With a rich history and some of the best Southern, soul and Creole food in Austin, it’s no wonder Threadgill’s is the place locals bring out-of-town friends for down-home cooking and service with a smile. Even before Kenneth Threadgill became famous for his culinary talents, he was known for bringing live music to North Austin, and he received the first beer license in the area. He mentored Janis Joplin, who in the 1960s often played at the original Threadgill’s on North Lamar. Menu favorites include Threadgill’s renowned chicken-fried steak, as well as Creole-style meat loaf with a choice of 27 side items. On Sunday, hit the Gospel Brunch Buffet (10 am–1 pm) for Belgian waffles and omelets cooked to order (South location only). The full bar features an extensive beer selection and specialty Texas-style margaritas. Serving lunch and dinner daily. Two locations. Voted Best Chicken-Fried Steak in the 2008 The Austin Chronicle readers poll.