The boundaries of the Clarksville neighborhood are roughly MoPac (west), Lamar Boulevard (east), West 15th Street (north), and West 6th Street (south). Originally founded by freed slaves in the late 1800s, Clarksville is now a thriving residential area with restaurants and other small businesses along its borders.
Josephine House
Housed in a charming little cabin, Josephine House has a new menu every day, based on what is available mostly from local vendors. For brunch, popular dishes include crab cake and eggs and lemon ricotta pancakes. Monday is Steak Frites night, which is based on a prix fixe menu with various steak and fries options. If you have room for dessert, try the chocolate almond babka. 1601 Waterston; (512) 477-5584
Drug Enfield de Nau
A former pharmacy with a small restaurant in the back, Nau’s has a loyal following among Clarksville residents. Burgers and sandwiches are pretty basic, but the sense of nostalgia is hard to beat. Also, where else can you get a frozen soda these days? It’s also a great place to shop for cheap, kitschy gifts for kids. 1115 West Lynn Street; (512) 476-1221
Zocalo Cafe
With a beautiful and spacious dining room, Zocalo Cafe is a casual Tex-Mex restaurant that can be ordered at the counter. Known for its fresh breakfast tacos, chilaquiles, and gooey white cheese, the zócalo also serves great frozen margaritas. 1110 West Lynn Street; (512) 472-8226
Jeffrey’s
A good option for a laid-back date night, Jeffrey’s serves up little masterful delicacies like truffled deviled eggs and baked blue crab claws. For chicken with a French twist, order the Dewberry Farms Chicken with Chanterelle Mushrooms. All the fillets are dry aged and toasted on live oak. For dessert, don’t miss the Intemperance Chocolate Cake, a flourless cake with passion fruit ice cream and chocolate mousse. 1204 West Lynn Street; (512) 477-5584
Spring onion
As wrong as it may sound, the kale pizza is still one of the restaurant’s most popular wood-fired pies. Arugula pesto and mozzarella can be the saving thanks for kale pizza. For those who love Italian food but can’t eat gluten, Cipollina offers a homemade gluten-free pasta. Other standout dishes include the Goat Ravioli, Caprese Salad, and Spinach Alfredo Gnocchi. Try the tiramisu for dessert. 1213 West Lynn Street; (512) 477-5211
Galaxy Cafe
Part of a trendy local chain, Galaxy Cafe is a casual neighborhood hangout where you can order at the counter. Vegetarians say the veggie burger gets high praise. It’s topped with sliced avocado and flavorful pesto mayo. There’s also an extensive gluten-free menu with sandwiches, burgers, salads, and breakfast dishes. For carnivores who like a little spice, the Zócalo burger is served with jalapeños, and the meat is infused with red pepper. 1000 West Lynn Street; (512) 478-3434
