This is our absolute FAVORITE mexican cafe to visit when we are visiting Austin. We have visited on numerous occasions during different visits and it never disappoints. I believe we would eat every meal here. Seriously. The potato and egg, chorizo and egg are great staples for the morning. Supremas enchiladas are my go-to when I come to visit around lunchtime. I have tried the Al Pastor tortas and shrimp ranchero tortas and those are equally as delicious. A lot of locals will come in here and I have noticed a lot of workers will come in here during lunchtime to dine in together. You know its good when you see a bunch of hardworking, strong construction workers coming in for lunch. The horchata is lovely and refreshing especially on a really hot day in the Austin heat. Whenever I think about coming to Austin, the first place I think of outside of my beloved pool time is coming to this mexican cafe. Great quality food and nice staff. Thank you! read more

Tried coming on a Sunday and the line was out the door. So busy and packed I was thinking the food here was going to be bomb... but it wasn't. I'm glad we didn't wait in the long line and decided come back on a slower day We came in Saturday Morning, it was busy but not super crazy like Sunday First off, none of the tortillas are handmade. For the corn tortillas I feel they can use better quality tortillas Food was okay, it was nothing special. It wasn't bad but the food here isn't something I would come back for. So much hype! I can make a more authentic breakfast at home read more

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Definitely a fun environment. Service was great, there were 6 of us and they were good at giving us time to talk before ordering. Everyone ordered something different and we all enjoyed our meals including sopapillas for dessert. Parking is street, a lot out front and in back. read more

I love this place. I always order the patron. They also take cards now. only con is they charge for chips/salsa and that makes me sad. I ordered menudo the other day only bc i'd been craving it and the last time I had the patron here I got so sick I had to stop on the way home to find a ladies room. the menudo was very fatty and I had to use my spoon to cut off huge chunks of fat. I mean bigger than 1" or 2" chunks of just fat.. not cool. I wouldnt order that again but the patron? always. even if it makes me sick. read more

It's been years since I've been to Austin. Having been raised in the area, it's amazing how crowded Austin has become. But I'm happy to say that they still have little places like this that makes Austin, well Austin. Got there around 11:15 and it was already jam-packed, but it only took a couple of minutes for them to clear a table and seat my party. We all had tacos on the brain and ended up ordering an assortment of tacos which included barbacoa, carne, guisada, chicharron, and tripas.... All on harina tortillas with cilantro and onions... Except for the carne guisada which most of us added cheese to make it super creamy In All honesty, every one of the tacos were excellent, but for me, I felt that the tripas were the best as they were super crunchy and flavorful and worked perfect with the hot salsas they brought. There's nothing fancy to this place. Just good food served quickly by pleasant people. read more

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A South Austin staple that never misses. Habanero Mexican Café is the kind of place that feels like home the second you walk in--no frills, just pure comfort and incredible flavor. This is real-deal Tex-Mex, served up with heart. Every dish I've tried has been spot on, but the breakfast tacos are legendary. Whether it's the migas, chorizo and egg, or just a classic bean and cheese, they hit different. Fresh tortillas, perfectly seasoned fillings, and portions that don't play around. The salsa? Dangerous--in the best way. Bold, bright, and just spicy enough to wake you up. Add a big glass of horchata or a Topo Chico and you're golden. Service is always quick, friendly, and genuine. It's the kind of place where the regulars are treated like family, and new faces are always welcome. Old school Austin vibes, no pretension, just straight-up excellent food. Habanero is a must. read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Chips and Salsa with some bite! - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

I've been going to this place since i was in high school its a bit smaller then most places but it has a lot of seating inside and it feels very welcoming. My go to would have to be the fajitas rancheros this is a unique specialty here and i promise you, you never had a fajita taco like this before. The taco meat is seasoned well and has a good kick to it so if you prefer no spice you can always sub the fajitas ranchero for a normal fajita taco. You can't go wrong with other selections on the menu i highly reccomend this place to anyone in the area craving good mexican food. read more

This is a Mexican food establishment. I came for lunch on an extremely busy Monday. They only have an all indoor seating that happens to be quite cluttered and crammed. I can see how some review comments stated that the servers spoke somewhat abruptly. Not necessarily bothersome to me, it's evident that they're a very well established restaurant that technically do not need this new customer. As for the food, large portions looked appealing. My enchiladas, I did not like that they were stuffed with slices of grilled chicken. The beef dish? The meat was somewhat nervy. The charro beans and refried beans and rice did have a great flavor. Hence their popularity. So as for the lunch dishes, it'll be a hit or miss. read more

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This was the BEST Mexican restaurant in town. We had the best service and food! The Caldo was top tier. The Barbacoa was amazing, a must have! They helped you feel like you were home. read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Caldo De Res - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

