Restaurant guide for the United States Grand Prix

Going to the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin isn’t just about the racing. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to explore one of America’s best food cities. Whether you want to grab a bite near the circuit after a long day at the track or head downtown for a late-night dinner, this guide has you covered. Here are the top restaurants and food options F1 fans love.

While some food vendors can be found within the circuit, most seasoned fans recommend diving into Austin’s culinary scene beyond the track. And in all honesty, they’re right—there’s a lot of good eating to do in this town.

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Where to eat near COTA

There aren’t many restaurants directly adjacent to the circuit, but a few local spots nearby have won the affection of fans who want to stay close:

• Meches Mexican Restaurant
  Less than a mile from COTA, this no-frills taqueria is loved for its fast service and excellent tacos.
• De Nada Cantina
  Located about 20 minutes from the track in East Austin, De Nada is popular for its handmade tortillas, refreshing margaritas, and vibrant atmosphere—perfect for post-race downtime.

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Inside the circuit: Food court for fanciers

COTA regularly hosts a variety of local food vendors in its Grand Plaza and Fan Field during race weekend. Expect quality bites designed for walking-and-eating convenience:

• Kababeque – Indian-Mediterranean fusion wraps and bowls
• Four Brothers – Venezuelan-style arepas and bowls
• Mama Fried – Loaded fries and fried comfort food
• Bambino – Classic-style pizza slices
• Tiff’s Treats – Warm cookies and sweet treats

Food prices usually range from $12–$24 per meal. During peak times, lines can be long—so consider eating before or after track sessions if you want to avoid the crowds.

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The best BBQ spots in Austin

You can’t leave Austin without trying the barbecue. Here are the top options to build into your F1 weekend:

• Franklin Barbecue
  World-famous for its brisket (and its lines). Get there very early or try ordering online in advance.
• Terry Black’s Barbecue
  A local favorite and known F1 driver stop. Offers brisket, pork ribs, sausage, turkey, and sides—all served fast and fresh.
• InterStellar BBQ
  Michelin-starred and slightly outside the city core, this place takes barbecue to another level with inventive meats and sides. It's less traditional, more gourmet.

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Upscale and chef-driven dining

Want to turn your F1 weekend into a full foodie adventure? These upscale restaurants deliver:

• Suerte – Modern Mexican cuisine with a focus on masa and seasonal ingredients.
• Uchi / Uchiko – Acclaimed for sushi and omakase menus in a refined setting.
• Emmer & Rye – Farm-to-table small plates with rotating seasonal dishes.
• Birdie’s – Natural wines, laid-back counter service, and a short, ever-changing menu.

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Casual bites and brunch spots

In South Congress or downtown? Try these relaxed, crowd-pleasing favorites:

• Kerbey Lane Cafe – Local institution for pancakes, queso, and Tex-Mex breakfast all day.
• Toasty Badger – Cozy brunch café with standout biscuit sandwiches.
• Two Hands – Aussie-style breakfast and bowl café with great coffee and modern vibes.

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Food trucks and hidden gems near the track

Closer to the airport and the circuit, Redditors and review sites often recommend these local gems:

• Ceviche Love – Inexpensive, high-quality seafood tacos.
• Santa Rosa Barbacoa – Tender, slow-roasted lamb tacos packed with flavor.
• Drinks Backyard – Chill food truck park with pizza, burgers, and live music.
• Smokin’ Brew-B-Q – Reliable local BBQ with a dedicated fanbase and solid menu variety.

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Tips for F1 fans eating in Austin

• Book early – If you’re set on Franklin Barbecue, Uchi, or similar spots, make a reservation as soon as possible.
• Avoid peak hours – The COTA food court gets crowded, especially at lunch between sessions.
• Check hours and deals – Many restaurants extend hours or offer specials during race weekend.
• Plan your transport – COTA isn’t in a walkable area, and traffic spikes after the race. Use rideshares or allow extra time.

Whether you're after a quick taco near the circuit or an upscale meal in downtown Austin, this city has food that's worth traveling for. Just like the Grand Prix itself, Austin delivers on speed, variety, and serious flavor.

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