As a nutritional therapy practitioner and a fervent advocate for wellness, one of the most frequently asked questions I encounter from clients, friends, and readers of my blog revolves around the intricate challenge of maintaining a Paleo or AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) diet while on the go. It’s an undeniable hurdle, fraught with complexities like navigating potential cross-contamination, deciphering obscure ingredients, avoiding unhealthy oils and problematic spices, and simply managing the inherent stress that comes with strict dietary needs during travel. I’ve previously chronicled my varied Paleo and AIP travel experiences, sharing insights from our adventures in enchanting Italy, the magical realm of Disney World with its unique allergy accommodations, and the vibrant city of San Francisco. Each journey presented its own set of lessons, particularly my extensive trip to Indonesia, which proved to be quite demanding. However, my recent weekend getaway stood out as an unparalleled success, offering the most enjoyable experience with abundant Paleo and AIP-friendly food options I’ve encountered yet. This culinary triumph was achieved in none other than the dynamic city of Austin, TX!
My husband and I call Dallas, TX, home, making Austin a convenient few-hour drive south. With a significant transition underway in my business and professional life this year, we sought a low-key yet memorable celebration for our second anniversary. Austin emerged as the perfect, stress-free choice, promising both relaxation and adventure without the demands of a major, time-consuming journey. It was also an opportunity to revisit a city close to my heart.
Just last year, I immersed myself in comprehensive nutritional therapy training right in Austin. While the experience was incredibly enriching, my schedule was so packed with classes and studies that I barely had a moment to explore, let alone savor, the incredible array of Paleo and AIP-friendly culinary delights that Austin is renowned for. This made our anniversary trip a long-overdue and highly anticipated visit, a chance to finally indulge in the city’s much-lauded health-conscious food scene that I had only heard whispers about.
Typically, when I embark on any trip, my packing list includes an extensive array of essentials: a large cooler, multiple ice packs, and carefully prepped, full meals to ensure I have safe and compliant options available at all times. This meticulous planning is often vital for adhering to my dietary protocols, especially in unfamiliar territories. However, for our Austin adventure, I felt a remarkable sense of confidence and ease. Knowing Austin’s reputation as a bastion for healthy and accommodating eateries, I packed unusually light on the food front, opting for just a few essential road snacks. This lighter approach was a testament to the city’s burgeoning reputation as a haven for those with dietary restrictions.
My modest selection of travel provisions included some flavorful Epic Bars for a quick protein boost, crunchy Sea Snax for a savory treat, nutrient-dense sardines, crisp carrots, and refreshing fresh fruit. These carefully chosen items are always reliable staples, providing wholesome sustenance and peace of mind when dining options might be unexpectedly limited or when hunger strikes between planned meals. They’re convenient, portable, and most importantly, perfectly aligned with both Paleo and AIP guidelines, making them indispensable companions for any health-conscious traveler.
Magnolia Market at the Silos – Waco, TX
Our journey from Dallas to Austin included a delightful, albeit incredibly popular and bustling, stop at Magnolia Market in Waco, TX. Waco frequently serves as a popular and convenient halfway point between Austin and Dallas, offering ample gas stations and amenities for travelers on the long drive. For years, Waco hadn’t held much in the way of major tourist attractions for us – we’re admittedly not big football fans, so Baylor’s games weren’t a draw. That all changed with the advent of Magnolia Market, the brainchild of Chip and Joanna Gaines from the beloved show “Fixer Upper.” It’s truly a charming and aesthetically pleasing destination that has transformed Waco into a must-visit spot.
Upon arrival, I was genuinely taken aback by the sheer number of people flocking to the market. My initial thought, as I approached the entrance, was that it might just be another overhyped attraction. However, once I stepped inside and began to explore, witnessing firsthand the exquisite design, the curated home decor, and the vibrant atmosphere, my skepticism quickly evaporated. I instantly understood what all the fuss was about and, embracing the moment, transformed into a gleeful, “pose-y tourist,” eager to capture the charming essence of the place.
Beyond being a beautiful home decor store, Magnolia Market boasts an expansive and inviting outdoor industrial area. This lively space is thoughtfully designed for relaxation and enjoyment, featuring whimsical swings, a vibrant array of food trucks offering diverse culinary delights, and ample grassy areas perfect for leisurely eating or engaging in a casual game of football. While my husband, with a gleam in his eye, Gravitated towards what he proudly declared the “cheesiest, gluteniest thing” he could find, my attention was immediately drawn to Luna Juice Bar. I was on the hunt for something refreshing and compliant with my dietary needs, and their offerings promised just that.
While a fresh juice might have been a typical choice, I wasn’t quite in the mood for one that day. Instead, I opted for a cold brew coffee, customized with almond milk. Knowing my sensitivity to caffeine, I proceeded cautiously, savoring only a few sips before realizing its potent effects. In good humor, I passed the remainder of the delicious, rich beverage to my husband, who happily finished it. Despite its stimulating nature, the coffee was undeniably a delightful treat, providing a burst of flavor and a moment of enjoyment during our visit.
