Hoover’s Cooking, located in Austin, Texas, has been serving up southern comfort food for years. Known for its hearty portions and soul-warming dishes, it’s a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike who crave traditional southern cooking. The restaurant’s ambiance, reminiscent of a simpler time, combined with its down-home meals, makes it a beloved fixture in the Austin dining scene.
Hoover’s isn’t just about the food; it’s about the experience. Reviewers frequently praise the warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. Jodie Brown, a local guide, noted, “The staff is wonderful, and the atmosphere is welcoming.” It’s not uncommon to be greeted by friendly faces eager to make your visit enjoyable. Even on busy nights, like when Simone Beavers visited during a hectic Texas Relay event, she observed that the wait staff remained “extremely friendly and helpful with the menu.” The welcoming vibe extends beyond just the service — it’s part of what makes Hoover’s feel like home to so many patrons.
If you’re looking for comfort food that reminds you of grandma’s kitchen, Hoover’s Cooking has you covered. Their menu is filled with southern staples like chicken and dumplings, fried chicken, and macaroni and cheese. Rex Hancock, who dined in for lunch, praised the “chicken and dumplings” and described the mac and cheese as “very tasty.” The fried chicken is often a highlight, with diners like J Marie ZP appreciating the “moist on the inside” chicken, though some diners have had mixed experiences, with Tyler S mentioning that the fried chicken was a bit “overdone” during his visit.
But it’s not just about the fried chicken — Hoover’s excels in delivering a range of southern favorites. Noe Godinez raved about the “catfish etouffee with mashed potatoes and fried okra,” while Mike Young couldn’t get enough of the “stellar” BBQ sauce and desserts.
Hoover’s sweet treats are the perfect way to round off a meal. Whether you’re in the mood for cobbler or pie, their dessert menu is not to be missed. Local guides like Robert Hendrickson have high praise for the pies, describing them as “a must-stop” if you’re a pie enthusiast. The “chocolate pie, peach pie, and buttermilk” varieties are popular choices, offering something for everyone with a sweet tooth.
Like any restaurant, Hoover’s Cooking has its ups and downs. Some customers, like Dax Garvin, mentioned a dip in quality over the years, while others have pointed out minor flaws, such as lackluster mac and cheese or chicken that wasn’t as crispy as expected. However, the majority of reviews reflect a positive dining experience, with most diners leaving satisfied and eager to return.
Hoover’s Cooking continues to be a staple in Austin, offering comfort food that satisfies both locals and visitors. The restaurant’s friendly service, delicious southern dishes, and stellar desserts keep diners coming back, even if there are occasional hiccups along the way. If you’re in Austin and craving some good old-fashioned southern comfort food, Hoover’s is worth a visit. Whether it’s the chicken and dumplings or the pies, you’re sure to find something that will make your heart (and stomach) happy.
Hoover’s Cooking specializes in Southern comfort food, offering classic dishes like fried chicken, mac and cheese, catfish, chicken fried steak, and a variety of homemade pies.
Some highly recommended dishes include their fried chicken, catfish, mac and cheese, chicken and dumplings, and their selection of pies like chocolate and peach. Their BBQ sauce also receives rave reviews.
Yes, Hoover’s Cooking is family-friendly, offering generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it ideal for families and large groups.
The price range at Hoover’s Cooking varies between $10–$30 per person, depending on whether you're dining for lunch or dinner.
Yes, Hoover’s Cooking offers both dine-in and takeout options. Delivery is also available, though some customers have noted issues with missing items, so it's recommended to confirm your order.