When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile
Why Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile, located on East Cesar Chavez Street in Austin, Texas, offers a unique ranch-to-table dining experience that combines rustic Southern charm with picturesque outdoor ambiance. Nestled along the Colorado River, the restaurant features a spacious backyard filled with picnic tables and scenic views, providing an inviting setting ideal for gatherings with friends and family. The establishment is family-owned and operated by the Jacoby family, who have a long legacy in ranching and feed operations, ensuring that their beef and other meats are sourced directly from their Texas ranch. This transparent, farm-to-fork approach guarantees quality and sustainability. Guests can enjoy a menu of comforting Southern-style dishes, including specialties such as chicken fried steak and crispy onion rings, alongside seasonal offerings featuring beef, pork, sheep, and goat raised naturally without hormones or antibiotics. Jacoby's also serves brunch on weekends and offers happy hour specials, making it a versatile spot for casual meet-ups. With comfortable casual attire, outdoor seating, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Jacoby's stands out as a memorable destination to enjoy hearty meals and friendly hospitality in Austin.
Here's what people think of Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile
As of recent, Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1297 reviews.
Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile holds a solid reputation with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 from nearly 1,300 reviews. Patrons consistently praise the scenic and spacious outdoor environment, describing the backyard overlooking the river as a peaceful and charming retreat right within Austin. Many reviewers highlight the quality of food as satisfying and comforting rather than revolutionary, with particular endorsement of signature dishes like the chicken fried steak and onion rings, which are regarded as must-tries. Positive feedback often emphasizes the restaurant's family-oriented, ranch-to-table ethos, noting the freshness and flavor integrity of Jacoby beef and other locally raised meats. Attentive service and a relaxing atmosphere contribute further to its appeal as a great place for gatherings, brunches, and happy hours. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention that the food, while good, does not deliver bold or innovative culinary surprises and may not satisfy those seeking cutting-edge cuisine. Occasional remarks touch on wait times or the price range being on the higher side for some visitors. In summary, while Jacoby's may not redefine Southern dining, it offers a reliable and genuine experience underpinned by quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a lovely setting that many guests find well worth visiting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
J Mathews
Great food, beautiful view. Dog friendly! The portions are pretty big so think about sharing. The decor and ambience are so relaxing and tons of fans under the shaded area to keep you cool. The large mimosa pitcher is definitely meant for 3-4 people as it was a lot for 2 people to drink. Highly recommend if you’re in East Austin! Make a reservation and parking lot is only valet for $6
Belle I
This place is really nice looking! We went for Sunday Brunch and the food was delicious. We ordered the biscuits and gravy, the club sandwich, and the strawberry cake. They even came by an asked us if we wanted an extra cinnamon roll that they had! Our waitress was so nice. We sat inside and luckily we made the right choice as it was pouring but the outside looked pretty covered. Will definitely be back!
Heidi A
The food was delicious and service quality was truly exceptional inside the restaurant. Except for The valet service was full and the lady wouldn't even let us wait in line, it felt uncomfortable when she yelled at us. We ended up having to self-park elsewhere. 4/13/25
Rob Myrick
Heck of a good dinner and place to eat. It was a group of 3 and we ate at the bar which was comfortable and a good place to sit. Service was really good with a friendly bartender that took car of us. We all enjoyed our dinner with the Mac & Cheese stealing the show. The parking lot can be a little tricky and I would suggest reservations.
MamaBearPopTart
Everything was wonderful! Portions were more than enough! Oh my goodness, if you like meatloaf you must try the BBQ Meatloaf! And the Parmesan Gnocchi is delectable too. The stuffed yeast rolls are tasty but filling so you only need one. My family members really, really, really enjoyed their Chicken Fried Chicken and Chicken Fried Steak. One of us had steak and based on his plate I am pretty sure he enjoyed it immensely since there was nothing left on his plate. And speaking of plates, I loved the plates that the food was served on because they reminded me of the dinnerware that we would eat on at my Grandmother's house. The appetizer plates which were blue and white tins kind a gives a camping vibe. Loved the mason jars for water. We made reservations since there were 6 of us and we were seated in a nice area on the patio. If you happen to be fortunate to have Claire as your server you will be well taken care of. Oh one more thing, save room for dessert the strawberry cake is worth it.
