Perfect spot for late-night tacos! The best part is that they have great vegetarian options, including both paneer and tofu tacos, and both are absolutely delicious. It's not always easy to find flavorful vegetarian tacos, so this place was a pleasant surprise. I loved it so much that I ended up visiting twice during my two-day trip to Austin. If you're in the city, this place is definitely worth checking out! read more

Velvet Taco - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Right next to Punch Bowl Social, good spot for a meal or snack. There is a good amount of seating, but the tables are pretty close together. Some tables could use a cleaning in between guests, but it was fairly clean. You order your food at the counter and they call you when it is ready. I ordered the grilled steak taco, rotisserie chicken taco and special taco of the week (pork dumpling smash taco). We also ordered the elote and queso to share. The elote was good, but very creamy and a bit heavy. The queso was good but tbh I prefer Torchy's. The grilled steak taco was a bit underwhelming, I wanted it to have more flavor, it just tasted like beef and cheese. The chicken had good flavor and the special weekly taco was enjoyable and interesting, not like any taco I have had before. There is plenty of variety for people including those with dietary restrictions. My friends ordered two tacos each and I was full after 3 tacos so if you are not a big eater stick with two. read more

I had heard so many great things about Velvet Taco in Austin, and since it was just a short walk from my hotel, I had to give it a try. I was in town for work and craving a little relaxation time, so I opted for takeout instead of dining in. First off, the restaurant itself is quite large and super easy to find as it sits on corner real estate, so you really can't miss it. Even just popping in for takeout, it felt spacious and well set up. I ordered the slow-roasted Angus brisket taco and the Mexi-Cali shrimp taco. I also couldn't resist the dip trio because when I'm on a trip (even a work one), I'm going all in - elote, guacamole, and curry queso as my third pick. Between the two tacos, the shrimp was the clear winner. It was well-seasoned and packed with flavor. The brisket, unfortunately, fell a little flat for me and could've used more seasoning and depth. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the meal. The portion sizes were generous (very generous... like why did I have an entire mountain of chips? ). I will say the curry queso wasn't my favorite - the flavors just didn't quite mesh for me but I'd absolutely order the elote and guac again. Prices weren't bad, though definitely a bit higher than some other taco spots in the area. Still, for convenience, solid portions, and a standout shrimp taco, it was worth the visit. Would I go back? Yes but I'm sticking with the shrimp and choosing a chicken option next time. read more

Velvet Taco - Chips - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Respectful staff; music is a little loud but it's for hipster people. Get the $15 combo 2 tacos, side, and drink. 2 will satisfy most people if you go smart with the brisket or steak (or both). Not fancy and good to hang out for a bit away from the sun. read more

Always good food! Never disappointing and always accurate! Even though it is a Texas chain, I know what I'm going to get - a full and happy belly! read more

We just touched down and needed to pick a spot to eat and we landed on velvet taco! The vibe is cool and eclectic, and even at that evening hour they had a nice crowd. The staff were kind and friendly too! I got the special of the week--a gyro taco-- and the fish n chips taco with a side of queso. He got the gyro taco as well and corn elote. The gyro taco was our absolute fave! The queso was so gooey and delicious, and the corn elote was everything too even though it wasn't on the cob. They have tacos, bowls, nachos... a really versatile menu suitable for any hungry person! They also have this velvet cake that I plan to get during my next visit--yes, we will be back! read more

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It's velvet taco, it's a chain, it's fast food, it's everything you could want out of a taco joint with crazy flavors. Don't expect much because of the above. But do expect the flavors to hit it out of the park every single time. The service is that of a typical fast food joint, you order your food pay for it and leave. The ambience is interesting, because velvet taco can confuse you to make you think it is a sitdown restaurant. It's not, think of it as cava adjacent. It's nice enough that if you wanna come have a meal with your friends, you can, you can even have a cheeky little date night if you want to. But don't expect it to be that of a full fledge restaurant. You come here for the tacos and you leave. It's fantastic. read more

Velvet Taco - Chicken & Waffle and Mexi-Cali Shrimp - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Smelled like puke, probably because it was so close to the downtown bars. I think the food really lacked in flavor, especially somewhere like Texas where there's so many good Mexican eateries and taco joints. Great staff though, really friendly. read more

Honestly? I wish it had been better tonight. I had higher expectations since their location in Ft. Lauderdale is absolutely fire. The lowlights on tonight were the spicy chicken tikka tacos just felt assembled and the flavors were overpowered by the sauce and barely a hint of micro cilantro. Tortillas barely steamed. It worked but lacked the wow factor. The elected elote corn side was slightly cooler than room temperature and could have used a little more lime and salt. Both were misses but by no means showstoppers. read more

Velvet Taco - Twin Spicy Tikka Chicken Tacos. The WTF Combo has it going on for $15! - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Rating: 3.8/5 [dine in] Velvet Taco has so many interesting taco choices, so I was excited when our friend picked this spot for dinner. They feature a new taco flavor every week, which is fun and makes you want to come back to try more. It's a very casual dining spot where you're expected to bus your own table. We ordered two combos which each come with two tacos, a side, and a fountain drink. You can upgrade to a boozy drink for extra. Combo ($14.95) + Large Rocks Kick Ass Margarita ($9): My husband got the Fish 'N Chips and Korean Fried Rice tacos. The beer-battered cod was super crispy and delicious. The Korean Fried Rice taco, made with slow-roasted pulled pork and gochujang egg fried rice, surprisingly lacked flavor compared to the cod. For his side, he chose the classic guac with blue corn chips. The guac tasted fresher than the avocado in my Mexi-Cali Shrimp taco, but it didn't have any kick from the jalapeño or brightness from the lime juice. The margarita, made with tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and agave nectar, was easy to drink, though I preferred my frozen version. Combo ($14.95) + Regular Swirl ($6): I got the Quesa Birria Duo and Mexi-Cali Shrimp tacos. They forgot the birria consomé for dipping, which I didn't realize until I reread the menu afterward. The birria tacos were just okay--light on the filling--and probably would have been much better with the consomé. The Mexi-Cali Shrimp taco was generously filled, and I really liked the blackened shrimp, but the avocado wasn't ripe. For my side, I chose the elote, which came with blue corn chips. The elote was average, and the chips were borderline stale. The Sangrita Swirl (a red wine blend mixed with the frozen Kick Ass Margarita) was unique, tasty, and had a lighter alcohol taste compared to the original. Our friend also got a combo and shared her queso blanco side which ended up being my favorite. She found it spicy, but I didn't think so. read more

