1. Introduction
Explore interior Mexican cuisine, offering a unique experience distinct from traditional Tex-Mex. This article presents an overview of some of the best interior Mexican restaurants in Austin, emphasizing authentic flavors and quality dishes.
2. Fonda San Miguel
Austin’s oldest interior Mexican restaurant, Fonda San Miguel, has been an iconic dining destination since 1975. Nestled in a charming hacienda-style building, it boasts a menu filled with rich flavors. Don’t miss the chicken chile relleno, or for a quintessential taste, try the mole enchiladas, which are rich with almonds, capers, and olives, and dressed in a creamy cilantro sauce. For dessert, indulge in their decadent tres leches cake. Address: 2330 West North Loop; Phone: (512) 459-4121.
3. Azul Tequila
This hidden gem is located next to a Target, but inside, it offers a cozy dining experience. The must-try dish at Azul Tequila is the cochinita pibil, featuring achiote-marinated pork wrapped in banana leaves, tender and subtly spicy. Another popular dish is the chile relleno en crema, packed with pork, onion, tomatoes, almonds, and raisins, topped with a rich cream sauce. The establishment also boasts an impressive selection of tequila and mescal. Address: 4211 South Lamar Boulevard, Suite A-2; Phone: (512) 416-9667.
4. El Alma
Start your meal at El Alma with the refreshing ceviche, which combines seafood with lime and orange-marinated corvina. The sopa Azteca, a hearty soup filled with spicy chicken, avocado, corn, and queso fresco, serves well as a main course. Additionally, the marinated pork chop, surprisingly cooked in Coca-Cola, offers a unique and delightful flavor. Address: 1025 Barton Springs Road; Phone: (512) 609-8923.
5. Sazon
Sazon’s signature dish, carnitas Michoacanas, features bold, spicy fried pork accompanied by pickled jalapenos and charro beans, ideally enhanced with the unique Pipian sauce—a flavor that some may find requires trying a sample beforehand. Enthusiasts rave about the tacos al pastor, where a thrilling combination of pork, cilantro, lime, and onion creates an unforgettable taste. Their mole and ceviche dishes also receive accolades. Address: 1816 South Lamar Boulevard; Phone: (512) 326-4395.
6. La Condesa
Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, La Condesa features distinct dishes highlighted by fresh guacamole with chipotle and toasted almonds, perfect for starting your meal. Adventurous palates will appreciate the mushroom masa with huitlacoche and yellow corn, while the venison tacos remain a favorite among patrons. Address: 400-A West 2nd Street; Phone: (512) 499-0300.
