2020 has been defined by social distancing and ever-changing dining restrictions, but that doesn’t mean people are just stuck inside. Make the most of these long, summer days and forthcoming cooler fall ones with a socially distanced picnic lunch at a favorite park or backyard — as long as you keep the group to ten people within your household groups, stay six feet apart, and wear masks when not actually eating or drinking
Restaurants throughout the city-area are offering takeout options specifically geared toward alfresco dining with all-in-one picnic boxes and meals, with easy-to-eat foods like sandwiches and grazing boards. Don’t forget to grab some wine or beer to-go and bring your mandated face coverings for when you can’t avoid crowds.
As with all businesses right now, be sure to call ahead to make sure each restaurant or catering company is still open or if there are updates on current offerings and service models, as things are changing constantly. Be sure to wear a mask, tip well, and, if you’re ordering delivery, try to order directly from the restaurants/companies themselves.
For more general takeout options, scope out Eater Austin’s takeout and delivery package and the running guide, as well as the ongoing restaurants with pop-up markets list. For a true Texas picnic, stop by one of the many barbeque spots offering to-go: brisket, ribs and all the fixings make a great, no-fuss picnic too.
A number of Austin restaurants have resumed dine-in service. That level of service offered is indicated on each map point. However, this should not be taken as endorsement for dining in, as there are still safety concerns: for updated information on coronavirus cases in your area, please visit the City of Austin website. Studies indicate that there is a lower exposure risk when outdoors, but the level of risk involved with patio dining is contingent on restaurants following strict social distancing and other safety guidelines.
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