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 Tex-Mex favorite |
1616 West Fifth Street Austin, TX 78703 United States +1 512 474 1222 http://www.ditch.com/ |
If there is a wait at this popular restaurant, order a classic margarita or a 'floater' and dip into the chips and hot sauce and/or queso. Before long, you will be addressing a plate full of the Tex-Mex standard of your choice. Or try any of the variations on barbecued chicken-the chalupas of this variety are especially tasty. Entrees make this a fairly inexpensive spot, provided you do not get carried away on the margaritas. The atmosphere is fun and lively, and El Arroyo has a sense of humor: Just check out the pointedly witty billboard out front, with daily commentary on politics and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephan Segraves  |
 Photo: Swendner Photography |
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Inexpensive but great food |
5003 Airport Boulevard Austin, TX 78751-2708 United States +1 512 453 9842 |
Small and quaint is how you can describe this place best. But don't let the small factor undermine the Mexican fare dished out here - you can actually watch them cook. Crowded with hungry students, travelers, local patrons, and professionals, the food is delicious but inexpensive. Food includes homemade salsa, breakfast tacos, migas, enchiladas, chalupas et al. You can call ahead and order - with the prices, for a whole baseball team. In spite of the demand and queue, service is quick. Note: no credit cards please. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classic Tex-Mex with vegetable entrees |
2600 E Seventh Street Austin, TX 78702 United States +1 512 477 4701 http://www.aztecarestaurant.com/ |
Classic Tex-Mex food can be difficult to find in this era of concept chain restaurants hawking bland versions of the real thing. Once you discover this place, however, you will search no longer. Basic, time-honored Mexican combination plates join ranks here with Interior Mexican specialties and an extensive selection of vegetarian choices. Cheese Enchiladas with Salsa Verde are so good, they're comforting, and classic Chile Con Queso cannot be beaten. Chile Rellenos, Fajitas and other standards are reliably tasty as well. Aztec heroes and heroines, emblazoned on black velvet, keep you company while you dine. Take home an Aztec calendar to remind yourself to return. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A treat for your taste buds |
5404 Manchaca Road Austin, TX 78745 United States +1 512 443 5167 http://www.austinbakehouse.com/ |
The Bakehouse serves all possible cuisines that you can think of and is the best treat you can give your taste buds. The ingredients used are of the best quality and the warm staff will guide you with each item on the menu. You can feast on the multi-course meal and appetizers and have delicious cocktails while striking a conversation with locals. It also has a full service bar, which serves a good variety of wines and vodkas. Bake house is very famous for its breakfast pancakes and fresh hollandaise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate E. Austin |
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Love the grill |
3600 North Capital of Texas Highway (Loop 360) Building A, Suite 110 Austin, TX 78746 United States +1 512 327 9033 http://www.berryhilltamales.com |
Serving what the owners of this restaurant call, 'a new twist to this different kinda Mex', Berryhill Baja grill serves the most superlative Mexican food in town. Sink your teeth into the restaurant's famous Tamales, served the traditional way, steamed in husk. Or try the deep fried Chimichangas, served with fajita beef, chicken, grilled fish or spinach. Or try the Chicken Enchiladas served with black beans and rice - just mouthwatering. If you want to pop in for a light snack, they also serve popular Mexican appetizers such as Shrimp Diablo, chips and salsa as well as Chicken Nachos. After this meal, you'll want to run to every Mexican and ask for their family recipe of your favourite food! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Authentic Mexican |
6400 S First St Suite B Austin, TX 78745 United States +1 512 441 2424 |
Priding itself on fresh, homemade food, this South Austin restaurant regularly enters its salsa in the local "Hot Sauce Challenge" and has won several times. The atmosphere is low-key and casual, making it a pleasant place for conversation or more festive gatherings. You will find a variety of enchilada plates as well as tacos, migas, tamales, and much more. It also offers somewhat more exotic and costly "national Mexican" cuisine, including marinated cabrito (goat), guisada (tender beef) sauteed in ancho sauce, and tuna steak with chile sauce. A full bar is available. The restaurant is available to reserve for events; catering off-site is offered as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mi cantina, su cantina |