Came here on a Tuesday for lunch and they did not disappoint. Bring from Cali and truly missing authentic MEXICAN food that's not TEX-MEX i can say we finally found the place. We got the beef fajita ranchero torta and their Tuesday steak special. The steak was extremely tender and flavorful along side with the rice, beans and the salsa. The Torta was really good too it was just a tad bit on the dryer side. The decor and ambiance inside reminds me of small mom and pop shops in Guadalajara or Mexico City. The service was exceptional and the ladies working there were super nice. read more

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Looking for some not-too-fancy Mexican food? Look no further - this place is great! There was a wait on a Saturday, but we were seated quickly. Not a ton of parking, but street is available so we had no trouble. HIT THE SPOT! We both go enchiladas (chicken and veggie) and both were very good. The queso on top was excellent. The enchiladas came out piping hot! Service was quick and efficient and nice. Lots of locals come here so you know it's good. The salsa was good with a bit of a kick! Next time I want to try their breakfast dishes since they serve breakfast all day (they are open til 3). Authentic and a great little place. We will be back! read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Grilled Veggie Enchiladas with queso on top - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

I've been eating food at this restaurant since I could remember! I used to go always as a little kid and get the potato, bacon, egg and cheese and would fall in love with their sauce so that they would put on the table for the guest. nowadays I go for either the beef ranchero fajita tacos or I'll get the beef ranchero fajita plate! In my opinion, that is their best dish that they have there for me to eat! It has a nice balance of spice and flavor. service is always top notch there with food coming out quick and fresh and prices still affordable even in 2026. It is a small little restaurant on ortorf and South 1st and I would highly recommend checking it out. it may look small from the outside, but there's lots of good energy on the inside with lots of good people. read more

Excellent experience, it reminds me of the Tex-Mex spots I went to growing up outside Tulsa and San Antonio. Absolutely recommended if you want to sample representative Tex-Mex in the Austin area. The catfish ranchero is a similar preparation to fajitas, with lots of onions and a spicy seasoning. Huge portion, an entire recognizable filet of catfish, which I appreciated. The steak fajitas were perfect. Ideal seasoning profile, great preparation. The best version of this dish that I have ever had. read more

Went here for the first time on Monday with the wife. Will not be our last time for sure. The staff was so friendly and it felt like I was back at my late best friend's house getting treated just like family. The small dining area did not feel cramped at all and was comfortable. Now, let's talk about the food. The Menudo is definitely in my top 2 that I have ever eaten. Sorry, but my second mom growing up, set that bar very high. But, this was by far the closest to hers I have eaten in my many years. You have definitely gained a new customer. Our hostess was funny too. Loved that she gave my wife an option to the very spicy salsa(which I loved). But my wife declined the ketchup bottle while we were both laughing. Keep doing what you guys do. read more

Long wait but the food was delicious! I had the spicy beef taco which was so flavorful and juicy. My friends also had some version of their tacos (pastor, breakfast) and a breakfast platter with steak. Filling meal! You pay at the front. read more

Our family loves Habenero! It's such a cute, intimate restaurant only open till 3 pm. You may have to wait but it is worth it! Wait staff are super friendly and working hard to keep everyone fed and refills coming. It was surprisingly fast to get our food even during a rush. read more

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Small and intimate breakfast spot. Servers are very nice and the service is very prompt and efficient. Food was good and cheap -- definitely recommend coming here for a breakfast experience. read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Asada Gordita Plate - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

We are regulars here mostly for breakfast but this time we had lunch. I love their carnitas plate. They are so tender and flavorful. Good portion, too. The service has always been so great and that's why we have been here for more than a decade!!! read more

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Best tex mex restaurant in austin. Food is great, salsa is tangy but not too hot. It's a small place and cozy, off the beaten track and they have great service. read more

I have been going to this place for several years. No doubt the best Beef Fajitas in town. Everything else is great too, I have not had a bad meal there ever. It is a small busy place, so I usually get it to go, but does have a good feel to it inside if you prefer to dine in. read more

I love this place! Always try and visit when I'm in Austin. Truly authentic Mexican food! Hot and fast

I was pleasantly surprised by this eatery. Hard to believe but it was my first time visiting this obviously popular lunch spot! The first thing I noticed was how pleasant the hosts / staff were. In these times being greeted by warm smiles and friendly interactions really makes a difference to me. The food was equally delicious. The enchiladas were great. If I say simple, clean, and not greasy: this is a high compliment. They really hit the spot. The salsa was also delicious. My colleague had the same meal and we noticed everyone else in the place seemed to be enjoying their food as well. I love these efficient and friendly dining experiences. I'd have to say the prices were reasonable as well. I'd say this place ranks up there with the best "old Austin" roots: Go-To Establishments. I will surely be back. read more

