Tex-Mex cuisine is a fusion of Mexican and American cuisine and a staple in Austin’s food scene. Austin has a vibrant food culture, and Tex-Mex is integral to it. Many restaurants in Austin serve Tex-Mex dishes, from traditional tacos and burritos to innovative dishes that blend Tex-Mex flavors with other cuisines.
Torchy’s Tacos
Torchy’s Tacos is a popular Tex-Mex chain that originated in Austin. They are known for their creative tacos, such as the “Trailer Park” (fried chicken, green chiles, and queso) and the “Brushfire” (Jamaican jerk chicken, mango, and sour cream). Torchy’s also offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options, making it an excellent choice for everyone.
Matt’s El Rancho
Matt’s El Rancho is a family-owned Tex-Mex restaurant that has been serving the Austin community since 1952. They are known for their famous “Bob Armstrong Dip,” a queso dip with ground beef, guacamole, and sour cream. They also offer classic Tex-Mex dishes like fajitas and enchiladas and unique items like the “Enchiladas Suizas” (enchiladas with tomatillo sauce and sour cream).
Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ
Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ is a unique fusion of Tex-Mex and BBQ. They are known for their smoked brisket tacos and “Real Deal Holyfield” sandwich (topped with sausage, pulled pork, and guacamole). They also offer traditional Tex-Mex dishes like tacos and burritos and some delicious sides like the “Elote” (grilled Mexican street corn).
Fonda San Miguel
Fonda San Miguel is an upscale Tex-Mex restaurant serving Austin since 1975. They are known for their traditional Mexican dishes like “Chiles Rellenos” (stuffed peppers) and “Mole Poblano” (a sauce made with chocolate and chiles). They also offer some Tex-Mex favorites like tacos and enchiladas.
El Naranjo
El Naranjo is a Mexican restaurant that specializes in authentic Oaxacan cuisine. While not strictly Tex-Mex, El Naranjo offers a unique take on Mexican cuisine worth exploring. They are known for their “Mole Negro” (a sauce made with chiles and chocolate), as well as their “Tlayudas” (large crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat).
Conclusion
Tex-Mex cuisine is a beloved part of Austin’s food scene, and there are many great restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Tex-Mex dishes or something more unique, a restaurant in Austin will satisfy your cravings. From Torchy’s Tacos to El Naranjo, these restaurants are just a few great options to explore in Austin.
Torchy’s Tacos
Torchy’s Tacos is a casual Tex-Mex chain that has gained a cult following in Austin and beyond. Their creative tacos are the main attraction, with fillings like fried avocado, slow-cooked brisket, and grilled shrimp. Torchy’s also offers a variety of sides, such as green chile queso and street corn, as well as a selection of margaritas and other drinks. The lively and colorful atmosphere makes it a great group spot or a quick bite.
Matt’s El Rancho
Matt’s El Rancho is a beloved Austin institution serving Tex-Mex since 1952. The restaurant is family-owned and has a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features classic Tex-Mex dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, chile rellenos, and unique items like the “Mexican Martini” (a margarita in a martini glass). The standout dish at Matt’s is the “Bob Armstrong Dip,” a cheesy queso dip topped with ground beef, guacamole, and sour cream.
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Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ
Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ is a fusion of Texas’s favorite cuisines: Tex-Mex and BBQ. The restaurant started as a food truck and has since expanded to a brick-and-mortar location. Valentina’s is known for its smoked brisket tacos, served on handmade flour tortillas and topped with pico de gallo and avocado salsa. They also offer a variety of meats, such as pulled pork and smoked chicken, as well as traditional Tex-Mex dishes like queso and guacamole.
Fonda San Miguel
Fonda San Miguel is an upscale Tex-Mex restaurant that has been a fixture in Austin since 1975. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, with colorful decor and murals inspired by Mexican folk art. The menu features traditional Mexican dishes like chiles rellenos, tamales, and some Tex-Mex favorites like tacos and enchiladas. Fonda San Miguel is known for its extensive selection of tequilas and other agave-based spirits.
El Naranjo
El Naranjo is a Mexican restaurant that specializes in Oaxacan cuisine. While not strictly Tex-Mex, the restaurant offers a unique take on Mexican cuisine that is worth exploring. The menu features mole negro, a complex sauce made with chiles and chocolate, and tlayudas, large crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, making it an excellent spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
FAQs
What is Tex-Mex cuisine?
Tex-Mex cuisine is a fusion of traditional Mexican cuisine and Texan cuisine. It typically includes dishes like tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and queso, made with beef, chicken, cheese, and tortillas.
What are some popular Tex-Mex restaurants in Austin?
Some popular Tex-Mex restaurants in Austin include Torchy’s Tacos, Matt’s El Rancho, Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ, Fonda San Miguel, and El Naranjo.
What makes Austin a great place to try Tex-Mex cuisine?
Austin has a rich history of Tex-Mex cuisine, with many longstanding restaurants serving classic dishes for decades. The city also has a thriving food scene, with many new and innovative Tex-Mex restaurants constantly popping up.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options available at Tex-Mex restaurants in Austin?
Yes, many Tex-Mex restaurants in Austin offer vegetarian and vegan options. For example, Torchy’s Tacos has a “Fried Avocado” taco that can be made vegan by omitting the cheese, and Fonda San Miguel offers a vegetarian tamale dish.
What are some must-try dishes at Tex-Mex restaurants in Austin?
Some must-try dishes at Tex-Mex restaurants in Austin include brisket tacos from Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ, Bob Armstrong Dip from Matt’s El Rancho, and mole negro from El Naranjo. Of course, everyone’s taste is different, so it’s worth exploring the menus and trying different dishes to find your favorites.
Austin is an excellent destination for anyone who loves Tex-Mex cuisine. With a rich history of Tex-Mex cuisine and a thriving food scene, the city offers a wide range of restaurants serving classic and innovative dishes.
From casual taco trucks to upscale restaurants, there is something for everyone. Some must-visit Tex-Mex restaurants in Austin include Torchy’s Tacos, Matt’s El Rancho, Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ, Fonda San Miguel, and El Naranjo. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Austin’s Tex-Mex scene is a delicious adventure to be noticed.
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