201, West 3rd Street Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 542 9670 http://www.cantinalaredo.com/ |
Cantina Laredo is a fine dining restaurant serving authentic Mexican fare. How authentic can Mexican cuisine get in Texas? Well, everything on the menu is house-made. If that means hand rolling enchiladas, that's what you get. The ingredients and seafood (excellent garlic butter jumbo shrimp) are shipped in daily and the grilled meat is made from Certified Angus Beef. The wholesome Sunday brunch (carne asada, eggs, chicken fajita omelet) seems like the breakfast for Mexican champions. A final word of caution before you indulge, jalapeños. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Salsa for the soul |
5610 North Lamar Boulevard Austin, TX 78751-1081 United States +1 512 452 6207 |
By the time you reach the end of this sentence, a new Tex-Mex restaurant would've opened in Austin. Of the many eateries, El Caribe is one. A blink-and-you-miss the establishment if you're driving past it, you would never guess it's been placed in three competitions at the Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Contest. The pick of El Caribe's salsas are the mango and the chipotle-plum tomatillo(both sweet and hot) and the spicy avocado and tomato and jalapeño(spicy). Get the chicken stuffed with cheese, chorizo, and onions(the Chef's special) for the main course. If there's one thing that will worry some, it's how to contain an expanding stomach in this tiny place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lake Travis' Fun on the Water |
5973, Hiline Road Austin, TX 78734 United States +1 512 266 1683 http://www.cncaustin.com/ |
This sun and fun restaurant is located right on the water for all those Lake Travis visitors looking for good food, drinks, and live music. Parking is widely available on both land and water and their Tex-Mex cuisine and margaritas are widely popular. They are known for their "no shirt, no shoes, no problem" mentality and they are a great stop for those spending the day out on the water. If their live music and laid-back mentality is not enough, patrons can come enjoy the sunset over the water that has brought that extra added flavor to this Austin favorite. -Nicholas Van Zandt Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mexican food with live music |
1901 West William Cannon Austin, TX 78748 United States +1 512 441 9504 http://www.casagarcias.net |
Cabrito, Chicken Mole, Carne Asada, Pork Mole and Tamales are names of just few Mexican specialties served here. The Mexican décor gives you the feeling of being in Mexico. The margaritas served at the bar will get you in the party mood. Steak a la Mexicana, served with fried beans and rice is the favorite delicacy here. For desserts, try the Bunuelos and the New York Cheesecake. The restaurant has another branch at 1000 South Lamar. This place is very popular with the locals hence it is advisable to make a reservation. The Mariachi band plays here every Friday from 7p-9p, so book your table now! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mexican food with live music |
1000 South Lamar Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 851 8684 http://www.casagarcias.net/ |
Cabrito, Chicken Mole, Carne Asada, Pork Mole, and Tamales are names of just few Mexican specialties served here. The Mexican décor gives you the feeling of being in Mexico. The margaritas served at the bar will get you in the party mood. Steak a la Mexicana, served with fried beans and rice is the favorite delicacy here. For desserts, try the Bunuelos and the New York Cheesecake. This place is very popular with the locals, so it is advisable to make a reservation. The Mariachi band plays here every Thursday from 7p-9p, so book your table now! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mexican delight |
15803 Windermere Suite 601 Austin, TX 78660 United States http://www.casagarcias.net/ |
Cabrito, Chicken Mole, Carne Asada, Pork Mole, and Tamales are names of just few Mexican specialties served here. The Mexican décor gives you the feeling of being in Mexico. The margaritas served at the bar will get you in the party mood. Steak a la Mexicana, served with fried beans and rice is the favorite delicacy here. For desserts, try the Bunuelos and the New York Cheesecake. This place is very popular with the locals, so it is advisable to make a reservation. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The barrio meets the bistro |
1809, Manor Road Austin, TX 78722 United States +1 512 457 9900 http://www.elchilecafe.com/ |
