Soft tacos seem to get all the love in Austin, so we're spotlighting the oft-overlooked crispy taco. Here are seven top Austin spots to satisfy your craving for the crunchy classic.
Amaya's tasty Village Tacos aren't your standard crispy fare. These puffy corn creations are fried until golden and crispy; stuffed with shredded chicken, beef, or fajitas; and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. Locations in North and South Austin mean you can get your fill no matter where you live.
The casual offshoot of Eastside Cafe has a very limited menu often lauded for its dessert lineup. But we suggest the savory pulled pork taco, a delicious bite served in a thick, crunchy shell with fresh pico de gallo. Order queso, salsa, or ceviche as an appetizer too.
This quaint, cash-only eatery on Oltorf Street has a filling selection of Mexican and Tex-Mex food, and most of the combo plates come with crispy beef tacos on the side. Check out the lunch special on Monday: two crispy tacos with rice and beans for $6.95.
The taco plate at this Burnet Road gem is all about choice. First, you choose between soft or crispy (obviously we're going crispy here), and then picadillo, chicken, or avocado. You also get to pick two sides from the varied selection, which ranges from the standard rice and beans to fresh options like nopalito salad.
It will be hard to find a better deal than a crispy taco with ground beef or chicken and lettuce, tomato, and cheddar for $1.99. Taqueria Arandinas has five convenient locations around town, from William Cannon Drive all the way to Round Rock.
Swing by Tex-Mex Joe's on North Lamar Boulevard to get your crispy taco fix at lunch or dinner. A special plate comes with three beefy shells and a side of rice and beans. On the run? Order online and grab your tacos to go.
This funky West Lynn eatery, sister restaurant of Galaxy Cafe, specializes in modern takes on Tex-Mex classics. The tacos del barrio plate is a crispy delight with your choice of ground turkey or beef topped with fresh veggies, cheese, pico de gallo, and salsa roja.