Welcome to the Counter Cafe, where we bring the finest, fresh, and organic food to your table in a warm and friendly diner setting. We are proud to offer high-quality, down-home diner creations with a gourmet twist. Our commitment to natural and organic ingredients and locally-sourced products, when available, is our way of celebrating the food awakenings of the counter culture revolution at the Counter Cafe.
Austin's Iconic Diner
The Counter Cafe first opened its doors in 2004, housed in a former 1950s diner not much bigger than a shoebox on North Lamar Boulevard. Since then, we have grown to two locations in Austin while maintaining the heart of farm-to-table cuisine and the soul of a greasy spoon. Our original diner remains a beloved local spot, where you can find breakfast tacos stuffed with nitrate-free bacon and organic eggs or the in-season fruit atop locally made yogurt and granola.
Award-Winning Menu
Our menu has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the "20 Best Austin Breakfasts" by Austin Monthly, one of the "50 Greatest Hamburgers in Texas" by Texas Monthly, and one of the "21 Best Breakfast Spots in America" by Thrillist. The Counter Burger is a crowd favorite, often enjoyed by more than half our customers during lunch hour. We also offer an extensive menu, featuring first-rate crab cakes and fried oysters, making us a popular destination for breakfast, brunch, and lunch.
Fresh and Local Ingredients
At the Counter Cafe, we believe that quality starts with using the best ingredients. We source our ingredients locally and seasonally, ensuring that our food is always fresh and full of flavor. Our eggs come from free-range hens, and our meats are free of hormones and antibiotics. Our commitment to locally-sourced products also supports the Austin community and reduces our carbon footprint.
Catering and Events
In addition to our two locations, we offer catering services for all your events. From corporate breakfasts to weddings and private parties, our team will work with you to create a custom menu perfect for your event.
Experience the Counter Cafe
Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or a satisfying lunch, the Counter Cafe has something for everyone. Come and experience the warm and friendly atmosphere that has made us one of Austin's premier diners. We look forward to serving you!
Overview of Counter Cafe Reviews
General Impression
The overall sentiment towards Counter Cafe is overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers praising the restaurant's comfortable atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and delicious food.
Food Quality
Reviewers raved about the restaurant's breakfast options, including the Counter Burger, pancakes, eggs Benedict, and quail dishes. Many mentioned that the food was flavorful, fresh, and of high quality.
Service
The service at Counter Cafe received high praise, with many reviewers mentioning friendly and attentive servers, such as Katie and Will.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's atmosphere was described as comfortable, relaxing, and having a typical Austin vibe. The outdoor seating area was also a plus for many reviewers.
Parking and Accessibility
One reviewer appreciated the easy parking and accessibility of the restaurant, including wheelchair accessibility.
Negatives
A few reviewers mentioned some drawbacks, including average-tasting food, slow service, and some dishes being too salty or greasy.

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