El Chile Cafe y Cantina is a chic, yet unpretentious hangout. The walls mimic the adobe ochre and the artwork displayed around the restaurant is tasteful. What's equally tasty is the tortilla chips with avocado, salsa and fish. They do have the usual fare of tacos, enchiladas and especialidades. If you're game, also attempt the pear margarita or the tejas tea. The Happy Hour is only on weekdays, but you wouldn't know the difference. El Chile Cafe y Cantina is all about having fun, is a vibrant place and is unlike most other eateries that are Tex-Mex. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hot Breakfast On The Go |
2209 Manor Rd Austin, TX 78722 United States +1 512 382 3797 http://www.elchilito.com/ |
If you're anywhere near East Austin's Manor Road, El Chilito is the perfect morning pit stop. This refreshingly simple cafe serves patrons through a walk-up window and offers outdoor seating only. Piping hot breakfast tacos are their claim to fame, but the migas plate and the cochinita pibil burrito (braised pork) are also delicious. The ever-crowded eatery also stocks paletas—Mexican ice popsicles made with fruit or flavored cream. While you wait, watch the speed at which the cooks prepare made-to-order plates or relax on the shady covered patio. East Austinites spend mornings at El Chilito, sipping coffee and reading the newspaper, usually with a dog under their feet. Go early on Saturdays to beat the crowd: an El Chilito breakfast taco is a favorite hangover food. -Sarah Murray Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fresh, fast Mexican |
4400 North Lamar Blvd #101 Austin, TX 78756 United States +1 512 419 9898 http://www.chipotle.com/ |
This popular restaurant is centrally located and serves Mexican food fresh from the grill. The specialty here is burritos, either regular or fajita-style, made with a choice of steak, chicken, carnitas, or meatless. Also available are barbacoa (seasoned, shredded beef in a tortilla with toppings), plus crispy and soft tacos. You can choose from hot, medium, or mild homemade salsa. Beer and margaritas are served. Clean, glass-encased interior has a modern design, with minimal decoration. The atmosphere is casual, with customers ordering and paying at the grill. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tex-Mex |
1728 Barton Springs Road Austin, TX 78704-1037 United States +1 512 474 4452 http://www.chuys.com/ |
Equal parts Tex-Mex restaurant and Elvis Presley shrine, this place combines south-of-the-border dining with a Graceland atmosphere, all for a well-affordable price. The wait staff, friendly and helpful, have been voted as the fastest in town by 'Austin Chronicle' readers. Given the competition, it is no small accomplishment that this is commonly considered the best Tex-Mex restaurant in town. The Elvis homage, oddly enough, works. Hubcaps and images of the rock icon set the stage for a dining experience that is pleasant and casual. The menu features a variety of Mexican dishes (the house special, an overstuffed chicken-and-green-chile confection called a Chuychanga, is especially recommended), steaks and burgers, and features a selection of cold beers and mixed drinks to help wash down the hearty meals. Other branches are found at 10520 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, TX 78753 (+1 512 836 3218) and at 11680 Research Boulevard, Austin, TX 78759 (+1 512 342 0011). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anna Feruglio Dal Dan |
 Photo: Frank Boosman |
 Photo: Nathan Bittinger |
 Photo: Anna Feruglio Dal Dan |
 Photo: Lori Wright |
 Photo: Ryan Sciaino |
 Photo: Julia Mills |
 Photo: Paul Woodruff |
 Photo: Paul Rutowski |
 Photo: Adam Cutler |
 Photo: Kyle Johnston |
 Photo: Jan Berry |
 Photo: gabriel liberman |
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Breakfast bar |
1511 East Sixth Street Austin, TX 78702-3305 United States +1 512 478 2420 |
Founded in the 1950s, Cisco is an Austin institution. This Tex-Mex eatery has served its famous breakfast migas to the who's who. The clientele may have changed but the recipe hasn't. Migas, meaning 'crumbs' in Spanish, is made from eggs, cheese, vegetables and tortillas with black beans, chorizo and avocado chile varieties. Many a egg-hater has been converted by Cisco's migas. Cisco is also a bar, and the Bloody Mary is best had to nurse a hangover, not something you'd want to begin your day with. Migas, Fajitas and Toasted Biscuits, that's all you really need to know about Cisco. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Casual, authentic Mexican |
614 E Oltorf Street Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 444 0012 http://www.currasgrill.com/ |
