Whether you’re craving steak tartare, tomato bisque, escargot, or a madeleine cookie, you’re in luck: Austin is experiencing a boom in fare à la française right now. Since Michelin-recognized Le Calamar burst on the scene last summer, the capital city has seen a wave of other French-inspired restaurants, including Kappo Kappo at the Austin Proper and Restaurant François downtown. Here are six new and classic French spots to discover across the city. Bon appétit!
Restaurant François
Over the years, Guy + Larry Restaurants has established a strong reputation in Austin after debuting local favorites like Red Ash Italia, ATX Cocina, J. Carver’s, and Salty Sow. With its latest concept, the hospitality group forays into French-inspired cuisine with American sensibilities. Savor hearty dishes like swordfish steak au poivre, pappardelle with rabbit ragoût, and haricots verts almondine as you soak in the vibes of its gorgeous Art Deco dining room. 401 W. Third St., Ste. 100
Le Calamar
Landing on the Best New Restaurants lists of both Austin Monthly and the Austin-American Statesman last year, Michelin-recognized Le Calamar has been racking up accolades for its dynamic French-Texas menu since opening in May 2025. Helmed by Richard Hargreave and Claudia Lee (Underdog) as well as chef Casey Wall, its ever-changing menu features fresh offerings such as chicken wings à la koffman, steak tartare, beef tallow pommes frites, and a Texas riff on the classic Baked Alaska made with local olive oil, pecans, and honey. 1600 S. First St., Ste. 100
Kappo Kappo
Japanese fare with a French twist isn’t something you encounter every day. And yet, the combo works at this new omakase restaurant inside the Austin Proper. Helmed by Haru and Gohei Kishi, twin brothers who were born in Paris to Japanese parents, Kappo Kappo’s 11-course tasting menu includes highlights like caviar-topped A5 wagyu in a parmesan crust and Bourguignon-style beef cheek with red wine jus and potato foam. Featuring a cozy 25-seat interior and plenty of flourish from the chefs, this memorable dining experience was made for date night. 600 W. Second St.…