Manuel's is located in the Great Hills Market near Arboretum. Stopped in for a weekend lunch with my boyfriend this past weekend (weekend of 5/16/2026) and had an enjoyable experience. We had really good service and food. I had the poblano chile soup (poblano bisque with queso)...WOW! Delish! I also had a small garden salad. The vegetables were fresh and crisp. My boyfriend had ranchera enchiladas (I had a couple of bites...OMG, yum). The serrano peppers in the enchilada were perfect. They have a Sunday brunch that we're interested in trying next time. Love the decor as well. read more

We were in town visiting family. It was suggested we eat here. It was our first and last visit. Restaurant wasn't busy by any means and there was 1 server working where we were seated. Waited over 10 minutes to be greeted by a server. Had apps. The guacamole was decent. Chips and salsa were meh you'd expect them to be free definitely not worth the cost. Fajitas were ok as well nothing earth shattering. Our second server was great! She was great and responsive when she noticed we were waiting so long to order drinks and to be greeted. I noticed when we first sat down at the table there was only 1 waitress in the area who had 2 or 3 tables and no children at the other tables. We continued to wait over 10 minutes with the same waitress passing by us 4-5 times and didn't say a word. After our meal we asked to speak to a manager before leaving. Before the hostess's got the manager to see us they had a brief conversation which was an immediate red flag. They said the issue was due to shift change and table assignment. Definitely complete lies. Not a family establishment and clearly children are not welcome. read more

Ay Dios Mioooo! Craving some Mexican food w/ a tweak here & there? Manuel's is your next go-to spot. With its own private parking, a reservation absolutely seemed like a must when my family saw how many guests were coming in and going out. Thankfully, we had one and it took a few minutes for them to take us to our table. UBER grateful that they were able to accommodate us to a booth seeing our two toddlers. We pretty much had an idea of what we wanted to order from the get go, having done our research prior. Out of everything that we ordered, a few dishes stood out -- Sopa de Elote, Flautas w/ gulf shrimp and Manuel's Flan. The Sopa de elote was *chefs kiss* -- rich and creamy, a bit savory, and had an appealing look. The Flautas w/ gulf shrimp were crispy and full of flavor, especially with the sauce and the side of rice. The portions were adequate for 1-2 people if sharing, and we felt more than full after dining here. * the flan was EXQUISITE -- I don't think I've ever eaten a flan so quickly * The dishes that I was expecting more out of were the nachos and the Chile Rellano Del Mar. That said, I personally just wasn't a fan of how the nachos looked and tasted, and the chile rellano wasn't something I was used to eating in this manner. Both were mild MILD and I expected a bit more flavor. Our server was AMAAAAAAZING. I believe even the owner even came to our table to ask if everything was good, which was a great gesture on a busy Saturday night. read more

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Just paid over $100 for 2 people for tasteless mole and minced fish in weird tower of pressed fish that was supposed to ceviche. It was like eating cat food - no lime taste, no sense of eating fish since the pieces were so small, no sauce. The mole was tasteless and thin with no chocolate taste. I swear it was from a can. I just couldn't imagine getting a meat with a beer that a food truck would have been embarrassed to serve and paying over a $100 for it. Just to be sure that the meal was a total failure, our other couple ordered a shrimp dish but was served a fish called drum. We got to the restaurant at 5:30 only to find that they had completely reserved the interior seating for a group. We had to sit outside on 100° F heat with no fans or misters. All in all I just cannot understand how a restaurant can stay in business charging so much for so little. read more

It's been a while since I've been to Manuel's and always glad when a friend recommends meeting here for lunch! I had the spinach enchiladas with suiza sauce and she had a chile relleno. Both were very good and I was able to take some home in a to go box. Apparently, chips don't automatically get served but the waiter asked if we wanted some. I like how they prepare their chips and their salsa is so fresh. I look forward to going here again soon for lunch or a Happy Hour! read more

