Uncover Austin's Mexican dining scene with Restaurantji's insights. Taste the finest Chips and Salsa, Carnitas, Tacos, and more in the city.
“Considered some of the best Tacos in Austin by so many! I AGREE! Authentic Mexican Street tacos are what I love. That being said, I must hold you to a higher standard and compare to tacos stands In Houston, San Antonio, and Southern California. It was a Tuesday so I was able to get Tripas and I heard Buche was on point here as well. I requested my Tripas tacos to be “crispy” like I always do. They came over burnt. Fortunately, I like burnt flavors, but not as overwhelming on my Tripas. I picked out some of the more over burnt pieces. I’ll have to give a 3 star for the Tripas Tacos. Buche tacos and the Salsa did redeem the meal.“
“Quite possibly the best food I've ever eaten. Everything tasted fresh and like Grandma made it in the back in between baking cookies just for me.Service was incredible and staff was friendly.If you're looking for a great experience and some of the best Mexican food you will ever eat in your entire life, definitely check these guys out!“
“Best barbacoa in town! It's hard to stop eating anything on the menu because the flavor is on point. Family owned/operated as far as I can tell and staff is always friendly.Parking: The parking lot is usually full but there is also street parking right off of it. Nice sidewalk on the opposite side of the street.Kid-friendliness: Outdoor space is great. Turf area for the kiddos to roll around on.“
“Firstly, I want to talk about the idea and concept of this restaurant. Vegan mexican food!! Omg so so good.I got the vegan birria taco. It’s my first ever time trying the birria taco concept as I don’t consume beef. I have to say the food was really really good! The only thing I wish though is if the meat was well seasoned it would be TOP NOTCH!I would definitely come here again!“
“3 Amigos Ceviche was really delicious with lots of very tender octopus! Aguachile verde with nice big shrimp definitely has some heat and was a generous portion. Owner gave us a taste of their soup too (thank you!!) which was a nice hot treat on a chilly day.“
“Habanero Cafe is a long time establishment in south Austin. This very tiny location has been cooking fantastic Tex Mex dishes for decades now. It probably only has 14 total tables cramped in the small place but everything moves around well. Open everyday until 3pm, they serve breakfast all day along with your typical variety of Tex Mex dishes. Personally I think they might have the best salsa in the entire city, which is a bold statement. Also ask for the special habanero salsa that is pure fire. Migas plate is excellent, fantastic breakfast tacos, but also consider El Patron dish, fajita steak, over easy eggs, fries & beans. All the tacos you can choose from are exceptional. Great Al pastor, Piccadillo, Barbacoa and other taco options. Lunch specials available each weekday for a great price. The service here is always very nice, fast and friendly. You can certainly call in and place to go orders for pickup. They serve bottle beer here but no margaritas. I have been going to this spot for over a decade now.You have a lot of choices for Tex Mex places all across Austin TX but Habanero Cafe might be one of the best. Such a tiny small spot packing amazing flavor with great service.Parking: Park in their private lot or free parking on the streetWheelchair accessibility: Wheel chair ramp is accessible“
“Easily a new favorite with a beautiful ambiance. The queso fundido is fantastic (here and gabrielas might have some of the best). The MIXIOTE lamb was huge, but basically just melts off the bone. Heavily sauced, so would get it with less next time, but it was an amazing dish. The margaritas were also well made. There was struggle to understand the differences in the pescado dishes, but ultimately went with the Mojo de ajo and was completely impressed. Immensely flavorful and well made.Went again and got both the enchiladas Pato and the pescado zarandeado... They said the pescado wouldn't be spicy but I found it to be incredibly hot. I think it was chipotle that was put on their brussel sprouts. When I could not eat it, they brought out the mojo de Ajo which was very flavorless in comparison to the last time I had bought it. The duck enchiladas were very good however.“
“The tacos are incredible here. The tortillas are also made fresh each time you order. I had al pastor & barbacoa. Both were so delicious! The meats have really great flavor. I’ve only been here once but I’d definitely return.Found this spot on Yelp’s 2022 list of Top 100 Taco Spots in the USA. It was ranked 89!“
“Delicious tacos and the best salsa I have had in my life. Make sure to ask for the house made spicy salsa. We tried the bistec, carnitas, pastor, and chicharrones tacos. The fresh tortillas are to die for and the woman holding it all together is the sweetest. No frills, just damn good tacos.“
