What a place for Sunday funday!!?? I love it here! Food is amazing but my fave are the enchiladas. We come here for the yummy drinks while sitting in their outside patio with some side guacamole and chips. The ambiance is chill with some nice music to enjoy read more

El Alma - Sunday funday - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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We went out to celebrate several birthdays in our group. We had 10 but it turned out to be 12 people. They refused to seat us together and one birthday person was separated from the table with 3 others on our group. On the other side of the room. Very disappointing and we had 3 empty seats at our big table! We celebrated elsewhere. one chair would have made a big difference. nano apologies either. I picked up the bill for their table and it was over 200.00 for 4 people. read more

This was a fun spot with a fantastic elevated patio! I had the chilanga margarita, and it was incredible. There was a hint of orange and a healthy dose of Valentina, my favorite salsa. That combined with the tajin rim was next level. I ordered cheese gringas for my meal. They were good, but I probably would choose them again. Overall, this is a great spot to grab a drink and some apps with friends! read more

El Alma - Cheese Gringas - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

What a fantastic place ! The food was fresh and delicious. We were there early for happy hour and had drinks and some delicious appetizers.The service was attentive and very relaxed.The view from the upstairs patio of downtown is amazing!! Can't wait for our next visit read more

Nestled on a street corner close to Terry Black's BBQ, El Alma is a multi-story restaurant with a funky rooftop with varying views of the Austin "skyline". Despite the waitstaff having to run up and down a flight of stairs to bring you food and drink on the rooftop, the service and attentiveness of our waiter was fantastic! Friendly service and great recommendations to us El Alma newbies. We ordered the Ceviche, which had the perfect balance of citrusy acid to bring out the flavors of the fish. They came with crisp, thick cut chips, which was the perfect pairing. They offer several duck options for entrees, so I had to try the enchiladas with mole. The mole was rich and chocolatey, but comparatively speaking, I do like Veracruz Fonda and Bar's mole better. The duck was not quite as tender or juicy as I had hoped - may slightly overcooked? Light portions of of rice and refried beans on the side helped with the lack of moisture of the duck. Would come again for more drinks and apps! read more

El Alma - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

My favorite restaurant in all of ATX -- hands down. El Alma nails it every time. The vibe is laid back, the food is fire, and if the weather's nice, do yourself a favor and sit on the upstairs patio. It has a great view of downtown from south of the river, and in the winter they've got tower heaters to keep it cozy. Pro tip: If you go for lunch, the tacos come with rice and beans -- which makes the already solid value even better. My go-to order: The lamb barbacoa taco (easily my favorite thing on the menu) and the al pastor taco (a close second). I've been here 5+ times and still haven't ordered anything else. The tacos are just that good. My only small gripe: the guac portion is a bit skimpy, and it sits on a bed of lettuce that makes it look bigger than it is. The queso is very good. All in all, El Alma is my go-to for a reason. Incredible food, great atmosphere, and unbeatable tacos. read more

walked in at 9pm on the dot (says on the door they close at 10pm) guy says "sorry kitchen closes in a couple minutes" with a stale look on his face yea never comin back read more

I was here back in March and the food and the service were both amazing! At the time I raved about our waiter, Andrew. This visit was with my brother and sister-in-law and our waiter was Jonathan. He gave us the same amazing service that I had had the last time I was there. Not only is the food amazing, the mole is to die for but the service is spectacular! When you ask for suggestions based on your likes and dislikes these guys are spectacular! And the food is spot on deliciously amazing!! read more

Me and my friend came here for a late lunch on Friday. By evening we were both so sick, with headaches and vomiting, dizziness, and bloating. We have been sick since Friday. We Never coming back here, something is definitely going on in that kitchen. read more

Came on a Saturday night with a few friends. We had to wait for a table, but it was worth it! We sat on the rooftop and - IT'S ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS! Tons of string lights, plants, and light music to create a vibrant, uplifting vibe. Highly recommend the Mexcaloma. It wasn't too sweet, with the right amount of mezcal. I also had the chicken tinga taco (BOMB.COM) and the fish taco (a little dry). I also recommend the guac. It's very fresh and the chips taste alot better than the complimentary batch. Overall - I recommend this spot for a girls night out or date night before hitting the town! read more

