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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to South Austin

Authentic spots

You have no interest in fusion or modern twists when you are craving the real thing.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Song La image 1
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Taiwanese restaurant

Food truck park offers authentic Taiwanese flavors with large portions like pork chop bento and crispy popcorn chicken. Shaded picnic tables and a children's playground create a family-friendly atmosphere. Popular spot means long wait times but worth it for quality and taste.

Authentic Taiwanese food shines through in large portions like the pork chop bento and braised belly. Dishes such as popcorn chicken and pork belly with rice carry true Taiwanese flavors and sauces.

People are saying

"This Taiwanese food truck is the spot for authentic flavors."

"I thought the fried chicken bento box was out of this world."

"The Taiwanese food here is so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to potential long wait times.

2

The wait at this food truck can be long during peak hours.

3

Parking is available in the Thicket Food Park, but can be limited.

02
El Marisquero Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Outdoor covered dining with shaded picnic tables offers a relaxed, family-friendly spot. Loud cumbia and reggae create a lively beach vibe. Fresh seafood dishes like ceviche deliver authentic Mexican flavors with traditional preparation.

Seafood dishes capture authentic Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients and traditional preparation. The vibe reflects a true Mexican coastal culinary experience with ceviche and aguachile served just like back home.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican seafood here to be the best in Austin."

"I found the authentic Mexican seafood reminded me of home."

"I found the quesadilla to be unbelievable."

Good to know

1

El Marisquero Seafood is a BYOB restaurant, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

2

A hidden 5% fee applies for card payments, which may not be clearly posted.

3

Prices for seafood dishes are generally affordable, but some may find them high for the portion size.

03
El buen gusto image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Outdoor seating under shaded trees offers a peaceful spot to enjoy authentic Salvadoran pupusas made by a kind lady. Quiet afternoons invite relaxed meals with flavorful plantain empanadas that capture genuine traditional tastes.

Authentic Salvadoran dishes include pupusas made by a kind lady, capturing traditional flavors that are hard to find elsewhere. The food consistently reflects genuine recipes and preparation.

People are saying

"These plantain empanadas taste just like homemade."

"I found the pupusas to be authentic, reminding me of El Salvador."

"It's a peaceful and welcoming Meditation Spot under the trees."

Good to know

1

Panes are available once every Friday of the month.

2

El buen gusto moved to 5500 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78745.

3

You should call ahead if you'd like to order panes in January 2026.

04
Taqueria La Casita del pastor image 1

Enjoy authentic tacos with juicy al pastor and handmade tortillas. Relax in the shaded picnic area that offers a casual vibe. Prices stay reasonable, making it a true hidden gem for fresh Mexican flavors.

Tacos feature handmade tortillas and a special flavor pastor that stands out. Ingredients like pineapple, limes, onions, cilantro, and both green and red salsa add to the authentic Mexican taste.

People are saying

"These tacos are the best I've ever had, so flavorful."

"The pastor tacos here are so authentic and flavorful."

"The handmade tortillas here are excellent and made in-house."

Good to know

1

The price for three tacos is around $10, which is reasonable for the quality.

2

They accept credit cards for payment.

3

There is plenty of parking available nearby.

05
Hanh's Homemade Mekong Delta Cuisine image 1

Food truck in a garden offers authentic Vietnamese dishes like banh mi and Pho with fresh, homemade ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian options shine here. Live music adds to the relaxed atmosphere that draws a steady crowd.

Vietnamese dishes here deliver a very authentic taste with banhmi standing out as a must-try. Each item feels crafted with care and genuine flavors.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"I found the vegetarian Bahn mi to be phenomenal."

"I found the Vietnamese food experience to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

Hanh's Homemade Kitchen operates Thursday and Friday from 4 pm to 9 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm.

2

The food truck is located in a convenient spot with plenty of parking available.

3

The owner can prepare several vegan items upon request.

06
3 Flames Halal image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Food truck serves authentic gyro flavor with crispy falafel and fresh ingredients. Clean setup and casual seating create a welcoming vibe. Generous portions and fair prices keep customers coming back for flavorful Mediterranean meals.