“It's National Burrito Day, so you know we have to hit it up at Asado's. Yes. We gave up deals at Free Birds and Chipotle, because you'll never be disappointed by Dan's crispy burritos. I stand by that. Cabobob's I see you, and I haven't forgotten about you. These burritos are simple and unique. It's clear the aim is not to provide food that is "insta worthy", but rather food that is accessible, convenient, and straight up good. Always order for crispy style. Imagine a wrapped burrito and then seared between a flat spatula and flat stove surface on all sides. Adds the texture you'd miss from the traditional burrito you're used to. The salsa has an especially zesty taste of lime. Honestly, you don't even need the chips, the salsa is good enough to eat by the spoonful (although, I mostly put it on my burrito). The super version does offer the gooey presence of cheese and avocado, for an up charge.“
“Good vegan options. I got the veggie enchilada and subbed the queso with guacamole and a mole verde sauce.Vegetarian options: Have to make modifications for vegan options, but there are plenty of vegetarian options. I wish they had a vegan menu though so it would make it easier to us to order.“
“The best chicken and beef, grilled and otherwise. The closest thing to a critique is that I’d love it if they brought back the large steak taco. Excellent service and convenient online order. I’ve also used and recommend their catering service.“
“Mi Trailita y más is a restaurant with authentic Mexican flavor.They serve you in a very friendly and punctual way! I have visited this place since November 2023Many thanks to all the attentive staff.It is a place where you will always want to return.“
“Delicious delicious delicious! We got the pirata, chicharon gordita, pollo en mole, alambre and the seasonal squash taco. All were very good, the salsa macha on the squash taco is very spicy so watch out! My only complaint was that the squash in the taco wasn’t very cooked, but that is just personal preference!“
“The food and service were both excellent. Three of our party had carne asada. Each was order with a different doneness and each was delivered as requested. The other entrees appetizers and sides were equally well prepared. I did have two disappointments. The menu indicates that steaks can be ordered by the ounce. When I tried to do this our served informed me that steaks were only served family style and that the smallest available was 30 ounces. A little hefty for one person. I then asked for coffee with my dessert. Another surprise. Coffee is French pressed and can only be ordered in a four cup pot. Of course one doesn't have to eat New York strip or rib eye, and there is always Starbucks. However the menu should be clearer.“
“Got the cochinita pibil plate.... oh my goodness gracious. Not only superbly seasoned but beautifully presented wrapped in plantain leaves and accompanied with refried black beans and fried plantains. Made my day.Other things to crave are the pastor tacos, with pineapple chunks, and quesabirrias.“
“Güeros is a really great Tex-Mex place for those looking for an alternative to Chuy's (both are really good in my opinion) but the real kicker here is it's connection with DEATH PROOF. Every time I come in here I find myself quoting the movie. And even though it's got film clout, the food is high quality, massively portioned, and is relatively affordable. I recommend coming here on a weekday as the weekends tend to get busy, and also check out their outdoor dining as well as the musical stage next to it. It's such a great spot.“
“It was our first time at Torchy’s, and we loved it! Came in for the breakfast tacos and they were so yummy. The employee at the register was welcoming while taking our order and when Delia 32 brought our food out, she was very kind and engaging, ensuring our order was correct and talking to us about the area. Always great having welcoming smiles when visiting a a new place and being from out of town. Gracias Delia 32!“
“This is where I always take guests when we want a more expensive meal. The entire menu is delicious and the cocktails are great. I miss the blondie though. That dessert was so good, my brain misfired. Like cute aggression, eating it made me angry.“
“Very helpful staff.The food was well done and flavorful. The ceviche was outstanding. The red snapper filets were pretty thick.The restaurant has a nice decor and there is plenty of room between the tables.It was a good choice and we'll be back.“
“Food was great! Service was more than amazing, from the moment we walked in Katherine greeted us so warm and friendly, and took care of us from start to finish, I was having a terrible day and my daughter knocked over her drink (almost sent meover the edge, stressed out moms can relate) but Katherine's kindness and sweet attitude made me feel so much better, she quickly helped and reassured me it was okay, (im sure she could tell I was stressed lol) but again her kindness made such a difference and im glad she was our server! They are lucky to have her!“
