Michigan softball is headed to Austin, Texas, for the opening weekend of the 2025 NCAA Softball Tournament. The Wolverines (38-19), who won their second straight Big Ten Tournament on May 10, will open the NCAAs at 2 p.m. May 16 against UCF (ESPN2) in the regional hosted by overall 6-seed Texas.

UCF (33-22-1) finished seventh in the Big 12 before advancing to the conference quarterfinals. The Wolverines and the Knights have some recent NCAA history, with host UCF eliminating U-M in Orlando, Florida, in a 2022 regional final —the last game for the Wolverines under legendary coach Carol Hutchins.

The Longhorns (46-10), who finished third in the SEC and lost in the SEC tournament semifinals, will open against Ohio Valley Conference champion Eastern Illinois (34-20) at approximately 4:30 p.m. May 16.

THE VICTORS: Michigan softball finds magic to upset UCLA for 2nd straight Big Ten tournament title

The winners of those first-round games will play at 1 p.m. May 17 for a spot in the regional final at 1 p.m. May 18, while the losers will play 3:30 p.m. May 17 in an elimination game. The winner of that game faces the loser of May 17’s first game for the second spot in the regional final.

The winner of the Austin regional will face the winner of the Clemson regional (featuring Clemson, USC Upstate, Northwestern and Kentucky) the following weekend in a best-of-three series at the higher seed’s campus for a spot in the Women’s College World Series, which begins May 29 in Oklahoma City.

In their third season under coach Bonnie Stoll, the Wolverines are looking for their first Super Regional berth since 2016. That’s also the last time U-M advanced to the College World Series. Last season, in their first NCAA appearance under Stoll, U-M dropped its NCAA opener in Stillwater, Oklahoma, then won twice to advance to the regional final before losing to host Oklahoma State.

Michigan, making its 31st NCAA tourney appearance (all since 1992), has advanced to the WCWS 12 times in all, with a championship in 2005 and a runner-up finish in 2015.

Best Austin Salads

Quick & Casual Salad Spots

Restaurant Salads with a Gourmet Touch

Unique and Niche Salad Offerings

Austin is a vibrant city known for its eclectic food scene, and that includes a fantastic array of fresh and creative salads. Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian, a health-conscious foodie, or simply looking for a light and delicious meal, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

This guide will help you navigate the city’s leafy landscape and discover the best Austin salads, highlighting some of the top spots where you can enjoy a bowl of greens that’s both nutritious and flavorful. We’ll explore a variety of establishments, from fast-casual joints to upscale restaurants, ensuring you find the perfect salad to suit your taste and lifestyle.

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Best Austin Salads – Quick & Casual Salad Spots

Flower Child: Nature’s Wonder salad

Image Credit: Flower Child FB Page

This salad is a balanced and flavorful combination of healthy ingredients, offering a satisfying and refreshing meal. Flower Child is known for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great option for a quick, healthy lunch.

Ingredients: organic kale, quinoa, avocado, cucumber, broccoli pesto, toasted almonds, and lemon vinaigrette
Where: 500 W 2nd St Suite 133, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Daily 11 am – 9 pm

JuiceLand: The Green Goddess Bowl

While known for their smoothies, JuiceLand also offers excellent salad bowls. This bowl is very filling and full of great greens. It is also very refreshing.

Ingredient: kale, spinach, avocado, quinoa, cucumber, broccoli, green goddess dressing
Where: Multiple locations in Austin
Operating Hours:  Monday – Saturday 7 am – 9 pm | Sunday 8 am – 9 pm

Modern Market Eatery: Supergreen Goddess

Image Credit: Modern Market Eatery FB Page

This salad is packed with nutrient-rich greens and a creamy, flavorful dressing. Modern Market Eatery is known for its focus on wholesome, scratch-made food, providing a healthy and convenient dining experience.

Ingredients: kale, spinach, quinoa, avocado, broccoli, cucumber, green goddess dressing
Where: 401 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 10 am – 9 pm | Saturday – Sunday 11 am – 8 pm

Salad and Go: Caesar Salad

Salad and Go focuses on providing healthy, affordable, and quick salads. Their drive-thru model makes it exceptionally convenient.

Ingredients: Romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing, with optional protein additions
Where: 101 Deer Ridge Dr, Round Rock, TX 78681
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 6:30 am – 9 pm | Saturday – Sunday 7 am – 9 pm

Sweetgreen: Harvest Bowl

This bowl is a hearty and satisfying option, combining seasonal ingredients with a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors. Sweetgreen emphasizes sustainably sourced ingredients and offers a customizable menu, making it a reliable choice for a healthy and quick meal.

