Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Central Austin

10 restaurants available nearby

1. ATX Cocina

4.9

Exceptional(2626)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 70 times today

ATX Cocina in Downtown Austin is a gem for those seeking exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine. With a focus on elevating traditional Mexican dishes through modern techniques, ATX Cocina stands out for its use of heirloom corn varieties sourced from small family farms in Mexico. The in-house nixtamalization process of their masa highlights their dedication to authenticity and quality. Glowing reviews consistently praise the "outstanding flavors" and "creative" dishes, noting that "every bite is full of flavor." As one of Austin's culinary highlights, it's a must-visit for both locals and visitors wanting to experience innovative Mexican cuisine with a "fun vibe and great views."

2. Este

4.8

Exceptional(38)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • East Austin

Booked 77 times today

Nestled between East Austin neighborhoods, Este celebrates fresh seafood, Mexican cuisine, and charcoal cooking. From the team behind the East 6th favorite, Suerte, Chef Fermin and restaurateur Sam Hellman-Mass are taking their love for masa coastal. In a location with a rich history, Este’s bright dining spaces, artisan decor and spacious outdoor deck bring the energy of seaside towns to East Austin. An extensive wine list and vibrant coastal-inspired cocktails are the perfect pairing for aguachiles, ceviches, oysters y otros mariscos!

3. Suerte

4.9

Exceptional(29)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • East Austin

Booked 76 times today

Suerte is a restaurant inspired by the people, cooking techniques, and flavors of Mexico. Nationally acclaimed Chef Fermin Nunez and his team pride themselves on the use of local ingredients from our beloved farmers to achieve something delicious and uniquely East Austin.

A photo of La Piscina Ceviches & Fajitas restaurant

4. La Piscina Ceviches & Fajitas

4.8

Exceptional(712)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 45 times today

Located on the 5th floor of the Austin Proper Hotel, La Piscina Ceviches & Fajitas is a convivial poolside restaurant and bar serving Texas-inspired Mexican cuisine. The vibrant, open space overlooks the downtown Austin bustle as groups convene over family-style platters, ceviches and table-top sizzling fajitas, with fresh seafood grilled over a wood fire and house-made tortillas from an open comal. The bar provides an accompanying selection of frozen margaritas, native Mexican spirits, small-batch tequila and mezcal as well as an assortment of outdoor-friendly snacks.

5. Verbena

4.4

Awesome(419)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 10 times today

Located in the bustling heart of Downtown Austin, Verbena dazzles with its contemporary Mexican cuisine that transcends typical culinary boundaries. Nestled within the Canopy by Hilton Hotel, this gem offers an extraordinary gastronomic journey led by Chef Paolo, who masterfully blends Mexican flavors with French techniques. Diners rave about exceptional dishes such as "Quesadillas de milpa" that transport taste buds straight to Mexico, and the "Pasta macha" that presents an innovative take on traditional flavors. The atmosphere, enriched by an open kitchen and a lush courtyard, further elevates the dining experience. Verbena is celebrated not just for its unique menu but also for its vibrant ambiance and meticulous service, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and refined Mexican culinary adventure.

6. La Condesa

4.6

Exceptional(2232)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 39 times today

La Condesa, located in the bustling heart of downtown Austin, stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Mexican cuisine. Twice nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award, this modern Mexican eatery, led by Executive Chef Rick Lopez, offers a delightful menu that showcases the richness of interior Mexican dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Patrons rave about the authenticity and unique flavors, noting, "This is authentic Mexican, not Texmex. Highly recommend!!" and praising its "amazing entrees and desserts - all organic and locally sourced ingredients." The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with a top-notch bar program featuring an extensive collection of tequila and mezcal, makes La Condesa a must-visit for an exceptional dining experience that celebrates the spirit and flavors of Mexico.

7. Tomalo

4.0

Excellent(134)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 2 times today

Tomalo, situated in the vibrant heart of Downtown Austin at the 44 East Ave. Residences, is a gem for Regional Mexican cuisine enthusiasts. This restaurant shines with its commitment to authenticity and quality, sourcing local ingredients that bring the rich, diverse flavors of Mexico to life. Diners rave about their experiences, highlighting the "amazing food" and "exceptional service" that make Tomalo a standout. The restaurant's ambiance adds to its allure, offering a comfortable yet elegant setting perfect for any occasion. As one review aptly puts it, Tomalo provides a "true culinary experience" with its "strong, regional fresh flavors" and is highly recommended for a memorable date night or a festive gathering with friends.

