SXSW 2025 has always been a beacon for incredible music, captivating films, and cutting-edge tech, as well as beacon for top tier food-related programming. This year, the festival is serving up an irresistible array of culinary offerings and captivating activations. From unique dining experiences to community events, here’s your ultimate guide to the top food events you won’t want to miss.
Whataburger Museum of Art (WOMA)
Wanderlust Wine Co. Downtown – Whataburger turns 75, and they’re celebrating with a gallery unlike any other. The Whataburger Museum of Art, popping up at Wanderlust Wine Co., transforms fan art into a full-fledged exhibit. Expect creations like a TV dining tray emblazoned with the iconic “W” and a special anniversary cake painting. Open March 8–9, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., this quirky showcase is open to the public and SXSW badge holders alike.
Hook ’em House at Antone’s
Antone’s, 305 E. Fifth St. – Longhorn fans, rejoice! The University of Texas is bringing the “burnt orange” spirit to SXSW at Antone’s. The Hook ’em House is packed with live music, fascinating panels, robot demos, and exclusive UT merch. Swing by Antone’s on March 7–8 at 305 E. 5th St. for a dose of Longhorn pride.
Food Tank’s All Things Food Summit at Barr Mansion
Barr Mansion 10463 Sprinkle Road Austin, TX 78754 – Dive into the “All Things Food” Summit at SXSW, happening March 13–14 at Barr Mansion. This event is a must for those passionate about sustainability, innovation, and food systems. With over 100 expert speakers, including industry leaders and changemakers, it also features complimentary meals, live performances, and interactive experiences on the farmhouse lawn. Open to the public with RSVP, it’s a rare chance to explore the future of food without the usual exclusivity. Food Tank members can enjoy VIP perks, including celebrity chef-led culinary creations. Don’t miss this engaging, inclusive, and delicious summit in a serene setting!
Dubai Museum of the Future Activation
Third Street and Congress Avenue – The Dubai Museum of the Future is bringing its signature flair to SXSW. Alongside groundbreaking talks and mesmerizing AI art displays, guests can sample the buzzworthy Dubai chocolate bars from FIX Dessert Chocolatier. SXSW badge holders get priority access, so plan your visit accordingly.
Gorton’s Shrimp & Cocktail Experience
Parlor Room (88 Rainey Street, Austin, TX 78701) – Shrimp, anyone? Gorton’s Seafood is hosting a seafood extravaganza with shrimp tacos, po’ boys, cooking demos by foodie influencer Shay Spence, live music, and games galore. Rounding out the Shrimp and Cocktail theme, Gorton’s will be serving up a list of craft beverages to pair with its different shrimp dishes. Don’t miss it—happening March 8–9 at The Parlor Room on Rainey Street.
Energia Pura Vida
March 7-8, 2025 – 12pm-5pm Enjoy a cup of Costa Rican coffee, a relaxing massage, leave your mark on our gratitude wall and much more. Experience Costa Rica through an immersive AR experience. First come, first serve – all welcome and no reservations required. Space may be limited, and some activities may be full or unavailable.
March 7-8, 2025 – 6pm-10pm – VIP STATUS – PLATINUM BADGES RECEIVE PRIORITY ENTRY. With two DJs from Costa Rica who will charge up the crowd with great Latin tunes. Join in for some Costa Rica bites and receive a tote bag as a fun takeaway while supplies last. Come and enjoy a little Pura Vida! Complimentary food and drink available while supplies.
Fast Company Grill
The Cedar Door, 201 Brazos Street, Austin TX – March 8-10 Fast Company Grill at SXSW is an exclusive, invite-only pop-up hosted by Fast Company during the festival, bringing together industry leaders, creatives, and innovators for networking, discussions, and curated experiences. It features thought-provoking panels, live interviews, brand activations, and premium food and drinks, making it a prime spot for engaging with top minds in business, tech, entertainment, and culture. Complimentary snacks and drinks will be served daily—breakfast tacos anyone? Cold brew coffee will be served throughout the day, courtesy of Cumulus, paired with dairy free coffee creamers and dairy-free snacks from Violife, so you won’t miss a beat!