Manuel's - spinach enchiladas with suiza - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Manuel's never misses. We really miss the downtown location since it closed due to Covid, so imagine how happy we were to be in North Austin around dinner time! The restaurant is very nicely decorated and welcoming to groups of all sizes. Our server was very prompt and attentive without being disruptive. I had the tortilla soup which was flavorful with just the right amount of heat. My wife had the black bean flautas, and she cleaned her plate. As with many restaurants, the prices have risen significantly over the years, but this just means we choose our dining spots more carefully. North Austin is lucky to have this às a neighborhood choice! read more

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I very rarely give 5 stars because there is always something that will make me second guess that rating... Well,well,well.....Manuel's has gotten the unicorn rating.. The moment we walked in there a beautiful smile along with a beautiful lady who welcomed us in. She was very genuine and not fake. The service was fast and friendly. We were seated within 2 minutes after entering the establishment. We were at a table within that same time.. We had our chips and drinks and order made within 8 minutes of entering the restaurant. Now that's service. The food was very good, I ordered Verde beef shredded enchiladas, it comes with 2 along with Mexican rice and black beans. Everything about my dish was on point. Temperature, taste & texture.. The triple T affect. Most definitely will be visiting this place e again. Great work. The ambiance of this place has the allure of being capable of being a intimate setting. read more

Manuel's - Two shredded beef enchiladas covered in a mile Verde sauce and a serving of Mexican rice..Yummy - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I'm always amazed when a restaurant is 15 minutes behind to seat a table. The food was good, nothing was a true "wow". Drinks were soooo slow. We ordered a second round of drinks before our food came and they came well after we were done with our food and well being our schedule. We sat outside, a bit warm but beautiful with a natural pergola to create shade and beautiful fountains and trees to make you not feel like you are next to a busy road read more

We visited this restaurant for a Sorority get together. Everyone was so accommodating to the very large group. The service was fast and everyone got what they wanted. The atmosphere was perfect for us during that time of day. The preselected food options for our group was accommodating to everyone that attended. The bartender was awesome. The staff and manager treated us very well. The food was out surprisingly fast for such a large group. read more

Manuel's - Guacamole - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I have been to Manuel's many times but have so far neglected to review it so here's my remedy to that. Manuel's is consistently fantastic - great service, hot, delicious food, good prices, great variety of menu items. We went recently (February) and I tried the chile rellano de elote which was very good, the poblano had a good spice to it, and was very flavorful. We also had the queso and I had the Mamarita mocktail. Honestly the queso could be its own meal, it was a very generous serving. The mamarita was refreshing and not too sweet as mocktails can sometimes be. read more

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Friendly staff and no rush service. Aura was higher end but not super high. Food was presented well too not just beans and rice r on the side Quiet for lunch but was later than normal but can tell it gets busy during dinner and lunch. Wasn't authentic, more American Mexican which is not a bad thing read more

I was planning a business lunch, and it would be best if the lunch spot were near the arboretum. I was initially at a loss, but then I remembered Manuel's. I have not been to Manuel's in more than a decade, so I was really hoping that it was still solid Mexican. I have not been at this locale since I had a full head of hair, so they must be doing something right. Fact check: They have been in business for 40 years. I am happy to report that, YES, Manuel's is still a solid choice for lunch, HH, or dinner. As others have noted, they do charge for chips and salsa. For 5 bucks, you get a basket of real dipping chips and salsa to die for. It is made fresh with a hint of spice. I ordered the chicken enchiladas with Salsas Verde, Suiza & Adobadas. It did come with refried black beans and white rice. I would have preferred refried pinto beans, but that's just a nit. The enchiladas were perfect, and the chicken was very moist. I also wished that the salsa had a tad more heat. Next time I'll ask for hot sauce. Service was excellent, and we were not rushed during our 2-hour visit. Dis & Dat: They have a large parking lot and a really nice patio. Obviously, there is a full bar and some specialty cocktails. I did notice some interesting Mezcal and Tekillya (sic). I do foresee Manuel's HH in my future. read more

GET THE GUAC!!!!!!!! Everything here is sooo good love the house marg love the guac love the enchiladas and flautas and rellenos like they don't miss! Staff is super friendly and atmosphere is soooo cute. Would sit on the patio if it wasn't so ungodly hot out. Manuel you have done it again! read more