Gyros stand out with authentic flavor matching Chicago standards. Every dish tastes clean and truly authentic.

People are saying

"I found the food here fresh, delicious, and flavorful."

"The gyro meat was seasoned so well and tasted authentic."

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The combo plate costs $11.99 and offers great value.

2

Expect generous portions that satisfy hunger.

3

The food truck maintains a clean setup and environment.

07
Tacoly Moly By Ygor image 1

Food truck offers authentic corn tortillas with bold flavors in a lively, casual lot shaded by trees. Enjoy live music and a welcoming vibe while savoring the best tacos and burritos. Great spot for families and casual diners seeking laid-back outdoor seating.

Tacos deliver a savory punch with authentic corn tortillas and bold flavors. The pastor taco comes with jalapeรฑos for a genuine street taco experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"These nachos are the best I've ever had."

"These authentic tacos have a savory punch that leaves you wanting more."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Live music and entertainment create a unique atmosphere at the event.

3

The food truck offers generous serving sizes at affordable prices.

08
El Perrito ATX image 1
Mexican restaurant

Offers authentic El Paso flavors with dishes like shredded beef flautas. Features colorful murals and a casual, nostalgic vibe. Enjoy $5 margaritas and live music on weekends in a lively bar setting.

Authentic El Paso Mexican food shines here with flavors true to Chicos tacos and Chuco cuisine. The menu avoids Tex-Mex, focusing on genuine Mexican plates that reflect hometown tastes.

People are saying

"I thought the drowned tacos were among the best in Texas."

"I found authentic El Paso Mexican food here."

"The American food, especially the hot dogs, has creative twists and amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and plentiful near the restaurant.

2

Taco Tuesday features live music and special menu items.

3

Menudo Sundays offer a unique dining experience with Oldies music.

09
Taqueria Melchor image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck offers authentic tacos like Al Pastor and birria with amazing salsas. Covered picnic tables and heated seating create a cozy atmosphere. Upbeat vibe keeps it lively late into the night.

Tacos Al Pastor and birria tacos deliver authentic Mexican flavors. Salsas stand out as amazing and true to Mexico's taste.

People are saying

"I thought these tacos were the most delicious in Texas."

"I loved their authentic birria tacos and addictive green sauce."

"This place is a great late night spot, open late into the night."

Good to know

1

Taqueria Melchor is open late into the night.

2

Parking is limited; consider parking around the back of the finance business.

3

There is a small sitting area available for dining in.

10
Hasta La Luna image 1
Restaurant

Takeout-only spot with a hidden entrance serves Texas-sized breakfast tacos with homemade tortillas and fresh salsa. Food offers authentic flavors and generous portions, capturing a true Austin vibe despite no seating.

Tacos come out absolutely authentic and homemade. Tortillas and beans taste delicious and authentic.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos here are huge and delicious."

"The carne guisada here is so good, it literally melts in your mouth."

"I found the food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

This location is a ghost kitchen; order online or by phone for pickup.

2

No seating is available; customers cannot enter the establishment.

3

Expect a 30-minute wait for food after placing an online order.

11
Salam's Grill image 1
Restaurant

Food truck offers authentic shawarma with classic flavors. Cozy outdoor seating creates a lively atmosphere. Pair meals with local beer for a wholesome experience.

Food truck serves authentic shawarma with flavors true to tradition. Offers good eats that capture the essence of classic recipes.

People are saying

"I've never had shawarma this amazing; it's the best I've ever had."

"The hummus is so creamy and fresh."

"You have to try the authentic shawarma wrap, it's made to perfection."

Good to know

1

Everything is made fresh daily at Salam's Grill.

2

The beef on the Fat Manโ€™s Plate was sold out by 5 PM, indicating its popularity.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere on Saturday nights.

12
Taquitos Michoacanos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves authentic tacos with real flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Menu offers variety with healthier choices and flavorful salsas. Open late, perfect for late-night munchies.

Tacos stand out with real good and authentic flavors. The food overall stays very authentic and super tasty.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic and super tasty."

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best tacos I've ever had."

"I found the food to be authentic and super tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late for late-night dining.