Authentic, healthy-tasting Mexican food coupled with a laid-back atmosphere make Curra's Grill a South Austin institution for any meal of the day. Its unique sauces and dishes are homemade and nicely run the spectrum from mild to spicy. Live music is featured on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as Sunday afternoon. The crowd is usually festive and lively. Try the Cochinita Pibil ($8.95), the foremost traditional dish of Yucatan, which features shredded pork served on a banana leaf with plantains. There are many fresh seafood offerings, including Camarones Chihuahua ($13.25), shrimp sautéed with goat cheese and guajillo peppers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Reliable Mexican food |
1302 South First St Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 447 7445 |
The sombreros and parrots, mixed with the Mexican music in the background, could fool diners into thinking they stepped into a fiesta. This good old-fashioned restaurant is serious about its Mexican food, served with a progressive touch. From breakfasts of huevos, rancheros or migas to dinners of grilled chicken, shrimp, fajitas and more, the food here does not fail to satisfy. The atmosphere is casual; the patio is terrific and the hot sauce is great. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alyson Hurt |
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Authentic Tex-Mex |
1911 West Anderson Lane Austin, TX 78757 United States +1 512 467 7100 |
Unbeatable Tex-Mex dishes, including burritos, enchiladas, crispy tacos and Migas are available. The restaurant recently expanded and moved to North Austin due to overflowing business in its previous campus location. The now roomy cafe is casual and generally bustling, with efficient and friendly service. The restaurant offers a full bar and serves beer and margaritas at some of the lowest prices to be found. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Colonial Mexican cuisine |
2330 W North Loop Blvd Austin, TX 78756 United States +1 512 459 4121 http://www.fondasanmiguel.com/ |
Step inside this hacienda-style restaurant and find yourself whisked far south to the Mexican interior, where fine food is served in a charming colonial atmosphere. Chef Roberto Sabatinez has added his own creative dishes to the menu of old favorites, including a wonderfully imaginative chile relleno that employs an ancho chile rather than the usual poblano. Traditional dishes are well-prepared and the desserts go beyond many Mexican restaurants where flan is the only offering. Brunch is not to be missed; especially for those who love the Mexican custom of making the late morning meal a long, leisurely affair. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott Bickell |
 Photo: Daniel Jaramillo |
 Photo: Kris M. Markman |
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Large create-your-own burritos |
1000 E 41st St Suite #260 Austin, TX 78752 United States +1 512 451 5514 http://www.freebirds.com/ |
Often overflowing with customers during the lunch hour, Freebird's World Burrito serves up fresh food quickly with your tastes in mind. A large staff is available to custom make burritos, tacos and quesadillas on the spot with a variety of tortilla options. Simple modern furnishings adorn the room with small tables grouped for dining. Start by ordering a regular, monster, or super-size burrito with a flour, wheat, cayenne, or spinach tortilla. Chicken and steak are offered, as well as several vegetables for creating vegetarian options. The Avo Taco is a favorite among vegetarians with fresh avocado, rice, sour cream, and cheese. Nice extras include cilantro, jalapenos, pico de gallo, roasted peppers and fresh lime juice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sonja engdahl |
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Viva Mexico! |
1412 South Congress Avenue Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 447 7688 http://www.guerostacobar.com/ |
All restaurants could do with a famous patron so the owners of this Mexican taco bar proudly say that Bill Clinton ate here. Apart from this bit of information, it is interesting to note that the Migas are topnotch with dollops of cheese, peppers and fresh corn tortillas. The restaurant has a couple of dining rooms, one of which is built around the kitchen, giving it a very homely feel. Check out the Fish taco and the Queso flameado, or the El Presiendto (no guessing for who orders this), Chicken breast taco, a Beef taco, Tamale and Guacamole. Don't forget to chug down the famous margaritas made with fresh lime juice or have a shot of first-class tequila. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jon Wiley |
 Photo: shazy ahmed |
 Photo: Laura Creekmore |
 Photo: Kevin Chan |
 Photo: Kevin Chan |
 Photo: Josh Head |
 Photo: PJ Alau |
 Photo: Graham and Sheila |