Manuel's - Guacamole - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

I really wanted to love this place. I pass by it every time I go to the grocery store and it is so pretty from the outside. The sign is very elegant too. They have an outdoor patio and seating inside. The decor is really pretty though. I brought my 19 year old son with me. We ordered queso to start with and added the chorizo. It was good but not what we were expecting. We were expecting traditional queso with chips but this was more like a fondue with tortillas. They did bring chips and salsa for the table. One complimentary basket. I ordered an iced tea and it was so good, very refreshing. It was flavored. My son ordered a chicken quesadilla and he said it was ok. I ordered the stuffed pepper with pomegranate seeds and it was a really pretty presentation but I thought it was just ok as well. It was served with a plate of fruit. Service was good and friendly. I doubt we will go back though as nothing really stood out to us. read more

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Wow not sure which people think this is really good. No kidding, I think the fajita was rancid. They even said the manager tasted some and agreed. They brought out chicken fajitas that were at least not bad meat but still really subpar and we were already suspicious of the food at that point. Did they remove fajitas from the bill? No. Chips also were just small broken pieces. Friends cheese enchiladas were basically a block of cheese between two tortillas and a smattering of sauce. Definitely will never return. read more

While the space itself is beautiful, the staff is incredibly friendly, and there is ample parking we ultimately didn't order any food here. We planned to, until we looked at the menu. It seems rather overpriced in my opinion. And once I realized they charge even for chips and salsa, we were out. We finished our margs (which were fine. Small for the price) and left. It just wasn't quite our vibe. read more

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True Mexican cuisine and fine dining experience. Great Happy Hour, lovely patio, and a menu that makes it difficult to choose just one. Try the signature margarita and you won't be disappointed. you will be back for the flan and strawberry Tres Leches. Friendly service. Overall very pleasant experience. read more

Manuel's - delicious strawberry Tres Leches. Treat your self. - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

A close family friend chose Manuel's for a birthday dinner and celebration last night and made reservations. This morning, I'm not sure why we didn't go somewhere else. For starters, we called ahead and found out Manuel's wanted to charge $2 per diner to bring in a birthday cake. We were a party of 5 adults plus 3 children under the age of 5, and unwilling to pay a $16 surcharge to wash 8 plates and forks. I guess they wanted to protect their own dessert menu? The rest of their prices were outrageous. All of their margaritas were in the $12-15 range--and those were not generous pours. Chips and salsa, complimentary at nearly every other Mexican restaurant were $5 per setup here. We were told that queso was not available other than as an entrée topping, yet it was listed on the menu for $12-15, depending on ingredients. Expect to pay an average of $20 per diner for an entree; even their tacos were $17! Nothing is a la carte. There is no reduced price kid's menu; message received--don't bring the kids. In all fairness, Manuel's were accommodating and seated us promptly even though two members of our party arrived 30-45 minutes late. Then again, over half the tables were empty at 6p on a Thursday night, so they weren't under space pressure. Service was attentive. As to the food quality, the chips and salsa were excellent. Multiple diners got the fajitas, some beef, some chicken. It was interesting that some of the skillets had more veggies than others. Our chicken fajitas were good, but not great. The tortillas were average, and none of the sides were memorable including the guacamole. I did note that the servings of black beans and rice for fajitas for two were really sized for one; thanks for saving me the calories, but the beans were so watered down, I really didn't want more. While it was a very kind gesture to arrange dinner for the birthday girl here, it didn't live up to expectations. I think of Manuel's as upscale, but only the pricing delivered on that note. We could have been happier at a nearby competitor. I try to imagine what the $250 spent at our table would have bought at Lupe Tortilla. Save your money. Not recommended. read more

Manuel's - Chips and salsa. The best part of our experience dining here. - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

New to the area and wanted to try some Mexican food. The reviews seemed decent so we decided to give this place a try. The atmosphere was really pretty. The staff were all super nice and friendly as well. We got a table in super quick too since it was not busy at all. The food was also good, but I will say it is a bit overpriced for the quality of the food. We got the chicken fajitas for two. The portions were good enough for me and my boyfriend, but if we came in more hungry I think we would have left still hungry. Overall it wasn't bad, but not sure if I would come back again just due to the prices alone. read more