Ingredients: wild rice, kale, apples, sweet potatoes, goat cheese, roasted chicken, toasted almonds, balsamic vinaigrette
Where: 200 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 10 am – 10 pm | Saturday – Sunday 10:30 am – 8 pm

Best Austin Salads – Restaurant Salads with a Gourmet Touch

Clark’s Oyster Bar: Lobster Salad

This luxurious salad is a decadent treat, featuring fresh lobster and a light, refreshing vinaigrette. Clark’s Oyster Bar is known for its high-quality seafood and elegant ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion.

Ingredient: lobster, avocado, tomatoes, greens, lemon vinaigrette
Where: 1200 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 11 am – 11 pm

Josephine House: Little Gem Salad

Image Credit: Josephine House FB Page

This elegant salad is simple yet sophisticated, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients and a creamy buttermilk dressing. Josephine House is known for its charming atmosphere and refined cuisine, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner.  

Ingredients: little gem lettuce, avocado, herbs, buttermilk dressing
Where: 1601 Waterston Ave, Austin, TX 78703
Operating Hours: Daily 9 am – 10 pm

Justine’s Brasserie: Salade Niçoise

A classic French salad, done exceptionally well. Justine’s Brasserie is known for its authentic French cuisine and romantic atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a memorable dinner.

Ingredient: tuna, haricot verts, potatoes, olives, eggs, anchovies
Where: 4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702
Operating Hours: Tuesday CLOSED | Monday 6 pm – 11 pm | Wednesday – Sunday 6 pm – 2 am

True Food Kitchen: Seasonal Ingredient Salad

Image Credit: True Food Kitchen FB Page

True Food Kitchen focuses on anti-inflammatory ingredients and offers a rotating menu of seasonal salads that are both delicious and healthy. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor makes it a top choice for a gourmet salad experience.

Ingredients: ingredients change seasonally, featuring fresh, vibrant produce
Where: 11410 Century Oaks Terrace Ste 100, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday 11 am – 10 pm | Saturday 10 am – 10 pm | Sunday 10 am – 9 pm

Uchi: Jar Jar Duck

Uchi is known for its innovative Japanese cuisine, and this salad is no exception. The combination of smoked duck, citrus, and nuts creates a unique and flavorful experience.

Ingredients: smoked duck breast, endive, orange, pistachio, yuzu vinaigrette
Where: 801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 4 pm – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 4 pm – 11 pm

Best Austin Salads – Unique and Niche Salad Offerings

ATXFOODCO: Great Selection of Salads

Image Credit: ATX FOOD CO. FB Page

ATXFOODCO has a great selection of locally sourced seasonal salads. The menu changes, so there is always something new to try.

Ingredients: Their rotating seasonal salads
Where: 517 S Lamar Blvd LOT 1, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 8 am – 8 pm | Saturday – Sunday 9 am – 5 pm

Blue Dahlia Bistro: Black Bean Salad

This bistro provides a European-style eating experience with fresh ingredients. They also provide options for people with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients: Avocado, tomato, cilantro, mango, and black beans
Where: 107 E Hopkins St, San Marcos, TX 78666
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 am – 9 pm | Sunday 9 am – 3 pm

Bouldin Creek Cafe: The Big Salad

Bouldin Creek Cafe is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly spot that offers hearty and flavorful salads. “The Big Salad” is a filling and nutritious option that caters to plant-based eaters.

Ingredients: tempeh, avocado, mixed greens, veggies, tahini dressing
Where: 1900 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 8 am – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 8 am – 11 pm

Local Foods: The Market Salad

Image Credit: Local Foods FB Page

Local Foods focuses on sourcing ingredients from local farms and producers. Their Market Salad is a great way to enjoy the freshest seasonal produce.

Ingredients: changes seasonally, filled with fresh local ingredients
Where: 454 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:45 am – 8 pm | Friday 10:45 am – 8:30 pm | Saturday 9 am – 8:30 pm | Sunday 9 am – 8 pm

Picnik Austin: Paleo Cobb

Picnik Austin caters to those with dietary restrictions, offering paleo-friendly and gluten-free options. The “Paleo Cobb” is a hearty and satisfying salad that’s perfect for those following a paleo diet.

Ingredients: chicken, bacon, avocado, eggs, greens, ranch dressing
Where: 4801 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756
Operating Hours: Daily 9 am – 9 pm

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Lacey is a freelancer and Austin local who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try, fun activities to do, and local events to attend. She loves sharing her discoveries with others through her writing and hopes her work encourages both visitors and locals to be active in the community. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring one of the city’s many hiking trails with her Blue Heeler, Oreo, getting lost in a good book, or dancing the night away to some house or techno beats at one of her favorite rave spots.

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