Aba Austin

Sitting outside under Aba’s 100-year-old oak tree, lined with glass and metal lanterns from Morocco and the Middle East, you would never guess there’s a Lululemon around the corner. That's the kind of oasis created on this patio with Mediterranean-inspired food featuring fresh ingredients and plentiful use of olive oil that just might convince your taste buds that you’ve landed in Athens. Take a date and order a couple small plates, like the crispy Short Rib Hummus with grilled onions, sherry, and beef jus, to split.

The Chicago-based import from Top Chef alum CJ Jacobson opened here in 2020, and has since become a lovers’ go-to thanks to its scenic location on Music Lane, Cali-cool vibe, and mezze-style shareables. Their Mediterranean-led menu offers inventive takes on Israeli, Lebanese, Greek, and Turkish dishes like Crispy Short Rib Hummus, Muhammara (roasted pepper, chili, walnut, and pomegranate molasses), and Grilled Cauliflower Kebab. Meanwhile, drinks experiment with similarly regional ingredients, like a Mediterranean Mule with herb-infused vodka, almond, Galliano, ginger, and lime. Booze-free “zero proof” cocktails are also available for those abstaining from liquid courage.
How to book: Reserve via Tock or order takeout delivery via Caviar.

Spice up your holidays with some Mediterranean vibes at South Austin’s Aba. The special Christmas menu features a fusion of warm-and-fuzzy holiday favorites with touches of Israeli, Lebanese, Turkish, and Greek cuisine—think Wild Mushroom Hummus, Stracciatella with Persimmon, Grilled Chicken Kebab, and Braised Short Rib. You can even add a sommelier-selected bottle of wine to make the cycle complete. And, if you have a history of setting off your fire alarm due to kitchen disasters, you’ll appreciate the intricate, step-by-step instructions Aba provides along with each dish—they’ll take your leftover game to a whole new level.
Cost: A la carte menu prices vary
How to book Order pick-up online.