The Culinary Scene: Top Restaurants in Northwest Hills

From casual cafes and authentic global flavors to elegant dining, Northwest Hills offers a diverse and delicious restaurant landscape.

Delis & Cafés:

• Biderman's Deli (3742 Far West Blvd #101, 78731) – Authentic New York-style deli with towering pastrami sandwiches, fresh bagels, lox, and matzo ball soup. bidermansdeli.com
• Galaxy Café (8127 Mesa Dr, 78759) – Beloved neighborhood spot for all-day breakfast, gourmet salads, and delicious burgers. galaxycafeaustin.com
• Epoch Coffee (3900 Far West Blvd, 78731) – Local coffee shop with locally roasted coffee and pastries, open daily. epochcoffee.com

Italian / Fine Dining:

• Siena Ristorante Toscana (6203 Capital of Texas Hwy N, 78731) – Elegant dining featuring rustic Tuscan dishes, handcrafted pastas, and fine wines. SienaAustin.com

Burgers / American Fare:

• Wally's Burger Express (8107 Mesa Dr, 78759) – Local favorite burger joint known for fresh, made-to-order burgers, chicken strips, crispy fries, and classic milkshakes. wallysaustin.com
• 5280 Burger Bar (7032 Wood Hollow Dr Suite 150, 78731) – Gourmet burgers using fresh, local ingredients, innovative flavors, hand-cut fries, and craft beer. 5280burgerbar.com
• The Boulevard Bar & Grill (3616 Far West Blvd, Unit 116, 78731) – Fun neighborhood spot with elevated American bar food. (Check Yelp/Google for official site)
• Chez Zee American Bistro (5406 Balcones Dr, 78731) – Long-standing Austin favorite known for its eclectic American bistro fare, vibrant atmosphere, weekend brunch, and famous desserts. chez-zee.com

Asian Fusion & Global Flavors:

• Saffron (3616 Far West Blvd, Ste 113, 78731) – Fusion of traditional Indian and Nepalese flavors, featuring flavorful curries, fresh naan, and aromatic spices. saffronaustin.com
• Troy (8105 Mesa Drive Suite A, 78759) – Authentic Greek and Turkish dishes, including homemade hummus and perfectly grilled meats. troyatx.com
• Kapatad Filipino (3616 Far West Blvd, Ste 107, 78731) – Family-owned spot serving authentic Filipino cuisine like Pancit, Sisig, and Adobo using generations-old recipes. (Check Yelp/Google for official site)
• Jan Chi Korean Cuisine & BBQ (3808 Spicewood Springs Rd #104, 78759) – Offers Korean BBQ, Bibimbap, Japchae, stews, and ramen. order.toasttab.com/online/janchiaustin
• Seven Spice (3901 Spicewood Springs Rd Ste B, 78759) – Authentic Chinese cuisine with popular egg rolls, dumplings, and unique chef specialties like Cumin Lamb. seven-spice.res-menu.com
• Chinatown Restaurant (North Location) (3407 Greystone Drive, 78731) – Long-running neighborhood spot for Chinese-American classics. chinatownrestaurantsaustin.com/north-austin

Wine Bar / American:

• The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen (Northwest Hills) (7719 Wood Hollow Dr #100, 78731) – Neighborhood gem with a sophisticated yet accessible wine list, American/Italian-inspired menu, and popular patio dining. grovewinebar.com/northwest-hills

Northwest Hills Restaurants Quick Guide

Learning in Northwest Hills: Schools & Childcare (78731 & 78759)

Northwest Hills is renowned for its strong educational landscape, boasting highly-rated public schools within the Austin Independent School District (AISD), a wide variety of private school options, and numerous preschools and daycare centers catering to the area's families.

