Best Upscale Tacos in Austin | Top 1 Upscale Spots

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Tacos in Austin | Top 1 Upscale Spots

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• The League Kitchen & Tavern — American · rated 4/5: The League Kitchen & Tavern invites guests into a spirited, polished space where the warmth of a classic neighborhood pub meets the energy of a modern culinary destination. The kitchen reimagines nostalgic comfort through a sophisticated lens, serving up shareable treasures like truffle-infused deviled eggs and crispy ham and cheese croquettes that spark conversation across the table. From the briny crunch of fried oysters to the zesty flair of tuna tartare tacos, every dish is crafted to pair perfectly with a cold craft beer and the lively hum of a well-spent evening.
• Las Palomas Restaurant and Bar — Mexican · rated 3/5: Las Palomas Restaurant and Bar invites guests into a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage, where the air is filled with the enticing sizzle of fajitas and the rich, complex aroma of slow-simmered mole. From the morning comfort of traditional chilaquiles to evening rounds of street tacos and frosty house margaritas, every plate captures a festive spirit that lingers long after the last bite of honey-drizzled sopapillas.
• Taquito Aviles — Mexican · rated 3/5: Steam rises from deep bowls of spice-laden consomé at this vibrant neighborhood gem, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-simmered goat and tender pork carnitas. Diners dive into golden, griddled quesabirria tacos that crackle with melted cheese and rich juices, offering a soulful experience that celebrates the bold, authentic heart of Mexican street food.
• OneTaco Taquería @ Anderson Lane — Mexican · rated 3/5: This vibrant neighborhood spot hums with the energy of an authentic Mexican taquería, where the savory aroma of marinated Al Pastor and sizzling USDA Choice beef drifts from the open kitchen. Guests can jumpstart their morning with hearty breakfast tacos or linger over golden chips dipped into creamy, hand-mashed guacamole and zesty house-made salsas. It is a lively destination that captures the soul of street-style dining, offering a bold explosion of traditional flavors tucked into every warm tortilla.
• Mama Betty's Tex-Mex Cantina — Mexican · rated 3/5: This lively cantina pulses with energy, drawing guests in with the aroma of slow-simmered barbacoa and the sight of molten, golden queso being shared across sun-drenched tables. Towering plates of artisanal nachos—layered with everything from tender carnitas to fresh seafood—celebrate the bold, soulful spirit of Tex-Mex comfort, making every meal a festive and flavor-packed gathering.
• Vera Cruz — Mexican: Vera Cruz pulses with the vibrant energy of a traditional taqueria, where the sizzle of the griddle and the bright aroma of hand-mashed guacamole welcome guests into a world of bold, sun-drenched flavors. Whether you’re starting the morning with a hearty, steam-filled breakfast taco or sharing a mountain of golden, loaded nachos, each bite celebrates the authentic crunch of house-made chips and the zesty kick of signature salsas. This lively neighborhood escape brings together a communal warmth where customizable tacos and pressed tortas turn a simple meal into a festive, flavor-packed experience.
• The Vegan Nom — Mexican: This vibrant plant-based sanctuary reimagines Tex-Mex comfort with a rock-and-roll spirit, where the air is thick with the scent of sizzling spices and velvety, golden queso. Diners dive into massive, flavor-packed brunch burritos and signature crunchy wraps that defy expectations, offering an indulgent experience that captures the rebellious, sun-soaked energy of a modern taco revolution.
• Caroline — American: Bathed in the playful energy of a never-ending summer social, this vibrant destination invites guests to linger over frosty guava margaritas and artfully stacked tacos served in a sun-drenched, backyard-inspired setting. The atmosphere buzzes with the refreshing clink of draft cocktails and cheeky "Bad Life Choices," creating a spirited sanctuary where every afternoon feels like a celebration and even four-legged companions are welcomed with indulgent peanut butter pup cups.
• El Tacorrido: Authentic Mexican Taqueria — Mexican: This vibrant taqueria captures the soul of a bustling Mexican market, where the morning air is thick with the rich scent of toasted chiles and slow-simmered barbacoa. Guests gather over steaming bowls of traditional pozole and plates of golden chilaquiles, or share generous helpings of tender carnitas and al pastor served by the pound for a truly communal feast. From the savory depth of a breakfast taco to the hearty crunch of a well-stuffed gordita, every dish celebrates the bold, time-honored flavors of authentic street food.
• Tacodeli — Mexican: This vibrant taco destination pulses with energy as the aroma of sizzling sirloin and freshly cracked eggs wafts from the kitchen, drawing in a morning crowd eager for a bold, hand-crafted start to the day. From the creamy, bean-rich depths of the iconic Otto to the golden crunch of migas-filled tortillas, every bite captures a soulful blend of high-quality ingredients and authentic, sun-drenched flavors.
• Chi'Lantro BBQ — Korean: This high-energy eatery pulses with the vibrant spirit of Korean-Mexican fusion, where the aroma of caramelized BBQ pork and zesty soy glazes invites guests to build their own bold, flavor-packed masterpieces. From the satisfying crunch of K’Pop chicken to the fresh, layered harmony of a signature Ssäm, every bowl is a colorful celebration of textures and spices designed for a modern, fast-paced culinary adventure.
• Velvet Taco — Mexican: This vibrant culinary destination reimagines the taco as a global canvas, where bold international flavors and chef-driven creativity collide in a high-energy, eclectic space. Each hand-held masterpiece offers a sensory journey, from the aromatic heat of spicy tikka chicken and the smoky richness of slow-roasted brisket to the playful, soul-warming crunch of chicken and waffles. The atmosphere buzzes with a modern, edgy spirit, inviting guests to explore a menu that celebrates the art of the unexpected.
