If you’re like me, your taste buds tend to dictate where you like to travel. And for incredible barbecue, Tex-Mex cuisine, and even sushi, Austin, Texas, should be the next culinary destination on your list. I try to head to Texas’s state capitol at least once a year, when my cravings for icy-cold margaritas, overstuffed burritos, and spicy queso can’t be ignored.
Here are five of my favorite, can’t-miss places to eat in Austin.
1. Chuy's
The first time I took my boyfriend Andy to Chuy’s, I tried to warn him about the size of the burritos. “I’ll be fine,” he nonchalantly replied. “I’m really hungry.” Then he was served a burrito the size of a rolled-up newspaper, surrounded by a good helping of refried beans and rice. He looked down at the burrito; its stream wafted back up at him, tauntingly. I could see the wheels turning in his head.
“Don’t do it,” I insisted. “This is one competition you’re not going to win.”
Here’s what awaits you at Chuy’s: Spicy burritos that will stuff you for days. Endless refills of fresh salsa and toasty-hot tortilla chips. Crispy cool frozen margaritas, with just the right amount of salt to balance the tangy sweetness. Flautas that perfect the balance of meat, guacamole, and chipotle. And your choice of six hot sauces to top off your dish. My preferred sauce is tomatillo, which packs a mouthful of the namesake green gems, garlic, and cilantro.
The decor is kooky-cool, too—a throwback to the fifties, the restaurant seats patrons against a backdrop of chrome, neon, and decor furnished in vintage peaches, aquas, pinks, and blues. At any given time, the place might be packed with families chowing down, a horde of UT students pigging out, or hungry couples out spicing things up. I love people-watching here almost as much as the food itself.
(Oh—Andy ultimately ate half his burrito, then took the rest for lunch the next day.)
The Green Mesquite
I love a good barbecue joint, and the Green Mesquite doesn’t disappoint. Visitors are greeted with lots of funky neon signage, and mouth-watering aromas of good smoky meats and greens. Choose from two-, three-, or four-meat plates and stack your platter with pulled pork, brisket, pork ribs, and a variety of smoked poultry, sausage, or ham. There’s plenty of catfish, chicken-fried steak, and jambalaya, too. And if you’re up for trying a local specialty, order the Frito pie, an awesome gut-busting combo of chili, sour cream, cheese, and (of course) Fritos.
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