Good but pricey for what it is Always drive by this place and figured we would stop by for a quick meal. Service was good and the staff was friendly but oh boy those prices... for the amount of food your get... we paid $85 with tip for two people and got; -2 Pina Coladas -1 Quesadilla (no meat) -1 Steak Fajitas When we order fajitas, it's normally so much food you leave full and (sometimes) leftovers in hand. We definitely didn't have leftovers lol and actually left hungry. Restaurant was nice and clean but probably won't be going back, value was sub par read more

We went to Manuel's for lunch today. Same great food, same great service. The 4 stars is for the gnat issues that we experienced. We were seated at a table by the window and there were so, so many gnats flying around our food, drinks and faces. Not very appetizing when you are trying to eat. I'm sure it is a challenge with the warm weather but I would suggest addressing the problem. read more

We love Manuel's for healthy Mexican food! There is something for everyone. My family loves the fajitas, I love the salads. Also, they have plenty of parking which is a "thing" in Austin. This restaurant is a classic Austin favorite. read more

First time at Manuel's. The place is lovely by itself. It's a nice ambiance. The only thing I like were the drinks. The service was horrible. The place was not packed and the server stated, I'm sorry I just been really busy. Not to mention when it was time to order, we had to go find the front staff to get our waiter. He didn't follow up with us, he used the excuse we were talking and he didn't want to interrupt. I mean we came to the restaurant for a reason, everyone was talking to who they were at with their tables. Also, I asked for a straw which he completely ignored until I asked again, then he still didn't get it. And third time he finally gave us 1 and to the other person and said is that okay. Then one of the plates came out cold. The queso was not good. We asked for sour cream, he never brought it. But of course the extra was on the bill. When we mentioned it he was like oh I'll go get it. I was like no. Then he stated I'm sorry about the service I want my customers to be happy. He took the queso and sour cream off the bill. Then to pay had to wait another long time for him to come back and check on us to pay. I'm sorry the service was horrible, the food was okay. And drinks made it better. read more

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Ambiance - 5 start , elegant and inviting Service- 5 star , courteous, knowledgeable and friendly Food - 5 star overall What we ordered Chile Relleno En Nogada - excellent flavors , beautiful presentation. Simply put the best I have ever tasted , well worth the price tag Manuel's Famous Mole -Excellent flavors , one of the best I have tasted Enchilada Suizas with pork - Spot on and filling . Mango daiquiri- spot on the right ratio of alcohol and mango Overall a great experience. I would definitely recommend this place. If in doubt order the Chilli Rellwno. The flavors were outstanding and very filling. Will definitely come here for my next visit to Austin read more

The food could have done with some flavor but the guacamole was fresh. The waiter-Miguel, was very nice and friendly and the atmosphere was a little surprising but nice. I did get chased around the restroom by a roach. And for that reason I'm out. read more

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Our waiter Daniel was so friendly and took great care of us! I brought my mother and sister here from out of town and we all enjoyed our meal. The pink chihuahua drink was sooooo delicious! I had the fried fish tacos and also tried the blood orange margarita. Just as tasty but think I liked the pink chichihua drink better. Good good with great company! read more

Manuel's - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I'm not sure how this restaurant could be better and I'm appalled I haven't written sooner. While the DT location has closed, the North (Arboretum area) restaurant has always been the most beautiful. We love to go for brunch because we feel rushed in other places and we like the Manuel's treats us. Don't worry though, the entire menu is available, even during brunch hours. First, the decor is fabulous as I said, and the service is Old Mexico. Don't expect them to rush you out the door or bring the check. You must tell them if you're in a hurry. Secondly, this is not gloppy, cheesy Tex-Mex. This is the real thing and I always feel transported to Guadalajara. Josué is our favorite server; he is cordial, knowledgeable and makes our meal special. Is it expensive?. Comparitively to Tex-Mex yes, it's more expensive than Maudie's. But less expensive than Fonda San Miguel so you'll have to decide if you're worth the better food. The experience is up there with high dollar steak houses, so splurge and pretend you're out of country. I HIGHLY recommend their guacamole and my favorite dish is the Rellenos En Nogada but I also love their mole'. Some folks (incorrectly) think the mole' is better at San Miguel. Order and you be the judge. They have a beatiful HH and a gorgeous patio with a fountain and heritage oak tree. I am grateful to live nearby. read more

