El Mercado
7414 Burnet Rd., 512/454-2500
Dinner at this location of the popular Tex-Mex happy-hour haven doesn't disappoint, especially after a few of the reliable Mexican martinis.
Other Locations
This spacious, no-frills Austin institution serves classic Tex-Mex breakfasts, lunches, and dinners daily. Look for the fresh homemade tortillas, crispy tacos, and slow-roasted beef ribs.
5804 N I-35, 512/458-2531
The offerings from Jae Kim’s brick-and-mortar "Home of the Kimchi Fries" should be as yummy as those of the popular truck’s. The menu is slightly different, sporting kimchi fried rice balls containing rice, cheddar, Monterey Jack, nori, and gochujang, but retains plenty of crowd favorites.
5222 Burnet Rd., 512/852-9970
This taqueria with a goofy sense of humor turns out superior food from a mesquite-fired grill. Be sure to try the Pirata, with smoked Angus sirloin, sea salt, cheese, and avocado.
2525 West Anderson, 512/452-0001