Reyna and Maritza Vazquez, originally from Mexico and now based in Austin, Texas, have nurtured a lifelong love for authentic Mexican cuisine. Their culinary journey began in their family’s kitchen, where they learned to honor tradition while embracing fresh and organic ingredients. Starting with a humble trailer on East Cesar Chavez in 2008, they offered snow cones, smoothies, and natural drinks, working tirelessly to build their dream. In 2010, their dedication paid off when they expanded to serve mouthwatering tacos. Today, with five locations in Austin and Round Rock, the Vazquez sisters are renowned for their exceptional Mexican food, and you might even find them in the kitchen, passionately ensuring the quality of their dishes while warmly welcoming guests.
Born and raised on the Eastside of Austin, Chris Rios embarked on a mission to find the perfect vegan taco after going vegan in 2011. His quest led to Sunday Brunch taco parties at his home and the creation of The Vegan Nom – Rockin Vegan Tacos in 2012. With a focus on sustainability, compassion for animals, and good health, Chris crafted iconic vegan breakfast tacos and signature sauces, making a mark in a 7×12 food trailer on North Loop. Selling out within hours on opening day, they soon upgraded to an iconic 1970s airstream trailer in East Austin in 2016. Today, The Vegan Nom operates from a 2020 Food Trailer at Vegan Nom Food Park, offering delicious, plant-based tacos, burritos, and nachos, complemented by their famous vegan queso – a true Austin treasure.
The atmosphere at Gabriela’s Downtown is nothing short of enchanting, elevating your visit to an unforgettable experience. Nestled in this Mexican culinary haven, you’ll be treated to a menu that’s a symphony of authentic flavors. From mouthwatering tortas and tantalizing tacos to zesty ceviches, each dish is a work of culinary art, crafted to perfection. However, the true gem in their offerings is the legendary mini margarita flights, a delightful journey through a spectrum of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. For those seeking libations, their Micheladas, martinis, and house cocktails redefine the meaning of Happy Hour, ensuring that every sip is a celebration. And when it comes to brunch, Gabriela’s never fails to dazzle, making it the perfect destination to savor both the cuisine and the ambiance, ensuring every visit is an indulgent and memorable culinary voyage.
School House Pub, Mi Madre’s, and Techo Mezcaleria
The trio of culinary gems – School House Pub, Mi Madre’s, and Techo Mezcaleria – paints a vivid picture of family tradition and inspired innovation, all under the expert guidance of the Torres family. At the heart of this culinary dynasty, Aurelio and Rosa, the proud proprietors of Mi Madre’s, infuse their Mexican heritage into every dish, creating a dining experience that feels like a warm embrace from the moment you step through the door. Right next door, their son Edgar, accompanied by his talented wife Christina, ventured into the restaurant scene with the School House Pub. This charming establishment serves as a testament to their passion for food and community, offering a menu that’s as diverse as it is delicious. But the hidden jewel in this trifecta is Techo Mezcaleria, an ode to Edgar’s hometown of Saltillo, Mexico. Tucked away above Mi Madre’s, this secret mezcaleria adds an air of mystery to your culinary adventure.
Buenos Aires Café, an Eastside culinary gem, invites you to savor the flavors of Argentina while indulging in a touch of mystery with its hidden speakeasy, the Milongo Room, accessible through a discreet entrance. The menu boasts an array of delectable offerings, from small bites and salads to tempting sandwiches and entrees. Don’t miss their irresistible Happy Hour featuring $3 empanadas, $6 wines & cocktails, and $9 lomito beef. This Argentinean-inspired haven in Austin is a tribute to the rich culinary heritage of Chef Reina Morris, who began her culinary journey in her mother’s kitchen and later graduated with honors from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin. Paola Guerrero-Smith, the Master of Grill, and Ryan Smith, a cocktail connoisseur, enhance the experience with their expertise, including Paola’s prestigious title of Master of Grill from the Instituto Argentino de Parrilleros in Buenos Aires. Together, they founded the celebrated Milonga Room, known for its remarkable selection of Amaros and Argentinean cocktails.
Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ, a cherished family-owned establishment, is where Austin’s finest BBQ meets Tex-Mex delight. With a deep-rooted love for family and food, Miguel Vidal, a San Antonio native, has crafted a culinary haven where passion and tradition thrive. Valentina’s sources its premium ingredients, including grass-fed beef and Berkshire pork from Hartley Ranch, to create a mouthwatering menu featuring stuffed tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, and BBQ platters. Together with his wife Modesty, Miguel keeps the trailer running smoothly, exemplifying the true essence of a family business. Valentina’s is more than just BBQ; it’s a celebration of family values, hand-rolled flour tortillas, zesty salsa, avocado, cilantro, and lime – all the elements that make Tex-Mex BBQ an unforgettable experience.
Vaquero Taquero’s founders, two brothers originally from the Rio Grande Valley and Monterrey, Mexico, embarked on their Austin journey in 2016 with a vision to recreate the authentic flavors of their homeland. Starting out as humble street vendors outside the Mexic-Arte Museum, they sold tacos from a modified paleta push-cart, paying homage to the vibrant street food culture of Mexico. Their dedication and passion soon led to expansion, with a move to a food truck in Hyde Park in March 2017, followed by the establishment of a brick-and-mortar location just a year later. Today, Vaquero Taquero is renowned as one of Austin’s top Hispanic-owned restaurants, cherished for their mouthwatering al pastor tacos, expertly prepared by carving flame-seared pork from a rotating trompo and serving it in homemade tortillas with pineapple, cilantro, onion, salsa, and avocado crema.
Nixta Taqueria, nestled on East 12th Street, is the brainchild of two individuals who embarked on a culinary journey inspired by the ancient tradition of corn tortillas. Drawing from over 10,000 years of history, they honor the Aztec legacy of nixtamalization, a meticulous process that infuses their tortillas with an authentic taste of Mexico. The restaurant, a fusion of old and new, operates as a casual, counter-service establishment with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. With a compact kitchen, they rely on a small team to craft their intricate dishes, serving them in waves to eager diners. While their offerings are a testament to their passion for food, Nixta also strives to educate their community about the magic of corn. Guests can expect a unique dining experience filled with rich history, delectable corn-based creations, and a genuine commitment to their enjoyment, all served with a side of Latin flair.
La Holly, formerly known as Kellee’s Place, has undergone a remarkable transformation under the stewardship of owner Simon Madera, the visionary behind Taco Flats on Burnet Road. This East Austin establishment has evolved from a classic dive bar into a vibrant fusion of a cocktail bar and a taco haven. Led by owner and operating partners Chris Nowles, Michael Vasko, and Patrick O’Donnell, La Holly boasts a diverse beverage program, spotlighting Mexican liquors like bacanora, raicilla, sotol, mezcal, and tequila, accompanied by a selection of local beers. The interior, designed by Chris McCray and Grace Hall of McCray & Co., features repurposed elements, television screens, a record player, and custom-made furniture and lighting fixtures. Outside, partner Mark Word of Mark Word Design has transformed the space into a welcoming beer garden and food truck courtyard. With a captivating blend of cocktails, delectable tacos, and inviting ambience, La Holly has become a cherished destination in East Austin.
In the heart of West Austin, Taquero Mucho stands out as a vibrant Hispanic-owned restaurant that elevates the dining experience to new heights. Beyond its delectable array of dishes, such as carne asada, carnitas, and crispy shrimp tacos, the establishment offers CBD-infused cocktails and whimsical drinks accompanied by heart-shaped shades. Guests can also indulge in an array of charming pink merchandise, including rhinestone masks and button and patch combos. Founded by Gabriela Bucio, who noticed that her clientele and biggest supporters were predominantly women, Taquero Mucho is designed to be a sanctuary where women can feel cherished, celebrated, and empowered. The restaurant exudes a palpable aura of feminine energy, making it a burgeoning staple in Austin, particularly for women seeking a unique and uplifting experience. As the sole Latina owner on W. Sixth Street, Gabriela takes immense pride in her heritage and cultural roots, striving to create a space dedicated to women from all walks of life. At Taquero Mucho, she extends a warm invitation to all, encouraging everyone to savor pink tacos, and pink margaritas, while basking in the company of loved ones and kindred spirits.