“The birria tacos were a miracle to behold. So much flavor, the cheese was rich, the meat fell apart (actually not like usual like it was exceptionally tender) and the service was top notch, very warm and kind! They have a great covered patio to eat on and the food came out super quick. I really can’t say enough about the flavor though. Even the tortilla was perfectly crisp, not crunchy, not soggy, exactly how you would want it. Even coming from San Antonio which has great tacos compared to Austin, Taquito Aviles is the best I’ve had ever. I’m in shock.“
“Eating the Quesadeyaya as I write this review. It simply couldnt wait! I am very impressed with the quality of the food. Bought this meal through our lunchdrop system and usually the food is a bit cold but not this quesadilla. The torilla has a homemade taste to it, the meat is nice and tender and both green and orange salas were so tasty. I cannot wait to take my partner here and try the flautas and California burrito.“
“Interesting flavors. El Naranjo is of course famous for their moles. The black mole is spicy, bitter, and intensely chocolatey. The sweet and creamy mole blanco is a great option for less adventurous palates.The complimentary bread is a sleeper hit. The citrus butter felt so light, mildly sweet, and fragrant. The salsa macha contained a delicious and complex blend of chilis with mild heat. I wish they sold jars of the salsa macha.“
“Incredible culinary experience. Their tripitas tacos are, without a doubt, the best and finest I've ever had. After sampling tacos from numerous establishments here in ATX, I must say that Las Trancas truly stands out as the champion. The diverse range of offerings on their menu and the affordability of their prices make them not only a personal favorite but also a standout in the local dining scene. Their presence has undoubtedly enriched my life, and for that, I am immensely grateful. As a devoted fan of their establishment, I believe the time has come for Las Trancas to consider expanding its reach. I wholeheartedly urge you to venture northward and consider opening a second location. There is undoubtedly a hungry and appreciative audience awaiting your delicious creations. I have no doubt that with your exceptional food and exceptional service, a new location would be a resounding success. Your unique flavors deserve to be shared with a wider audience, and I am confident that the community up north would welcome you with open arms.Thank you once again, Las Trancas team, for the joy you bring through your tacos. I look forward to the possibility of savoring your delectable dishes at a new location in the near future.“
“I saw this food truck on instagram and decided to stop by. It’s tucked behind a whiskey distillery with a wonderful green space.My wife and I ordered the carnitas taco and a gringa to share. Both were phenomenal!The carnitas were crispy, and rich. The guacamole and pickled onions were perfectly acidic to balance it out! The pastor on the gringa was delicious with the melty cheese, and guacamole with a great flour tortilla! Probably the best gringa I have ever had!Fantastic salsas, red ones definitely the spicier of the two! The staff were super friendly and our order came out quickly! Safe to say we’re coming back.Definitely would recommend this spot!“
“The only answer is YES, yes to going, yes to trying all the things on the menu, yes. Shoutout to 512AustinBites for showcasing this place on Instagram recently and bringing it to my attention. I saw it at night and immediately went to try it out for lunch! My plus one and I got the carne asada fries, the dogstin, the OG, and the Gorditas. The gorditas are not in the menu, you have to ask if they have them available that day. We got lucky and I was so happy we could try them. I will definitely be coming back to try more things as everything looks great. Super great owner! Worth the drive from wherever you reside!“
“Hannah is awesome! My first time here and she walked through the menu to find just the tacos I wanted. They were fantastic and the service was fast.The only change I would have made is to season the meat just a bit more but the sauces were outstanding. The real "con" is that the prices were a tad high.Overall, I highly recommend! This place was as good as I'd heard.“
“Out of all the ? tacos I had in Austin, the ones at Taco Joint stock in my mind as the freshest, best quality, and tastiest. This unassuming spot has delicious and handmade flour and corn tortillas and both breakfast and everyday tacos for all tastes.I tried a wide selection including the seated ?? fish tacos, the El Porko ? tacos, the El Tree Hugger with vegetarian ? burger and seared veggies, and the El Senior Crocket with delicious ? steak.They also have great salsa selections, free tap ? water, ample ♿ handicap accessible parking ?️, seating, and ? restrooms.“