2

They offer a wide variety of choices on their menu.

3

Prices are reasonable and considered good value.

13
Casita Nicole Los machetes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food trailer serves authentic street food with large portions at low prices. Covered patio with plant decorations creates a casual, noisy vibe. Flies can be a bother but don't stop the steady crowd near the gas station.

True authentic Mexican street food comes from a trailer setup, not a typical taco stand. The menu delivers genuine flavors that reflect traditional Mexican cooking.

People are saying

"The food here is awesome and top-notch."

"You have to try their machete tacos; they're delicious."

"I found this to be the most authentic Mexican food place I've ever been to."

Good to know

1

Machete tacos cost $14 each, while mini machetes are $13.

2

Breakfast tacos are priced at $5 each.

3

The portions served are large, suitable for sharing.

14
AUTENTICOS MICHOACANOS ATX #2 image 1

Mexican food truck serves authentic street food with homemade tortillas and big portions. Simple, no-frills setting near a hookah lounge offers all-day breakfast and flavorful tacos. Perfect for those craving genuine Mexican flavors in a casual spot.

Offers authentic Mexican street food with a no-frills approach. Stands out as a spot where the food consistently meets expectations for genuine flavors.

People are saying

"You have to try the birria tacos; they're amazing."

"I found their burritos to be the absolute best around."

"I found the authentic birria tacos here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 10 minutes for your order.

2

They serve breakfast all day, so you can enjoy it anytime.

3

Four tacos cost $15, which is a reasonable price.

15
Sichuan river image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright lighting and an aquarium create a calm space with authentic Sichuan flavors. Huge portions of spicy dishes and vegetarian options satisfy diverse tastes. Quiet and unassuming, it remains a hidden gem for those seeking peace and true taste.

Sichuan style dishes deliver authentic flavors with huge portions. The food stays true to traditional Szechuan-inspired recipes.

People are saying

"The spicy fish filet was excellent over rice."

"I found the Szechuan food here to be authentic and delicious."

"I found the food here to be as authentic as can be."

Good to know

1

Online menus may not reflect current offerings; check in person for the latest items.

2

The restaurant offers large portions, ideal for sharing or taking home leftovers.

3

Vegetarian options are available, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

16
Evangeline Cafe image 1
Cajun restaurant

Small space with bayou decor and eclectic memorabilia creates a strong Cajun vibe. Authentic Cajun and Creole dishes bring true Louisiana flavors. Live music fills the room, adding to the funky atmosphere but can make conversation difficult.

Authentic Cajun and Creole dishes stand out with true Louisiana flavors. The spot pairs live music with food, creating a genuine New Orleans vibe.

People are saying

"I found the Cajun food here to be the most authentic outside Louisiana."

"The fried catfish Po Boy here is incredible and not greasy."

"I loved the great live music here."

Good to know

1

Evangeline Cafe offers live music from Monday to Thursday.

2

Live music happens on Monday nights from 7 to 9 pm.

3

The cafe has a small dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

17
DK Sushi & Seoul Korean Restaurant image 1

Small sushi spot offers intimate tatami seating and a warm family vibe with eclectic 80's tunes. Korean dishes shine with authentic flavors and neat presentation. Guests enjoy a unique Japanese-inspired experience that feels peaceful and humble.

Korean dishes come out authentic and flavorful with on point presentation that adds to the atmosphere. The food tastes consistently authentic and delicious.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and tastes so good!"

"Their spicy soup is delicious and bursting with flavor."

"I found the food here delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Parking gets crowded quickly around 6-7pm; arrive early to find a spot.

3

The restaurant uses a QR code system for ordering and payment.

18
SBK Middle Eastern Food image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Food truck offers authentic Mediterranean flavors with fresh, crispy falafel and flavorful shawarma. Casual outdoor setting includes a small picnic area and turf with lights, creating a quiet, convenient atmosphere. Service focuses on online and delivery orders, with limited, informal dine-in seating.

Food shows authentic Mediterranean flavors with dishes made from scratch. Falafel comes out fresh and crispy, packed with genuine taste.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and authentic."

