Austin, Texas, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and within that, a burrito culture that's nothing short of legendary. From classic fillings to innovative twists, the city offers a diverse range of burrito experiences. This guide dives deep into the top 19 burritos Austin has to offer, catering to every taste and preference. Prepare your taste buds for a Tex-Mex adventure!
Austin's Best Burrito Joints: A Detailed Look
Finding the perfect burrito is a quest many undertake in Austin. This list combines classic favorites with newer contenders, ensuring a well-rounded representation of the city's burrito brilliance.
Classic Austin Burrito Experiences
-
Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ: This unique spot blends Tex-Mex and BBQ, creating incredibly flavorful and massive burritos. Their brisket burrito is legendary, offering a smoky, tender protein enveloped in a warm tortilla. Pro-tip: Add their signature Valentina's sauce for an extra kick.
-
Veracruz All Natural: Known for their authentic, delicious tacos, Veracruz also serves up some seriously impressive burritos. Opt for the barbacoa or carnitas for a truly authentic experience. The fresh ingredients and flavorful meats are the highlight here.
-
Torchy's Tacos: While primarily known for their tacos, Torchy's burritos are not to be missed. Their "Trailer Park" burrito is a fan-favorite, featuring fried chicken, green chiles, and cheese. This is a great option for those who like a little heat and a lot of flavor.
-
Matt's El Rancho: This Austin institution has been serving up delicious Tex-Mex for decades. Their burritos are a classic, offering generous portions of your choice of fillings in a large, flour tortilla. It's a simple formula, executed perfectly.
-
Polvos: Polvos offers a modern twist on classic Tex-Mex fare. Their burritos are unique and delicious, often incorporating seasonal ingredients.
Beyond the Basics: Innovative Burrito Creations
-
Micklethwait Craft Meats: Known for its incredible barbecue, Micklethwait also offers a truly exceptional brisket burrito. The quality of the meat is unmatched, creating a remarkably satisfying experience.
-
Hopdoddy Burger Bar: While primarily known for burgers, Hopdoddy offers some gourmet burritos that are worth exploring. They use high-quality ingredients and offer creative flavor combinations.
-
TacoDeli: TacoDeli is known for its fresh, creative, and delicious tacos. Their burritos follow suit, featuring interesting ingredients and flavor combinations that often vary seasonally.
-
Guero's Taco Bar: This Austin staple is beloved for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious tacos. Their burritos are equally impressive, offering a solid, reliable option in the heart of the city.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
-
El Burro Loco: This smaller, local spot offers some truly fantastic burritos at great prices. It's a hidden gem for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
-
The Picnic: The Picnic is a vibrant spot that is known for its creative dishes, including some unique burrito options. The inventive combinations are a strong draw here.
-
La Condesa: This upscale Mexican restaurant offers a refined take on the classic burrito, using high-quality ingredients and impeccable presentation.
Vegetarian & Vegan Burrito Options
-
Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden: Though known for its sausages, Banger's surprisingly offers some excellent vegetarian and vegan burrito options. The creative use of vegetables creates a satisfying meal.
-
Flower Child: Flower Child is a health-conscious spot that offers delicious and nutritious vegetarian and vegan burritos. This is a great option for those seeking a lighter, fresher meal.
Sweet Endings (Burrito-Related!)
- Amy's Ice Creams: After a delicious burrito feast, head to Amy's for a sweet treat. Their unique ice cream flavors complement the savory taste beautifully.
Beyond the Typical Filling
-
Uchi: While known for sushi, Uchi's occasional specials feature inventive burritos that blend Japanese and Mexican flavors. These are highly limited-time offers, so keep an eye on their menu.
-
Odd Duck: This farm-to-table restaurant often features creative, seasonal burritos incorporating local ingredients.
-
Franklin Barbecue: While primarily known for its legendary smoked meats, a Franklin Barbecue brisket burrito is considered a holy grail by many Austinites. Be prepared to wait in line!
-
Juan in a Million: A downtown Austin favorite, Juan in a Million offers classic, no-frills burritos that are consistently delicious and satisfying.
Finding Your Perfect Austin Burrito
This list offers a diverse range of options, from classic Tex-Mex to innovative creations. The best burrito for you will depend on your individual preferences. Consider factors such as:
- Meat preferences: Brisket, carnitas, barbacoa, chicken, or vegetarian/vegan options.
- Spice level: From mild to fiery hot.
- Atmosphere: Casual, upscale, or something in between.
- Price point: Budget-friendly to high-end dining.
Exploring these Austin burrito havens is a journey worth undertaking. So grab a friend, your appetite, and get ready for a Tex-Mex feast! Remember to check websites for hours and locations before visiting. Happy burrito hunting!
