If you're looking for something a bit more off the beaten path...
Consider giving a few of these incredible Mexican restaurants a try. Chuy's and Torchy's aren't going anywhere - try turning over a new leaf at one of these lesser-known gems of Austin's Mexican food scene!
Contributed by Cassandra Carpenter
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photo via yelp
6001 W William Cannon Dr
2101 Montopolis Dr
Hecho En Mexico's dishes feature flavors from many of the culinary regions in Mexico, while staying loyal to their South Central Mexican roots. When you go, be sure to try the mole which you can get three different ways: served over pork enchiladas, over seafood, and one over chicken. Some other menu specialities include ceviche, carnes and chiles, enchiladas and more.
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photo via instagram
1816 S Lamar Blvd
On South Lamar you can find Sazón, a regional Mexican spot that deserves all the hype. Their dishes are both traditional and reasonably priced, making it the ultimate hidden gem. Some favorite dishes you should try include the chile rellenos, cochinita pibil, and anything topped with their mole. Go on a nice day and sip on a marg on their outdoor patio while enjoying some authentic Mexican food.
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3815 Dry Creek Dr
4211 S Lamar Blvd
What could be better than margs before or after a Target run (if you go to their South Lamar location)? This down-to-the-basics joint won't distract you with gimmicks or aesthetics, instead, it knows it can deliver that sought-after flavor of classic Tex-Mex. Friendly and inviting with blue margaritas to knock any blues away, consider popping in for your next taco craving.
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Photo credit: casita guanajuato yelp
1519 W Anderson Ln
Crestview's secret for some of the best horchata, breakfast tacos and tortilla chips is the ladies running Casita Guanajuato. Pop in and bite into all the classic menu hits like gorditas, steak, enchiladas, chalupas, and chimichangas, or sip a marg. You cannot go wrong when you visit Casita Guanajuato.
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4327 S 1st St.
With a South Austin spot, Kyle, and San Marcos, Maria's Mexican empire is taking over south of the Colorado River. Since 1997, Casa Maria has provided authentic plates using original recipes to keep traditional Mexican cuisine alive and well in Austin. For anyone looking for incredible Mexican pastries & baked goods, Casa Maria's Panaderia in their South First location is worth going to grab some Conchas alone.
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photo via betosaustin
3306 Oak Springs Dr
Situated off of Springdale in East Austin is Beto’s #2. Beto’s #1 is located off of East 7th - the restaurant's second location is small and simple, with food done right. Cheap margaritas and the famous Beto’s Combo plate (with shrimp, chicken fajita, sausage, & beef) make this a great place for everyone to enjoy.
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Photo via Yelp
6700 Middle Fiskville Rd Ste 404
If the Asada tacos on flour with a side of green sauce from Los Altos were the apple in the Garden of Eden, we'd be screwed. We just can't stay away from this hole-in-the-wall Mexican joint. Stop in for their amazing chips and salsa, a Modelo, and the aforementioned Asada tacos. Explore the rest of the menu on your return trips, which you'll definitely be making.
photo via facebook
614 E Oltorf St
4215 Duval St
Just off of Congress and Oltorf in Travis Heights (and also in Hyde Park), you’ll find Curra’s Grill. Come for the Chilaquiles and stay for the famous avocado margaritas. With a salsa sampler on the menu and an outdoor patio, this is a great place to meet friends for happy hour and leave very satisfied.
photo via yelp
2011 S 1st St
If you are looking for an amazing el pastor taco, look no further than the El Primo food truck on South First. Post up in the outdoor seating area and enjoy these fresh tacos on a beautiful day. The chorizo breakfast tacos are another favorite - flavorful and cooked to perfection.
photo via facebook / vivo
6406 N IH 35
Boasting "modern Tex-Mex" fare, Vivo is a great spot for happy hour drinks and tacos. Their drink menu offers a slew of margaritas and tequilas to choose from. Customize your beverage order by adding unique flavor mix-ins like hibiscus, blood orange, or prickly pear. Vegetarian options and loaded appetizers round out the food menu and make Vivo a solid choice for just about anyone.
photo via marecelinosfoods
901 Tillery St
For the morning people, Marcelino’s opens at 7 am and stays open until 1 pm - or until they run out of food, whichever comes first. Get there early! Everything is made from scratch and served on gorgeous fresh tortillas - we recommend the barbacoa. Choose your taco ingredients and try to keep them from drooling while they're made in front of you. Marcelino’s is family owned since 1987 and touts a rich East Austin history.
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photo via yelp
1801 E Riverside Dr
Not only does Rosita's have a bangin' counter-serve spot during the day, but also a late-night food truck to please your evening cravings. Try out their tacos al pastor (if that wasn't already a given) and also their chicken fajita tacos. Rosita's even uses homemade tortillas - come on, y'all.
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MORE UNDERRATED MEXICAN RESTAURANTS IN AUSTIN:
501 W Oltorf St
4912 Monterey Oaks Blvd
4516 Burnet Rd
1304 W Koenig Ln
Various Locations
13450 US-183
5700 Manchaca Rd, Ste 570
817 Airport Blvd
9041 Research Blvd #100
8650 Spicewood Springs Rd
1911 W Anderson Ln
What Mexican restaurant do you think is underrated?
We'd like to know!