 Photo: Insung Kim |
 Photo: Sara Hubbard |
 Photo: Mari Kamada Matlaga |
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Great view plus Mexican food |
2900 N FM 620 Austin, TX 78734 United States +1 512 266 8439 http://www.virtual-restaurants... |
Located just outside the city in the hill country, Iguana Grill offers customers great lakeside views while they have a few drinks and enjoy cuisine from the interior of Mexico. Dishes are moderately priced, and the menu is weighted towards seafood. For instance, the Cerviche Al Estilo Yucateca which is yellow tuna marinated in lime juice with pico de gallo and the Rainbow Trout Vera Cruz consists of grilled trout topped with spicy tomatoes, olives and onions. As an alternative, the Carnitas a la Parrilla is marinated and grilled beef steak or chicken tenderloins with a smoked chipotle sauce. Any attire from casual to dressy is fine and a generally laid-back attitude prevails. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Justin Skolnick |
 Photo: Jarkko Sakki |
 Photo: Brian Oberkirch |
 Photo: ohmypuddin |
 Photo: Dan |
 Photo: Karen Walrond |
 Photo: alex_lee2001 |
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Interior Mexican |
13233 Pond Springs Rd Suite 301 Austin, TX 78729 United States +1 512 250 1061 |
This restaurant offers cuisine that is influenced more by interior Mexico than the locally common Tex-Mex food. The dining space is casual, with a pleasant atmosphere and includes a small outdoor patio area. A good number of appetizers are served, including fully loaded nacho. Reasonably priced specialties include Mole Poblano, chicken simmered in a rich mole sauce and Tamales Veracruzanos, your choice of chicken, beef, pork, raisin, or pineapple tamales wrapped in banana leaves. You will also find burritos and a range of enchilada plates. Breakfast plates and breakfast tacos are served mornings. A full bar is available with daily happy hour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tex-Mex food and live music |
1619 S 1st St Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 447 7825 |
Delicious Tex-Mex is served at this long-time South Austin diner. The environment is casual, with Mexican art and murals adorning the walls. Three separate dining areas are available, one being an enclosed patio. It offers a range of breakfast tacos, combination plates and a la carte items. Juan's Plate, the Vegetarian Plate, and the Carne Guisada are highly recommended. This popular hangout showcases well-known local musicians several evenings a week at happy hour and beyond. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Carlos Lowry |
 Photo: Dan Phiffer |
 Photo: Ron Baker |
 Photo: Tim Thompson |
 Photo: A. C. Ellison |
 Photo: Lori Deemer |
 Photo: (Brian) |
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Fun Mexican place |
6640 East Highway 290 Austin, TX 78723 United States +1 512 459 8729 |
The name means "thatched roof", and it is hard to miss this one, atop a large Mexican restaurant alongside Highway 290. The casual, spacious interior allows for conversation without noise from the kitchen or too-close fellow diners crowding in. Generous Tex-Mex combination plates are the rule here. Try the satisfying enchiladas and bring the rest home for the next day. You will find nearly fish bowl-sized margaritas from the full bar that are not to be missed, and an all you can eat fajita buffet Saturday nights. Karaoke is offered in an adjacent area on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Liz Hernandez |
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Mexican food, art and politics |
211 Congress Avenue Austin, TX 78701-4021 United States +1 512 472 9357 |
This little downtown cafe attracts multitudes for its fresh food. The likes of Larry McMurtry, Shawn Colvin and Lisa Loeb have been known to dig in to Las Manitas' huevos Motuleños, Carne guisada or Enchiladas Morelianos. Many of the dishes are authentic, interior Mexican recipes. The atmosphere is funky and political, its owners are known for patronizing Hispanic arts and political causes. You will have to wait for a table if you come anywhere close to meal time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Liz Henry |
 Photo: Richard Rutter |
 Photo: Rob Holland |
 Photo: Kristin Bender |
 Photo: Martin P Crawford |
 Photo: Mark Graham |
 Photo: monkeytrousers |
 Photo: Ryan S |
 Photo: Heidi Kaufmann |
 Photo: David Renaud |
 Photo: Peter DeMarte |
 Photo: David Beaudouin |
 Photo: Howard Rains |
 Photo: hannah |
 Photo: madgirlnyc |
 Photo: Cian O'Donovan |
 Photo: Natalie |
 Photo: Brian MacDonald |
 Photo: Tara Tschillard |
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Great Tex-Mex |
