As the name suggests Tex-Mex is a fusion of foods from both Texas and Mexico. Makes a lot of sense since the state of Texas and the country of Mexico meet at the border. Originating somewhere around the 1940s, the term, and the food, really didn’t hit the nationwide scene or become another cuisine until 30 years later. Its popularity and really the birth of Tex-Mex is attributed to restaurant owners and ranchers north of the border. Their purpose most likely was to increase profits and accommodate the palates of northerners. Consequently, they added two key ingredients to south of the border Mexican recipes. Those were beef and wheat flour. With those simple additions, what we know today as Tex-Mex was born.
Over the years, Tex-Mex has certainly evolved. And, now the original two key ingredients have some company. Additional Tex-Mex mainstays also include pork, shredded cheese, black beans, tomatoes, peppers, and cumin.
So, where’s guacamole on the list? If there was a state food of Texas then guacamole should be it. But, alas, there would probably be somewhat of a debate from the state’s barbecue lovers. Both foods vying for the same honor could cause a bit of a problem here in Texas. Passions for both foods run deep. Nevertheless, it’s worth thinking about. Guacamole is definitely a mainstay on Tex-Mex platters not only across the state but the nation. And, let’s not forget, a possible third choice–the breakfast taco.
With all that said, the real purpose of this article is to share a list of Tex-Mex restaurants and eateries close to Travisso. There’s certainly appears to be no shortage of restaurants and cafes serving up great Tex-Mex food on Whitestone and Bell Boulevards. Each is distinct and separates itself from the ordinary. So, let the fiesta begin.
Sit-down Tex-Mex Restaurants
When it comes to weekend brunch Blue Corn Harvest Bar and Grill serves up a unique menu of just about everything. How about a Breakfast Quesadilla, Texas Steak Eggs Benedict or 512 Blue Corn Pork Taquitos? In addition to the food, the other shining star of the show on the weekends is the restaurant’s Texas Bloody Mary Bar. Enjoy this popular tomato cocktail with fresh, first-rate condiments. Gluten free entrée options abound. The quaint, outdoor patio is nestled among trees and is frequently used for musical entertainment.
It’s always a party at Chuy’s. This popular chain restaurant is infamous for large crowds and its fully loaded nacho car during happy hour. Fill your plate to the brim with freshly made nachos, queso, salsa, and ground beef served in an Elvis-style car. Order a drink and the nacho bar is complimentary. Chuy’s also makes homemade tortillas fresh every day. Its family-friendly fun atmosphere also caters to kids and large parties. The kid’s menu includes six entrees each with a $4.99 price tag and comes with a free secret dessert.
Family-owned Dos Salsas serves up Tex-Mex favorites using fresh foods prepared daily. The restaurant has two locations: Cedar Park and Georgetown. There’s usually a wait here so if you can go early. The large and encompassing menu caters to all palates. But, one of the best meals here is the fajitas. The sizzling plates filled with beef, chicken, or shrimp are hard to resist here. The condiments are fresh and plentiful.
Family-owned and Homemade Specialities
At Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant freshly made food reigns. So does their quaint outside patio, homemade tortillas, and yummy margaritas. This regional chain also has locations in Houston and San Antonio. Lupe’s starts the day early and offers a large breakfast menu filled with breakfast tacos and classics. Their large dinner menu also includes ample seafood offerings. Happy hour discounts from 3 to 6:30 p.m. include original ‘Ritas, wines, wells, and draft beers. Complimentary chips (served warm) and salsa, queso, and a slightly spicy bean dip round out the experience.
Serranos Cocina y Cantina deviates somewhat from the topic of this article because it serves authentic Mexican fare using family recipes. The outside patio’s laid back atmosphere is a perfect way to end the day or start the weekend. This year Serranos celebrates its 30also th anniversary serving the Austin area. Serranos’ four restaurants serve lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Happy hour kicks-off at 3 p.m. and runs until 7 p.m. and features a daily drink special in addition to its regular happy hour mainstays.
Self-serve Tex-Mex Options and Local Favorites
On Tuesdays the drive-in window at Rosa’s Café and Tortilla Factory is jammed with hungry diners. And, reason is because Rosa’s Taco Tuesday Plate is just $4.39. The special serves up a hearty plate of three tacos with your choice of chicken or beef. It also includes rice, beans and condiments. Rosa’s also serves breakfast daily featuring a variety of tacos. However, Rosa’s claim to fame is their homemade tortillas which you can watch them make if you venture inside. The colorful dining room has plenty of seating.
Former President Barrack Obama brought Torchy’s Tacos into the national limelight when he stopped for a visit and a taco in March 2016. Obama somehow got the lowdown on this local street taco joint that originated in a food truck. They were already on the map. But, oh my, have they grown. Torchy’s Tacos now operates over 60 restaurants in Central Texas, Colorado, Oklahoma and Cedar Park. Street tacos are king at Torchy’s. What makes them a standout is the variety of offerings and their flavorful combinations. Burritos, salads, street corn, breakfast tacos, guacamole, and fresh salsa, too. The Fried Avocado Taco has somewhat of a cult following. Try it, you’ll definitely like it.
You can also travel on Bell Avenue and Cypress Creek Road for a handful of hearty Mexican fare and Tex-Mex options. Those options include Los Reyes Mexican Restaurant, Jardin Corona, Los Chilaquiles and Santa Catarina. And, to stay right in your hometown check out these Leander restaurants including Jardin Del Rey, Mayito’s Mexican Restaurant and La Tapatia Mexican Restaurant.
Visit Travisso Today
Just outside Austin, Travisso is a master-planned community in Leander, surrounded by natural scenery and hill country views. Consider Leander for your next home and live at Travisso. We can’t wait to meet you.
