UPDATE: Austin’s culinary scene just got a major spotlight as food critic Matthew Odam reveals his annual list of the top Mexican restaurants for 2025. This year’s selections highlight the vibrant essence of Austin’s dining, showcasing eateries that reflect the city’s identity and cultural diversity.
Odam’s guide, published by the Austin American-Statesman, ranks the top 40 restaurants in the city, focusing on where he would send a friend to truly understand Austin. Among the standout Mexican dining spots, Suerte shines brightly, earning the No. 2 spot. Chef Fermín Núñez is celebrated for his innovative approach to traditional Mexican cuisine, particularly with his house-ground corn tortillas, which Odam describes as having an “unsurpassed creamy texture.”
In a striking review, Odam recalls tasting the duck confit flautas smothered in mole negro, stating unequivocally, “The mole negro shrouding the crunchy duck confit flautas was the best I’d ever eaten in the United States.” Núñez’s meticulous attention to detail and culinary spirit, highlighted by his joy in preparing the sauce, cements Suerte as a must-visit in Austin. Located at 1800 E. Sixth St., call 512-522-3031 or visit suerteatx.com for more.
At No. 8, Este presents a coastal twist on Mexican dining, bringing the flavors of Mexico City to East Austin. Odam describes Este as “a celebration of sea, flavor, and spirited times.” Led by owner Sam Hellman-Mass and chef Fermín Núñez, Este impresses with dishes like clams preparados and aguachiles, alongside its acclaimed fried fish tacos, dubbed “the best of their kind in a town full of tacos.” Este can be found at 2113 Manor Rd., with inquiries at 512-522-4047 or esteatx.com.
Claiming the No. 12 position, ATX Cocina offers a blend of Mexican flavors with downtown sophistication. Odam notes that the restaurant’s bold dishes—like snapper crudo enhanced with adobo negro and butter-poached crab—deliver an unforgettable experience. Located at 110 San Antonio St., Suite 170, reach out at 512-263-2322 or visit atxcocina.com.
Rounding out the top 15, Nixta Taqueria has made waves with its creative offerings from chef Edgar Rico. The East Austin taquería, which earned a Bib Gourmand designation from the Michelin Guide in 2024, features dishes like duck carnitas and enchilada potosina tacos. Rico’s commitment to sustainability was recognized with the Michelin Green Star just this week. Visit Nixta at 2512 E. 12th St. or contact nixtataqueria.com.
Odam also highlights two additional Mexican restaurants worth visiting. Comedor, described as “probably the most cinematic restaurant in Austin,” offers a dramatic atmosphere paired with thoughtful cuisine. Chef Philip Speer serves up dishes like juicy lamb barbacoa that blend approachability with fine dining. Find Comedor at 501 Colorado St., call 512-499-0977, or check comedortx.com.
Meanwhile, El Naranjo continues to impress with its rich moles and family-oriented atmosphere, now led by chef Ana Torrealba. Odam praises the restaurant’s ability to evoke the warmth of dining in Mexico itself. Visit El Naranjo at 2717 S. Lamar Blvd., reach out at 512-520-5750, or explore elnaranjorestaurant.com.
As these vibrant Mexican restaurants continue to define Austin’s culinary landscape, food lovers are encouraged to visit and experience the unique flavors and creative dishes that make the city a culinary destination. For those eager to explore the best of Austin’s dining scene, Odam’s picks are not to be missed.