310 Congress Avenue Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 472 7555 http://www.manuels.com/ |
With all the black leather, neon and jazz here, one might be suspicious. Is this a trendy Mexican joint where the food takes a back seat to the slick atmosphere? The answer is a resounding "no". One bite of the Chile Relleno en Nogada is the proof; tender Pork Picadillo studded with raisins and stuffed into a roasted poblano pepper, then sauced with walnut cream. Or try the Enchiladas, Gorditas and Flautas; all make excellent choices. Sunday brunch, with live jazz, is a winner, but dinner and happy hour are the real standout events. The second location is on Jollyville Road. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Clayton Snodgrass |
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Popular Tex-Mex |
2613 South Lamar Boulevard Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 462 9333 http://www.mattselrancho.com/ |
This very popular South Austin restaurant has been serving Tex-Mex food since 1952. Matt's El Rancho is a family-owned business that boasts of its delicious food and attentive service. You will discover all of the familiar favorites, including Enchiladas, Tamales, Fajitas, and a satisfying Queso dip as a starter, all at mid-range prices. You will also find slightly more imaginative dishes, such as the Garlic Grilled Shrimp. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Bryant |
 Photo: Chris Summerlin |
 Photo: Brian Menegaz |
 Photo: S. Niemeyer |
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Traditional Tex-Mex |
2608 West Seventh Street Austin, TX 78703 United States +1 512 473 3740 http://www.maudies.com |
This restaurant offers traditional Tex-Mex fare all day long. Located in a mall, you generally wouldn't expect the food to be this good or the restaurant to be so popular. This is an upbeat, casual venue attracting customers of all ages; a comfortable place to relax over margaritas with your friends. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and serving standard Tex-Mex fare like Migas and Enchiladas. The house specialty is the Fajitas, complete with all the necessary trimmings; try either the Vegetarian or the Chicken/Beef Combination. Ask for the homemade habanero or green specialty sauces for your chips, they are not on the menu and they are fabulous. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Aromatic delights |
5808 Burleson Road Austin, TX 78744-1323 United States +1 512 416 0749 |
Think Mexico when you go to El Meso because the friendly, warm ambience, the hot-spicy food and the folk will surely make you feel you've arrived there. The Husband-wife team cook up delicious, authentic Mexican dishes - Cochinita Pibil, Yucatan, Pipian. There is self service and this place is open only for breakfast and lunch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Vegetarian Mexican food |
1901 E Cesar Chavez Austin, TX 78702 United States +1 512 477 5228 http://www.mrnatural-austin.com/ |
This family-owned vegetarian Mexican restaurant/bakery is fresh and authentic. Its location in East Austin makes it a bit out of the way, but the food is definitely worth your time. Try the tamales, vegetarian enchiladas, or the veggie-chorizo tacos—even meat lovers will leave satisfied. After your meal, have a sweet potato empanada, a smoothie, vegan cookies, a slice of pumpkin, cherry or strawberry pie, or a piece of cheesecake. Special orders for baked goods are welcome year-round. It is also a full-service natural foods and vitamin shop, where you will find a variety of herbs and supplements. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Malissa Winkowski |
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Restaurant with Lake Travis View |
6550 Comanche Trail Austin, TX 78732 United States +1 512 266 2442 http://www.oasis-austin.com/ |
This sunset gazers' spot recently revamped its menu so that people would come here for the food. But even the best food cannot compete with the view. With tiered decks stair-stepped down the side of a 450-foot cliff overlooking Lake Travis, The Oasis has a table with a view for everyone. It is a magnet for tourists and locals alike. The menu is varied, split between Tex-Mex and traditional fare like prime rib ($18.95) and grilled salmon ($16.95). Frozen drinks are a specialty, but are expensive and even the soft drinks are $1.95. But who can quibble with prices when the sunset is so, well, priceless? Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Barron Fujimoto |
 Photo: Robert Simmons |
 Photo: Spencer Nick |
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Tamale+Leo=Tamaleo |
1300, West Anderson Lane Austin, TX 78757 United States +1 512 289 9262 http://www.tamaleo.com/ |
