Austin Waters, nestled in The Colony, TX, is more than just a picturesque residential enclave—it’s a budding hotspot for creative and mouthwatering dining experiences. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, the neighborhood’s food scene has something for every palate, from upscale date-night dinners to quick bites and hidden gems locals secretly adore. Here’s my local’s guide to the very best restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and more in and around Austin Waters.
The Main Event: Must-Try Restaurants
The stretch along Windhaven Parkway forms the culinary backbone of Austin Waters, with several standout restaurants clustered here and on adjoining streets.
- Bubba’s 33 (2609 S. Stemmons Fwy)
Just a stone’s throw from Austin Waters, Bubba’s 33 is notorious for its high-energy vibe and crowd-pleasing American fare. Their handcrafted burgers (try the Bacon Burger), stone-baked pizzas, and signature wings have earned a loyal following. Sit at the bar for sports-watching with friends, or tuck into a booth for a relaxed family dinner. Prices are reasonable, with most entrees under $18.
- Whistle Britches (6121 W. Plano Pkwy)
A Southern-inspired restaurant that’s a flavor-packed favorite, Whistle Britches excels at crispy fried chicken—order it classic, spicy, or as part of their legendary chicken & biscuits brunch. Sides like jalapeño-cheese grits and house-made pickles complete the comfort food experience. The ambiance is rustic-chic, with weekday happy hours making it a popular after-work meetup spot.
- Parry’s Pizzeria & Taphouse (5701 State Hwy 121)
Located at the corner of State Highway 121 and Plano Pkwy (just outside the core neighborhood), Parry’s is a New York-style pizza haven, perfect for big groups. Choose from a wide range of craft beers on tap, and don’t miss their buttery garlic knots or extra-large signature pies. Budget-friendly lunch combos add to its allure for locals.
Cozy Corners: Cafés & Bakeries That Shine
Austin Waters’ coffee and pastry scene is gaining traction, thanks to a handful of independent gems and reliable chains nearby.
- Farina’s Winery & Café (2029 Justin Rd, Lewisville)
Worth a short, scenic drive north, Farina’s is a warm, inviting spot for coffee dates, wine flights, and shareable bites. Locals rave about their paninis, quiche of the day, and homemade desserts—notably the tiramisu. Prices range from $8–$16 for most menu items, and there’s patio seating ideal for sunny mornings.
- 85°C Bakery Cafe (9292 Warren Pkwy, Frisco)
A destination for pastry lovers, this Asian bakery (about five minutes from Austin Waters) overflows with pillowy sweet buns, fresh breads, and silky-smooth iced sea salt coffee. Watch the bakers at work through glass—try the taro bun or Portuguese egg tart for a sweet treat under $5.
- Ascension Coffee (3626 The Star Blvd #1205, Frisco)
This Australian-style café, just east of the neighborhood, serves ethically-sourced single-origin coffees and refined breakfast fare (avocado toast, smoked salmon bagels, gorgeous lattes). It’s pricier than some, with brunch mains $10–$18, but the quality and presentation are unmatched.
Quick Bites: Food Trucks & Fast-Casual Favorites
Looking for something fast, fun, and full of flavor? Food trucks and casual eateries are popping up along Windhaven Parkway and State Highway 121, making a quick meal deliciously easy.
- El Tizoncito Taqueria
Often parked near Windhaven Pkwy and Plano Pkwy, this family-run taco truck draws crowds for its authentic al pastor tacos and homemade salsas. Their pricing is easy on the wallet (3 tacos for $7), and the dining is no-frills—just unbeatable street food flavor.
- Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers (4650 Windhaven Pkwy)
For a fast-food fix, locals flock to Cane’s for juicy chicken tenders, Texas toast, and creamy Cane’s Sauce. It’s walkable from most Austin Waters homes, making it a favorite for family dinners on the go.
Hidden Gems: Underrated Local Favorites
Every neighborhood has those legends—spots the locals keep to themselves. In Austin Waters, you’ll regret missing these easy-to-overlook dining treasures:
- Olivella’s Neo Pizza Napoletana (5005 State Hwy 121, The Colony)
Tucked just behind the main retail stretch, Olivella’s offers Neapolitan pizzas and Italian desserts that rival Dallas’s best. Their truffle cheese bread is absolutely addictive, and the Margherita D.O.C. pizza is a thing of beauty—fresh mozzarella, basil, and imported San Marzano tomatoes on crackly-charred crust.
- CraftWay Kitchen (5809 Preston Rd #578)
A short hop north, this spot is a local favorite for Texas comfort with an upscale twist—think fried green tomatoes, creamy shrimp & grits, or the chicken pot pie. Their cocktails are thoughtful and strong, and the service makes everyone feel like a regular.
Flavorful Food Traditions
Austin Waters is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of The Colony, West Plano, and Frisco—an area known for weekly “foodie crawls.” Neighbors often organize progressive dinners, sampling appetizers at one local spot, mains at another, and dessert at a beloved bakery or café. There’s also a growing tradition of food truck rallies, especially in warmer months, making it even easier to try several cuisines in one evening.
Where to Head Next
While Austin Waters is compact, its food culture is expansive and ever-evolving. If you’re living here or making an afternoon of it, try clustering your food stops at these hot corners:
- Windhaven Pkwy & State Hwy 121: The central artery, great for sit-down meals and food trucks.
- Plano Pkwy & Windhaven Pkwy: For fried chicken, pastries, and surprising brunch finds.
- The Star Blvd (nearby in Frisco): For indie coffee, global eats, and lively patio dining.
So next time you’re craving something new, skip the chain-filled mega-centers and dive into Austin Waters’ genuinely local eats—you’ll find plenty to savor, and maybe even a new favorite or two!