Welcome to El Mercado Restaurant
El Mercado Restaurant in Austin, TX, offers a vibrant Tex-Mex dining experience with a focus on community and music. From nachos to enchiladas, their menu features a wide variety of flavorful dishes, including vegetarian options. The restaurant hosts live music nights and a Gospel Brunch supporting The Central Texas Food Bank. With attentive service, generous portions, and a welcoming ambiance, El Mercado is a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike. The happy hour specials, margaritas, and delicious food make it a standout in the Tex-Mex scene. Overall, a fantastic dining destination with a unique charm and hospitality.
- 1302 S 1st St Austin, TX 78704 Hotline: (512) 447-7445
El Mercado Restaurant is a Tex-Mex gem located in the heart of Austin, Texas. This vibrant establishment offers a unique dining experience with a variety of delicious dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
What sets El Mercado apart is its extensive menu filled with flavorful options for every palate. From sizzling fajitas to hearty enchiladas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The restaurant also caters to vegetarians with many plant-based options available.
One of the highlights of El Mercado is its commitment to the community. The restaurant hosts live music events, including a Gospel Brunch where proceeds go to The Central Texas Food Bank. This dedication to giving back adds an extra layer of warmth to the dining experience.
As a food reviewer of Restaurant World, I have had the pleasure of sampling dishes from El Mercado and have always been impressed. The nachos are a crowd favorite, loaded with toppings and bursting with flavor. The enchiladas are another standout, with tender meats and savory sauces that leave you craving more.
Overall, El Mercado Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine in Austin. With its inviting ambiance, diverse menu, and commitment to community, it's no wonder why locals and visitors alike keep coming back for more.

El Mercado is definitely a spot to bring out of towners to show them a night in Austin. They have music throughout the week in their downstairs "Backstage" area where you can sit and hear some of the best musicians in tow while snacking on some Tex mex. Every Sunday they have Gospel Brunch where the tips gathered go to The Central Texas Food Bank. The servers learn your name and preferences, and they are very nice.

People Don't sleep on El Mercado. Great Tex mex in '04. Andrew & Pat behind the bar are .

The food is excellent, have never been disappointed. And the portions are large! The ambiance is great! Lots of tables and chairs and wonderful lighting and the sound is amazing! We go to hear the music on Mondays which is truly wonderful; Barbara Nesbitt and Ben Jones with different guest each week are superb! Cover charge only $10. What a deal! (Tips accepted) The service is also great! The wait staff is knowledgable, efficient, and friendly! .

Be coming here for years but this was the best. Bellied up to the bar and had a great happy hour dinner and margs. Can't wait to return!

Had the crunchy tacos for lunch. Just wanted a simple meal. Good, not great, but that's likely because you can't do much study crunchy tacos. Good service. Good atmosphere. Will try again.

This Tex Mex spot is conveniently located on S. 1st St., just far enough from downtown and with ample parking. We have never had to wait too long for a table here but they always are busy. They have a lovely back patio and music venue as well as kids play area. They're margaritas and Micheladas are delicious as well as their food. The service is great too and very inviting.

If you haven't been here, you must do so at least once. It's almost an ATX resident requirement! This review will be short, I promise.. The last time I came in, I came with a companion and enjoyed beverages only. The drinks came out quickly and were solid. The waitress who attended to our table was upbeat and prompt. The table chips and salsa are not top tier here, but again, most don't frequent an establishment for the bread nor chips and salsa. #supportlocal #getyourdrinkon