Hecho en Mexico

Sweet nectar of the gods Mexican Coke may be in danger

Urban legend has it that if you over-imbibe, the best cure for the next day's hangover is a breakfast taco, a Topo Chico and a Mexican Coke. Okay, so maybe that's not an urban legend but a deeply held personal belief.

Regardless, fans of Mexican Coke are on alert after The Atlantic and other news outlets published articles alluding to the possibility that our beloved soft drink is in trouble.

Although it remains to be seen if a new tax will change the DNA of Mexican Coke, we should probably start hoarding it while we can.

Mexican Coke, which is sweetened with cane sugar and comes in a glass bottle, has developed a cult status among some in the United States, who see it as an alternative to the American version, which is sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup.

After an October 31 vote in Mexico raised the sales tax on soda by a peso per liter (about $.08), however, a Mexico-based Coca-Cola bottler discussed the move to high-fructose corn syrup as a cost-saving measure.

According to The Atlantic,

On an earnings call with analysts last week, the head of Arca Continental SAB said that the Mexico-based Coca-Cola bottler could 'move to more fructose,' which is cheaper than cane sugar.

Before we grab our pitchforks and head south, it's important to note why the Mexican government passed the Bloombergesque soda sales tax. Mexican residents drink an average of 650 cans of soda per year, and the country has the highest obesity rate in the world.

Adding a peso (about what the tax would be) to the cost of a soda is aimed at curbing the 70 percent obesity rate and, it's hoped, the beginning of a cultural shift in Mexico away from soda and toward healthier options. In addition to the soda sales tax, Mexican lawmakers also passed an 8 percent tax on all fast-food sales.

Although it remains to be seen if this new tax will change the DNA of Mexican Coke, we should probably start hoarding it while we can. Just in case, you know, we ever over-imbibe again.

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Plant Power

10 vegan and vegetarian restaurants to try in Austin for a 2025 reset

Nori/noriaustin.com

Nori's Volcano maki is a completely plant-based, including the imitation caviar.

Every year, people across the globe take a break from the excess of the holidays by ditching alcohol or animal products; the latter is known as Vegan January or Veganuary. For some, it’s a fun and refreshing way to reset their eating habits; for others, it’s a chance to explore the world of vegan food.

Austin is renowned for meatier dishes like barbecue, but it’s slowly becoming popular for its plant-based options as well. The city snagged an impressive spot in sixth place on WalletHub’s Best US Cities for Vegans and Vegetarians in 2025. From vegan Southern comfort food to innovative plant-based sushi that can rival its non-vegan counterparts, Austin is not afraid to show how diverse and fun vegan food can be.

Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or just a curious foodie, here are some of Austin’s top vegan spots that will impress veggie-lovers and skeptics alike.

Nissi Vegan Mexican Cuisine
9012 Research Blvd.
If you think it’s impossible to enjoy Tex-Mex without meat and cheese, you probably haven’t tried Nissi yet. This small eatery in Central Austin is packed with authenticity, from the flavors of its homemade faux meats to the Mexican ballads that play on the speakers. Here you’ll find all the Mexican classics such as tacos, tostadas, nachos, and aguas frescas. Must-try dish: Vegan birria tacos.

Mission Burger
2209 S. Congress Blvd.
There is no shortage of vegan burgers in Austin, and you’ll find one of the best in the city tucked inside River City Market. Mission Burger has a delicious lineup of juicy, meaty burgers and sandwiches that will make you ask, “Is this vegan?” It’s also one of the few places where you can get vegan "brisket." Don’t forget to grab a freshly baked cookie, which comes free with any order. Must-try: OG Mission Burger.

Mission Burger is a great place to ease into a meatless diet.Mission Burger/Instagram

Bouldin Creek Cafe
1900 S. 1st Street.
This beloved vegan/vegetarian cafe always has a waitlist for a reason, and it’s not just because it serves breakfast all day. It’s quintessentially Austin with its quirky exterior, laid-back vibes, and food that rarely disappoints. It focus on local ingredients and source from other Austin establishments: espresso from Barrett’s Micro Roasters and vegan ice cream from LuvFats. Must-try: Potato leek tofu scramble.

Rebel Cheese
2200 Aldrich St.
This artisanal cheese shop and deli in the Mueller neighborhood will make visitors question everything they think they know about vegan cheese. It uses minimal, clean plant-based ingredients without compromising the rich flavors and texture we all know and love. It even wowed Mark Cuban on Shark Tank and has since expanded to markets in NYC and LA. Must-try: Bacon, Brie, Me sandwich.

Vegan Nom Food Park
2324 E. Cesar Chaves St.
This entire food truck park in East Austin is dedicated to vegan food and it has something for everybody, making it ideal for larger groups. Nom Burger, Vegan Nom (where the park got its name), and Possum Pizza are perfect for junk food-inspired cravings. Newcomer Ghoul Coffee Company offers a great selection of coffee and matcha. Must-try: Vegan Nom breakfast tacos.

Nori
3208 Guadalupe St.
This all-vegan Japanese restaurant opened in 2022, and it has quickly established itself as one of the top vegan places in Austin. Nori specializes in sushi with a lineup of innovative rolls featuring whole plant-based foods such as heart of palm, mushrooms, and tofu as fish and seafood alternatives. It’s a great place for special occasions or date nights. Must-try: Volcano maki.

Community Vegan
1124 E. 11th Street.
Vegan and soul food are at the heart of this food truck that focuses on locally sourced ingredients and giving back to the East Austin community through food programs. The mouthwatering lineup includes fried chicken made from oyster mushrooms, wings, sliders, scratch-made biscuits, and more. It's only open Thursdays through Sundays, but the wait is worth it. Must-try: Lemon pepper wangz.

Unicornverse
2400 S. I-35 Frontage Rd.
Although not technically in Austin, it would be a disservice not to include this vegan bakery in Round Rock that specializes in French pastries. The whimsical interior alone is worth the drive. It's decked in beautiful pastels, flowers, and of course, unicorns, bringing joy as soon customers step inside. Unicornverse also offers savory brunch items like omelets and croissant sandwiches, plus vegan afternoon tea. Must-try: Filled croissants and macaroons.

Unicornverse croissants Without butter or cream, these croissants are a mind-bending achievement.Unicornverse/Instagram

Mr. Natural
1901 E. Cesar Chavez St.
This is another staple in the vegetarian/vegan scene in Austin. The family-owned restaurant has been around since 1988 serving traditional Mexican dishes and pastries. They have an extensive menu with enchiladas, burritos, breakfast tacos, fresh juices, and a great selection of vegan and gluten-free baked goods, plus cakes made to order. Must-try: Vegan migas plate.

Dear Diary Coffee
1212 Chicon St.
Finally, this small coffee shop in East Austin is entirely vegan and it's known for its specialty lattes — the team makes their own syrups in-house and blends their own spices. There’s a small but mighty selection of vegan baked goods and breakfast from other local businesses. Dear Diary takes pride in supporting Austin’s creative community as they’re home to more than 30 local artisans. Must-try: Funky Mellow (marshmallow) latte or lavender black matcha.