Oaxacan Tamaleo(an amalgam of tamale and Leonora, the owner) is a small mom-and-pop affair that seats about a couple of dozen people and a menu that isn't extensive by any means. The restaurant isn't pretentious about any of this. They do a few things, but they do them well. The tamales are served in huge healthy portions (stuffed with chicken, pork or beans and salsa and cheese) wrapped in banana leaves. The eatery also has daily specials on weekdays, for lunch and dinner. Dig into the Lamb Shoulder Barbacoa or the mojo de ajo and you could very well want this to be your last meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classic, small diner |
4811 Burnet Road Austin, TX 78756 United States +1 512 453 5062 |
Since 1978, this little, friendly diner refuses to die. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu that will please the vegetarian as well as the carnivore. Sit at a wooden table, a booth, or a barstool on the white-and-black-checkered floor and taste the famous Gazpacho or vegetarian chili while waiting for your Avocado BLT. If you prefer morning grub like eggs, fries, pancakes and bacon homestyle, you have come to the right place. The Chili Con Queso Omelette is loaded with cheese and covered with jalapenos and even more cheese. Pancakes filled with blueberries, bananas, chocolate chips, pecans or raisins are another specialty. The weekends are very busy, with standing room only as a common practice. No credit cards, checks or phone-in orders accepted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ruby Sinreich |
 Photo: Kristen Kennedy |
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Authentic interior Mexican |
3201 Bee Caves Road, Suite 122 The West Woods Shopping Center Austin, TX 78746 United States +1 512 327 9889 http://www.laspalomasrestauran... |
This restaurant prides itself on serving the freshest seafood and interior-Mexico specialty dishes, and is advertised as having the best margaritas in town. Lunch specials are priced at $5.95, and include choice of soup and an entree such as enchiladas, migas, or empanadas. Dinner entrees average $8.95; representative dishes are carne guisada (tenderloin beef), chicken mole, and pescado al chipotle (spicy fish filet). You will find a full bar and a regularly scheduled happy hour. The atmosphere is relaxed, but rather more sophisticated than the usual Tex-Mex restaurants. Casual to more dressy attire is acceptable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mexican dining |
2004 South First Street Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 441 5446 http://polvos.citysearch.com |
For authentic Mexican food, Polvo's serves the best lunch specials: Puntas de Filete, Carne Guisado, Guisado de Puerco and a variety of fajitas. Located on South First Street, this restaurant offers breakfast too. Catering services are also provided. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lori Flores |
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Bird in hand |
1928, Riverside Drive Austin, TX 78741 United States +1 512 326 1888 |
El Regio is a term for the area around Monterrey, which is where the owner's from. El Regio means 'the regal one' in Spanish. El Regio is also a term synonymous with the pollo asado. Grilled marinated chicken is all this little drive through shack specializes in, and people would drive across town for it, were they not to have multiple outlets. The pollo asado is served with beans, tortillas, onions(sweet and grilled) and a tomato/green avocado salsa(may cause problems if consumed in excess). This is largely a drive-through, but they do have picnic tables around. El Regio is one place where being given 'the bird' is not a problem. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tex-Mex |
111 Red River St Symphony Square Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 322 9080 http://www.serranos.com/ |
With six locations around the city, this home-grown restaurant chain attempts to take Tex-Mex beyond the expected, and sometimes succeeds. In any event, it is a reliable source of the genre's traditional favorites, from nachos and stuffed jalapenos to tacos, enchiladas and fajitas. Here at Symphony Square, Serrano's is housed in an old, historic, triangular home. Start with the Botana Plate, a sampling of appetizers and move on to that Mexican staple, cheese enchiladas. This is basic Tex-Mex at its best. See website for other locations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mexican greatness |
1224 South Congress Avenue Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 444 7770 |
