Manuel's Downtown
310 Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78701
512-472-7555
Editorial Review for Manuel's Downtown - by James Scott Bankston
In Short
The front room is brightly lit and houses the bar. Local artists display their art on the walls. The larger back room is slightly more romantic; the modern, black, circular booths and low lighting make for more cozy dining. The menu is packed with unique takes on interior Mexican favorites, including a chili relleno covered with a walnut-brandy-cream sauce, and seviche with yellowfin tuna marinated in lime juice.
Insider Tips
The Extras
While Manuel's doesn't have private meeting rooms, you can arrange special functions with the management.
When to Go
Stop in for brunch from 10am to 3pm Sunday. A jazz band plays from 11:30am to 2:30pm.
Parking: Pay Lot & Meters
Hours: S-Th 11:00 - 10:00; F-S 11:00 - 12:00
El Arroyo
1624 W. 5th Street
Austin, TX 78703
512-474-1222
Editorial Review for El Arroyo - by Malin Hansson
In Short
Patrons are lured in by the daily commentary featured on the sign, and then captivated by pavilions and open decks reminiscent of the Swiss Family Robinson compound. This is the kind of place where diners kick back after work or spend a balmy Saturday night in conversation with friends. Starters include a spinach con queso. Entree highlights include enchiladas del mar: folded tortillas filled with shrimp and crab and doused in light cream sauce.
Insider Tips
The Extras
Owner Clay McPhail added Atkins-friendly, low-carb menu choices, including Ditch chicken and ranchero pescado.
Happy Hour
Happy hour runs from 2pm to 7pm weekdays and features discounted margaritas and beer, plus daily specials like $1 Tecate Mondays.
Parking: Lot
Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00-10:00; Sat-Sun 11:00-12:00
The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
301 San Jacinto Blvd
Austin, TX 78701
512-476-8300
"Top 10 Best Margaritas in Austin" - Best of Citysearch 2006
Located in the heart of Downtown Austin, a few blocks from the Convention Center and 6th St., The Rio is Austin's newest place to play. Offering an award-winning combination of freshly prepared TexMex food, legendary margaritas, and a lively, energetic atmosphere, the Rio has become an Austin favorite.
Check out happy hour specials from 5-7pm daily and enjoy $1 Mexican Tapas and Drink Specials on the outdoor patio. Join us for Fruitalicious Thursdays and receive $1 off fruit Margaritas and Live Music from 8-10pm. We now accept reservations, so call to book yours today! Have a special event coming up? Request the private banquet room for your special occasion.
Insider Tips
Know Before You Go
Margaritas are limited to three per person.
Happy Hour
Happy hour is 4pm-7pm weekdays and features $4 margaritas, $2 drafts and $4 appetizers.
Parking: Valet & Metered
Hours: Daily 11:00-10:30
Juan in a Million
2300 E. Cesar Chavez St
Austin, TX 78702
512-472-3872
Serving Austin traditional Mexican food since 1981
Located on East Cesar Chavez is a little Mexican place, painted all in pink, called Juan in a Million. Diners are instantly captivated by the no-nonsense decor, the comforting bustle, and the warm greeting of its owner, Juan Meza. Family owned and operated since 1981, Austinites flock to Juan in a Million for the Don Juan (a gargantuan taco stuffed with eggs, potatoes, bacon, and cheese), enchiladas, and fajitas.
A party room is even available for any special occasion. Juan in a Million can accommodate a party from 20 to 200 individuals, indoor or outdoor. The room is available with catering for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Please call for catering information, rates, and/or to book the private room for your special occasion.
Gift certificates are also available.
Editorial Review for Juan in a Million - by Kat Taylor
In Short
Booths line walls where authentic Mexican paintings hang next to the tiles. A relaxed crowd that's sick of 30-minute waits at trendier Mexican diners crams into two rooms packed with seating. While free chips and salsa are served with every entree, the chili queso is an appetizer must. Most entrees are served with a side of charro beans on weekdays and refried beans on weekends. The chicken flautas are covered with guacamole and sour cream.
Insider Tips
The Extras
Owner Juan Meza is always there to greet each customer with his famous vise-like (but friendly) handshake.
Know Before You Go
If you're in the mood for breakfast, try the migas, huevos rancheros or eggs and chorizo.
Parking: Lot
Hours: Daily 7:00-3:00
