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How will Texas' power grid fare this winter?: FOX 7 Focus

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How will Texas' power grid fare this winter?: FOX 7 Focus


How prepared is the Texas power grid for a winter weather event like the deadly ice storm we saw back in 2021?

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Those questions are resurfacing after a prediction from ERCOT’s meteorologist that we could see similar weather conditions this upcoming winter. 

FOX 7 Austin’s John Krinjak spoke one-on-one with local energy expert Doug Lewin, author of the Texas Energy and Power newsletter, to get some answers. 

JOHN KRINJAK: So we heard from ERCOT’s chief meteorologist this week who kind of warned of weather trends similar to the weather trends we saw back in 2021. Kind of the ingredients that support something like that devastating winter storm. What are your thoughts? What’s your reaction to that prediction?

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DOUG LEWIN: Yeah. So obviously, it’s, you know, little, little scary, right? Yeah. Start with the obvious. You know, that that kind of sustained deep freeze obviously wreaks havoc. And as we saw in 2021, I do think that if we had the exact same weather system, we would be better off than we were in 2021. Two main reasons for that is the PUC and ERCOT have been enforcing a winterization standard for power plants. That seems to be working pretty well. We have data on this. Also, we have a whole lot more solar in storage.

JOHN KRINJAK: Where do you think we are still vulnerable? When you look at that big picture of ‘we’re more reliable now than we were, but maybe not all the way there’.

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DOUG LEWIN: Yeah. The vulnerabilities are really on the gas supply system. Right. I do think the state has made progress on power plants. But if you can’t get gas to those power plants, they could be winterized to the nines. You know, winterized is as good as anybody’s ever winterized a power plant. It’s only as good as the fuel you can get to it. Right. So the gas and gas is still up for all the wind and solar development we’ve had. For all the talk, nuclear and geothermal and all that. Gas is the dominant source of power on our grid and we rely on it throughout the year and in the wintertime particularly. So having a winterized gas supply system is really important. We don’t have it right now. The other big vulnerability is on demand and energy efficiency. We still would have, you know, two problems during year, not enough supply to much demand. We really have not in the state address energy efficiency. So that excessively high demand we saw during winter storm Uri would would be there again, unfortunately.

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JOHN KRINJAK: So, you know, given the gains that we’ve made and the vulnerabilities that we still have, what do you think the picture looks like if we have something similar to Uri again? Do we see outages? Do we see widespread outages? What what is that? What could that look like?

DOUG LEWIN: Yeah, I think there would be outages. I just don’t think that they would be so so during, you know, winter storm Uri, obviously a defining feature of it was people that were outraged were out for days. Right. So these outages are often described as rolling outages. They weren’t rolling during winter storm Uri. Right. A rolling outage would be you lose power for 15 minutes, 30 minutes maybe on the upper end, 1 or 2 hours, and then the power comes back on. And I think that if we had one again, what we would see is the actual ability to rotate outages again, partially because we have so much solar. So yeah, I don’t think we would see a situation where 10 million Texans are without power for days at a time. It might be a few hundred thousand or a few million Texans and it might be a few hours at a time instead of a few days.

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JOHN KRINJAK: What do you think Texans should be thinking about, you know, given this kind of weather scenario, what should people be doing to prepare?

DOUG LEWIN: You know, I would say the main things are just to make sure that you have, you know, the supplies that you need, you know, things like firewood and water and, you know, food that can be prepared without electricity, making sure if you have an elderly neighbor, you know that they have a plan.

JOHN KRINJAK: Doug Lewin, we always appreciate your perspective. Thanks so much for making time for us.

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DOUG LEWIN: Hey, thank you, John. 



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Austin, TX

Pho Austin: Best Pho Restaurants In Austin (2025)

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Pho Austin: Best Pho Restaurants In Austin (2025)


Last Updated On – 30th November, 2025

Jump To: Affordable | Traditional | Modern & Trendy

Pho Austin lovers know that the city’s Vietnamese food scene continues to grow fast — and pho is one of the biggest standouts. Whether you’re craving a deep, traditional broth or a modern, creative take on the classic soup, Austin has something for every pho fan.

Below are the 10 best pho restaurants in Austin for 2025, organized into helpful categories so you can instantly find the perfect bowl.

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Warm up with a bowl of pho, then keep the day going with something fun. Check out the latest Things To Do in Austin This Weekend to find concerts, pop-ups, and seasonal happenings around the city.


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.

Also, check out our articles on Chinese Food Austin, Vietnamese Food in Austin, and Best Sushi Restaurants Austin.


Affordable Pho Austin

The One Pho

austin pho - The One Phoaustin pho - The One Pho

Image credit: The One Pho

The One Pho is a favorite Vietnamese spot in Austin, known for its extensive menu that includes classic noodle soups and innovative Asian fusion dishes. Locals often praise their signature Wagyu Beef Hot Stone Pho, where the broth is poured tableside over fresh ingredients in a piping hot stone bowl.

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Where: 10721 Research Blvd b110, Austin, TX 78759
Operating Hours: Thursday CLOSED | Friday – Wednesday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm


Pho Van

Pho Van is a highly-rated, no-frills Vietnamese restaurant in Austin, known for serving authentic dishes like flavorful pho, fresh spring rolls, and banh mi. Many regulars consider their broken rice plates, such as the grilled chicken or pork, to be an excellent alternative to the namesake soup.

Where: 8557 Research Blvd #120, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: Daily 10:30 am – 9:00 pm


Tan My Restaurant

Tan My Restaurant is widely celebrated as one of Austin’s best for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, famous for its rich, aromatic broth that elevates their signature noodle soups. For an especially satisfying meal, be sure to try the Pho Dac Biet, a combination pho that features a generous variety of meats.

