Arturo's Underground Cafe
314 W 17th St, Austin
(512) 469-0380
Recent Reviews
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Hidden basement cafe with a cool underground vibe. The Cuban sandwich is legit and the espresso is strong.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 3
Wow, what a great place! I enjoyed it so much I ate here three times while staying at the Hilton across the street. The McDenny's and the Migas were terrific, but the Saturday brunch is on another level. I had the Diablo for brunch and it was amazing. If I had to find a nitpick I'd say that the home fries on Saturday were PERFECT, nice and crispy and well-seasoned, but on the other days they were just average. I washed it all down with a Mexican coke in glass bottle, which can't be beat. Service was fast and friendly, but still on Saturday morning there was a line out the door not long after they opened. The small dining room downstairs gives the place a unique vibe. I can't wait to come back to Austin and try everything on the brunch menu!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The food is overpriced for what it is, I paid 15 dollars for an egg scramble and the tortillas had that crappy store-bought taste. The scramble and salsa itself was pretty good, just not worth the money. Interior is very cool though.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 3
Food was good, but found bit pricey considering it’s a cafe though it is understandable since it’s in decent downtown. Outdoor seating, good for visiting with friends.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 4
I visited Arturo’s Café today while running errands with my dog and wanted to share my experience honestly.
Before coming, I called to ask if they had a dog-friendly area. They normally do, but due to the cold and windy weather today they weren’t seating outside — which I completely understand. I decided to come anyway and planned to order to-go so my dog and I could still spend the day together.
Parking was a challenge. Street parking was available since it was Sunday, but the nearby lot starts at $20 for two hours, which felt pretty steep. Also, the line to be greeted is outside, which was uncomfortable given the weather.
When I asked about ordering to-go, I was told I could come inside and order at the counter. I had looked at the menu beforehand and was trying to decide, but I was given a separate to-go menu that mainly had breakfast tacos. While looking at the full menu, I was told that most items couldn’t actually be ordered to-go — only the breakfast tacos.
Overall, the experience felt a bit inconvenient and confusing, especially after making the effort to come downtown.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
All vibe. After my first time I’ve already decided I’m going to be a regular here 🤠
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Unique place near U of T to grab a sandwich and salad. The salads are the stars here and I would probably suggest to get a salad with protein and skip the sandwich/salad. Had the chicken salad sandwich and the chicken salad. The salad was fresh and came with dressing on the side which is always appreciated.
The chicken salad was a tad salty and the bread needs to be a little heartier to hold up to the chicken salad.
Service is good with the ordering at the front and the dishes brought to the table.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
Great food, great prices, friendly service, and nice moody vibe in the dining area! Came on a Tuesday around 10am, and no wait whatsoever, which makes sense.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Arturo’s Underground Cafe is a hidden gem that instantly feels warm, cozy, and full of character. From the moment you walk downstairs, the vibe is intimate and inviting…perfect for slowing down with a great cup of coffee.
The coffee is excellent, and the menu offers solid lunch options, pastries, and treats that are clearly made with care. I also loved browsing the little extras. They sell fun items like baked goods and merch that add to the charm. Everything feels thoughtfully curated rather than rushed or generic.
The atmosphere is what really sets this place apart: moody lighting, comfortable seating, and a calm, creative energy that makes you want to stay awhile. Whether you’re meeting a friend, grabbing lunch, or just enjoying a quiet moment, this spot delivers.
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a cozy Austin café with personality. I’ll definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Favorite breakfast taco and work lunch place! Adding menu pics as of February 2026.
Restaurantji Recommends
I’m in a touring music ensemble for my college and let me tell y’all that this little cafe is so good! It filled me up so much that I decided to not get lunch that day before our concert. The place was amazing and the service was impeccable! 100/10 - St. Olaf Choir Member🩷🩷
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Terrible service.
Terrible food.
Terrible manager.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Great place
We ordered the eggs in the hole and a vegetarian sandwich. The food was good.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Such a great vibe. I wish breakfast was served all day though.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
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