wafting through the air. Now, let me tell you, the crawfish here is not just your average restaurant fare; it's an experience! The portions are generous, ensuring that I indulged in plenty of those succulent, spicy delights.

But what truly caught my attention were the hush puppies—arguably the best in town! Their crispy outside gives way to a soft, flavorful interior that perfectly complements the crawfish. I couldn't resist pairing my meal with their delectable tilapia tacos, a delightful twist that rounded out my hearty feast.

The cheerful service added a special touch, making the dining experience not just enjoyable but also memorable. It’s this mix of unassuming charm and impressive quality that makes Turf N' Surf Po Boy a standout in my quest for the best crawfish in Austin. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Louisiana right here in Texas, this is undoubtedly the place to be. I left feeling satisfied and ready to rave about this gem in the heart of Austin!

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Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar

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

When I stepped into Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar, the vibrant atmosphere instantly set the scene for a delightful culinary adventure. The menu boasts an impressive array of seafood boil options, but I was here for the stars of the show: the crawfish! As soon as the steaming basket hit the table, my senses were awakened by the bold and flavorful seasonings that danced across the vibrant red shells.

What truly impressed me was the generous portion size, paired with a delightful spice blend that struck the perfect balance between kick and flavor. I found myself savoring the Louisiana-inspired taste with each mouthful, and the sweetness of the meat was simply sublime.

To make the experience even better, their happy hour deals were too good to resist, ensuring not only a delicious meal but also a friendly dent in my wallet. The staff provided top-notch service, making me feel right at home. Whether you're dining with family or friends, Hook & Reel is a wonderful spot to indulge in remarkable crawfish that will leave you coming back for more. Discovering this gem was indeed a feast for both my palate and my spirit!

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Shoal Creek Saloon

Highlights
Crawfish boil perfection
Pleasant creekside ambiance
Must-try fried green tomatoes
Popular garlic shrimp dish
Go early for fresh crawfish

Shoal Creek Saloon is a hidden gem that truly encapsulates the essence of a delightful crawfish boil. Nestled beside the soothing sounds of nature, the ambiance is both inviting and relaxing, making it an ideal spot for enjoying this delectable dish. I arrived early – a decision I highly recommend – as the freshness of their crawfish is unbeatable.

As I devoured the vibrant, flavorful crawfish, I couldn't help but appreciate the seasoning that perfectly balanced spice and zest. Each bite was a journey of taste that left me eager for more. But don't stop there! You simply must try their fried green tomatoes, which provided a delightful contrast to the spicy goodness of the main dish.

As a bonus, I couldn't resist ordering their popular garlic shrimp. This dish deserves its reputation; it was loaded with succulent shrimp that paired seamlessly with the remnants of the crawfish seasoning on my plate.

In short, if you're in Austin and craving a crawfish experience, look no further than Shoal Creek Saloon. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the heart of Texas cuisine. Come hungry and ready for good times!

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Quality Seafood Market

Highlights
Fresh oysters at great prices
Delicious mussels praised highly
Fun bar atmosphere
Variety of seafood dishes offered
Casual and welcoming vibe

Visiting Quality Seafood Market in Austin was like stepping into a seafood lover's paradise! As soon as I arrived, the casual and welcoming vibe enveloped me, making it the perfect spot to relax and indulge in some delightful crawfish. This place is well-known not just for its crawfish, but also for its fresh oysters at great prices and delicious mussels that have garnered rave reviews.

The fun bar atmosphere was infectious, creating a sense of community among fellow seafood enthusiasts. While I was there, I couldn’t resist trying their signature crawfish boil. It was seasoned to perfection, bursting with flavor and spiced just right, making every bite a delicious adventure.

What I appreciated most was the variety of seafood dishes they offered, catering to every palate while still keeping that authentic coastal charm alive. It’s evident that Quality Seafood Market takes pride in their craft, and it truly shows in their dishes. If you’re searching for top-notch crawfish in Austin, look no further. With great food and a lively ambiance, it’s an experience that you won’t want to miss!

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Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar

Highlights
Generous food portions
Friendly and attentive service
Must-try boudin BALLZ
Fun family dining atmosphere
Fresh and delicious seafood

If you're on the hunt for an unforgettable crawfish experience, allow me to regale you with my recent visit to Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar. As soon as I entered, the vibrant energy and family-friendly atmosphere made me feel right at home.

The first thing I noticed was the generous portions—you won’t leave hungry! The crawfish, bursting with flavor, was perfectly seasoned, making each bite a delightful encounter. What truly caught my attention, though, were the must-try boudin BALLZ. These little gems are the perfect combination of spicy and savory, and they disappeared almost instantly from my plate.

The friendly and attentive service played a significant role in enhancing my experience, too. The staff was eager to share recommendations, ensuring I got the best of what they offer. I couldn't help but smile as they poured that beautifully spiced boil into my bowl—the aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water.

In a nutshell, Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious seafood in Austin; it truly stands out among the rest!

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Louisiana Crab Shack

At Louisiana Crab Shack, the crawfish experience is nothing short of a delightful adventure! These little critters are served steaming hot and perfectly seasoned, bursting with bold flavors that transport you straight to the bayou. The atmosphere is vibrant, and the communal dining style invites a sense of camaraderie, making it perfect for gatherings. And let’s not forget the buttery dipping sauce—it’s a game changer! Overall, Louisiana Crab Shack stands out for its authentic flair and delicious offerings, earning it a top spot in the quest for Austin’s best crawfish. Don’t miss it!

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Catfish Parlour South

Nestled in the heart of South Austin, Catfish Parlour South is an unassuming gem for crawfish lovers. As the platter of bright, juicy mudbugs arrived at my table, I couldn't help but admire their vibrant hue, promising a mouthful of flavor. Each bite was a delightful explosion of spices and savory goodness, perfectly complemented by a side of their tangy dipping sauce. The laid-back atmosphere creates a welcoming vibe, ideal for casual feasting with friends. If you're on the hunt for bold, unforgettable crawfish, this spot will surely satisfy your cravings. Definitely worth a visit!

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TLC Austin

During my culinary adventure at TLC Austin, I was greeted by the irresistible aroma of spice that set my taste buds tingling. The crawfish was cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor and devilishly tender. What truly stood out was their signature seasoning—a delightful blend that left me reaching for more. The casual vibe and friendly service added to the overall experience, making it a perfect spot for both local enthusiasts and curious newcomers. If you're on the hunt for crawfish that truly shines, TLC Austin is a must-visit destination for your next feast!

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Crawfish ATX

I recently dove into a delightful feast at Crawfish ATX, and let me tell you, it was a flavor-packed adventure! The crawfish was expertly seasoned—spicy yet perfectly balanced—making each bite irresistible. The lively atmosphere was infectious, filled with laughter and the clinking of cold drinks. I also appreciated the generous portions, ensuring everyone leaves with a happy, full belly. Don’t miss the signature dipping sauces; they elevate the experience to a whole new level. If you’re hunting for the best crawfish in Austin, this spot should definitely be on your list!

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