A photo of Ma'Coco - East Austin restaurant

8. Ma'Coco - East Austin

4.7

Exceptional(177)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • East Austin

Booked 5 times today

A fresh approach to Mexican cuisine. We emphasize scratch ingredients to serve colorful, tasty & traditional bites. From tacos & enchiladas to fresh fruit frescas & cocktails, you’ll find an antojito just for you!

A photo of Mour Cocina | Bodega restaurant

9. Mour Cocina | Bodega

4.7

Exceptional(327)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • East Austin

Booked 2 times today

Nestled in the heart of East Austin, Mour Cocina | Bodega is a gem celebrated for its exceptional Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. This delightful spot masterfully blends authentic flavors with a modern twist, creating a vibrant dining experience that resonates with the local Austin vibe. Patrons rave about the "delicious and unique food items," like the duck carnitas, and the "excellent variety of delicious drinks." The atmosphere is described as "relaxed without feeling too casual," perfect for enjoying a meal that tastes like home. With glowing reviews of both the food and "amazing customer service," Mour Cocina | Bodega stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine and innovative Mexican/Southwestern fare.

A photo of Bulevar Mexican Kitchen restaurant

10. Bulevar Mexican Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(1056)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Arboretum

Booked 42 times today

Bulevar Mexican Kitchen is a place to celebrate simple pleasures with top notch margaritas and cocktails, both frozen fun ones to unique agave creations and a vast selection of agave distillates. A place where food is for sharing, food is for comforting and food is for feasting. An atmosphere that is fueled by a massive wood fired grill, a high energy bar, tall ceilings and big glass windows that push your attention to the patio and the great Austin views & sunsets. We pride ourselves on good vibes, good eats and good drinks brought to you by our staff... our Familia!! Buen Provecho!!

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

E
Ericvip
Austin •14 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Had a wonderful dining experience at Este. From the moment we walked into the restaurant, we could tell the next 3 hours were going to be delightful and memorable. The unique cocktails were a fun start to the evening. The wine list is manageable, yet broad and inclusive. Delighted in a fabulous orange wine and tasty Beaujolais. The food was delicious, creative and took your palate to the playas of Mexico. Be sure to conclude your evening with the Feast of Sweets, it is well worthwhile to try them all, but the Key Lime pie was sublime. Our server, Vanessa was exceptional! Her bright personality and knowledge of the cuisine ensured that we were going to have a uniquely Este experience.
More info
EstePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• East Austin
•
4.8
C
CarolLyn
New York City •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Fantastic meals & service! We have breakfast & mimosas here every year before going to The Christmas Affair downtown & Verbena never disappoints! Every menu option is delicious!
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VerbenaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Mexican• Downtown
•
4.4
N
nancyvip
Las Vegas •13 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Wonderful evening, with delicious food. Enjoyed the sharesble plates so that we all had a variety of dishes to enjoy.
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SuertePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• East Austin
•
4.9
J
Justin
San Antonio •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Great experience! Everything from our first appetizer to our dessert was a hit. Saying the fajitas are top notch would be an understatement!
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La Piscina Ceviches & FajitasPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Downtown
•
4.8
L
Latrice
San Diego •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 18, 2024
This place was like a hidden gem! Maybe because I never looked into gluten free food options until I had to. But everything was incredible! The location is super cute, they have great mocktails (if you don’t drink) and the food is outstanding! I will definitely be back.
More info
ATX CocinaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Downtown
•
4.9

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Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Central Austin

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10 restaurants available nearby

1. ATX Cocina

2. Este

3. Suerte

4. La Piscina Ceviches & Fajitas

5. Verbena

6. La Condesa

7. Tomalo

8. Ma'Coco - East Austin

9. Mour Cocina | Bodega

10. Bulevar Mexican Kitchen

See what locals rave about

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