In a space leased from The Austin Motel is some of the best Mexican food in the city; certainly the best Mexican breakfast. Huevos rancheros, Migas (even a variation with mushrooms), breakfast tacos. Need we say more? The Posole, a chicken soup with a masa broth, is heavenly; it is only available on weekends. Enchiladas and tacos can also be had, as well as Central American specialties. A large patio beckons on fine days, and the inside dining space is cool, light and comfortable, with a sun-moon-and-stars mural on the floor and overhead. Relax in the morning with a coffee and a taco, and at night (on weekends) with a bottle of beer and some mole poblano. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jessica |
 Photo: Tracy Croysdale |
 Photo: Liz Henry |
 Photo: Kristy Sorensen |
 Photo: Pete Beck |
 Photo: Ken Mohnkern |
 Photo: jennifergbur |
 Photo: neilhcronk |
 Photo: mariecatrett.com |
 Photo: peter cohen |
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Popular Tex-Mex |
802 Red River St Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 476 5149 |
This place has been serving tried and true Tex-Mex at its central downtown location since the 1930s. Inside the stone walls is a cantina-style dining area. The mood is casual but festive, and service is generally quite friendly. Traditional dishes include a range of satisfying combination dinners, such as sizzling fajitas and chicken mole. The drink specialty from the full bar is the "Margarita Jaime", a frozen margarita with a sangria floater. Advance booking on weekend nights is recommended. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christopher Leonard |
 Photo: Eric R Schulz |
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Food and live entertainment |
1101 Red River Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 476 6064 http://www.austinsymphony.org/... |
On the banks of Waller Creek, a complex of four 19th century limestone buildings has been combined to create this wonderful shopping space. The Austin Symphony office and Serrano's Cafe and Cantina take up most of the buildings. In the summer, this site is the home of the Symphony's Summer Music Festival, large civic parties and special events including many days dedicated to children's activities. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lots of food for a small price |
4412 Medical Parkway Austin, TX 78756 United States +1 512 467 8533 |
A favorite of the locals on Saturday mornings, this tiny family-owned business is bursting with people willing to wait in a line that extends out the front door for a simple breakfast taco. But their food is anything but simple. The Taco Shack breakfast specialty, the Shack Taco ($1.75), is filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese and chorizos' just bursting with flavor. Although they can certainly prepare a basic breakfast taco with your choice of fillings, try the Burnet Road Burrito ($2.95) if you are extra hungry and want something to fill you up. For lunch, try the Shack Lunch Special ($3.85). No matter what you order, you will not be disappointed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Chea |
 Photo: arvind grover |
 Photo: ngenworks.com |
 Photo: Antonio R Matta II |
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Not just Tacos |
2529 South Lamar Boulevard Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 444 0261 http://www.tacoxpress.com |
This Mexican eatery serves homemade grub in a home-like setting. The aroma of Corn Tortillas and Migas waft around as you are seated in a small area surrounded by bar stools. A great place for breakfast, it is pretty busy at other times as well. Those with vegan cravings, try the vegetarian enchiladas. Others can gorge on are Gorditas, Queso, Chalupa, and of course, tacos. Beer, margaritas, Cimichuri and Salsa Roja are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Elder |
 Photo: Heather Leah Kennedy |
 Photo: mathew |
 Photo: Brian Sharp |
 Photo: Andrew Elder |
 Photo: Chris Summerlin |
 Photo: radiohook |
 Photo: Jon Bernhardt |
 Photo: Stephanie Flores |
 Photo: neets means |
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Silences Your Roaring Appetite |
701 Congress Avenue (Stephen F. Austin Hotel Inter-Continental) Austin, TX 78701 United States +512 583 0000 http://www.roaringforkaustin.c... |
This local favorite doesn't disappoint even the hungriest cowboy. Southwest favorites offered in huge portions are served with a bevy of libations to boot. Think saloon atmosphere with bistro fare, but don't be fooled, the food packs a big punch. Try the Green Chile Mac and Cheese or their ever-so-juicy 22oz Bone-In Ribeye, to make you remember why you love Texas cooking. Locals can't get enough of the Oven Baked Kettle of Green Chile Pork Stew, Yee-Haw! The mood here is just as lively as the food, thanks to tasty drinks like the Roaring Margaritas and their kickin' Happy Hour specials. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ANDREW POYNTON |