Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar

Finally tried Loro for the first time this weekend after having it on our list for a while. Overall we had a great experience. Really liked the casual vibe and the large amount of outdoor seating. We tried several things on the menu and enjoyed it all. Definitely some unique items that I don’t think you can get anywhere else in Austin. Definitely give it a try.

This place was great! We came a little before 4 on a Sunday and it wasnt busy. You order at the bar and they bring the food to your table. They had a cider on tap (Texas Keeper) and had a can (East Austin Cider) option too. The Mexican Martini was a little flat, and didnt really taste like anything. We got the pork belly rice bowl and tofu rice bowl. They were both excellent. The pork belly came with some garlic and spicy fish sauce that was delicious. The coconut rice was lite ans fluffy. The schezuan tofu was absolutely delicious, crunchy and flavorful. Our friends got the ribs which were good, but came with some pickled carrots that were the star of the show!

The creativity behind these dishes are enhanced through their execution. The place has a fun and friendly vibe and they've designed it to handle crowds really well. I sat at the bar and ordered there. Tried their edamame, pork belly and brisket. Phenomenal! Taste, plating, ticket time, everything - it was awesome. They were PACKED and absolutely killing it. I don't think I'll be able to visit Austin again without making this mandatory stop!

The Food is good, the sides are all especially good and exciting, the potatoes were soooo good and the rice noodles were filling and tasteful with the chili oil. The appetizers were also great, the queso and the wontons were delicious and added so much! Where it kinda went downhill was the pork katsu with noodles available one Mondays and Tuesdays. The dish was dry both the noodles and the pork katsu which is usually balanced with a tonkatsu sauce which wasn’t provided. The Charsiu was o k, it was more of a hoisin than a char siu flavor. Overall the atmosphere was great and we loved the experience! There was one service issue where we got boozy coffee when we asked for the traditional Vietnamese iced coffee. If I had only gotten the katsu I would have given Loro a 2.

I had the Smoked Butcher's Cut and Chicken Karaage. They were both excellent! Don't hesitate to order the Butcher's Cut. It was very tender and full of flavor, and the shishito salsa and pickled onions complimented the teres major steak perfectly. The chicken karaage is some of the best I have had! Service is quick (but not rushed), friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. I have eaten here twice in less than a week and will be eating here frequently. I recommend you do the same.

Loro in South Austin is one of those rare spots that nails both flavor and atmosphere. The Asian smokehouse twist on Texas BBQ keeps every visit exciting. The chicken karaage is a must-order — perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and paired with just the right punch of seasoning. The brisket sandwich is equally memorable, with melt-in-your-mouth brisket and a balance of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors that make it hard to put down. Service here is all counter-style, and it works beautifully — quick, friendly, and efficient, even during busy stretches. The patio is one of the best in town: spacious, shaded, and perfect for enjoying Austin weather. Whether you’re gathering with friends, hosting a work happy hour, or having a family get-together, Loro has the space and vibe to make it easy. All in all, Loro delivers on every front — great food, great service, and a great setting.

June 2025 Wonderful smoke house with an Asian twist. Brisket was moist and tasty. Small portion but reasonable price. Very please and impressed. My rating as 5 is very satisfied Taste 5/5 Temperature 4/5 Speed of service 3/5 our side came after we almost finished our entrees Cleanliness 4/5 Attentiveness and courteous 4/5 not much service only food runners bringing the food. Will I return ? Most likely Will I recommend? Yes!

Loro is an Austin staple when you are looking for a spin on smoked meats. I love the Asian inspired flavors. My partner and I came hungry, so we over ordered. The seaweed salad came last, and it was too saucy. We also got the shrimp rice bowl which was excellent and the perfect portion. We ended up taking this whole dish to go. The star of the night was the sake smoked half chicken and karrage. The smoked chicken was soooo delicious. It was so moist, perfectly seasoned, and was accompanied by lettuce and herbs to make lettuce wraps. The karrage is a generous portion and really good. The sesame noodles were excellent as well. We left there super happy. The staff is very kind and attentive for being counter service. We went around 6:30pm on a Saturday. We were able to seat ourselves before the host set up kicked in. It was continuously busy all night. It is loud and dark in the inside.