“Overall experience was a 5 as all three of us loved what we ordered! Service was slow after we first ordered to the point I had to get up to ask about some drinks, hence the 4 stars here. Can't go wrong with the carnitas, camote or barbacoa tacos. We also devoured the de nada trio! All delish. Out of towner was delighted!!! I didn't love the cider margarita and that was the only f&b downside. Can't wait to go back and try some other things. And take some better pics. Not sure why these are tinted green.“
“I ordered one Al Pastor and two Steak Taco. The order came.out within a few minutes. Tortillas appeared to be hand made and tasted very good. They were perfectly seasoned, served hot and slightly spicy. The server brought three different sauces with the tacos to the table. The staff was very friendly, everything was clean. Seating is available inside and outside. This is a food trailer. We will be back.“
“Carrot tostada and migas were OUTSTANDING!! Spicy fresh w a little crema. Perfect. They also have the best paletas, definitely try the strawberry chamoy ? i have celiac so their 99% gluten free and I’m definitely making this one of my regular stops.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free friendly, even for celiac. Also dairy free options and tons of veg/vegan. You’ll feel good after eating here.“
“Everything I've ever eaten there is delicious. From my custom breakfast taco, to their machaca, to their guacamole that is some of the best I've ever had. Easy to order at the window, and it takes them a few minutes because they actually cook up the food while you wait. These are some of the best breakfast tacos I've ever had.“
“Woww if you are looking for an authentic taste of MexicoWithout a doubt it is in joules.DELICIOUS FOOD.The beans, the Nachos, the chips and the Mexican martine delicious ? ..But what stands out is the service and customer service, Claudia and Mrs. Chayito are so kind and SWEET with everyone.. if you are from Austin, oh you visit Austin you have to make a stop in July I hope to return soon to eat again tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole ????..“
“We were slow in giving Comedor a try. We've thought about dining here a few times over the last few years, but never did. We regret that now as after trying this wonderful restaurant for the first time just a couple of weeks ago it has become one of our favorites in Austin.Food (5 of 5) -- every thing we have tried on the menu has been excellent and unique. Here are some of our favorites:• Memela -- brand new this week and not yet on the menu. The most beautiful dish, which is surprisingly as delicious as it is beautiful. The spread of refried beans (?) with bone marrow, chorizo made with ribeye and the colorful fresh vegetables were so good, that we immediately just ordered another one.• Steak tartare -- not currently on the menu, but sometimes still available as a special. The one time we had it as a special, it was phenomenal with exceptionally well balanced yet complex flavors with just the right sprinkling of spices and caviar• Sunchoke -- we've had this a few times prepared in a couple of different ways; all of which were excellent. Our favorite was the Sunchoke, Masa Tempura, Salsa Pasilla Fermentada, Grilled Lemon Aioli.• Ensalada -- unique blend of flavors of clearly very fresh ingredients. The quest Chiapas buttermilk on this salad is a wonderful paring with the rest of the flavors of this salad including the pork belly.Service (5) -- hands down the best service we have had in Austin and some of the best service we have had anywhere. Attentive, but not overly so and the staff work so well together as a team.Ambiance (5) -- the outdoor patio is beautiful and so well done with the interior courtyard providing ample protection from wind and late afternoon or evening sun. The overall design aesthetic here is, for our preference, ideal.“
“The machacados con juevos were perfect. This is one of my favorite traditional mexican breakfasts that I crave. It was perfect. Look out for the un expected surcharge for chips with those eggs before 10 am!!! I was charged $5.00 just for a small bag of chips after they "offered the salsa" immediatly after seating me, for free. Then hit me for $$ after I asked if chips came with the salsa!!!!Eventually they reversed the charges, but this was no cheap meal, after chip charge was reversed, my bill for one person was $24.00 with tip. Good food,good service, worth it.“
“I’ve been to a lot of Torchy’s but never at this locations. I had great service and great food (hands down) probably the best from any Torchy’s I’ve been to. Shay provided great service and was really accommodating for my large group at Torchy’s. I’ll definitely be coming back.“
“Disclaimer: best Birria tacos in town.2nd time trying to get tacos here in the last few weeks. Shop has been closed during regular hours. Asked the gas station clerk next door and he said hasn’t seen the lady in weeks. So possibly this place closed down?If it opens back up or you have more information, please let me know ?!“
