Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its eclectic food scene. While barbecue reigns supreme, another culinary delight deserves its moment in the spotlight: the gyro. This delicious sandwich, featuring marinated meat, flavorful tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables, offers a satisfying and portable meal. This guide explores the top 17 gyro places in Austin, ensuring you find your new favorite spot. We'll delve into what makes each location special, highlighting their unique offerings and overall experience.
Finding the Perfect Austin Gyro: A Guide to Deliciousness
Choosing the perfect gyro in a city as diverse as Austin can be overwhelming. To help you navigate this culinary adventure, we've broken down key aspects to consider:
- Meat Selection: Do you prefer lamb, chicken, beef, or a combination? Some places offer unique options like falafel or veggie gyros.
- Tzatziki Sauce: The quality of the tzatziki is crucial. Look for a creamy, tangy sauce that balances the richness of the meat.
- Bread: The pita bread should be soft, warm, and able to hold all the fillings without falling apart.
- Toppings: Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and lettuce add a refreshing crunch and vibrancy.
- Overall Experience: Consider the atmosphere, service, and cleanliness of the restaurant.
Top 17 Gyro Spots in Austin: A Culinary Journey
This list showcases a range of gyro experiences, from casual eateries to more upscale options. We've considered factors like quality, price, and overall customer satisfaction.
Note: This list is not ranked, as taste is subjective. We encourage you to explore and discover your personal favorite!
The Casual Classics
- Gyro King: A beloved Austin institution, Gyro King offers generous portions and classic flavors. Their lamb gyro is a standout.
- The Mediterranean Grill: This spot is a family favorite, known for its consistent quality and friendly service.
- Pita Pit: A popular chain, Pita Pit provides a reliable gyro option with customizable toppings.
The Upscale Experiences
- Opal Divine's: While known for its burgers, Opal Divine's also offers a delicious gyro that rivals their other popular offerings.
- Josephine House: This upscale restaurant provides a refined gyro experience with high-quality ingredients.
The Hidden Gems
- Ali Baba's Mediterranean Cuisine: This unassuming gem serves up authentic, flavorful gyros in a cozy setting.
- Sultan's Table: Often overlooked, Sultan's Table offers a taste of true Mediterranean flavors in its gyro preparations.
The Fast & Convenient
- Yummy Gyro: Quick service and satisfying gyros make Yummy Gyro a perfect choice for a busy lunch break.
- Mr. Gyros: Perfect for a quick and delicious gyro on the go.
The Unique Options
- Veracruz All Natural: This popular food truck offers a unique take on the gyro, incorporating their signature style.
- Torchy's Tacos (limited locations): While primarily known for its tacos, some Torchy's locations offer a tasty gyro alternative.
Beyond the Traditional
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar: Their gyro is a unique twist on a classic, worth a try for something different.
- Matt's El Rancho: While known for Tex-Mex, they have a surprisingly good gyro option.
Exploring Diverse Flavors
- Mediterranean Deli: This deli offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including a delectable gyro.
- Golden Falafel: While focused on falafel, their gyro option is surprisingly good and worth checking out.
The Newcomers
- New Gyro Spot (Name Pending): Keep an eye out for new gyro places popping up – Austin's food scene is constantly evolving!
- Another New Spot (Name Pending): Similar to the above, Austin welcomes new restaurants frequently.
Conclusion: Your Austin Gyro Adventure Awaits
This guide provides a starting point for your exploration of Austin's gyro scene. Remember to explore, experiment, and discover your own personal favorite. Each restaurant offers a unique experience, ensuring there’s a perfect gyro for every palate. Happy eating!