Picnik Austin
For anyone immersed in the Paleo and AIP world, Picnik Austin holds an almost legendary status. It’s widely celebrated as one of the premiere Paleo restaurants, not just in Texas, but arguably nationwide. Stepping through its doors felt like a true pilgrimage, a momentous occasion for anyone dedicated to these specific dietary lifestyles. What truly sets Picnik apart is its unwavering commitment to quality and dietary accommodation. Not only is its entire menu Paleo-compliant, but they also boast a dedicated AIP menu, meticulously crafted to meet the strict requirements of the Autoimmune Protocol. Every dish is expertly cooked in nutrient-dense avocado oil, features only high-quality, ethically sourced proteins, and incorporates a vibrant selection of locally grown vegetables. It’s a culinary dream come true, prompting a genuine sigh of satisfaction with every bite.
Our experience at Picnik was so exceptional that my husband and I found ourselves returning twice within our short trip: once for an incredible dinner, and then again the very next morning for breakfast. Dinner was so utterly delicious and devoured with such speed, and the restaurant’s evening lighting wasn’t conducive to good photography, so I unfortunately missed capturing those moments. However, our breakfast experience the following day was nothing short of spectacular and perfectly photo-worthy – truly the bomb, as they say!
For breakfast, I indulged in a custom taco from their exquisite AIP menu. The base was a Siete cassava tortilla, which, while technically containing thickeners that place it in the “reintroduction” phase for strict AIP, is something I tolerate well in moderation. It was generously filled with crispy bacon, sweet apple slices, and their absolutely incredible, house-made AIP guacamole – a true standout. To complement my meal, I ordered a non-AIP peppermint mocha. This delightful beverage, a thoughtful indulgence, was crafted with decaf coffee, rich cocoa butter, cocoa powder, creamy coconut milk, MCT oil for an energy boost, and a hint of refreshing peppermint essential oil. The combination was so perfectly balanced and satisfying that I still find myself reminiscing about it, dreaming of another sip.
If you’re meticulously planning a visit to Austin, let me offer this unequivocal recommendation: make Picnik Austin the absolute first destination on your culinary itinerary. Whether you adhere to a Paleo, AIP, or simply a health-conscious diet, their dedication to flavor, quality ingredients, and dietary accommodation is unmatched. I can confidently guarantee that your experience will be nothing short of delightful, leaving you thoroughly satisfied and eager for a return visit. It’s an essential stop for anyone seeking nourishing and delicious food in the city.
Koriente
After our thoroughly satisfying breakfast at Picnik, we embarked on a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of downtown Austin. We spent some time browsing through various shops, enjoying the unique local atmosphere, and simply taking in the sights and sounds of the city. At one point, perhaps inspired by the chic boutiques, I found myself playfully channeling my inner fashion blogger for a minute, posing in a stylish dress I had recently acquired from Nordstrom. It’s a delightful confession, really: I appreciate both delicious food and great fashion, because why should one have to choose? Indulging in both adds a wonderful balance to life, especially while exploring a dynamic city like Austin.
Our explorations eventually led us to Koriente, a restaurant that held a special place in the hearts of my classmates during my NTA training, often touted as a crowd favorite. Despite its popularity, I had always harbored a slight apprehension about dining there, unsure if their menu could truly accommodate my strict dietary needs without extensive modifications or potential risks. This time, however, fortified by Austin’s general reputation for health-conscious dining, I decided to take the plunge. I approached the counter with my specific requests and confidently ordered a super custom bowl, hopeful for a truly safe and satisfying meal tailored just for me.
I clearly articulated my requirements, requesting a meal that would be exceptionally safe and compliant with my dietary protocols, and to my delight, Koriente delivered flawlessly! My custom bowl was a wonderfully simple yet satisfying creation featuring savory smoked salmon, creamy avocado, crisp carrots, and fluffy rice. Crucially, I specifically asked them to omit both sesame and any sauces, which can often contain hidden problematic ingredients. The result was a beautifully clean meal with only one AIP reintroduction – the rice – making it a truly compliant and incredibly satisfying dining experience. It was a testament to their willingness to accommodate and their understanding of specific dietary needs, leaving me thoroughly impressed.
Dolce Neve
My Austin culinary bucket list wasn’t just about savory meals; it also included a much-anticipated visit to Dolce Neve, a renowned gelato shop celebrated for consistently offering appealing vegan and dairy-free options. Finding a compliant dessert can often be the trickiest part of dining out with dietary restrictions, so knowing Dolce Neve was a reliable spot for a sweet treat was incredibly exciting. During our visit, their delightful dairy-free offering was a vibrant mango sorbet, promising a refreshing indulgence.
While I typically gravitate towards richer, coconut milk-based frozen desserts for their creamy texture, the mango sorbet from Dolce Neve truly hit the spot. Its bright, tangy flavor and perfectly smooth consistency were incredibly refreshing, especially on what turned out to be an unseasonably warm day in Austin. It was a delightful and welcome treat, perfectly capping off our day of culinary exploration and proving that even with specific dietary needs, delicious and satisfying desserts are entirely within reach in this amazing city.
It goes without saying, my recent trip emphatically confirmed that Austin absolutely excels in providing an abundance of Paleo and AIP-friendly dining options. The city’s innovative culinary scene, coupled with its widespread understanding and accommodation of various dietary needs, makes it an unparalleled destination for anyone adhering to these protocols. I’m already brimming with excitement and eagerly anticipating my next visit, especially with Paleo FX scheduled for May! It’s truly a city where healthy eating on the go isn’t just possible, but genuinely enjoyable.
For my fellow food enthusiasts and health adventurers, I’d love to hear from you! What are your absolute favorite Paleo or AIP-friendly eateries and hidden gems in Austin?