Having been here for 9 months, I feel confident saying that food does NOT suck in Austin. It's just different. It isn't a New York or San Francisco food scene. And it isn't a Houston food scene. It's a unique food scene certainly not crowded with 4/5 star chefs and restaurants, but with plenty of unique options.
The Taco Deli vs. Torchy's beef reminds me of so many fanboy beefs. MW3 vs. BF3 Iphone vs. Droid Ps3 vs. 360 Etc. Once you mention one, the other always comes up in conversation two seconds later. I was dating a girl in Austin and said I wanted Torchy's and she said she would never step a foot in that place because it is terrible and Taco Deli is better. They are both good. Really. I like Torchy's more because they are bringing it to Houston.
This was only my third time ever there. I got the ranch hand, democrat, and fried avocado. What do I get next time?
There is one south of zilker, on north lamar near Rosedale, and on Mopac near Duval near the big IBM campus south of the hospital.
I work by El Rey on Ella and 43rd, that place is good but it's kind of a rip off lol. These aren't exactly Mexican tacos but I recommend you guys try out this Korean/Mexican food truck http://ohmygogi.com/ The fries they have are legit.
I went today for my first Torchys experience. the tacos were good and tasty, and the fresh ingredients were plentiful. A far cry from the skimpy Grade D meat drowned in grease, and then wrapped in lard tortillas that I have become accustomed to in the cuts of Houston. I still love El Rey. But I never tried Tacos A Go Go. I thought you needed bedazzled denim to go in there?
As for the Austin food debate, I've been here 3 months and I agree the food isn't on par with Houston from what I've found. I have found what I think is pretty decent Tex-Mex though after several misses. Maudie's is good. http://www.maudies.com/
