In its tiny shop on Austin's east side, East Side Pies bakes some of the city's favorite pizzas. The take-out and delivery-only shop—the small indoor space does not have seating—creates custom pies from a long list of toppings including classics like pepperoni, mushrooms and onions, to more interesting choices like fresh mozzarella, green chilies and roasted eggplant. A selection of specialty pies is also available and includes combinations like The Girther with gorgonzola, avocado and roasted onions, and The Nacho with black beans, chicken, red onions, tomatoes and jalapeno. Appetizers include New York-style garlic knots, in classic style with olive oil, garlic and parsley or stuffed with meat or cheese.

Most Austinites will readily admit that the otherwise foodie-loving city is not the best spot in Texas for pizza. Luckily, there's Home Slice Pizza. The South Congress Avenue pizza joint serves piping hot New York-style thin crust pies for line-out-the-door crowds nearly every night of the week. If you've never indulged in East Coast pizza, their menu makes it easy with step-by-step instructions on how to eat foldable slices. In addition to oven-fresh pies, Home Slice tosses a great dinner salad and pours a wide variety of red and white wine. Plan a stop at this eatery to witness Austin at its best.

Little Deli puts together items like tuna salads, cold roast beef sandwich, meatball sub and Liverwurst, all of which are scrumptious and filling. Pot-roast and sandwich lovers will find plenty to relish on. Don't miss the decadent brownie and chocolate cake on the dessert list. The kind owners make you feel at home even on crowded days and service is usually swift. The atmosphere is always abuzz with more locals than outsiders. As most patrons will testify, the drive to this Little Deli & Pizzeria is worthwhile.