Taco Bout It
Downtown Austin restaurant debuts with tacos, beer, and big patio
Austin's newest taco joint debuts just in time for SXSW. The aptly named Austin Taco Project, located at the newly renovated Hilton Austin downtown, opens Thursday, March 9.
The highlight, of course, is the taco menu, which features a mix of authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors alongside fusion creations. Unique options include the Dubai (chicken tikka, green curry raita, pickled grapes, red onion, and saffron tortilla); the Oc-Thai-pus (shaved Thai octopus, cashew, green papaya salad, iceberg); and the Whatataco (ground beef, cheese, sweet onion, bread and butter pickles, and special sauce on flour tortilla).
The bar boasts craft brews and draft cocktails to pair with tacos. And the food menu also features a section of bar snacks like poutine, Korean nachos, and poke, as well as desserts. Other perks include a massive patio and three private dining rooms. Entertainment will range from trivia to live music.
"I am so excited to lead Austin Taco Project on our endless pursuit of the world's perfect taco," says executive chef Kevin Spencer, who most recently worked at ER Steaks + Spirits in Dallas.
The Austin Taco Project is located on the ground floor of the Hilton Austin, at 500 E. Fourth St. Hours are 4:30 pm to 1:30 am daily.