El Alma - Mexcaloma - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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The patio at El Alma has a great view of the Austin skyline. Food is decent, couple of vegetarian options on a mostly standard Tex Mex menu. The varieties of salsa served with chips were tasty. Nice cocktails. Perfect location for dinner date with a view. read more

The margaritas at El Alma are strong and picture perfect. I ordered some tacos to enjoy with them and those were perfect to set the tone for a night of drinking. The area in which the restaurant is located appears to be underwhelming when arriving at night, but the interior of the restaurant and its offerings make up for it. I think they also have an upstairs/rooftop area. I could be wrong but I saw the stairs leading to it. read more

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What an incredible experience. My five friends and I came to eat an early dinner on the outside patio. We found a parking spot right in front. Hostess Emma and Server Ashley were both so helpful and happy. Ashley gave us so many recommendations and made the start of our girls trip amazing. We love them so much, give those girls a raise! read more

El Alma - Chicken Quesadilla, classic margarita - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

I have been to El Alma so many times and I don't know why I'm just now reviewing it. It is absolutely one of my go-to restaurants in ATX, and it's always fabulous. A few tips: 1) even though there's always a wait for the upstairs patio, it's worth it for the cool stone stairs and that view, even in deepest Summer. (Beware the uneven steps on the way down, though, after a couple of drinks!) 2) Trust me on this and try the duck tacos - they are amazing (no they would not normally be my first choice either), 3) Pretty much anything with pumpkin seeds in it is gonna be good - I think they spray them with crack cocaine, 4) CEVICHE!!! Yassss. They make their own tortilla chips to go with it. And, on top of all of that, they have fun, inventive cocktails made with fresh with Mexican ingredients. All around, this place is always a win, unless it's SXSW-crowded. read more

Been here several times for lunch. Good food. Sat outside upstairs as it seems quieter and more relaxed. Nice flavorful food

In all my years visiting Austin, I've never noticed this unassuming little gem. I came for a quick pick me up and was not at all disappointed. I had a few snacks, and it was certainly with the trip in. The chips for the queso blanco are diff than chips for the complimentary chips and salsa. Thicker, heftier, crunchier, and the queso itself gives Kirbey Lane a run for their money! Lamb Barbacoa what? Get this taco! Although it's missing a bit of salt and acid, it's otherwise fantastically flavored. The bar works if you're dining solo, but for a group, the patio is where it's at. Wherever you choose to eat, I'm sure your meal will arrive mindfully prepared and delicious! read more

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I've wanted to try El Alma for so long. It's a place I pass up on my way to the gym everyday and it is always packed, so I figured, it HAD to be good. Now, from a photographic standpoint, this restaurant is ideal. They can seat you indoors or outdoors and the outdoor seating has a BEAUTIFUL view. I ordered horchata for a drink. While it was good, I can definitely tell this wasn't traditionally made and I think this is a big indicator of how close to traditional mexican you'll end up getting. For appetizers, we ordered queso and ceviche. I thought the queso was decent and the ceviche was good as well. It wasn't amazing, but it also wasn't bad either. For dinner, I ordered the mole enchiladas with chicken. It came with refried beans and mexican rice. While the refried beans tasted good, I had issues with the mexican rice (I wonder how it's made because it didn't have the flavor I am personally used to). The mole was decent, but the enchilada on the whole was forgettable. Outside of the view, I felt like the restaurant overall is forgettable. If I want mexican food, I think a drive to San Antonio would be more worth it. Unfortunately, I can't say I'd come back here. read more

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I stopped in for lunch this afternoon and was very disappointed. This was my fourth or fifth visit, and I've generally had good experiences in the past. However, after taking our order, our waiter never returned until it was time to pay. I ordered the two-taco lunch plate, but after waiting 30 minutes, I received only the tacos -- no sides. Since the waiter never checked on us, I had no opportunity to ask about the missing items. When he finally brought the check, I inquired about the sides, only to be told that there was no lunch menu today due to President's Day. That would have been helpful information before I ordered, so I could have chosen a complete meal. read more

Such a welcome change from standard TexMex. Different seasonings, different dishes, and interesting twists on old favorites like Queso. The Crab Jalapeño Queso was subtle. You could almost take it for the common type until you came across a lump of crab. It's very rich. The serving size is mall, but it was enough. My companion's shrimp and Jack cheese enchiladas were excellent, especially paired with the smoky tomatillo sauce. I went for the shredded duck enchiladas, with that same smoky sauce. They did not skimp on the duck, and the combination of flavors was so intriguing that I ate very slowly, to savor every bite. Service was friendly and efficient, the Margaritas were tart and not too sweet, the chips and salsa thick and complex. Excellent all around. read more

