ZipPicks Awards
Best Brunch in Austin
Master Critic Review
New Sound Cafe
7.7
A community-focused cafe built from a restored gospel-record-shop space, pairing roasted coffee with a tight menu of pastries and breakfast sandwiches. It’s best used as a light brunch stop—coffee first, one warm baked item, then a single savory sandwich if you’re staying awhile.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast Sandwich, Cinnamon Rolls, Biscuits
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A neighborhood cafe roasting coffee onsite with pastries and breakfast sandwiches in a restored space.
Who should go: Coffee-and-pastry brunch people who like calm, community seating.
When to visit: Saturday morning early to beat the mid-morning rush.
What to order: Breakfast sandwich, cinnamon roll, coffee.
Insider tip: Go pastry + coffee first—add the sandwich only if you’re lingering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking nearby; generally manageable in the morning but fills up during peak brunch hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, sneakers, and athleisure all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to hold a conversation, especially earlier in the day or outdoors.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—primarily a daytime brunch and coffee spot.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait; short lines possible during late-morning coffee rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian-friendly pastries and at least one breakfast sandwich option.
Vegan options: Limited—coffee drinks with plant milks and a small number of baked items depending on the day.
Gluten-free options: Limited—occasionally available packaged or single-item options; not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Best For
Better for: Coffee quality, relaxed neighborhood energy, and a lighter brunch that doesn’t feel rushed or heavy.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a full-service brunch with cocktails, large plates, or a buzzy scene—choose a bigger brunch destination instead.