Private School Options (K-12)

• ACE Academy (PK, K-8)
  Focus: Gifted Education
  Address: 5206 Balcones Dr, Austin, TX 78731
  Overview: Caters specifically to gifted learners with a hands-on, inquiry-based approach, small class sizes (3:1 student-teacher ratio reported), and individualized attention.
  Website: austingifted.org
• Austin Jewish Academy (K-8)
  Focus: Jewish Day School
  Address: 7300 Hart Ln, Austin, TX 78731
  Overview: Provides Jewish education within a comprehensive K-8 academic program.
  Website: austinjewishacademy.org
• St. Theresa's Catholic School (PK-8)
  Focus: Catholic Education
  Address: 4311 Small Drive, Austin, TX 78731
  Overview: A 2023 National Blue Ribbon School offering academic excellence in a Catholic environment. Features include strong academics (students score in top 15% nationally), inclusive athletics starting in 1st grade, robust student support, and a focus on safety and community.
  Website: st-theresa.org/school
• The Magellan International School (PK-12)
  Focus: IB, Language Immersion (Spanish, Mandarin)
  Addresses: Chimney Corners Campus (K-12): 7501 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78731; Anderson Lane Campus (Preschool): 7938 Great Northern Blvd, Austin, TX 78757
  Overview: An IB World School offering Spanish immersion with additional Mandarin instruction, focused on personalized international education.
  Website: magellanschool.org
• Hyde Park Schools (Quarries Campus, 9-12)
  Focus: Christ-Centered College Prep
  Address: 11400 N. Mopac Expwy, Austin, TX 78759
  Overview: Provides a Christ-centered, college preparatory education for high school students at its Quarries campus. Over 99% of graduates pursue higher education.
  Website: hpaustin.org
• Paragon Prep (PK-8)
  Focus: Private Prep School
  Address: 7944 Great Northern Boulevard, Austin, TX 78757 (Near 78759)
  Overview: Offers a robust curriculum, innovative instruction, and a vibrant school community from Pre-K through 8th grade. Named a 2025 A+ School by Niche. (Also has a preschool campus at 831 Houston St, 78756).
  Website: paragonprep.com
• Headwaters School (18mo-12)
  Focus: Student-Led Inquiry
  Addresses: Campuses located outside 78731/78759 (Downtown, South Austin)
  Overview: A unique Austin school emphasizing student-led exploration, inquiry, and discovery across three campuses. Included as a notable nearby option.
  Website: headwaters.org

Private Schools (K-12) In/Near Northwest Hills

Preschools & Daycare Centers

• St. Matthew's Episcopal Day School (18mo-K)
  Address: 8134 Mesa Drive, Austin, TX 78759
  Program: Half-day preschool, Episcopal affiliation, focus on whole child development.
  Website: stmatthewsschoolaustin.com
• My Friend's House Child Development Center (Infant-School Age)
  Address: 7050 Village Center Dr, Austin, TX 78731
  Program: Ministry of Northwest Hills UMC, play-based curriculum, full-day care.
  Website: myfriendshousecdc.com
• The Children's Courtyard (6wks-12yrs)
  Address: 4213 Spicewood Springs Road, Austin, TX 78759
  Program: Part of Learning Care Group, offers infant care through school-age programs.
  Website: childrenscourtyard.com
• Athena Montessori Academy (3mo-6yrs)
  Address: 8701 Bluffstone Cove, Austin, TX 78759
  Program: Montessori education, programs for infants, toddlers, and primary (preschool/kindergarten) ages.
  Website: athenamontessoriacademy.com
• Ashley's Playhouse (6wks-12yrs)
  Address: 13343 N US 183 SVRD NB, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78727 (Near 78759)
  Program: Drop-in childcare center, play-focused environment, extended hours, offers preschool program.
  Website: ashleysplayhouseaustin.com
• Primrose Schools (Infant-K)
  Addresses: Multiple locations nearby, including Primrose School of Northwest Austin, Primrose School of Great Hills (Address/Zip needed). Check website for nearest location.
  Program: Accredited early education and care, Balanced Learning® curriculum combining play and guidance.
  Website: primroseschools.com
• Nature's Way Preschool (3-5yrs)
  Address: Austin Nature & Science Center, 2389 Stratford Drive, Austin, TX 78746 (Near 78731)
  Program: Unique nature immersion program with daily hikes, animal encounters, and outdoor learning. Must be potty-trained.
  Website: austintexas.gov/department/natures-way-preschool
• Austin Play Garden (6wks-5yrs)
  Address: 4915 Airport Blvd., Austin, TX 78751 (Outside 78731/59)
  Program: Play-based preschool influenced by Reggio Emilia philosophy.
  Website: austinplaygarden.com

Preschools & Daycares In/Near Northwest Hills

Shopping & Everyday Errands

Northwest Hills offers convenient access to daily necessities and is strategically located near several major Austin shopping destinations.