“Best place in town for agua fresca, they have a ton of options and although they're slightly expensive they're also giant, like 32 oz.The tacos are also delicious although some were better than others. The chicken ones tended to be a little dry but the beef and pork were always amazing. They have vegan options too!“
“This place is a perfect location off Mueller Lake. The drinks are AMAZING. Food is delicious. Amazing patio for a nice day. If you are here ask for Jose. He provides amazing service with a flare of fun personality, and an excellent experience.“
“Great neighborhood spot for pastries, breakfast, and tacos. The food had that homemade vibe, and the prices were just right. Our table salsa had a pleasant spice and the guacamole was fresh and simple, which is my favorite. The tacos were on homemade fresh flour tortillas which is hard to find in Austin for some reason. Perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch with friends and family.“
“The service can be 50/50 at times and I'm a big service person! Speaking of service, the only reason ATX did not get a straight across 5 stars is because they don't have everyone as Taylor there! She's amazing and is just your friend from day 1. Knowledgeable, exciting and just cares about what she does. Okay on to the food.1. Chicken tingas, you can get full off of them!2. Chips and Guac. Are we being serious? You can go all night just eating those and nothing else. The balance of sweet and savory makes it worth sitting there all evening.3. Short rib - game over! I'm making this declaration, if you don't like it, message me here and I'll refund you!Enjoy it all. Nothing you order is wrong“
“Beautiful place with ample parking and seating, unusual in Austin from my experience. Had a love lunch here with my wife. The food was delicious and the service great. Very attentive and knowledgeable, regularly checking in on us but without being overwhelming. Would love to eat here again when we're back in this part of town.“
“The best tacos I've ever eaten.My husband and I have been looking for tacos al pastor all over Austin but until today when we visited La casita del pastor we found the best tacos. I highly recommend it because the flavor is very good and the attention that Mr. Bryan provides is excellent.“
“It’s my go to supper tex mex home cooking spot and they keep my favorite beer, Bohemia, in bottles. Staff are always friendly and attentive and in 2 years I’ve rarely had a miss on food (tortillas were overcooked and burnt slightly) but one time in 2 years eating there 2-3 times a month is pretty darn good. Go and enjoy some carne guisada and you won’t be disappointed. Sure it’s homey but that’s why I go!“
“Had such a great experience here! Sat outside on a windy chilly night and the heaters were very warm and the screens blocked out the wind really well. Also no street noise + the layout of the restaurant keeps it from getting too noisy. The actual parking lot is kind of small and gets crowded around dinner time, but there's a paid public parking garage right across the street with lots of space. Paid $7 for 3 hour parking in the garage. The food and drinks were AMAZING. Luke recommended dishes/portions and was very knowledgeable about each dish. Would 100% recommend getting the Makum. Phenomenal dish. Tostadas with Sauces and vegetarian enchilada option were amazing as well. Everything was very well-made and had tons of flavor. Coconut horchata was also great! Service was very fast and everyone was incredibly kind. Luke and the host standing at front of the restaurant were very friendly and took great photos! Definitely a must-try Austin restaurant“
“Great location and ambience. Brisket hash (brunch), queso and breakfast/mezcal margaritas are well done. We finished with some house made rocky road ice cream which was amazing. They do a phenomenal job of blending flavors and really delivering a well rounded experience.“
“Wow this place has all the main fresh ingredients a taco stand should have. The price for what you get is ridiculous and the reason why you come especially if you have a big appetite. The atmosphere here at the bar in front is great. Awesome peeps“
“Birthday gift for me! Ordered several items including my baseline birria tacos. Strong consomé flavor, delicious and tender tacos, and great salsa/lime/cilantro/onion accompaniments. Not overly greasy, and good quality!Need vegetarian options!“
“Service was good just like the enchiladas and queso. FYI, our party of 2 arrived at 6P on a Friday and waited an hour before being seated (totally reasonable). So be prepared to grab a margarita from the bar and relax on the porch or kill some time wandering the aisles at Terra Toys down the road. We ordered two plates of the Dart Bowl Enchiladas, a small Eldorado queso, and 2 house margaritas for $64.95.“