A friend brought me to Habanero Mexican Cafe and was shocked that I had never been before since it has been around for a long time. My first experience was a good one. We had a party of 5 and it took about 10-15 minutes to get a table. They provide complementary chips and salsa. I ordered a big red for my beverage and it came out in a glass bottle. Our table ordered a plethora of food, but I split the beef fajitas with my mom. The portion size of the fajitas was generous and the meat was flavorful and cooked well. Fajita meat was cooked with onions, bell peppers and sliced tomatoes. It was served with flour tortillas, pico, guacamole and rice and beans. Only suggestion I have is for them to add cheese to the fajitas but I had to add that as an up-charge. Other people in our party ordered a taco salad, taco and chili rellano. The service was excellent and we were taken care of. It was a great place to visit with a group and enjoy a great and reasonably priced Tex-Mex dining experience. read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Beef Fajita plate - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

The food is great when it's done right! The manager can not take a order for crap! Even when he knows he messed up he will not admit or make it right! He will literally argue and lie just so he won't have to correct his mistake! read more

Let's get one thing straight - Habanero is at the pinnacle of Austin Mexican food. The tortillas are textbook perfect. The salsa is relentlessly awesome. Breakfast tacos are right sized, although I have a hard time only eating two. When we eat here for lunch, typically just picking the daily special is sufficient. There's nothing bad on the menu. What's changed? They accept cards now! Joe's Bakery, Angie's, and Habanero are my top three Mexican spots in Austin. read more

The beans. If you're new to a restaurant like I was today, that's how you know what you are in for. The refried beans are heavenly. You could give me a bowl of their refried beans and a stack of tortillas and I would be very, very happy. I had their migas plate and an egg, bean, and cheese taco. There's was no ranchero sauce on the migas and they used real cheese instead of cheese sauce. The migas tasted good but they firmed up quickly as the plate cooled at my table. The side red salsa was mild and had been puréed to a completely smooth consistency. Good but not memorable. The dining room is small and it was filled for the lunch rush by 10:45am. There was A LOT of Spanish being spoken there and I loved it. This restaurant is on my rotation now and I will be back. read more

We love coming here it's delicious and service is amazing! My husband loves the tripas & chicharon tocos! Everything is so good! read more

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Best fajitas I've ever had. They're so tender and full of flavor! I enjoyed the rest of the meal as well. The beans and rice were pretty normal (still good), and the flour tortilla was solid. The combination of everything is so yummy, and this might have to be my favorite breakfast in Austin. I definitely wanted to take a nap after though - it's a heavy meal! read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - El Patron - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

Best tacos in town!!! I have been coming here for over 13 years now for lunch or breakfast! Their service is the best, such great service that they treat us like VIPs when we walk into the restaurant. It's all family owned, everyone here is always filled with joy to serve you great tasting food. They will talk to you, make you laugh, stuff that you rarely see now days from the food industry period. The ambiance about this place is unique and not what you think of a hole in a wall place. Because this place isn't a hole in a wall of kind place. It's unique to itself compared to other Mexican restaurants in the area. My opinion this the best place for Mexican or Tex-Mex food. This place really has it going for Mexican food. One for the price you get some great quality at an affordable price. They have some very nice lunch specials. All I know was by the time I left this place I was full. Their flour tortillas are delicious. Their breakfast tacos or just tacos in general are the best in town! If you are visiting or living in or around the Austin, TX you have to try their tacos. Al Pastor with pico de gallo on flour are the best. Their tripa tacos are really great to include their shrimp or chicken tacos. But make sure that you ask for pico on your tacos. Now for the menudo quality I am very impressed. One a lot places don't drain the water from the meat on the initial boil and well it gives it that nasty smell and taste that great menudo doesn't have. This by far the best menudo in town besides my own menudo that I make myself at home. LOL This place it was definitely worth trying. As for parking space it was pretty tight parking in back but you can park on the street. You definitely need to get her 20 minutes prior the lunch rush. Weekends can be busy with a line out the door. But if you have to wait the wait is damn well worth it folks! They also accept Apple or Google pay! Overall, this is one great tasting Mexican food place! Again, best TACOS IN TOWN Y'ALL!!! read more