Groceries & Pharmacy:

• Far West H-E-B: (7015 Village Center Dr, 78731) The neighborhood anchor for groceries, offering a full range of departments including produce, meat/seafood, bakery, deli, pantry staples, and a full-service pharmacy with drive-thru and delivery options. heb.com
• CVS Pharmacy: (3569 Far West Blvd, 78731) Convenient spot for prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, health & beauty items, snacks, photo services, and UPS Access Point. cvs.com
• Northwest Hills Pharmacy: (3633 Far West Blvd, 78731 – Verify address) An independent pharmacy option offering personalized service and potentially compounding and delivery. shopnorthwesthills.com
• Trader Joe's (Arboretum Market): (9722 Great Hills Trail, 78759) Located in the nearby Arboretum Market, offering unique and specialty grocery items. traderjoes.com

Hardware & Shipping:

• The True Value Hardware Store: (8650 Spicewood Springs Rd #130, 78759) A local resource for hardware, tools, and home maintenance supplies. (Check True Value site for local page).
• The UPS Store: (3616 Far West Blvd, 78731) Offers packing, shipping (UPS), printing, mailbox rentals, notary services, and shredding. theupsstore.com

Nearby Major Shopping Centers:

• The Arboretum: (Intersection of US 183 & Loop 360) An upscale, open-air center featuring retailers like Barnes & Noble, Pottery Barn, Gap, and numerous dining options. simon.com/mall/the-arboretum
• Gateway Shopping Centers: (9607 Research Blvd, 78759) A large power center anchored by stores such as Whole Foods Market, Best Buy, Nordstrom Rack, Costco, and more. gatewaycenters.com/directory
• Arbor Walk: (10515 N Mopac Expy, 78759) Features major retailers like Home Depot, Spec's Wine & Spirits, Joann Fabric and Craft Stores, and Whole Earth Provision Co. arborwalk.com/directory
• The Domain & Domain NORTHSIDE: (Off Mopac, north of 183) Austin's premier mixed-use destination with high-end retail (Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Apple), extensive dining, entertainment (movie theater, Punch Bowl Social), hotels, and residential living. A significant regional draw easily accessible from Northwest Hills. simon.com/mall/the-domain/map

Local Services Directory: Your Neighborhood Professionals

Northwest Hills and the immediate surrounding areas host a wide array of professional services to meet residents' needs, from healthcare and wellness to home maintenance and personal care.

Health & Wellness:

