Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Austin | Upscale Mexican Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Austin | Upscale Mexican Food

• Arandinas Mexican Restaurant — Mexican · rated 5/5: Vibrant colors and the enticing aroma of charred chilies and slow-simmered meats fill this lively space, where the soulful traditions of Mexico are celebrated in every hand-pressed tortilla. The dining room hums with a festive energy as guests gather over steaming plates of authentic favorites and salt-rimmed margaritas, capturing the warm, welcoming spirit of a true neighborhood cantina.
• Bluefin Sushi Bar and Ramen — Japanese · rated 5/5: Bluefin Sushi Bar and Ramen invites guests into a vibrant, contemporary space where the precision of traditional Japanese craft meets a playful, modern energy. The kitchen turns out artfully plated sashimi samplers and zesty hamachi chili that burst with oceanic freshness, alongside inventive bites like crisp bluefin tacos and savory, golden-fried takoyaki. From the comforting warmth of steaming ramen to the bold zing of house-style ceviche, the experience offers a creative bridge between time-honored techniques and spirited, global flavors.
• TexaZuela — Mexican · rated 5/5: Sun-drenched interiors and the intoxicating scent of hickory smoke set the stage for a bold culinary collision where the rugged spirit of the Lone Star State meets the vibrant soul of South America. Tender, slow-smoked meats find a new home tucked inside golden, griddled arepas, drizzled with zesty chimichurri and paired with the sweet, caramelized crunch of fried plantains. This lively fusion hub invites diners to linger over craft cocktails and inventive plates that bridge two worlds, creating a dining experience that is as soulful as it is unexpected.
• Jardin Corona — Mexican · rated 5/5: Stepping into Jardin Corona feels like entering a sun-drenched sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling fajitas and the bright, zesty scent of fresh lime. Vibrant decor and a festive energy set the stage for a meal centered around bold, traditional flavors, from bubbling cheese-topped enchiladas to hand-shaken margaritas served in salt-rimmed glasses. It is a lively neighborhood retreat where the warmth of the hospitality matches the richness of the cuisine, making every visit feel like a spirited celebration.
• Vazquez Mexican Restaurant — Mexican · rated 5/5: Vazquez Mexican Restaurant invites guests into a lively, sun-drenched space where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-simmered carnitas and toasted chilies. Hand-pressed tortillas arrive warm to the table, serving as the perfect canvas for bold, time-honored flavors that transform every meal into a spirited celebration of Mexican heritage.
• Hay Elotes — Mexican · rated 5/5: This vibrant sanctuary of Mexican street snacks captures the festive spirit of a traditional market, where the air is scented with roasted corn and the bright tang of fresh lime. Guests indulge in warm cups of creamy elotes dusted with smoky chili and salty cotija cheese, or find refreshing contrast in chilled mangonadas layered with sun-ripened fruit and swirls of savory chamoy.
• Radio Coffee and Beer — American · rated 5/5: Sun-drenched mornings transition into lively, starlit evenings at this quintessential South Austin haunt, where the aroma of freshly pulled espresso mingles with the savory scent of street tacos from the onsite food trucks. Beneath a canopy of ancient oaks and twinkling string lights, a diverse crowd gathers on the sprawling patio to swap stories over craft pints and live bluegrass, capturing the effortless, community-driven spirit of the city.
• Vaqueros Cafe & Cantina — Mexican · rated 5/5: This spirited cantina captures the rugged charm of the ranch, welcoming guests into a space filled with the aroma of charred peppers and the lively clink of tequila glasses. Sizzling iron skillets bring bold, smoky flavors to life, while hand-pressed tortillas and zesty salsas offer a fresh, vibrant counterpoint to every hearty bite. It is a destination where sun-drenched afternoons transition seamlessly into festive evenings, all centered around the soulful warmth of traditional borderland cooking.
• OneTaco Taquería — Mexican · rated 5/5: This vibrant taquería pulses with the energy of a bustling street market, where the rhythmic chop of fresh ingredients and the sizzle of seasoned meats on the plancha create a lively, aromatic backdrop. Hand-pressed corn tortillas serve as the warm, fragrant canvas for bold flavors, finished with bright ribbons of cilantro and zesty house-made salsas that dance on the palate. It is a sun-drenched haven where the simple joy of a perfectly crafted taco brings people together over the smoky, savory essence of authentic Mexican soul food.