"The hummus here is out of this world, so creamy and flavorful."

"I found the food to be authentic and incredibly flavorful."

Good to know

1

Prices for baklava and other items can be higher than expected.

2

Portions may be smaller than before, affecting value for money.

3

Online orders are processed faster than dine-in orders.

19
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Tiny dining area buzzes with a lively Ohana vibe and Hawaiian hip-hop tunes. Food shines with authentic Hawaiian flavors, featuring laulau and Mac salad. Kid-friendly and wheelchair-accessible seating add to the welcoming, cozy island feel.

Food captures authentic Hawaiian flavors with dishes like laulau and Mac salad that stay true to local recipes. Plate lunches offer flavorful, genuine tastes reflecting traditional Hawaiian barbecue.

People are saying

"I found the Hawaiian food here to be the best I've had."

"This BBQ's mac salad is a new favorite, so delicious."

"The food here is authentic and reminds me of local Hawaiian food."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is unreliable; expect cancellations and lost payments.

2

Prices are high compared to the quality of food served.

3

Dining in can be uncomfortable due to the environment and air conditioning issues.

20
El Secreto de Abuela #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with a casual taqueria vibe and air spray paint decor offers a homey atmosphere. Food features authentic Mexican flavors with standout dishes like menudo and steak poblano. Prices stay reasonable, making it a hidden gem with relaxed energy.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with a focus on traditional recipes. Dishes deliver a delicious and genuine taste that stands out among others.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really tasty and flavorful."

"I thought the breakfast tacos were delicious and handmade."

"I tasted the most authentic homemade Mexican food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Lunch costs $13.95, but the price isn't clearly posted.

2

Dine-in customers receive free chips and salsa.

3

Extra tortillas cost an additional 75 cents.

21
Taquerias Arandinas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic tacos and a family-like vibe. Soft music and TVs showing games create a relaxed, lively setting. Tables close together add to the inviting atmosphere.

Small, family-like environment creates an authentic vibe. Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with delicious, traditional tacos.

People are saying

"I thought the authentic Mexican food here was phenomenal."

"The salsa here is fresh, flavorful, and has a great kick."

"I found the food to be delicious and authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

Prices are not displayed on the menu, leading to unexpected charges.

2

The restaurant does not sell alcohol, so bring your own if desired.

3

Refills on drinks are not available; consider ordering large beverages.

22
Tacos Las Amazonas Estilo Jalisco #3 image 1

Picnic tables under a covered area offer a casual outdoor dining spot with lively music creating a jovial atmosphere. Tacos deliver authentic Jalisco flavors true to South Texas roots. Self-ordering via iPad adds convenience to the friendly, busy setting.

Tacos here capture authentic Jalisco style with flavors true to South Texas roots. The Mexican food stays very authentic and represents traditional recipes well.

People are saying

"I loved the salsa verde; it was so delicious."

"I found authentic Jalisco-style tacos that tasted like home."

"I thought the burritos were huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

The food truck is located in a gas station on South Congress.

2

There is convenient parking available near the food truck.

3

The restaurant opens early and serves breakfast with a diverse menu.

23
Taqueria #3 La Escondida image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with fresh coriander and spicy sauces. Quick service suits those seeking a casual atmosphere and affordable meals like breakfast tacos. Large interior space makes it a convenient spot for a fast, tasty bite.

Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes deliver seriously authentic flavor in every bite. The food consistently stays true to traditional tastes.

People are saying

"I thought the menudo and quesabirria were great."

"I found the Mexican food here to be seriously authentic."

"The salsa here tastes so fresh and has a nice spice."

Good to know

1

They charge for chips and salsa on the bill.

2

The total cost was $16 including tip.

3

Breakfast tacos cost $2.25.

24
La Vallarta image 1
Restaurant

Vibrant colors and traditional Mexican accents create a casual vibe. Menu offers authentic dishes like chicken enchiladas with bold flavors. Note that options change often and card payments have fees.

Menu features an impressive array of authentic Mexican dishes with bold flavors and high-quality ingredients. Food consistently delivers an authentic taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"I found the Mexican food here to be amazing."

