We take our Tex-Mex very seriously in Austin, Texas, and East Austin has no shortage of Tex-Mex options. Whether you’re looking for a hole in the wall or a cute space that will make for the perfect Insta-worthy shot, East Austin has what you’re looking for, starting with the famous Juan in a Million!
Since 1980, Juan in a Million has been serving up breakfast and lunch in a family-fun environment. If you’re searching for a good breakfast taco, the Don Juan El Taco Grande is your best bet. And you can’t go wrong with the enchiladas or chalupas here. To finish off, you must order the horchata. Thank us later!
The Don Juan taco is supposedly big enough to feed a family of four, so of course, they made a food challenge out of it to see who could eat the most. The current record for the men is nine tacos and five tacos for the women. Are you brave enough to take on the challenge and try to beat the record?
Hours & Location
? EVERY DAY | 7AM–2PM
? Location: 2300 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
Starting out as a ten-seater taco shop, now Mi Madres is known to serve some of the finest Tex-Mex cuisines in East Austin. Their authentic dining room and patio make Mi Madres an Austin favorite.
For botanas, order that Mexican Style Street Corn and Saltillo Dip for the table. You also can’t go wrong with the Chicken Mole Enchiladas or Crispy Fish Tacos… seriously to die for!
Hours & Location
? EVERY DAY | 7AM–9PM
? 2201 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
Come ready to get your drink on because El Chile does not play around when it comes to their cocktails. Order the Perfect Margarita and you’ll thank us later. You also won’t go wrong with the Guajillo Pork Relleno for your entree.
Hours & Location
? SUN & MON | 11AM–9PM
? TUE–SAT | 11AM–10PM
? 1809 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
For over 75 years, Joe has been serving up delicious food and drinks to the Austin community. We’ve been obsessing over the Migas Con Todo Plate and Huevos a La Mexicana Plate.
Hours & Location
SUN & MON | 7AM–4PM
TUE | CLOSED
WED & THU | 7AM–9PM
FRI & SAT | 7AM–9:30PM
? 2305 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702
Angie’s is known to have fresh, homemade tortillas as well as the best Carnitas in town. And since photo opps are a priority nowadays, make sure to order the Puffy Tacos that are totally Insta-worthy.
Hours & Location
? SUN–MON | 7AM–4PM
? TUE | CLOSED
? WED–THUR | 7AM–9PM
? FRI–SAT | 7AM–9:30PM
? 1307 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702
If you’re looking to enjoy a beautiful patio and East-Austin atmosphere, Licha’s is definitely your best bet. Not only is their environment killer, but the food and drinks also hit the spot every time! Start with the Choriqueso for the table, then enjoy the Tocinada Quesadilla or the Alambre Tacos. You will not regret it!
If you have a group we recommend ordering a pitcher of margaritas for the table!
Hours & Location
? MON | CLOSED
? TUE–THUR | 4PM–11PM
? FRI | 4PM–12AM
? SAT | 12PM–12AM
? SUN | 11AM–3PM
? 1306 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
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Mason is a blogger and author for the Stuff to Do in Austin City Guide. For more insight on the best events and things to do in the Austin area, download the UNATION app and follow @StufftoDoinAustin on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and TikTok.