• Hecho En Mexico — Mexican · rated 4/5: Hecho En Mexico pulses with the vibrant energy of a traditional taqueria, where the rhythmic sizzle of the grill and the intoxicating aroma of toasted corn tortillas fill the air. Each creation is a personal tribute to authentic flavors, from the savory depths of the Hugo to the bright, zesty notes of the Margarita, offering a lively celebration of heritage in every hand-held bite.
• Upstairs at Caroline — Mexican · rated 4/5: Perched above the bustling city streets, this vibrant rooftop oasis captures the spirit of a perpetual backyard party with its colorful lounge seating and playful lawn games. Sun-drenched afternoons melt into breezy evenings as guests sip chilled cocktails and savor street-style tacos, all while soaking in the energetic pulse of downtown from an airy, open-air terrace.
• Prime Taco Grille — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air at Prime Taco Grille hums with the rhythmic chop of fresh cilantro and the enticing sizzle of marinated meats hitting a searing-hot grill. Guests gather in a vibrant, modern space to enjoy hand-pressed tortillas overflowing with bold, smoky flavors and bright, zesty toppings that celebrate the art of the elevated street taco. Whether paired with a salt-rimmed margarita or enjoyed amidst the lively chatter of the open dining room, every bite offers a fresh, spirited take on classic coastal flavors.
• The Coffehouse at Caroline — American · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched and spirited, this lively social hub captures the essence of a perpetual weekend with its breezy "backyard" vibe and a playful energy that welcomes both two-legged guests and their canine companions. The air hums with the whir of blenders crafting vibrant frozen guava margaritas and draft cocktails, perfectly paired with zesty tacos that bring a bold, savory kick to a leisurely afternoon. It is a place where cheeky drinks and peanut butter pup cups create a carefree escape, ensuring that every visit feels like a celebratory Friday funday.
• Subterra Agave Bar — Mexican · rated 4/5: Tucked beneath the bustling streets, this subterranean hideaway envelops guests in an atmosphere of moody sophistication, where shadows play against raw textures and the air carries the faint, sweet scent of charred agave. The bar serves as a temple to the desert’s most storied spirits, offering artisanal cocktails that balance smoky complexity with bright citrus and botanical infusions. It is a place of discovery and slow sipping, where the intimate, low-lit surroundings transform a simple evening into a deep dive into the rich heritage of Mexican craft.
• Las Bis — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through floor-to-ceiling windows into this chic, sun-drenched sanctuary where the clink of wine glasses and the low hum of conversation create an effortlessly cool social backdrop. The kitchen celebrates the beauty of seasonal simplicity, transforming vibrant market-fresh ingredients into artfully plated dishes that balance bold, contemporary flavors with a touch of nostalgic comfort. It is a space designed for lingering, where velvet-lined booths and a gleaming marble bar invite guests to lose track of time over shared plates and inspired cocktails.
• Texican Cafe — Mexican · rated 4/5: Texican Cafe pulses with a festive energy where the smoky aroma of sizzling fajitas and slow-roasted cabrito drifts through a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Guests gather over golden bowls of velvety chile con queso and crisp botana platters, transitioning into hearty plates of tender steak tampiquena or hand-stuffed avocados bursting with bold, border-inspired flavors. This vibrant destination captures the soulful essence of Tex-Mex dining, blending traditional techniques with a spirited warmth that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
• Polvos Interior Mexican Cuisine — Mexican · rated 4/5: Vibrant and bustling, this sanctuary of interior Mexican flavors invites guests into a space filled with the savory aroma of sizzling chorizo and hand-pressed tortillas. The kitchen transforms traditional morning staples into artful feasts, from the legendary, mountain-high Trash Can Plate to saucy chilaquiles that capture the soulful, sun-drenched essence of regional Mexican home cooking.
• Lazarus Brewing Company — Mexican (Street tacos, carnitas · rated 4/5: Sunlight filters through vibrant stained-glass windows into this soulful community hub, where the morning aroma of house-roasted coffee gives way to the savory sizzle of street tacos on the griddle. Whether lounging on the breezy, pet-friendly patio or gathered around communal tables, guests find a spirited sanctuary that celebrates the craft of small-batch brewing alongside bold, Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Zilker Brewing Company — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through industrial garage doors into this vibrant urban taproom, where the hum of conversation mingles with the refreshing clink of glasses filled with crisp Mexican lagers and citrus-forward IPAs. It is a communal sanctuary for craft enthusiasts, offering a sensory journey that ranges from the tropical, cloud-like depths of a hazy double IPA to the dark, velvety richness of a robust porter.