• Dentists:
  • Northland Dental Studio (3307 Northland Drive Ste. 230, 78731): Family, Cosmetic (Veneers, Whitening, Crowns), Implants, Preventive Care. northlanddentalstudio.com
  • Arbor Oaks Dental (11851 Jollyville Road Ste 101, 78759): Comprehensive, Family, Cosmetic (Smile Makeovers, Invisalign, Whitening), Restorative (Implants, Bridges, Dentures), Emergency Care. arboroaksdental.com
• Opticians / Eye Care:
  • Kerbey Lane Vision (3709 Kerbey Lane, 78731): Comprehensive eye exams, contact lenses, frames, eye disease treatment, co-management of eye surgery (LASIK). kerbeylanevision.com
  • Great Hills Eye Care (North Austin) (10401 Research Blvd, Suite A, 78759 – Attached to Costco): Eye exams (comprehensive, diabetic, contact lens), Optomap retinal imaging, Dry Eye Therapy, Myopia Control, LASIK co-management. greathillseyecare.com
• Veterinarians:
  • Far West Veterinary Clinic (3720 Far West Blvd Ste 101, 78731): Full-service care including diagnostics, surgery, anesthesia, internal medicine consults, radiology, dentistry, lab work, microchipping, pharmacy, flea/heartworm prevention, dietary/behavioral counseling, bathing, emergency care (during hours). farwestvet.com
  • Spicewood Springs Animal Hospital (4606 Spicewood Springs Rd, 78759). spicewoodanimalhospital.com
  • VCA Arbor Animal Hospital (5114 Balcones Woods Dr # 312, 78759). vcahospitals.com/arbor
  • Research Boulevard Pet & Bird Hospital (11679 Research Blvd, 78759). researchpet.com
  • Northwest Austin Veterinary Center (11846 Jollyville Rd, 78759). northwestaustinveterinarycenter.com
  • ZippiVet – Arboretum (10721 Research Blvd #A-110, 78759). zippivet.com
  • ATX Animal Clinic (8033 Mesa Dr, 78731). atxanimalclinic.com
• Specialized Clinics / Wellness Centers:
  • Atlas Holistic Wellness (6010 Balcones Dr., Ste 101, 78731): Chiropractic care and holistic wellness services. keepaustinadjusted.com
  • PRESENCE – Austin Integrative Wellness Center (3407 Greystone Dr, 78731): Multidisciplinary center offering therapy (individual, couples, group), personalized medicine (Direct Primary Care), integrative psychiatry, nutrition counseling, and mindfulness/meditation classes. presencewellness.co
  • Apple Wellness Center (3921 Steck Ave, Suite A-107, 78759): Offers massage therapy and acupuncture. applewellnesscenter.com
  • Resilient Health Austin (3410 Far West Blvd, Suite 100, 78731): Focuses on integrative and functional medicine, offering customized care plans, hormone replacement therapy, genomics consults, osteoporosis treatment, fatigue solutions, and chronic disease management. resilienthealthaustin.com
• Gyms / Fitness:
  • Dell JCC Fitness Center (7300 Hart Ln, 78731): Comprehensive fitness facilities mentioned under Recreation. shalomaustin.org/fitness

Home & Garden:

• Plumbers:
  • RooterMan (Serves 78731 & 78759): Offers drain cleaning, plumbing repairs, sewer services, 24/7 emergency response. rooterman.com
  • Acme Plumbing Solutions (via Abacus – Serves 78759): Residential/commercial repairs, installations (water heaters, fixtures), hydro jetting, sewer inspections, 24/7 emergency service. abacusplumbing.com
  • Austin Plumbing (Serves Austin): Full range of plumbing installation and repair services. (Check Yelp/Google for official site).
• Electricians:
  • ABC Home & Commercial Services (Serves Austin): Electrical repairs, standby generators, EV charging station installation, panel upgrades, lighting services, 24/7 emergency service. abchomeandcommercial.com/austin/electrical
  • TruTec Electric (Serves Austin & Surrounding): Residential electrical repairs, EV chargers, breakers/panels, outlets/switches, wiring/rewiring, 24/7 emergency service. trutecelectric.com
  • SALT Plumbing, Air & Electric (Serves Austin): Electrical service and repair, panel upgrades, wiring, lighting, surge protection. callsalt.com
  • ALL ELECTRIC SERVICES SA llc (Serves Austin, address 78731): Electrician, contractors, wiring. (Check BBB/Google for official site).
• Landscapers / Lawn Care:
  • Leaf Landscape Supply (Supplier, North address 78729): Premier supplier of plants and landscaping materials for contractors and public, knowledgeable about local needs. leaflandscapesupply.com
  • Cutters Landscaping & Pools (Serves Austin): High-end landscape design, installation, hardscaping, pools, outdoor living spaces, irrigation. cutterslandscape.com
  • Dr. Tex Lawn & Pest (Serves Northwest Hills): Lawn care program (fertilization, weed control), liquid aeration, top dressing, pest control (grubs, chinch bugs, fire ants, fleas/ticks, mosquitoes, rodents, chiggers). drtex.co
  • Hussein Kamel / Shield Hygienic Services (Serves 78731): Lawn mowing, tree services, landscaping, junk removal, power washing. (Check Lawnstarter/Google for official site).
• Plant Nurseries:
  • Shoal Creek Nursery (2710 Hancock Dr, 78731): Long-standing local nursery with a wide selection of plants suitable for the Austin climate. shoalcreeknursery.com
  • Moon Valley Nurseries (12881 Pond Springs Rd, 78729 – Near 78759): Large nursery specializing in trees, also offers plants and landscape design services. moonvalleynurseries.com/locations/austin

Automotive Services:

