Austin’s thriving restaurant scene

The capital of Texas is also the state’s “coolest city,” said Jennifer McKenzie Frazier in Southern Living. Country music stars, button-down legislators, cowboys, and hippies all call it home. Here are some of the places “that really show Austin’s diverse appeal.”

Uchi This hip sushi bar serves up amazing dishes such as seared scallops with watermelon radish and shrimp with lime, ­fennel, and fiddle­head ferns. 801 S. Lamar Blvd., (512) 916-4808

Austin Land & Cattle Company “For a true taste of Texas,” order an aged, 8-ounce filet mignon or a 28-ounce porterhouse, both accompanied by one of six different sauces. 1205 N. Lamar Blvd., (512) 472-1813

Hula Hut “My family’s first stop in town.” The fajitas, either spicy Thai-style or cooked in local Shiner Bock beer, are typical of this spot’s fusion “Mexonesian” cuisine. 3825 Lake Austin Blvd., (512) 476-4852

Bess Bistro on Pecan Owned by actress Sandra Bullock, this New American restaurant “combines the best of the American South and European mainstays.” Try the ­ratatouille, shrimp and grits, and fried green tomatoes. 500 W. Sixth St., (512) 477-2377