• Serranos Cocina y Cantina — Mexican · rated 4/5: Vibrant energy pulses through this modern cantina, where the rhythmic shake of agave cocktails and the aroma of sizzling, spice-rubbed meats create an atmosphere of festive warmth. Hand-pressed tortillas arrive pillowy and warm alongside zesty, house-made salsas that dance on the palate, offering a soulful celebration of bold flavors and traditional techniques. Whether gathering for a sun-drenched lunch or a spirited evening under glowing lights, diners find a welcoming retreat that captures the spirited heart of authentic Mexican hospitality.
• Amenecer Coffee and Bakery — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this serene neighborhood haven, where the rich, nutty aroma of freshly pulled espresso mingles with the irresistible scent of warm, buttery pastries. Each visit offers a moment of quiet indulgence, from the first crisp bite of a flaky, golden croissant to the velvety finish of a perfectly crafted latte, making it an essential destination for those seeking a soulful start to their morning.
• Market Street Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: Market Street Pizza serves as a vibrant neighborhood hub where the comforting aroma of golden, bubbling crust and savory toppings invites diners into a world of culinary imagination. The kitchen pushes the boundaries of the traditional pie, transforming beloved comfort classics into inventive masterpieces that range from creamy mac and cheese and zesty taco-inspired creations to the nostalgic, bold flavors of a Detroit chili dog. Each slice offers a playful explosion of flavor, creating a spirited atmosphere perfect for those seeking a bold and unconventional twist on the classic pizza night.
• La Cocina — Mexican · rated 4/5: La Cocina invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the air is thick with the fragrance of toasted spices and the comforting sizzle of traditional clay pots. Vibrant plates bursting with bold, citrus-kissed flavors and slow-cooked meats celebrate a rich culinary heritage, creating a soulful atmosphere where every meal feels like a festive gathering among friends.
• Super Burrito at The Water Tank — Mexican · rated 4/5: This lively morning haunt at the iconic Water Tank hums with the sizzle of the griddle and the aroma of spiced chorizo, drawing in early risers for a hearty, soul-warming start to the day. Hand-pressed tortillas are piled high with savory fillings to create robust breakfast tacos and overstuffed burritos, offering a satisfying, flavor-packed ritual that fuels the neighborhood one "Champ" at a time.
• Taco Shack — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this laid-back morning retreat, where the vibrant green of fresh guacamole and cool swirls of sour cream crown hearty breakfast bowls. The casual charm of a neighborhood shack meets bold, wake-up flavors, creating a soulful start to the day that feels like a permanent vacation.
• Las Mangonadas — Mexican · rated 4/5: A vibrant oasis of color and flavor, this lively spot captures the playful spirit of Mexican street snacks through a kaleidoscope of chilled, fruit-forward treats. Sun-ripened mangoes meet the bold, tangy kick of chamoy and a dusting of chili-lime salt, creating a refreshing symphony of sweet, sour, and spicy notes that dance on the palate. Each visit offers a festive escape where the bright zing of citrus and the crunch of tajín-rimmed cups transform a simple afternoon craving into a bold sensory celebration.
• El Jarocho Cuban and Mexican grill — Mexican · rated 4/5: This vibrant grill serves as a soulful crossroads where the sun-drenched flavors of Cuba meet the bold, earthy spices of Mexico in a space alive with warmth and energy. The air carries the irresistible aroma of slow-roasted lechon and sizzling hand-pressed tortillas, inviting guests to savor a festive fusion of tangy mojo, sweet plantains, and authentic coastal traditions.
• Revolución Coffee + Juice — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched and pulsing with energy, this modern sanctuary invites guests into a space where the rich aroma of artisanal espresso blends seamlessly with the bright, crisp scent of freshly pressed botanicals. Vibrant acai bowls topped with jewel-toned fruits offer a refreshing escape alongside nutrient-dense elixirs, creating a revitalizing destination for those seeking a mindful, flavor-forward start to their day.
• Paco's Tacos — Mexican · rated 4/5: Paco’s Tacos pulses with the vibrant energy of a bustling street market, where the rhythmic sound of cleavers harmonizes with the intoxicating aroma of slow-roasted meats and charred chilies. Guests gather in a sun-drenched, casual space to savor hand-pressed tortillas overflowing with bold flavors and zesty house-made salsas that capture the soulful, sun-soaked essence of authentic street food.
• Vaqueros Cafe & Cantina — Mexican · rated 4/5: Steeped in the rustic charm of a high-desert outpost, this lively cantina invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the air is fragrant with the smoke of grilled meats and toasted spices. Vibrant plates bursting with bold, earthy flavors pair perfectly with hand-shaken margaritas, creating a spirited atmosphere where every meal feels like a festive celebration of the frontier.