How to reach Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile
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Why Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile with your friends? This unique venue offers a warm, rustic, ranch-to-table dining experience that embodies the spirit of family and community, making it ideal for group gatherings. Located on the scenic Colorado River in East Austin, Jacoby's provides a serene setting where friends and family can connect over expertly prepared meals featuring locally raised, hormone-free Jacoby beef and other ethically sourced meats. The blend of casual attire, comfortable outdoor seating, and a welcoming atmosphere invites relaxed socializing, perfect for catching up or celebrating milestones. Jacoby’s commitment to quality and transparency ensures every dish serves not only delicious flavor but also a story, deepening the dining experience for your whole group. A 4.3-star rating from nearly 1,300 reviews reflects consistent guest satisfaction, underscoring its popularity and reliability for hosting memorable meetups. Whether it’s a lively brunch on the weekend or an intimate dinner midweek, Jacoby's combines excellent food, thoughtful service, and a vibrant local vibe that naturally encourages meaningful connection among friends and family.
What are the dining experiences and atmosphere like at Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile? Jacoby’s is a vertically integrated ranch-to-table establishment deeply rooted in Southern and rustic family traditions, offering a specialty menu centered on beef, lamb, pork, and exotic meats all raised by the Jacoby family in Central Texas. The menu is carefully curated with hand-cut, dry-aged meat that promises exceptional tenderness and flavor, a result of the family’s meticulous stewardship from pasture to plate. Guests can enjoy brunch on weekends from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring Southern-style classics in a relaxed, casual environment. Dinner service runs Wednesday through Saturday evenings with an emphasis on farmhouse hospitality and comfort. The location boasts beautiful outdoor seating overlooking the Colorado River, creating a casual yet picturesque setting for groups to dine al fresco and enjoy Austin’s vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant’s capacity to host private events up to 120 people makes it highly adaptable for group meetups, providing plenty of space to accommodate everyone comfortably. Complimentary street and valet parking further add convenience, ensuring your gathering starts and ends smoothly.
What group activities and amenities make Jacoby’s ideal for meetups? Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile is much more than a dining spot; it is a community hub where guests can partake in multiple experiences tailored to social groups. The Mercantile section offers an ever-evolving marketplace of artisan food products, vintage items, and unique handmade goods that provide engaging exploration options before or after your meal. This dynamic retail space adds an interactive layer to your gathering, turning a simple meal into a well-rounded social outing. The venue’s event amenities include a private event space and prefunction areas, as well as options for a full buyout, bar setups, and event coordination services, making it a flexible choice whether your meetup is casual or more formal. For groups interested in relaxed social hours, Happy Hour specials Tuesday through Thursday afternoons present an affordable and festive opportunity. These features support various group sizes and styles—from intimate family dinners to larger celebrations or casual friend meetups. The venue is also fully handicapped accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.
Why is the location of Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile perfect for social gatherings? Nestled at 3235 East Cesar Chavez Street on Austin’s East Side, Jacoby’s enjoys a picturesque location along the Colorado River, offering serene views and an inviting outdoor patio that enhances any group occasion. This position allows visitors to enjoy a natural, open-air environment while being just minutes from downtown Austin. The vibrant East Austin neighborhood is known for its artistic and eclectic culture, providing an additional backdrop of energy and color to your meetup. Accessibility by car is straightforward with available parking options, and the proximity to other local attractions means groups can easily extend their outing with walks along Lady Bird Lake or visits to nearby cultural spots. The blend of urban proximity and riverside calm creates a versatile setting that suits a wide range of group activities—from casual brunches to evening celebrations under the stars.
How does Jacoby's emphasize food quality and ethical sourcing in its group dining experience? Jacoby’s stands apart with its vertically integrated operation—meaning the Jacoby family controls the entire supply chain from raising the animals to crafting the final menu. Their cattle and other livestock receive top-tier nutrition without any growth hormones or antibiotics, reflecting a deep commitment to animal welfare and sustainable agriculture. This dedication translates into superior taste and texture, qualities that resonate in every bite and elevate group dining beyond mere consumption. The dry-aging process, ranging from 21 to 28 days, enhances the beef’s tenderness and depth of flavor, offering a premium culinary experience that is both authentic and memorable. By choosing Jacoby’s, groups aren’t just having a meal—they are partaking in a genuine food heritage that celebrates local Texas farming and ranching, amplifying the communal feel of any gathering.
