Los Cucos Arrives in Austin

A long, long time ago, Mr. and Mrs. Yum lived in Houston. Clearly, we traded up in moving to Austin. However, one of the sore points of living in Austin is not having a Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant right around the corner. Well, that soreness is cured with the arrival of a seemingly “new kid on the block.” The Katy, Texas original Los Cucos has expanded into the Bee Cave Metropolis. After El Arroyo vacated their post across from the Bee Cave H-E-B, it wasn’t long before the Cucos brothers had their eye on the spot, opening their operation last Thursday. Just as expected, it really hit the spot. The delicious tomatillo and sour cream green sauce delivered with hot tortilla chips was a sight for sore eyes and a taste for sore lips. Try the beef fajita queso with thick white cheese while you enjoy a cold margarita. We can’t believe it’s back! Show them some love and visit today!

12432 FM 2244.

Carlos ‘n Charlie’s brings Tex-Mex to the Lake

Carlos ‘n Charlies is a chain of restaurants, but we should still feel honored here in our lovely city. Why? The seemingly home-grown restaurant/hang-out picked Austin, Texas (specifically, Lake Travis) to launch their very first restaurant within the United States! Ready for some Tex-Mex? Go visit the slowly-rising (finally) Lake Travis at Hudson Bend and enjoy the view and the food. While it’s your standard lake-quality cuisine, it’s all about atmosphere (of which we really don’t incorporate into our highly complex Yum measuring system algorithm). They’re open year-round, so head west and bring your guests!

512.266.1683. 5973 Hiline Road.

The best breakfast on the east side? Juan in a Million

Mexican food is so unbelievably delicious. It’s the perfect way to start any day. Juan in a Million is an Austin tradition that’s been making peoples’ day since 1980. Open only for breakfast and lunch, this place has it figured out! The Don Juan was the best breakfast taco I’ve ever eaten. True, at first it appears as a mound of hash browns, but once you roll those delicious potatoes, eggs, bacon, and cheese into warm tortilla, it becomes a steamy burrito of divine Mexican comfort. Not in the mood for a “taco?” Try the Con Queso Breakfast. You’ve never had eggs like this before.

512.472.3872. 2300 Cesar Chavez St.

Verde’s Mexican Parilla is extra green

It’s a bit off the beaten path, but once you find it, you’ll return frequently. Verde’s Mexican Parilla is another gem in the rough out on the west side of town. Start with warm and crispy green tortilla chips, delicious fresh salsa, and warm white queso. Some entrees border exotic, but if you’re in for the lighter, more Tex-Mex flare, try the tasty flautas. The huge patio is a great place to relax and enjoy some drinks while the kids play in the grass. Indoor seating is the way to go when it’s super hot or cold. Cold? What’s that? I’ve forgotten.

512.263.0500. 16018 Hamilton Pool Rd.

Make it a Manuel’s Mexican Monday

Is it any surprise that we love Mexican food? There’s no question – it’s delicious. Homemade tortillas, fresh salsa, and rich spices that excite our taste buds are the cure for any Monday. Somehow, Manuel’s has managed to perfect this recipe for success. By using fresher ingredients and reaching a little farther back in the spice rack, the chefs have certainly earned their Yums. Let’s start off the week on a good note. Get to Manuel’s and try the Enchiladas de Mole on this hot and sunny Monday!

512.345.1042. 10201 Jollyville Rd.

Iguana Grill reminds us of the Oasis

Did we just review this place? Nope, that was the Oasis. Once again, a classic case of good view, blah chew. The restaurant is yet again set overlooking the water… Another good place to catch a sunset on Lake Travis. However, the food and service were poor in our visits. Again, it’s great for guests, bad for locals looking for a good meal.

512.266.8439. 2900 Ranch Road 620 N.

The Oasis on Lake Travis impresses guests

What started as a relatively small restaurant overlooking one of the most scenic views in Texas has evolved into a phenomenon. For out-of-towners, family guests, and live music-lovers, The Oasis on Lake Travis is a must! However, for locals who love good food, you might consider another destination for dinner. Unfortunately, despite a new menu, new head chef, and even a new facility (after the original structure burned down in 2006), the food is still sub-par. The free chips and salsa are always appreciated for a social outing, but for entrees, the quality could be improved. If you’re going to go, make sure it’s during sunset!

512.266.2442. 6550 Comanche Trail.

Los Pinos heats up Lake Travis

It may not feature the prettiest facade or the brightest flashing sign of Mexican Restaurants around town, but the food is delicious. If you’re accustomed to the usual Tex-Mex, this place may not be for you. It’s strictly hardcore interior Mexican food. The Chicken Enhiladas with Cream Sauce are among the best I’ve ever had. With daily lunch specials south of $6, it’s quite affordable. Unlike other places, if you visit outside “lunch” hours, don’t expect to pay an arm and a leg – the lack of other notable fancy thrills drive the prices down on the menu. Stop by and pick up a $1 breakfast taco on your way to work sometime. You won’t regret it.

P.S. If you like salsa, don’t forget the fire extinguisher!

512.266.3231. 4919 Hudson Bend Road.