"The food here tastes so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They allow service dogs at the restaurant.

2

The menu states that each plate should have three enchiladas, but they often serve only two.

3

They charge a fee for card payments, which may discourage some customers.

25
Mi Tradiciรณn image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy bakery offers authentic Mexican flavor with fresh pan dulce and tortas. Atmosphere feels peaceful but slightly worn. Unique bread displays with monitors add charm to the setting.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavor with pan dulce and tortas that match what you'd find in Mexico. The bread carries a genuine taste, and the overall vibe feels cozy and authentic.

People are saying

"The Mexican-style bread here is so delicious and fresh."

"You have to try the tortas; they're the best I've ever had."

"I found the food here to be authentic Mexican cuisine."

Good to know

1

They charge an extra $0.50 for additional salsa.

2

Prices for churros are $2 each.

3

Freshly made blue corn tortillas are available.

26
La Playa Taqueria & Mariscos image 1

Small Mexican spot serves authentic flavors with fresh seafood and jumbo shrimp tacos. Casual, lively vibe fits local hangout feel. Focus on breakfast tacos and bold salsas makes it a flavorful choice.

Offers authentic Mexican food with delicious flavors that stay true to tradition.

People are saying

"I found the tripa taco to be the best I had."

"The seafood here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the food here authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

The lunch special costs $10.99, offering good value.

3

Expect to pay extra for additional tortillas with your meal.

27
Jalisco's Restaurant & Bar at Austin, TX image 1

Vibrant cantina vibe shines with live Mariachi music and a casual atmosphere. Authentic Mexican dishes offer homecooked flavor that stays true to tradition. Strong selection of tequila and cocktails completes the lively experience.

Mexican dishes deliver a homecooked flavor with a genuine taste that stays true to tradition. Every bite carries an authentic Mexican essence.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and tastes like home."

"I really liked their salsas, especially the spicy green one."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Wednesday features all-day happy hour.

2

For birthday celebrations, they bring out a cake and play 'maรฑanitas'.

3

Reservations are needed for large parties, especially on weekends.

28
Taco Brother image 1
Mexican restaurant

Classic taco truck vibe shines with authentic tacos and affordable prices. Covered picnic tables and a shaded seating area offer a comfortable spot to enjoy meals. Soft music adds to the inviting atmosphere while waiting under the awning.

Tacos here show authentic taco truck style with affordable prices and solid flavor. Some tacos lack flavor and miss the mark on authenticity, but overall it leans toward genuine.

People are saying

"These tacos are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"The salsa verde here is amazingly delicious and spicy."

"I found the tacos here to be as authentic as a taco truck could get."

Good to know

1

Most breakfast tacos cost between $3 and $3.25.

2

There wasn't a long wait during my visit.

3

The parking lot is busy but has ample space available.

29
Asiana Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious dining area with comfortable booths offers a tranquil vibe with soft Indian and world music. Curries like shrimp and goat deliver real Indian spices and fresh, authentic flavors. Clean, elegant interiors create a relaxing and simple atmosphere.

Curries like shrimp and goat showcase real Indian spices. Food stays fresh and authentic with consistent quality.

People are saying

"The food here is rich, flavorful, and perfectly spiced."

"These date spots serve amazing, authentic Indian food with flavorful dishes."

"The food here is so flavorful and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

They have a Valentine's Day special with a special menu.

2

A weekend lunch buffet starts in February, offering a variety of dishes.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like Valentine's Day.

30
Casa Maria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic flavors and a warm atmosphere filled with real Mexican music. Comfortable booths and traditional decor add charm. Full bar serves sweet margaritas that balance the lively vibe perfectly.

Offers both authentic Mexican flavors and Tex-Mex dishes with balanced spice levels. Food tastes like home cooking in Mexico and the atmosphere feels super clean and authentic.

People are saying

"I loved the bakery items; they were amazing."

"I found the Mexican food here to be truly authentic."

"I love their fresh, hot coffee."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is on weekdays from 3 to 6 pm with $4 house margaritas.

2

Live mariachis perform every Friday from 7-9 pm.

3

They charge $5 for a basket of chips with salsa.

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