What kind of events and private gatherings can be hosted at Jacoby’s? With an event maximum capacity around 120, Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile is well-equipped to host a large variety of social functions including family reunions, birthday celebrations, friend get-togethers, bridal showers, and even corporate events. The space can be completely bought out for exclusive use, and features amenities such as on-site event coordination and customized bar setups to cater to specific needs and themes. Outdoor spaces and prefunction areas expand the layout potential, allowing hosts to design the flow of their event with ease. Whether guests desire a formal seated dinner or a casual mingling reception, the venue’s rustic charm blended with modern conveniences lends itself effortlessly to both styles. The staff’s experience with group events ensures seamless service, catering to your party’s unique requirements so everyone can focus on enjoying the company and atmosphere.
Why are the customer reviews and reputation of Jacoby’s important for your meetup decision? An established 4.3-star rating from close to 1,300 reviews reflects a level of consistency that reassures groups considering Jacoby’s for their event. Many visitors praise the quality of the food and the inviting ambiance, particularly highlighting the outdoor seating overlooking the Colorado River. While some reviews mention specific service or menu limitations, the overall consensus is one of satisfaction with the genuine hospitality and unique ranch-to-table concept. This blend of positive feedback and clearly communicated family values suggests that Jacoby’s is a dependable choice for those seeking a venue that offers both authenticity and warmth. For groups wanting a place that supports local tradition while providing modern comfort, Jacoby’s solid reputation amplifies its status as an excellent meetup destination.
How accessible and convenient is Jacoby’s for larger groups? Jacoby’s is fully handicapped accessible, ensuring all members of your group can enjoy the venue without barriers. Ample parking options including street and valet parking make arrival and departure stress-free, particularly important for larger gatherings. The location’s hours cater well to weekend brunchers and evening diners, allowing groups to choose the time that best fits their schedule. Casual attire policies make it easy to plan without strict dress codes, adding to a relaxed group vibe where everyone can feel comfortable. The combination of these logistical advantages with comfortable and spacious indoor and outdoor seating makes Jacoby’s a highly accommodating environment for groups of varying sizes and mobility.
What unique features does the Mercantile add to the overall experience for your group meetup? Beyond the restaurant’s renowned food, the Mercantile aspect of Jacoby’s offers a lively, ever-changing marketplace of artisan foods, small-batch handmade goods, and vintage items. This curated shopping experience provides a refreshing complement to dining, inviting groups to browse and discover together while engaging in conversation about crafts, culinary products, and local artistry. It adds a layer of entertainment and cultural enrichment, perfect for meetups where guests might enjoy unpacking unique stories behind the goods on offer. The Mercantile fosters a community vibe that resonates with visitors looking for more than just a meal—a place where food, art, and social connection intersect. Including this element in your outing ensures a multi-dimensional experience that combines nourishment, discovery, and shared moments.
How does Jacoby’s commitment to family and community shape your group gathering? Jacoby’s is a family-operated business that actively invites guests to join in sharing their heritage and values. This family-oriented approach creates a welcoming environment where groups feel like an extended part of the Jacoby family circle. The focus on slow food, local sources, and hospitality conveys a deeper purpose beyond profit—it’s about fostering community bonds and creating memories. Events and meals here feel intimate yet inclusive, nurturing a sense of belonging that enhances social connections within your group. In an era where dining out can feel rushed or impersonal, Jacoby’s emphasis on genuine care and participation transforms meetups into meaningful communal experiences grounded in tradition and respect for place and people.
In summary, Jacoby's Restaurant & Mercantile stands as an exemplary choice for hosting gatherings with friends or family thanks to its superior food quality, inviting atmosphere, flexible event spaces, and unique Mercantile marketplace. The emphasis on locally raised, ethically sourced ingredients combined with a scenic Colorado River setting and a strong family-oriented philosophy make it an ideal destination for memorable, relaxed group events. Whether your meetup is a lively brunch, a sumptuous dinner, or a special occasion, Jacoby’s offers the rich textures of Texas ranch life fused seamlessly with the communal joy of shared hospitality.