Koriente Restaurant & Tea House

"My mom started this restaurant because she hates to cook."

Photo by Allison Wojtowecz

Naturally, seeing this painted on the wall of Koriente on 7th Street was a little daunting for me. How could someone start a good restaurant if they hate to cook? However, one step into this little downtown gem had me tossing those doubts out the door. The inside is decorated so nicely, the staff are friendly and there is a free salad and miso soup bar for those who have ordered an entrée.

Ahi Tuna Bowl | Photo by Allison Wojtowecz

The menu is what got me into Koriente in the first place. Boasting a wide variety of Asian-inspired dishes, the owners are dedicated to offering local, fresh produce with no added MSG and no sacrifice of flavor. All items on the menu have plenty of substitutes available if you want something a little different. Gluten-free, low-carb, vegetarian and vegan options are all easy to add and remove from your plate.

Obake Bowl A | Photo by Allison Wojtowecz

Speaking of your plate... it'll be huge. Serving sizes are generous; I don't even take advantage of the free soup and salad because my entrée alone fills me up! On top of everything else that is great at Koriente, you'll get your food no longer than 15 minutes after ordering. The staff truly care about serving a well-rounded, fresh meal as quickly as possible. This is a great place to go during a lunch break at work, to take friends and show them you know your way around Austin, or just to go get a quality meal for a good price. Maybe best of all, they even have their own (FREE) parking behind the restaurant; just enter at 6th Street and Sabine. Sayōnara, MSG-filled Asian cuisine!

Location: 621 E. 7th Street, Austin TX 78701
Hours of Operation: Sun-Fri: 11am-9:30pm, Sat: 1pm-9:30pm

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