Where: 1601 Ohlen Rd # E, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:30 pm

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888 Pan Asian Restaurant

 pho in austin - 888 Pan Asian Restaurant pho in austin - 888 Pan Asian Restaurant

Image credit: 888 Pan Asian Restaurant

888 Pan Asian Restaurant is a popular pho Austin spot known for its vast menu of well-priced, generously portioned Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese dishes. Patrons especially praise the flavorful pho broth, and the crispy spring rolls are a highly recommended appetizer to start your meal.

Where: 2400 E Oltorf St #1A, Austin, TX 78741
Operating Hours: Sunday 12:00 pm – 9:45 pm | Monday – Saturday 12:00 pm – 10:45 pm


Once you’ve finished your pho adventure, explore what else Austin has brewing. Browse our guide to Things To Do in Austin This Weekend for festivals, outdoor fun, and can’t-miss local events.


Best Traditional Pho in Austin

Pho Saigon Noodle House

A long-loved staple of South Austin, Pho Saigon delivers a deep, rich broth and the classic herb-forward flavor that makes traditional pho irresistible. Its consistency and generous portions make it one of the city’s most reliable pho spots.

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Where: 10901 N Lamar Blvd A108, Austin, TX 78753
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:30 pm


Pho Dan

North Austin residents swear by Pho Dan. The broth here is clean and comforting, and the bowls come packed with noodles and meats. It’s a great everyday pho spot, especially for those who love straightforward, authentic flavors.

Where: 11220 N Lamar Blvd B-200, Austin, TX 78753
Operating Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 9:00 pm


Pho Phong Luu

pho austin - Phở Phong Lưupho austin - Phở Phong Lưu

Image credit: Phở Phong Lưu

Known for bold, aromatic broth and generous toppings, Pho Phong Luu offers classic Vietnamese flavors done right. It’s a go-to for long-time Austin residents seeking a consistently satisfying bowl.

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Where: 11800 Dessau Rd Suite 302, Austin, TX 78754
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Thursday CLOSED | Friday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm | Monday – Tuesday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm


Best Modern & Trendy Pho Spots in Austin

Sip Pho

pho austinpho austin

Image credit: Sip Pho

Sip Pho brings a modern, fresh aesthetic to the pho Austin scene. Expect beautifully plated bowls with a focus on clean flavors, perfect for diners who appreciate high-quality ingredients in a contemporary setting.

Where: 512 W 29th St, Austin, TX 78705
Operating Hours: Daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm


Pho Please

Pho Please is one of the most popular modern Vietnamese spots in Austin. It has a bright, trendy atmosphere, fast service, and a broth that’s light yet incredibly flavorful. A reliable pick for young professionals and students.

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Where: 1920 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
Operating Hours: Daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm


1618 Asian Fusion

While 1618 Asian Fusion isn’t strictly a pho restaurant, its version of the dish has earned a dedicated following. The flavors are balanced and the portions generous, making it ideal for mixed groups craving different Asian dishes.

Where: 1618 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 9:30 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 10:30 pm


Craving more ways to enjoy the city after your pho stop? Dive into our updated roundup of Things To Do in Austin This Weekend and discover what’s happening across Austin right now.

Lacey MorrisLacey Morris
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Austin, TX

Austin police investigate early morning shooting outside club; victim stable

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Austin police investigate early morning shooting outside club; victim stable


Austin police are investigating a shooting that happened early Friday morning after an altercation in front of a north Austin night club.

Police say that the shooting happened just after 1 a.m. Friday morning in the parking lot at the Rodeo Night Club at 9515 N. Lamar Blvd.

APD says that a man in his 20s was taken to the hospital with gunshot wounds.

ALSO | Lawyer: 19-year-old student detained, deported before flight to Austin for Thanksgiving

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The injuries were first reported as critical, but the victim was later determined to be in stable condition, according to police.

Two suspects were detained at the scene, police say, and the incident is being investigated as an aggravated assault.



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Austin, TX

Texas vs. Texas A&M rivalry reignites excitement among fans tailgating for game

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Texas vs. Texas A&M rivalry reignites excitement among fans tailgating for game


The excitement around the Texas vs. Texas A&M game returned to the 40 acres this weekend. After students camped outside the stadium to secure prime seats, the tailgate lots were full up with Longhorns and Aggies fans alike.

“Go Horns!” exclaimed Darrick Price from UT Tailgaters, celebrating the reunion with “little brother.” Laura McWha, a Texas A&M fan, added, “WHOOP!!” as Aggies traveled from College Station for the game.

Price noted, “It feels amazing. We’re so happy that little brother’s back in town.” The rivalry, restored last year, has friends and family rooting against each other in what is the biggest home game for Texas this year. “I have a senior now who’s considering which school he wants to go to, and I just think it means everything for this city,” Price said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE| Longhorns vs. Aggies tickets soar as fans prepare for epic showdown

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McWha expressed confidence, saying, “We’ve been doing great this season….We’re gonna show what we’ve got.”

This was about as fiery as the smack talk got today as fans enjoyed communing with their frenemies in the lots.

Lanece Marley, another A&M fan, shared, “I think it’s wonderful. We love coming. We love celebrating with these guys.”

Hannah Morgan, an Austin-native and Aggie grad, reflected on her divided household, saying, “Oh yes I know what it means. It means everything to us.” With a father and brother who went to UT-Austin, Morgan says she successfully converted her mother over to rooting for the Aggies. Morgan also anticipated the game, stating, “I think it’s going to be really sweet to get revenge… to beat them at home would be a big deal for us.”

Texas won last year’s matchup in College Station, which was the first meeting between the two schools since 2011.

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