My husband and I placed a pick up order for some breakfast tacos and not only were they crazy efficient (ready in 15 minutes), they were also so nice, and everything was packaged very nicely. My only complaint is that they forgot chips for our salsa and queso. Food: The bean and cheese taco was my favorite by far. I know it's simple but it's a classic for a reason and they've perfected it. The salsa was also amazing. You can tell it's fresh. Parking: Small parking lot and street parking nearby. read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Bacon, Egg, and Cheese and Bean and Cheese Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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My most favorite Tex-Mex place in Austin, Texas! I love the food here, all of it. Service is always prompt and courteous. The ladies speak both English and Spanish no problem. Small old house turned into a restaurant. Love this place and always have. Chips & salsa yes please! This visit, I went with something simple, a taco salad for $8.95 at lunchtime was the perfect serving. Can't wait for my next visit!! read more

I've lived in Austin for the past 5 years and NOTHING beats the authenticity of Habanero. The cooking is just like my grandmother's who loves to cook and came to the U.S from chihuahua Mexico. Salsa is hot and has a strong cilantro flavor which I love! The carne guisada, enchiladas, migas and the carne asada are so good. I am super picky about my refried and mexican rice if it doesn't taste like home and it was incredible and hits the mark spot on. Everything here is honestly a hit and I can say is true mexican food just like home, i've dined over and over here and brought my parents and family and they all agree this is 1000/10 cannot recommend this place enough! read more

Dining in as a tourist makes me feel like I got invited to the cool neighbor's party. Servers are always smiling and cracking jokes with the locals while moving so quickly. You'll notice everyone is eating something different - you know that's a great sign. AWESOME fajitas, if you take the food less traveled like me, GET THE TRIPAS FAJITAS. They made it crispy like I like it. If not, the beef or chicken rancheras will do just fine. Chile Relleno got a great balance of cheese and chicken that isn't dry and is well seasoned. If you're not from Texas, get the fries instead - it's the same fries in your fave Cali burrito - enough crisp on every frie and the goldilocks of thick/thin. read more

I love this restaurant. The breakfast tacos are excellent. The waitstaff is very friendly. It's usually crowded because it's so good. The smell when you enter tells me that whatever is cooking will be delicious. It's full of happy diners. read more

Ugh, I love Mexican food. Habanero was highly recommended by my friends who live in the area, and I am so, so, SO happy we finally got to visit. It was super busy on a weekend morning, and we had to wait maybe 15-20 minutes. That's not a problem at all because their food is DELICIOUS. Oh, and have I mentioned that they're incredibly affordable? I ordered their enchilada plate, and it was so delicious. Habanero is an incredibly authentic Mexican restaurant, and I'm confident that you would love everything you order. I can't remember what my friends got, but I tried a bite of each of their plates and also thought it was so good. Their free chips and salsa are also yummy. It's really filling, so I was able to pack up half of my plate to go. I also ordered an horchata because I'm a big fan, and it hit the spot. It was really creamy and had the round crunchy ice! I can't wait to come again. I highly recommend! read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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This was a decent burrito. I had ordered for pick up which was a smart move as there was quite a line on the Sunday afternoon to eat in. There were not many seats inside the restaurant, however, they do have private parking behind the restaurant. The burrito itself was just okay. I was expecting more out of it, however, it was filling and satisfied my burrito craving. read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Counter - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Really cute little restaurant in an old Austin house. Fast service, friendly staff. The complimentary chips& salsa were delicious,& I always have to love a place that does ice-cold Mexican Cokes in the Medio Litro glass bottles. I had the chicken enchiladas with verde sauce, and my friend got cheese enchiladas with the regular sauce... both were superb! I've had breakfast tacos to go from here, too, and they were huge and fantastic. Support this older Austin family business! Much better than any hipster brunch places around this area read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Part of menu - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Best beef fajitas you will ever eat, full stop. Everything else on the menu is amazing too. Don't skip the breakfast either. Consider getting the steak ranchero and eggs. Migas, enchiladas, crispy tacos, tripas, carne guisada, all of it is top notch. It can get busy, but they do an excellent job at getting you in quickly. Very friendly staff who have been there forever and the owner and his children work there too. You can really feel the love that goes into the food and service there. The place has that perfect hole in the wall feel. I've been going my whole life and consider it the best Mexican food in the whole city. read more

Yeah. This is the place. Exactly what you want. Classic Tex-Mex joint. Only the food is much better than you asked for and costs less. In a place that will make you bemoan -- at crowd-tiring length -- the Death Of Old Austin (if yer a killjoy), or breathe a sigh of gratitude it exists (if yer a well-adjusted decent human). Service is efficient, but never too busy to smile. Go love this place. read more

Habanero Mexican Cafe - Barbacoa plate. - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

Mesquite marinated fajitas hit! Don't matter the tortilla! The weekends they have Caldo de res. You do not want to miss that. Especially if you dump the rice in and squeeze a lime! Wait staff is quick and very welcoming! Cultural decor really set the scene for the food experience. read more