Great good and great service! Enjoyed it and the atmosphere was great too. We will be back. read more

The service was really nice, and the outdoor area was pretty. But the food wasn't anything special. I got the verdes chicken enchiladas. Next time, I'll get something different. read more

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Best mole in town hands down! Their margaritas are top-notch with fresh lime squeezed. Fresh seafood and a full variety of made-from-scratch salsas. Definitely not an average Tex-Mex place--it's authentic regional Mexican food with a personal touch. You won't find a place with such a nice patio and friendly, amazing service. read more

Manuel's is an Austin treasure. Beautiful restaurant that offers fresh seafood and regional Mexican food that is top notch. The service is excellent and the drinks are exceptional. Enjoy good food that is prepared fresh daily and food that you will tell your friends about. read more

Luis is fantastic! He makes great drinks and always has great suggestions. I'm sad to see this location close. It's real Mexican food. read more

Manuel's - Watermelon - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

Extremely nice looking restaurant. Our waitress was very nice and helpful. The bottle beer was cool but not cold. Food was really good but a little overpriced for the serving size. I was very surprised to get actual shredded beef in the enchiladas instead of ground beef. That was a plus as it was very good. Rice and beans were bland. No seasoning at all. Overall a good experience but probably won't go to again. I do recommend it though. read more

Manuel's - Beef Enchilada Bandera - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

Great little spot. Nice terrace under the stars. Great food. Small portions. Great service. Causal and kind vibe

Visit Luis at the bar. Definitely get ceviche. Definitely enjoy a bottle of wine. The service is the best! The entire menu is delicious. The restaurant and patio are beautiful. I can see why they have been an Austin staple for decades! read more

Food was pretty good and the service was nice, but I think it was very overpriced for what we got. It's still Mexican food.

Came here for a work lunch - would describe as okay! Pretty inside, we are ford later as the lunch crowd had left and the restaurant was pretty empty. However we were ignored for a good minutes as the host took a call and no one else could apparently seat us. Then when did get seated - no service! My colleague ended up having to go find a server - again they were not busy as there were only two other tables occupied. Has their chips and 'salsa' which is a term I use loosely as it was thin and more like hot sauce, their guacamole was a little bland and needed some seasoning . Queso was good, accompanying tortillas again bland and generic tasting. Their ceviche was good, maybe needed a touch more acid but the lime on top did the trick. That was a very generous portion and tasted fresh. Probably will not return but it was nice for lunch! read more

Manuel's - Juan 's Ceviche - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

Surprisingly, after reading the glowing reviews, we were very underwhelmed by the food. Good service and a nice atmosphere, but the food was shockingly under seasoned and un spicy. The mole got rave reviews, but it was very bland as was the poblano pepper/chile relleno. And for a rather expensive Mexican restaurant, this is the first time in Texas or anywhere else I've ever been that they do not automatically serve chips and salsa, on the house. On the whole a very disappointing $75 lunch. We will not be back. read more

It was okay, but I don't plan to visit again. Our server Jonathan was rude. It seemed like he was having a bad day. We weren't finished talking & he just walked away at one point. It was extremely awkward. And when ordering an appetizer, he seemed to turn us away from ordering the queso; we got the drift he wanted us out of there asap. We were a simple crowd & didn't complain at all. We were even polite regardless of him walking away the way he did when we weren't finished talking. We made sure to say thanks each time he came by or dropped something off. The only smile I saw from him was when my brother-in-law tipped him extra because he had the same name as him. read more

Manuel's - Enchilada Bandera - Mexican Near Me - Austin, Texas

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First of all, the cocktails are overly priced. In order to get happy hour pricing, you have to sit in the bar area/patio. That's unheard of. As far I'm concerned, the menu is very limited for dinner options. We had the fajitas. They were just okay. Not much flavor (spices). The only option is black beans. Rice is not served. The sides are literally enough for one person. The tortillas were lukewarm, if that. The only tasty item was the appetizer, chili con queso. I should of taken a photo. Unfortunately, I will not be back to this establishment. Very disappointed. read more