Step into this vibrant cantina where the Tex-Mex vibe meets a tempting array of enchiladas, guisos, and killer cocktails, making it a must-visit in Austin.
"This North Shoal Tex-Mex restaurant is full of old-school tastes and vibes thanks to owner Joel Fried, who happens to be a former Tacodeli chef, and the team. There are cheesy enchiladas, piquant short ribs, and a spicy, flavorful array of salsas. The dining room features multi-colored walls, Home Depot tile floors, and a colorful stained glass feature over the open kitchen. When the weather is nice, the restaurant sets up a few outdoor tables too, or get it to go online." - Erin Russell, Nadia Chaudhury
"One of many exciting things about Eldorado Cafe is the fact that you can order a salsa sampler with six varieties—each increasing in spice—and rig together your own little Hot Ones challenge, all with a margarita in hand. You can also get classic Mexican and Tex-Mex staples at this Central Austin strip-mall restaurant that will inevitably be packed full of locals here for burritos, enchiladas, crispy tacos, and every other combination of tortillas, meat, and cheese imaginable. We suggest the Dart Bowl enchiladas, a nod to the fallen bowling alley that delighted Austin for over six decades. Eldorado might not be the oldest Tex-Mex spot in town, but it’s doing a good job of keeping the vintage Austin spirit alive. " - nicolai mccrary, matthew jacobs
"The casual and family-owned restaurant Eldorado Cafe self-styles itself as “Mexican comfort food,” but it occasionally veers wholeheartedly into Tex-Mex territory. The broad menu includes queso, burritos, crispy tacos, carne guisada, and enchiladas (even Dart Bowl-inspired enchiladas, RIP). It’s extremely popular for its bold flavors and big portions—and there’s almost always a wait during peak dinner hours. There are heavy Old Austin vibes, with a colorful, low-key, and kid-friendly space. The service is big-hearted, and with that there’s a passionate community of regulars. " - nicolai mccrary, raphael brion
"Order one of four aguas frescas — watermelon, lemonade, pineapple, or horchata — from the North Shoal Creek Tex-Mex restaurant. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services." - Darcie Duttweiler
"The North Shoal Creek Tex-Mex restaurant offers well-made margaritas. There’s the house margarita, plus flavor mix-ins such as mango and jalapenos, as well as optional Tajin rims. Takeout orders can be placed online or over the phone; there are DoorDash and Favor deliveries; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services." - Kayleigh Hughes, Nadia Chaudhury
