Pinnacle Picks: Odd Duck
An Austin Favorite for Local & Seasonal Dining
Austin has no shortage of creative restaurants, but Odd Duck stands out for a philosophy that has been part of its story from the very beginning: cook with what’s local, seasonal, and available.
Located on South Lamar, Odd Duck serves innovative dishes built around ingredients sourced from Austin-area farms and producers. What began as a food trailer in 2009 has grown into a celebrated brick-and-mortar restaurant where Chef Bryce Gilmore’s original farm-driven vision continues through thoughtfully crafted food, drinks, and genuine hospitality.
From an Austin Food Trailer to South Lamar
Odd Duck’s story began when brothers Bryce and Dylan Gilmore purchased a Fleetwood Mallard trailer in 2009 with the goal of creating an eatery centered around ingredients from local Austin farms.
The trailer quickly gained a following and helped bring attention not only to Bryce Gilmore’s cooking, but also to Austin’s growing local food movement. That commitment to supporting nearby farmers and producers remains at the heart of Odd Duck today.
A Menu Inspired by What’s Local
Rather than building its identity around a fixed lineup of dishes, Odd Duck embraces seasonality and creativity. The result is a dining experience where local ingredients take center stage and the menu can evolve based on what’s available.
Guests have praised this approach, including one diner who highlighted how the menu changes based on locally available ingredients. Another described the restaurant as one of their favorite Austin dining experiences, specifically calling out the Fried Quail, Pork Belly Chalupa, and cornbread as memorable dishes.
The carousel also showcases the creativity behind Odd Duck’s food and drink offerings, from beautifully plated dishes to colorful cocktails that complement the restaurant’s relaxed yet thoughtfully crafted dining experience.
What Guests Are Saying
Beyond the food, Odd Duck earns plenty of praise for its hospitality and atmosphere. One guest described the cocktails, food, and service as exceptional after visiting for a birthday celebration, while another highlighted the restaurant’s cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and focus on sharing plates.
Together, those experiences reflect what Odd Duck aims to create: a place where friends and family can gather around great food and drinks while celebrating the farmers, producers, and people behind Austin’s local food community.
Visit Odd Duck in Austin
You can find Odd Duck at:
1201 S. Lamar Blvd.
Austin, TX 78704
Phone: (512) 433-6521
Email: foh@oddduckaustin.com
Instagram: @oddduckaustin
Website: oddduckaustin.com
Whether you’re an Austin local or simply exploring the city’s restaurant scene, Odd Duck offers a dining experience rooted in the community around it. With locally sourced ingredients, seasonal creativity, memorable dishes, and genuine hospitality, it’s a South Lamar spot worth adding to your list.
Photos courtesy of @oddduckaustin | Photo credit: @dandeliongatherings
