Introduction
Austin is a city that lives and breathes food. From smoky barbecue to innovative fusion, the culinary scene here is a constant source of delight. But for those of us who embrace a vegetarian lifestyle, navigating the abundance of Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican offerings can sometimes feel like a quest for the holy grail. I’m a vegetarian in Austin, and my love for Mexican food runs deep, so I know exactly how you feel when you’re looking for something beyond the same old rice and beans.
While Austin is famous for its meat-centric Mexican cuisine, it’s also secretly hiding a treasure trove of incredible vegetarian options. Sure, you can order cheese enchiladas at almost any place, but where do you go when you’re craving something truly special, something that showcases the vibrant flavors of Mexican cooking without relying on meat?
Fear not, fellow vegetarians! Austin boasts a fantastic array of Mexican restaurants that go above and beyond, offering flavorful, innovative, and downright delicious plant-based dishes. This guide will unveil the best spots to satisfy your cravings for the best vegetarian Mexican food in Austin. Consider this your definitive list.
What Makes These Restaurants The Best?
Before we dive into the delicious details, let’s talk about how I picked these places. My goal was to find restaurants that offered more than just token vegetarian options. I was looking for creativity, authenticity, and flavor explosions. It wasn’t enough to simply remove the meat; the restaurant had to have constructed plant based dishes that were flavorful and unique.
Here’s what I considered:
- Ingredient Quality: Fresh, high-quality ingredients are paramount. Whenever possible, I looked for restaurants that prioritize local and seasonal produce.
- Flavor, Flavor, Flavor: The flavors had to be bold, complex, and representative of authentic Mexican cuisine. Proper use of spices, herbs, and chilies was essential.
- Vegetarian Variety: Did the restaurant offer a diverse range of vegetarian options, or was it just a few modifications of meat-based dishes?
- Overall Ambiance: The atmosphere of the restaurant matters. Was it a place I would want to linger and enjoy a meal?
- The Buzz: I considered online reviews and recommendations from fellow Austin foodies.
- Price Accessibility: I know everyone has a budget in mind, so I’ve included restaurants across a range of price points.
- Are you actually getting good value for your money? I wanted to consider the quality of the ingredients and the service in order to determine the quality of the food and whether or not it was actually worth the money.
The Best Vegetarian Mexican Restaurants in Austin
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff. Here are my top picks for the absolute best vegetarian Mexican food in Austin:
Veracruz All Natural: Tacos Done Right
This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an Austin institution. From its humble beginnings as a food truck, Veracruz All Natural has grown into a local favorite known for its consistently delicious and authentic Mexican food. What makes it special for vegetarians? The sheer variety of creative and flavorful vegetarian tacos.
The migas taco is a must-try: scrambled eggs, crispy tortilla strips, pico de gallo, avocado, and cheese all wrapped in a warm corn tortilla. The roasted poblano taco and the sweet potato taco are also exceptional, packed with flavor and perfectly balanced. All of their tacos can be served vegan by omitting the cheese. Veracruz All Natural is always packed so be prepared to wait.
The tortillas are soft and flavorful, and the toppings are always fresh. Whether you’re craving a classic breakfast taco or something a little more adventurous, Veracruz All Natural has something for everyone. They have several locations around Austin, making it easy to get your taco fix.
Price: \$
El Chilito: Casual Comfort Food
For a laid-back atmosphere and reliably delicious vegetarian Mexican food, head to El Chilito. This casual spot is perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends. They have several vegetarian options on their menu.
The bean and cheese tacos are excellent. They are simple, yet the freshness and quality of the ingredients sets them apart. The guacamole is also amazing. The restaurant itself is not much to write home about, but the quality of the food makes this place well worth it.
Price: \$
Suerte: Upscale and Unforgettable
For a truly special vegetarian Mexican dining experience, look no further than Suerte. This upscale restaurant focuses on using heirloom corn and traditional cooking techniques to create dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in Mexican culinary traditions.
While not exclusively vegetarian, Suerte’s vegetarian offerings are thoughtfully crafted and bursting with flavor. The mushroom and mole tamal is a standout, as is the cauliflower al pastor. Even the vegetarian sides, like the esquites, are exceptional.
The ambiance at Suerte is modern and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a date night or a celebratory dinner. Be sure to make a reservation, as this popular restaurant fills up quickly.
Price: \$\$
Nixta Taqueria: Standout Tacos
Nixta Taqueria focuses on unique tacos and the nixtamalization process, giving their corn tortillas a unique taste. While not a vegetarian restaurant, their mushroom tinga taco is incredible. It offers a unique flavor profile and is perfect for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. Nixta only does takeout, so be prepared to get it to go or eat it at one of their small tables on the curb.
Price: \$
Casa Chapala: Authentic Flavors and Atmosphere
Casa Chapala brings the authentic flavors of Mexico to Austin in a warm and inviting atmosphere. While they offer a wide range of meat-based dishes, they also have a surprisingly extensive vegetarian menu.
The chile relleno is a must-try. Stuffed with cheese and coated in a light batter, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish. They also have a wonderful spinach enchilada and a variety of vegetarian soups and salads. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
Casa Chapala is a great option for families or groups looking for a casual and enjoyable vegetarian Mexican meal. They also have a fantastic happy hour, with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Price: \$\$
Comedor: Modern and Refined
For a modern take on Mexican cuisine, head to Comedor. This sleek and stylish restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations.
While the menu changes frequently, you can always expect to find at least a few vegetarian options. The vegetables al pastor is always a hit, and the mushroom tacos are another great choice. Comedor also has a creative cocktail menu, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion.
Price: \$\$\$
Honorable Mentions
While the restaurants above are my absolute favorites, there are a few other spots worth mentioning:
- Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar: While more Asian fusion than purely Mexican, Loro’s smoked cauliflower with cilantro peanut pesto is a standout vegetarian dish with Mexican-inspired flavors.
- ATX Cocina: The vegetable enchiladas are worth considering. While they are not the most exciting enchiladas, the quality of ingredients sets them apart.
- Matt’s El Rancho: A classic Austin Tex-Mex spot. While not known for vegetarian options, they have a great cheese enchilada.
Tips for Vegetarian Mexican Dining in Austin
Navigating the world of vegetarian Mexican food can be a bit tricky. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your dining experience:
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: Always inquire about ingredients and preparation methods. Some restaurants may use lard in their refried beans or chicken broth in their rice.
- Explore the Food Trucks: Austin has a thriving food truck scene, and many of them offer delicious and creative vegetarian options.
- Modify to Your Liking: Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications. Many dishes can be easily made vegetarian by omitting meat or cheese.
- Lard Lurks Everywhere: Refried beans are a common dish that vegetarians can eat at Mexican restaurants, but often they are cooked with lard, so be sure to ask! Also, beware of lard in tortillas.
- Spice it up with sauces: Mexican cuisine offers a lot of great sauces, so experiment and find a new favorite that enhances your meal.
- Ask for Recommendations: Servers are usually happy to help you find the perfect vegetarian dish.
The Verdict
Austin is a vegetarian’s paradise when it comes to Mexican food, offering a surprising array of options that go far beyond the ordinary. With a little research and a willingness to explore, you can discover a world of flavorful, satisfying, and unforgettable vegetarian Mexican dishes.
So, ditch the boring veggie burrito and embark on a culinary adventure! Austin’s best vegetarian Mexican scene is waiting to be explored, and it’s more delicious than ever. Now go and grab some tasty vegetarian tacos in Austin! You’ll find some of the best vegetarian Mexican food in Austin at the above restaurants. Enjoy!