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Slow service despite only two tables to attend to, had to ask for drinks, server did not introduce himself (not a big deal, but also not the norm). Very overpriced for bland food. I guess it is more "tex" than "mex" if you know what I mean.. The elote was soooo bad, don't waste your money. read more

A buddy suggested we try this place for their happy hour. It was a little south but not too bad. We sat right at the bar and got the happy hour stuff. They had a avocado margarita that kills so definitely try that. Tacos are bomb too. It can get a little pricey if you order everything (even with the hh prices) so keep that in mind but I loved it. read more

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THIS PLACE IS SO GOOD OMG!!!!! Best enchiladas I have had in a WHILE. You have to get the Queso Fundido with Chorizo, it is delish!!! Can't wait to go again!!! read more

If you're looking for good Mexican food with flavor... sorry but this ain't it. Tacos lacked flavor big time. The drinks and atmosphere is what is saving this review. The mangorita was fresh and ranch water was pretty good. Definitely more of a drink spot. Environment was dope but...that's what you're paying for. Service was good, our waitress was super sweet. read more

I went here this past weekend before going to a concert. OMG what a pleasant surprise! The rice looks like it's just plain steamed rice but it was so flavorful. The sweet potato relleno was amazing!!! That and the mole sauce was just perfect. Our waitress was also very attentive refilling waters, salsas and chips etc. highly recommend. Also highly recommend making a reservation because this place gets packed and there's limited seating. The parking situation can also be a negative. Kinda pricy but worth it. I will definitely be back. read more

El Alma - Relleno Sweet Potato - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

The perfect date night or girls night spot! The restaurant is absolutely stunning with ample seating and tons of delicious menu items available. 10/10 recommend anything on the menu - go for the atmosphere if anything! "Instagrammable" spot for sure read more

Great food and service! We loved the variety of taco options, the shredded duck was a favorite and enchiladas were great as well. read more

El Alma - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

Being from Austin, I'm surprised I hadn't been here before now. We had walked in on a hot Sunday around 5 and were surprised that it was only a 10 minute wait for their rooftop patio and an hour wait for inside. We opted for outside and they had plenty of umbrellas and misters for comfort. I ordered the pina margarita and it was delicious and sneaky strong. Having been told the tacos were street size, I went ahead and ordered three, but I was full after two. I ordered one shrimp, one chicken, and one fish taco and all three were very good! My fave was probably the shrimp taco. On top of the good food and drinks, the service was great too. I'll definitely be back! read more

El Alma - Fish, shrimp, chicken tacos - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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We came on a Friday night. Ordered a few tacos (chicken, $5 and duck, $6) and a relleno side ($8). The relleno was very unique, it is stuffed with sticky rice and a bit of cheese. Everything was fine. I'm not sure how authentic the food is but the interior is beautiful and trendy. I'd like to try other things on the menu. Drinks were also solid! read more

El Alma - Rice & Cheese Relleno ($8), Duck Taco ($6), Chicken Tacos ($5) - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

I kept hearing about El Alma and how I needed to go so I finally did and wish I had sooner! El Alma is a great Austin spot right on Barton Springs. Lunchtime was pretty busy when we were there. Great food and drinks. I ordered the 2 taco lunch plate with the duck and salmon tacos. You have to save room for dessert as well! It is all so good!! read more

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My sister and I decided to pop in here the other day for happy hour and were lucky enough to get seats at the bar. Seth took great care of us, and we loved the drinks and food! It's a really cute place, and the patio is probably amazing with good weather. We had delicious queso fundido, tostaditas, and Sangria Blanca...yum!! We will absolutely be back. That Sangria Blanca is already calling my name!!! read more

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El Alma has a great mid-upscale vibe! Can show up as-is or dress it up. I loved how accommodating and knowledgeable the server was about which options could be made vegan, and it was delicious! I got modified tacos and their spicy cauliflower which was really good. Appreciate that they have free parking. read more

