Austin is well known for its music scene and energy, but it also has an exceptional gastronomic offer. That’s right—we’re talking about the capital of Texas, which combines the best of Texas food, tacos, and barbecue.
In this article, we will take a tour through the city’s best places, where you can delight yourself with the typical Texan delicacies. And if you are not a great lover of grilled meats and tacos, don’t worry because Austin offers excellent gastronomic diversity, including places where the styles of international cuisines merge with the essence of Texas.
What are you waiting for? Join us on the best Austin food tour you can take, and let’s walk hand in hand through the most incredible and exquisite restaurants and places you can’t miss if you are on vacation in the city.
Austin’s love for tacos
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El Primo Taqueria
Taqueria El Primo is an iconic food truck usually located on an unassuming corner in Austin. It serves some of the best tacos in town and has become a favorite among locals for years because it serves delicious, authentic, and affordable tacos.
One of my favorite tacos is the “Taco al Pastor,” which features juicy and well-seasoned meat accompanied by a green sauce that adds the perfect touch of spice. Although it is a simple experience since it is just a taco, the flavor offered by this taqueria is unforgettable.
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Veracruz All Natural
If you love tacos, you can’t miss the ones served at Veracruz All Natural. This food truck, founded by two sisters from Veracruz, Mexico, has become an institution in Austin.
We recommend you try their famous and delicious “Migas Tacos,” which are filled with scrambled eggs, tortilla chips, cheese, and avocado. In addition, they offer fresh juices and natural smoothies that perfectly complement any choice on the menu.
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Tacodeli
Finally, we propose a place offering delicious tacos and a slightly more refined experience. We are referring to Tacodeli, a chain with several branches around the city that stands out for its focus on local and sustainable ingredients.
Try the “Frontera Fundido” taco, which combines tender beef with melted cheese and special sauce. Vegetarians can also find delicious options here, such as the “Heather,” a taco with portobello mushrooms, spinach, and goat cheese.
BBQ: A Texan Art
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Franklin Barbecue
This place needs little introduction among barbecue fans. Franklin Barbecue is nationally known, and it draws crowds who don’t hesitate to stand in long lines to try its famous brisket. It’s a definite stop on any Austin food tour.
This is thanks to chef Aaron Franklin, who perfected the art of BBQ, offering meat that melts in your mouth and an unmatched smoky flavor. That is a must-try, but be sure to get there early, as lines can be long, and brisket sells out quickly.
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La Barbecue
Another prominent contender on the BBQ scene is La Barbecue. This establishment offers an authentic and unpretentious BBQ experience, focusing on slow-smoked meats with lots of flavor.
While the brisket is a must-try, the ribs, and homemade sausage are two dishes whose tastiness will thrill you. Of course, La Barbecue also offers a variety of delicious sides, such as potato salad and coleslaw.
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Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew
Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew combines Austin’s greatest passions: BBQ and craft beer. This place is located in the historic Violet Crown Shopping Center neighborhood and offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Here, you can sample all the BBQ classics, accompanied by an impressive selection of local beers that change regularly. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends while sampling some of the region’s best craft beers.
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Terry Black’s Barbecue
Terry Black’s Barbecue is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a classic BBQ experience without the long lines. This famous family restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and irresistible smoked meats.
The brisket is the signature dish, but the pork ribs and smoked turkey stand out. For a complete experience that captures the essence of the typical Texan BBQ, we recommend accompanying your plate with their coleslaw and mac and cheese. You’ll thank us!
Combining tacos and BBQ
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Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ
Why choose between tacos and BBQ when you can have both? There are beautiful places where these two pillars of cuisine merge, such as Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ.
This establishment serves the “Real Deal Holyfield,” which are tacos that combine smoked brisket with scrambled eggs, potatoes, and cheese, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. As if that weren’t enough, the homemade BBQ sauce and fresh tortillas complete the experience to perfection, making this place a must-visit in Austin.
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Leroy and Lewis BBQ
This food truck takes barbecue to another level. Leroy and Lewis BBQ have taken it upon themselves to merge innovation with traditional BBQ. It offers unconventional cuts of meat and modern techniques, all while maintaining the signature smoky flavor.
Even though we are talking about a meal on the go, this gastronomic van offers delicious dishes you can’t miss. We recommend the beef brisket with kimchi, a bold combination that delights the palate. As for tacos, their BBQ tacos, such as the “Barbacoa Taco” with beef tongue, are a perfect example of the fusion between tacos and BBQ.
Beyond tacos and BBQ
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Emmer & Rye
While tacos and BBQ are the stars of Austin dining, the city is also home to restaurants that stand out for their creativity and use of local ingredients.
A perfect example of this is Emmer & Rye, a restaurant located on Rainey Street. This place offers a menu that changes daily, focusing on fresh and seasonal ingredients with which they prepare creative dishes that surprise diners. One of the most popular dishes is the Sunday dim sum.
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El Naranjo
El Naranjo is a must-visit if you want to explore Mexican flavors beyond traditional tacos. Chef Iliana de la Vega runs this restaurant and offers authentic Mexican cuisine that includes dishes such as mole negro, cochinita pibil, and chiles en nogada.
The attention to detail and authenticity of ingredients make El Naranjo an exceptional place for those seeking a rich and diverse culinary experience.
Conclusion
As you will see, Austin is known for its barbecue and tacos. However, the city also has other flavors to offer. Whatever your particular taste, be amazed by the culinary diversity that the capital of Texas has to offer!
Austin has something for everyone, so get ready to explore and indulge in this vibrant city’s best restaurants. Enjoy!