• Tacodeli — Mexican: This vibrant neighborhood hub pulses with energy as the aroma of sizzling bacon and hand-pressed tortillas draws a lively crowd seeking the ultimate morning fuel. The kitchen elevates the humble taco into a culinary art form, layering tender Akaushi beef, slow-braised barbacoa, and crisp, egg-filled migas into bold, hand-held masterpieces that burst with farm-fresh flavor. From the creamy richness of the bean-and-avocado Otto to zesty plant-based creations, every plate offers a colorful, sun-drenched celebration of local ingredients and creative spirit.
• Guero's Taco Bar — Mexican: This vibrant destination hums with a festive energy, where the enticing aroma of marinated al pastor and bubbling queso flameado draws a lively crowd into its welcoming embrace. Diners dive into overflowing platters of crisp nachos and golden mini flautas, savoring a social dining experience defined by bold spices, creamy house-made guacamole, and the comforting warmth of a neighborhood staple.
• Maudie's Tex Mex — Mexican: This bustling neighborhood haunt hums with energy as the scent of sizzling chorizo and toasted tortillas wafts from a kitchen dedicated to the art of the perfect Tex-Mex morning. From the zesty kick of the Blanco Verde taco to the comforting richness of fluffy migas, every plate offers a vibrant celebration of bold flavors and local tradition in a space that feels like a warm community embrace.
• Mario's Seafood — Seafood: Mario’s Seafood captures the sun-drenched spirit of a coastal Mexican escape, where the air is thick with the savory scent of sizzling shrimp and the lively hum of a neighborhood gathering spot. Crispy fish chicharrones and citrus-bright Tostadas Mazatlecas arrive at the table in a kaleidoscope of color, offering a bold symphony of textures that range from the crunch of golden-fried calamari to the smoky richness of bacon-wrapped shrimp. Whether sharing a platter of peel-and-eat shrimp or diving into a cheesy Quesadilla Gobernador, diners find themselves transported to the shores of Sinaloa through every vibrant, spice-kissed bite.
• Matt's El Rancho — Mexican: This legendary Austin institution hums with the vibrant energy of a sprawling hacienda, where the air is thick with the aroma of sizzling fajitas and the convivial clinking of margarita glasses. Guests gather around tables laden with the iconic Bob Armstrong Dip—a decadent landscape of queso, guacamole, and seasoned beef—alongside smoky grilled quail and golden, cheese-crusted quesadillas that celebrate the bold, soulful heart of Tex-Mex tradition.
• Vaquero Taquero — Mexican: The rhythmic shave of spice-marinated al pastor from a glowing trompo sets the tempo for this vibrant taqueria, where the air is thick with the smoky perfume of charred carne asada hitting the grill. From the first light of morning breakfast tacos to late-night cravings, every bite captures the soulful energy of authentic street-side cooking served in a space that hums with local life.
• Kesos Taco House — Mexican: This vibrant neighborhood haunt hums with energy as the aroma of sizzling migas and warm tortillas draws in a crowd seeking the ultimate handheld comfort. Velvety tubs of golden queso anchor every table, perfectly complementing hearty potato-filled tacos and overstuffed burritos, while warm, cinnamon-dusted churro bites offer a sweet, crunchy finale to the bold Tex-Mex experience.
• Veracruz all natural — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the refreshing scent of hand-pressed citrus fill the air as guests gather for a taste of authentic, sun-drenched flavors. The kitchen transforms wholesome ingredients into culinary poetry, from the iconic, salty crunch of their signature migas tacos to the smoky, succulent char of perfectly seasoned al pastor. Each meal is a celebration of freshness, best paired with a chilled, fruit-forward agua fresca that captures the soulful, laid-back essence of a perfect afternoon.
• El Pollo Rico — Mexican: The air at El Pollo Rico is thick with the irresistible aroma of charcoal-grilled poultry, drawing diners into a vibrant, bustling space where the rhythmic sound of cleavers meeting cutting boards sets a lively tempo. Golden, spice-rubbed chicken takes center stage alongside sizzling platters of carne asada and crispy flautas, each plate a colorful mosaic of traditional Mexican comfort served with heart and soul. Whether diving into a steaming bowl of savory soup or a stacked Mexican burger, guests find a welcoming sanctuary where bold, smoky flavors celebrate the simple joy of a perfectly cooked meal.
• Mission Burger Co. — American: Morning at Mission Burger Co. begins with the comforting aroma of griddled pancakes and savory breakfast tacos, drawing neighbors into a bright, welcoming space for a soulful start to the day. As the afternoon unfolds, the kitchen transforms into a destination for indulgence where towering burgers—crowned with everything from smoky brisket to peppery pastrami—deliver a symphony of bold, juicy flavors that celebrate the heart of classic comfort food.
• Quickie Pickie — Mexican: This vibrant neighborhood hybrid pulses with energy as the aroma of sizzling chorizo and toasted tortillas fills the air, welcoming locals into a bright, communal space. The kitchen transforms simple ingredients into soulful hand-held feasts, layering everything from smoky bacon and fluffy eggs to zesty juniper beef into warm, pillowy folds. It is a sun-drenched corner of the city where the morning rush feels like a celebration of flavor, making every bite of a hearty migas taco the perfect start to the day.