July 29, 2024
Food & Drink, Guides,
It’s hard to top authentic Mexican cuisine, specifically a good platter of nachos. The rich flavors and crunchy texture create a fiesta of taste you can’t help but enjoy.
Here is a list of the best spots in Austin to check out for an unforgettable (and delicious) dining experience, from traditional taquerias to more contemporary twists on fan-favorite dishes.
Matt’s El Rancho
View this post on Instagram
2613 S Lamar Blvd., 512-462-9333 / Website
This Tex-Mex hot spot is perfect for the whole family. Originally opened in 1952 in downtown Austin as a family-owned and operated business, El Rancho now seats a capacity of 500 guests in its indoor and outdoor dining facilities. Many of the items on the menu today can be found on the original 1952 menu, and since the beginning, owner Matt Martinez promised a made-from-scratch cooking philosophy that remains intact today. Stop by for Mexican seafood dishes, fresh margaritas and, of course, a wide variety of beef, chicken and cheese nacho platters that will leave you eager for your next visit.
El Alma
View this post on Instagram
1025 Barton Springs Rd, 512-609-8923; 4521 Westgate Blvd, 512-351-8010 / Website
This restaurant and bar promises fun, flavorful cuisine, combining local Texas ingredients with authentic contemporary Mexican flavors that will leave your stomach happy. Reviewers rave about the upbeat and welcoming atmosphere; the restaurant’s mission statement is for staff to make guests feel at home, serving signature "comfort food" dishes reminiscent of Chef Alma’s own childhood. Their nachito platter (which is discounted during happy hour) comes with queso blanco, pico, house tostadas and more with the option to add chicken, beef or grilled steak. With two locations in Barton Springs and South Westgate, celebrate happy hour every day from 3 to 6 p.m. and chow down on nachos, enchiladas, breakfast tacos and more.
Suerte
View this post on Instagram
1800 E 6th St., 512-522-3031 / Website
This award-winning spot offers a twist on traditional Mexican cuisine, utilizing local Texas ingredients to create a seasonal menu for a unique dining experience. Nestled in the heart of East Austin, Suerte provides authentic Mexican tastes and a selection of agave and succulent spirits to meet all of your food and beverage desires. With an open dining room and patio seating, check out Suerte for dinner, brunch or drinks—you won’t be disappointed!
Veracruz
View this post on Instagram
Various Locations / Website
With five locations around the Austin and Round Rock area, Veracruz promises authentic Mexican food, smoothies and juices. Reyna and Maritza Vazquez, sisters and owners, launched their business out of a trailer in 2008, selling natural drinks and snow cones reminiscent of their childhood in Mexico. After upgrading to a larger space in 2010, they introduced food into their menu, and the rest is history. Veracruz values fresh and organic ingredients in its cooking, offering a real taste of Mexican food and drink. From salsa and queso to fruit smoothies and kombucha, this restaurant is locally, nationally and internationally recognized for its quality and creative dishes.
Gueros
View this post on Instagram
1412 S Congress Ave., 512-447-7688 / Website
This staple of South Austin is a hot spot for food, drink, live music and entertainment. Opened by owners Rob and Cathy Lippincott in 1986 as an homage to Mexican street food, Guero’s has quickly become one of the most iconic spots in the city. The nachos grandes platter consists of three tostadas topped with melted cheese and beans, a delicious combination that will leave your mouth watering. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, taco plates or light fare and a live concert in the outdoor cantina, this is the place to be.
Fresa’s
View this post on Instagram
Various Locations / Website
With three Austin locations, Fresa’s Chicken al Carbon offers seasonal delicacies that will leave you craving more. The los nachos meal includes pickled jalapeno, pico de gallo, black bean puree, cabbage and cilantro with the option to add chicken, shrimp or grilled cauliflower. With an extensive menu of nacho platters, tacos, brunch specials, wood-grilled meals and more, this is the place for refreshing summer flavors.
When you've had your fill of nachos and margaritas, check our list of favored barbecue spots in the city. It's what we're famous for, after all!
Photography by: Getty
