Since opening in 2017, Phoebe's Diner has become an Austin favorite, serving scratch-made modern comfort food with a Texas twist.

What started as a single location in South Austin has grown into three diners, catering to a growing fan base across the city. Executive Chef Camden Stuerzenberger, a veteran of the Austin culinary scene for more than 20 years, leads the charge, blending classical French training with playful, accessible fare.

From one location to a citywide favorite

When chef Camden Stuerzenberger opened Phoebe’s Diner on Oltorf Street in 2017, his goal was simple: create a nostalgic yet new diner where families, foodies and brunch lovers felt at home.

The Oltorf space was halfway through construction when Stuerzenberger pitched his idea. After a successful tasting, the team decided to take a chance on his vision. Just weeks before opening, his daughter, Phoebe, was born—making the diner’s name a natural choice.

Phoebe’s Diner stood out for its mix of Southern comfort, French technique and Texas influence. The cozy neighborhood spot quickly drew regulars and long weekend lines, earning a reputation as one of Austin’s top breakfast destinations.

Success led to growth: a downtown Austin location opened in 2021, followed by the spacious Gracy Farms diner in 2023.

• Oltorf: 533 W Oltorf St., Austin
• Downtown: 408 W 11th St., Austin
• Gracy Farms: 12001 Burnet Rd., Austin

“I want Phoebe’s to feel like your favorite comfort meal—familiar, warm and a little unexpected,” Stuerzenberger said. “Every location is a place where everyone, from families to food lovers, can feel at home.”

Eclectic and elevated: The culinary philosophy

Phoebe’s signature style is “greasy spoon Americana meets Texas smokehouse.”

Menu favorites include:

• Shrimp and grits: (GF) Sauteed shrimp, green pork chorizo, onion, mushrooms, corn, goat cheese grits, Hatch chile hollandaise and green onion
• South first tots: (GF) Sage sausage gravy, mozzarella, fried egg, pickled chiles, guacamole, cotija cheese and green onion
• Taquito salad: (GF) Arugula, corn, tomato, guacamole, crispy corn tortilla strips, cotija cheese, green onion, cilantro and chipotle ranch
• Diner double burger: Two ¼ pound patties on a potato roll with house pickles, spinach, tomatoes, American cheese, onion and special sauce.
• Bananas foster french toast: Banana walnut bread, whipped cream, fresh bananas, pecans, bourbon caramel and powdered sugar
• Chile relleno: (GF) Poblano pepper stuffed with scrambled eggs and smoked cheddar, ranchero sauce, creme fraiche, cotija cheese, cilantro, red potatoes
• Smoked brisket wrap: Smoked red beets, arugula, mushroom, corn, onion, sweet potato, goat cheese, guacamole and poblano vin wrapped in a BBQ tortilla
• Sunrise rita: espolon blanco, mandarin liqueur, lime, orange and a citrus salt rim
• Double buzz: Kamora coffee liqueur, rumchata, licor 43, cold brew and coffee ice cube

Inspired by Chef Stuerzenberger’s mother-in-law, Phoebe’s offers a wide range of gluten-free options. Most of the menu is gluten-free, with dishes prepared using separate fryers, dedicated prep areas and carefully sourced ingredients—so guests can enjoy everything from hearty breakfasts to fresh salads safely and deliciously.

“We want everyone to experience Phoebe’s playful comfort food, ensuring our gluten-free guests get the same bold flavors and elevated touches as the rest of our menu,” Stuerzenberger said.

Growing with the city, staying true to flavor

Over the years, Phoebe’s Diner has evolved, but one thing hasn’t changed: the commitment to the dishes and experiences that keep regulars coming back. From longtime neighborhood patrons to new fans at Downtown or Gracy Farms, Chef Stuerzenberger ensures every location carries the same warmth, creativity and attention to detail.

“Seeing familiar faces every weekend, families who have been coming since day one, reminds us why we do what we do,” Stuerzenberger said. “We’ve grown, yes—but we’ve never lost sight of what makes Phoebe’s feel like home.”

Whether it’s the Cheeky Monkey or South First Street Tots, the menu balances new, playful dishes with comfort food classics. Regulars know they can expect a consistently delicious experience no matter the location.

Celebrating the holidays at Phoebe's

Phoebe's Diner is making the holidays easy for Austinites with special hours and promotions:

Between Nov. 22 and Dec. 7, customers who purchase a $100 gift card will receive an additional $25 credit, making it the perfect way to treat family and friends this holiday season.

During the holiday season, Phoebe’s Diner will offer special meals for family and friends.

• Thanksgiving: The Oltorf and Gracy Farms locations will be open.
• Christmas Eve: All locations are open.
• Christmas Day: All locations are closed.
• New Year’s Day: All locations are open.

Visit one of the three locations or explore catering options at www.phoebesdiner.com/catering.

Sign up for the no-wait waitlist here.

The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.