• Repair:
  • Lamb's Tire & Automotive (#4002, 10740 Research Blvd #115, 78759): Full-service auto repair and tire center, AAA Approved. lambstire.com
  • Dealership Service Centers (AAA Approved): AUTONATION CHEVROLET WEST AUSTIN (78759), LEXUS OF AUSTIN (78759), BMW OF AUSTIN (78729), Audi North Austin (78750), KIA OF NORTH AUSTIN (78750).
  • Carbud (Mobile Service, based near 78731): Convenient mobile service for tires, oil changes, and brake service. carbud.co
• Car Wash:
  • The Wash Shop (10401 Jollyville Rd, 78759): Offers express and full-service washes, detailing, unlimited memberships, free vacuums for members. washshop.com/jollyville-rd-austin-tx

Personal Care:

• Beauty Salons (Hair, Nails, Skin):
  • 78731: Michael's Hair Salon (3307 Hancock Dr), Head Lines Hair & More (3720 Far W Blvd #108), Kiss N Makeup (3703a Jefferson St), Jillian Chapman Hair (1601 W 38th St), Elegant Beauty Hair Salon MK (3616 Far W Blvd Bldg 6 #101). (Check individual websites/Yelp for services).
  • 78759: TX Willow at Sola Salons (9333 Research Blvd #280), Frendz Hair & Nail (4412 Spicewood Springs Rd #102), New City Blonde Salon (3517 Hyridge Dr), Revive Salon by Kenzie (9333 Research Blvd #280), BUENA VIBRA HAIR CLUB (9333 Research Blvd). (Check individual websites/Yelp for services).
• Pet Grooming:
  • Aussie Pet Mobile (Greater Austin – Mobile Service): Convenient mobile grooming van offering a 15-step spa treatment. aussiepetmobile.com
  • PetSmart Grooming (Arboretum) (10001 Research Blvd Ste 100, 78759 – Verify address): Academy-trained groomers, bathing, haircuts, walk-in services (nails, ears, teeth). stores.petsmart.com/tx/austin/austin-arboretum/grooming
  • Mod Mutt Salon (109 Denson Drive, 78752 – Nearby): Dog & cat grooming by appointment, self-wash stations. modmuttsalon.com

Professional Services:

• CPAs / Accounting Firms:
  • Mangold Anker Phillips, PLLC (4201 Bee Cave Rd, 78746): Full-service firm specializing in business advisory, complex partnerships, tax, valuations, forensic accounting. mangoldcpa.com
  • LPF, PLLC (Merged with Hagy & Associates) (Address needed): Established Austin CPA firm. lpfcpa.com
  • Gindler, Chappell, Morrison & Co. PC (100 E Anderson Ln, Ste 250, 78752): Tax, audit, consulting (specializing in real estate, construction, healthcare). gcmcpa.com
  • Forvis Mazars (807 Las Cimas Parkway, Suite 310, 78746): National firm providing audit, tax, consulting across multiple industries. forvismazars.us
• Law Firms:
  • Rigby Slack Lawrence Pepper + Comerford PLLC (3500 Jefferson St., #330, 78731): Business law firm covering transactions, commercial real estate, litigation (commercial, employment, product liability), environmental, family law, finance, title insurance. rigbyslack.com
  • Gottfried Alexander Law Firm (1505 W 6TH ST, 78703): Handles disputes/litigation (real estate, business, HOA), estate planning/probate, LGBTQ+ adoption, general business representation, uncontested divorce. galfaustin.com

Community Life & Resources

Beyond homes and businesses, Northwest Hills thrives on community connection facilitated by active civic groups, diverse places of worship, and public resources.

Places of Worship:

Northwest Hills is home to a diverse array of faith communities.

