Austin’s 2026 New Year’s Dining Guide: Because Resolutions Are for Quitters

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, 2025, the real question on every Austinite’s mind isn’t "What’s my resolution?" but "Where can I shovel food into my face to cure this existential dread?" Thankfully, our city’s finest culinary institutions—ranging from fast-food temples to overpriced avocado toast dispensaries—have graciously agreed to remain open so we can all drown our sorrows in queso.

Because nothing says "Happy New Year" like a lukewarm burger from a chain that proudly displays its health inspection score like a participation trophy. And let’s not forget the real heroes here: the underpaid, overworked employees who’d rather be anywhere else but are forced to smile through the hangover-induced chaos of Jan. 1. Bless their hearts.

Of course, hours may vary—because nothing is sacred, not even the promise of a breakfast taco at 2 PM. Some locations might be open, others might be closed, and a few might just pretend they’re closed because they’ve reached their daily quota of dealing with customers who still don’t understand what "plant-based" means. Pro tip: Call ahead. Or better yet, just stare mournfully at your fridge like the rest of us.

And for those of you clinging to the illusion of "holiday specials," congratulations! You’ve fallen for the oldest trick in the book: repackaging yesterday’s leftovers with a festive name and a 20% markup. But hey, at least you’ll have something to Instagram before the crushing weight of another year sets in.

So whether you’re ringing in 2026 with a drive-thru feast or a "locally sourced, artisanal" brunch that costs as much as your car payment, remember: The restaurants are open. Your dignity? Not so much.