Hair of the 3-Legged Dog Day Party
Hotel Vegas1502 East 6th Street – Fuel your morning with free breakfast tacos from Eldorado Cafe at The Austin Chronicle’s beloved day party. Jam out to local performers like J’Cuuzi and J Soulja while savoring those mouthwatering morning bites. Early birds get the tacos—head to Hotel Vegas on March 8 before they’re gone!
Parkside’s Half-Price Happy Hour
Treat yourself to gourmet eats and refreshing drinks on a budget at Parkside’s half-price happy hour. Conveniently located on “Dirty” 6th Street, it’s certain to become the perfect pit stop for a little indulgence between SXSW events.
El Tigre Coffee Roasters Local Market
1614 E 12th St, Austin, TX – Calling all coffee lovers! Keep Looking Shop and El Tigre Coffee Roasters is throwing the ultimate unofficial SXSW kickoff party: “Keep It Local, Yokels” — a block party dedicated to showcasing local Austin brands that deserve the spotlight. This FREE event is set to feature live music, free drinks (while supplies last), delicious eats, flash tattoos, and a flea market with five incredible pop-up stands.
Meanwhile Brewing Co.’s Unofficial Showcase
For a more laid-back vibe, head to Meanwhile Brewing Co. Their unofficial showcase pairs affordable beers with delicious food truck fare. It’s the ideal spot to unwind away from the bustling crowds. This unofficial SXSW showcase, happening from March 12 to 15, brings together an eclectic mix of indie artists from around the world, including Rowena Wise from Australia, Tagua Tagua from Brazil, and Ribbon Skirt from Canada. Entry is free with an RSVP, though food and drinks are available for purchase. Luckily, you won’t have to splurge—pints are priced at $8 or less. Indulge in James Beard Award-nominated barbecue from Distant Relatives, flavorful tacos from Pueblo Viejo, or small-batch, handcrafted ice cream from Bésame.
South X South Basque at Kalimotxo
Kalimotxo | 1813 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702 – The beloved Spanish cocktail bar on East 6th Street, is bringing the flavors of Basque Country to SXSW with South by South Basque, a three-day celebration from March 14-16. Expect a Bacardí late-night party (March 14), a special a la carte menu collaboration with El Raval (March 15), and the ultimate Porron Zone drinking party (March 16), where guests can test their skills with a traditional Spanish porrón wine pitcher. With DJs, pintxos, reverse happy hours, and festive vibes, this is a must-visit for food and drink lovers. Reservations and RSVPs available on Eventbrite and RESY.
JBL x SXSW 2025
JBL is turning up the volume as the Official Audio Brand of SXSW 2025, and they’re bringing the ultimate sound experience to Austin! The Launch of the Flip 7 and Charge 6: A Tribute to Fans’ Voices
Always in tune with the listening habits, desires, and interests of fans and consumers, JBL has redesigned the JBL Flip 7 and JBL Charge 6, making them “MADE to be HEARD”. Built on decades of expertise and consumer feedback, these new portable powerhouses boast advanced acoustics, improved durability, and extended battery life—all underpinned by AI Sound Boost, which optimizes audio in real-time. This is sound tailored to what matters most: whether it’s an outdoor party, a late-night study session, or a sunrise workout, these fan-favorite models return stronger than ever, delivering the full-range audio experiences that loyal JBL fans expect. Both speakers will be available for pre-sale at JBL.com and participating retailers starting March 10, then officially hitting the market on April 6, 2025. With the Flip 7 at $149 and the Charge 6 at $199, JBL once again sets the standard for portable audio that moves with life’s rhythms.
March 11-13 | JBL Sound Bodega at 3TEN – Pushing sonic boundaries with live DJ sets, Q&As, and more!
March 12 | JBL Campus Activation @ The Victory Lap – House DJ, XANDRA & West 22nd keeping the vibes high!
Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase.
JBL is teaming up with Whataburger, Bananarchy, Tito’s, and Lalo to serve up iconic bites and custom Sound Bodega cocktails.Get ready to feel the bass, sip the vibes, and experience the future of sound at #SXSW with @JBLAudio! 
#JBLxSXSW #SoundBodega #FutureOfMusic