Gina's On Congress

I tried their Texas redfish and it was absolutely devine. Fish simply melts in your mouth. The buttery sauce was perfect and everything on the plate just balanced well together. Also tried their Tiramisu marquise which was also pretty good. Atmosphere was pretty loud and it was a bit weird having 2 waiters for the same table and one keeps asking the same question already answered by the other, but overall would absolutely recommend the place for delicious food, just get a table inside because the outside just smelt like weed (through no fault of the restaurant itself). Also noted that portions were more what I'm used to (in Australia) which would be too small for the average American standard, which was the only reason I ordered desert as well. Price guide (as of Oct 2025): Texas redfish $39 Marsanne wine $15 Tiramisu marquise $12 Tax $5.45

- sventek -

Daaaaamn Gina! Gina’s on Congress is a charming little spot in the heart of downtown, and it definitely delivers a solid dining experience. The French-inspired menu has some really tasty dishes, and everything we tried was well-prepared and flavorful. The drinks are where they really shine—creative, unique, and expertly made. The French Old Fashioned was absolutely amazing and easily one of the standout parts of the night. Service was friendly and attentive, and the overall atmosphere is cute and inviting. Good food, great drinks, and a nice vibe right on Congress.

- Mayes White -

The food was good but not outstanding. The lamb falls off the bone so tender. The Gemmalini very bland had 2 shrimp so kind of expected more but beware it's under the past and tail is on so don't eat the tail! The Gelato with cookie was amazing! Our waters and my iced tea never got refilled I was hoping to get them filled but no one came back to see if we liked our foods or needed anything. Dessert was brought before plates were cleared which thought was strange. Restaurant wasnt full maybe 5 to 6 tables. Hostess was very kind and thoughtful she does a lot! Wish I could have found her for some more water or iced tea. We are big tippers so not sure why they kind of avoided our table. Just 3 women out exploring Austin having a dinner. We still tipped big although we aren't sure who our server was it seemed it changed when meal was brought to table then no one till we done and another person. We got so confused like did our server vanish? The Gelato with the pizzelle is really good! All their desserts looked really good hostess gave us a peep as she walked by.

- M King -

Had one of their pasta dishes and the beef tartare with the best shoe string fries - soo good. Ofc we had to try something off the Negroni menu...mind blown. The Negroni Blanco and the mezcal Negroni were unexpected twists to the meal and I'd forego the wine every time for them. Great date spot before a show at The Paramount.

- Crystal Garcia -

A great little bistro tucked away on Congress Ave near 3rd Street. It has a charming interior. The staff was all very friendly. The food was good. We had the bolognese and lamb shank, both were excellent. We finished with vanilla gelato. They have specials on different nights of the week. Tuesday is date night where you get 50% off bottles of sparkling wine. We took advantage of that and got a bottle of prosecco. The menu is limited but I understand it changes over time. Everything is made in house.

- Nicholas Cancelliere -

This restaurant reminds me of dining in Europe (which is always where I’d like to be dining) - cozy atmosphere, great food, and cocktails that are actually worth the price! I feel like this place has been flying a bit under the radar since it opened, so I hope more people check it out, but not TOO many more. As everyone has probably mentioned, try the happy hour for half priced cocktails and snacks. Their cocktail list has a lot of classics with a twist to keep it fresh and interesting. My faves from the food menu: the crab croquettes, Texas redfish, mafaldine pasta, and the burger.

- Tori V. -

Our server, Calvert was exceptional. He was attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and made sure everything was perfect from start to finish. Truly elevated our dining experience. Highly recommend!

- Amberley Tims -