Austin’s got opinions, and this time of year, they’re neatly tallied in print! The Austin Chronicle’s “Best of Austin” issue is out now, spotlighting the people, places, and businesses that Austinites love most. The annual roundup is built on votes from the community, with results compiled into a list of local favorites across a wide range of categories.
James Renovitch, the Chronicle’s managing editor, returned to break down some of this year’s standouts, surprises, and familiar fan favorites that made the cut.
“To me, it’s like a guide for the year ahead. Maybe there are places that are your favorite. But there’s also bound to be some new places that you haven’t heard of or seen or maybe just missed. There are so many new things happening every day in this town, so it’s kind of hard to keep up.”
You voted, and they won! Austin Chronicle’s “Best of Austin” issue is out now
Other notable wins: CBS Austin’s very own Avery Tomasco, a three-time finalist, won Best Weatherperson for the first time.
The “Best of Austin” issue includes a mix of perennial, highly competitive categories and newer picks that can produce unexpected winners, part of what keeps the poll a closely watched snapshot of what’s clicking around town.
“Anything in the food section is wildly popular. I mean Best Taco. You know, the things that everybody has a favorite for are going to be the ones that get the most votes. So queso, taco, barbecue, pizza, burger, all of the best restaurants. People are also fans of services, too. So like, you know, air conditioner repair, like everybody has an experience with someone that was either positive or negative. And they’re going to remember those positive ones, and they’re going to vote for that person.”
Readers can find the issue now and view the full list of winners through The Austin Chronicle.

You voted and they won! Austin Chronicle’s “Best of Austin” issue is out now