• Synagogues:
  • Temple Beth Shalom (Reform) (7300 Hart Lane, 78731). bethshalomaustin.org
  • Congregation Agudas Achim (Conservative) (7300 Hart Lane, 78731) – Offers services, religious school, adult education, social groups. theaustinsynagogue.org
  • Congregation Beth El (Conservative) (8902 Mesa Drive, 78759). bethelaustin.org
  • Chabad of Austin (Orthodox) (3500 Hyridge Drive, 78759) – Offers daily prayers, classes, holiday programming, preschool. chabadaustin.com
• Churches:
  • Northwest Community Church (6420 Hart Lane, 78731) – Community church with Sunday worship. nwcommunity.org
  • First Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) (8001 Mesa Dr, 78731) – Offers Sunday worship, programs for all ages. fpcaustin.org
  • Great Hills Baptist Church (10500 Jollyville Rd, 78759) – Offers Sunday services, ministries, community groups. ghbc.org
  • Hillcrest Baptist Church (3838 Steck Avenue, 78759) – Local Baptist church. hillcrestbaptistchurch.com
  • St. Theresa Catholic Church (4311 Small Drive, 78731) – Catholic parish associated with St. Theresa Catholic School. st-theresa.org
• Temples (Buddhist):
  • Fo Guang Shan Xiang Yun Temple (6720 N Capital of Texas Highway, 78731) – Bodhisattva monastery of Humanistic Buddhism, offers Dharma ceremonies, meditation classes, cultural events. ibps-austin.org

(Note: Searches for Mosques, Hindu Temples, or other temples within the immediate zip codes did not yield results in the provided materials.)

Places of Worship in Northwest Hills

Austin Public Library – Old Quarry Branch

• Address: 7051 Village Center Dr, Austin, TX 78731 (Located next to Far West H-E-B)
• Status Update: Please note, the Old Quarry Branch is CLOSED for major renovations starting June 17, 2024, with reopening anticipated in Fall 2025. During the closure, the library plans to offer periodic Pop-Up Library services at the location. Check the library website for updates on pop-up dates and alternative nearby branches.
• Website: library.austintexas.gov/old-quarry-branch

Northwest Austin Civic Association (NWACA)

• Overview: NWACA is the active and engaged neighborhood association serving Northwest Hills. They work on issues relevant to the community, organize events, and provide resources for residents. Past events have included an Earth Day Festival, Holiday Decorating Contest, Neighborhood Garage Sales, candidate forums, and July 4th activities. Checking their website is the best way to stay informed about current initiatives, upcoming events, and how to become a member.
• Website: nwaca.org

Getting Around Northwest Hills

Navigating Northwest Hills and connecting to the broader Austin area is facilitated by several key roadways and public transit options.

• Major Roadways: The neighborhood benefits from its proximity to major Austin arteries. Mopac Expressway (Loop 1) provides north-south access along the eastern edge. Loop 360 (Capital of Texas Highway) runs to the west, offering scenic drives and connections. Key east-west routes within and bordering the area include FM 2222, Spicewood Springs Road, Far West Boulevard, and Mesa Drive. Steck Avenue provides another important local connector.
• Public Transit: Capital Metro, Austin's public transportation provider, operates bus routes that serve the Northwest Hills area, connecting residents to downtown, the universities, major shopping centers, and other parts of the city. For the most current routes, schedules, and trip planning tools, consult the Capital Metro website.
  Website: capmetro.org

Expanding Your Northwest Hills Knowledge: Future Directory Ideas

This directory provides a solid foundation for exploring the many facets of life in Northwest Hills. As a living resource, it can continue to grow! Here are a few ideas for future expansions to make it even more comprehensive:

• Deeper Dive into Parks: Detailed guides for Bull Creek District Park, Westover Hills Club, and other local green spaces, highlighting specific trails, amenities (like playgrounds, courts, pools), and accessibility features.
• Neighborhood History: Explore the development of Northwest Hills, its architectural styles, and notable historical moments or figures.
• Local Spotlights: Feature profiles of local artists, long-standing business owners, or community leaders who contribute to the neighborhood's character.
• Active Living: Information on walkability, specific bike routes connecting through the neighborhood, and nearby trail access points (like the Bull Creek Greenbelt).
• Hyperlocal Events Calendar: Integrate feeds or regularly update with events from NWACA, the JCC, schools, libraries, and local businesses.
• Homeowner Association Info: If specific sections within Northwest Hills have distinct HOAs separate from NWACA, a directory of contacts and coverage areas could be useful.
• Giving Back: A list of local volunteer opportunities within schools, parks, or community organizations serving the Northwest Hills area.

We hope this expanded directory helps you discover (or rediscover!) the wonderful community of Northwest Hills. Enjoy exploring!