I've always wanted to have happy hour on their patio. On a random Tuesday in October, the occasion came up. It's walk in only for patio seating and you walk through the interior and up these stairs with lotsa greenery to emerge onto their rooftop. It's a lovely place with umbrellas that adjust (with a little help). I like their prices and food options for happy hour. Flautas are always my go to, which are really good here. We also got empanadas and ceviche. There's plenty of chips and dip. I would come here for happy hour and snacks but go to their south location for dinner. Our server, Britney, was great! She helped adjust the umbrella because my friend's chest was getting red from the sun. She also came by at the right moments to ask for our second drink orders. Also parking is kind of limited so count yourself lucky if you snag a spot! read more

Another too Austin restaurant that gentrifies Mexican food. If you're looking for authenticity, it's not at El Alma. We wanted something refreshing to start and ordered the Cerviche Clásico. I didn't like how thick the chunks were... it made the fish taste bland and chewy. In addition, the ceviche didn't provide that chef's kiss I was looking for. It tasted rushed and cheap. For my entree, I ordered the Enchiladas. If you order the enchiladas, you get to mix & match your filling and sauce. El Alma provides two enchiladas with a side of rice & beans or slaw. I got the Tinga de Pollo with the Smoky Tomatillo, which was lackluster. Bland and unmemorable. read more

El Alma - Enchiladas: Tinga de Pollo with Tomatillo - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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My second visit was every bit as good as my first!!! The classic ceviche, guacamole, chipotle veggie enchiladas, mole duck enchiladas and banana bread pudding still rock!!! Be sure to try the prickly pear Marguarita! Marco took great care of us and Davey's suggestions were all great! Be sure to read my original review!!! El Alma is one of the reasons I wish I lived in Austin!!! read more

Always have a good experience at El Alma. The servers are always so helpful and friendly. Today we came here straight from Deep Eddy pool and were seated inside right away. The wait for outside was going to be a little bit, but with this early summer heat it was a nice escape inside. The only bad part about our visit was that I became super indecisive about what to eat. There were so many items on the menu that I wanted to try. I settled on ordering a meal composed of three sides so I could have a variety. I tried the plantains, roasted cauliflower, and crispy potatoes. Be sure to try their flour tortillas. They looked and tasted homemade, I think that's a safe assumption. Everything was delicious! My pepino picoso drink was fantastic and tasted like a cucumber lime agua Fresca. Very refreshing and light! We've been frequenting el alma for a while now and will continue to do so. read more

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I came here for a quick lunch, and ordered to Huevos Franceses. The eggs were poached nicely, the chipotle Hollandaise was tasty and I liked that it was served spinach and a corn pudding. The avocados and tomatoes on the side didn't add much to the dish, but I ate them anyways. Chips and salsa were good too, I liked the roasted tomatillo salsa more. Quick, easy experience, I enjoyed it but may have to come back to try more of their offerings. read more

El Alma - Huevos Franceses - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

Waaay overpriced for food quality, service, etc. Service was inattentive, and the restaurant was not busy at the time. Margaritas were expensive, the taste was nothing special, and they took forever to arrive. We liked the thick house made chips, but only ate the red salsa; the green salsa was very tart. The salsa servings were tiny and we asked for refills several times. The chicken mole enchiladas were pretty tasty, but the accompanying white rice (wtf!) and black beans were both very bland. Chile relleno with shrimp and crab: filling was mushy, and red sauce on side was flavorless. Corn cake was nice tho. Our meal with 4 margs and tip was $155--NOT worth it! (We miss the old Hyde Park location that used to be here!) read more

Queso dip was soooo good. I got the redfish with cauliflower which I enjoyed-especially the cauliflower. Was only moderately crowded-we got right in and food was out quickly! Would recommend. read more

I liked eating here in the past. Cute outside patio upstairs. Atmosphere inside is nice. Needed a place for food at 10:30pm tonight. Got ToGo tacos just before closing. NOT a great experience. :( Tacos are greasy & TINY ($6 each?)...we ordered a "Diet Coke" & what came tasted terrible. Then we were told it was not a Coke product...ust a diet "soda"... (she did give us a Mexican Coke to go to replace it) Corn pudding was more of a cornbread muffin.. didn't see any "pudding" to it... Sadly, we probably won't go back unless we want just margaritas...I remember those being good in the past. read more

Great food! Not a super large spot. Def make a reservation before going. The happy hour deals are pretty good. Margs are awesome! Would come back quite a few times if we lived in the area. The queso with tortillas are incredible. read more

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