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When I asked my hotel a good spot to get food they didn't hesitate and told me velvet taco. They weren't wrong. Brandon hooked me up with awesome taco recommendations. Best tacos of my life, and I had to come back the next day for more. read more

Velvet Taco - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Unique and delicious tacos, friendly service, and a decent seating area/ambiance. My favorite are the Nashville Hot Tofu tacos and the Fish & Chips tacos were popular in our group too. The queso is really good too! Food: 4.5/5 Service: 4/5 Ambiance: 4/5 Value: 4/5 Overall: 4.25/5 read more

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So good! We enjoyed the Korean fried chicken taco (special for the month) the chimichurri taco and chips and salsa. Tacos were big ( these are not those little street tacos!). Everything delicious. Margaritas were good. We will be back read more

BANG! Great tacos!! The Korean fried rice and chicken and waffles tacos were insanely good- they burst with complex flavors. After ordering from a friendly staff member at the bar, the food came out quick and hot. Only downside is the music can be LOUD- was not optimal for a working lunch. read more

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The food was so good I didn't even get a chance to get photos ! Juan gave incredible service, recommending one of the best tacos (the slow roasted angus brisket taco) and I really really enjoyed the mexi-cali shrimp and the grilled salmon. I love how clean they keep this location and the overall vibe is just very welcoming. I'm so happy you guys were open at 3:30a (we just got back from an event) so this was lifesaving! read more

This spot brings the "ummmmy" to YUMMMMYYY! Delish and hits the spot! Plus good music and set up. Drop by and have some unique tastey tacossss read more

Spicy Tikka Chicken Taco and Red Velvet Taco are gud and tasty, with plenty of other good options to try out. read more

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Stopped in around 2:30 PM on a Saturday. The restaurant was busy, but there were still plenty of open seats. I was greeted by friendly staff and ordered the "Combo" with Slow-Roasted Angus Brisket, Chimichurri Steak, Queso Blanco & Chips, and a fountain drink. The roasted Angus brisket taco was outstanding -- full of flavor, and the comté cheese-encrusted flour tortilla really elevated the taste. The chimichurri steak taco was lighter but still packed with flavor and was equally delicious. The queso, made with chimichurri and Velvet Taco heat sauce, had a nice kick and was honestly the best queso I've ever had. I really enjoyed my meal at Velvet Taco and would definitely recommend it. read more

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Tacos were pretty good, but there's always room for improvement. Me and my sisters got the meal deal where it's like 2 tacos and a side and drink. The hamburger and birria tacos were pretty good but the birria meat could've been more flavorful. My sisters enjoyed their tacos, but said wasn't super extraordinary like other comments rave. Just a few less better than Chipotle depending which tacos you get. Surf and turf was "meh" The taco with a crispy chicken tender inside was "pretty good and spicy" Chips and guacamole on the side was standard. Staff chill and friendly Bathrooms dirty AF Chill vibe and decently clean inside and on their patio. read more

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The food was really good, they were very friendly . However , Ordered the fish and chips .. they forgot the chips ...Boo!! Rotisserie chicken bowl was Yums!! read more

I stopped into velvet taco to grab a quick lunch to go. The restaurant was clean and the server friendly and my order was ready pretty quick. I decided to try the mexi cali shrimp bowl because I like that taco. I asked them to add pickled onions. I didn't ask for the make it lighter option to swap the rice for Napa cabbage because there was already Napa cabbage in the bowl but next time I'll ask for less rice and more cabbage. It was delicious! Good portion of shrimp, large scoop of guac and great flavor! I would definitely order this again. read more

Velvet Taco - Mexi-Cali Shrimp Bowl (GF) add pickled onions - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

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The Velvet Taco is basically the anti-Austin taco of choice where feel like I am a traitor dining at this Dallas chain. I would not define Dallas as hip but this place does blend in with the Austin weirdness culture. This place also provides the downtown area with the ability of grab-n-go versus ordering food at a table. The staff was friendly and ordered a Rotisserie Chicken Taco. The taco was very delightful and tasted like made with fresh ingredients. It had great flavor where the chicken chunks were covered in queso blanco, roasted corn pico, charred tomato poblano salsa, cilantro and wrapped in a flour tortilla. The only drawback was it had a lot of juice and needed to make sure not to make a mess on the table or me. It was fulfilling where does give good competition with other local Austin taco places. read more

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Loved the queso birria taco and would definitely get it again. Also got the beer battered cauliflower taco, but wasn't a fan. read more

Velvet Taco - Queso birria taco on the left, beer battered cauliflower taco on the right - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

I placed an order to-go and was pleasantly surprised at the quality. Sometimes I feel like to-go orders don't hold up (in general, not specific to Velvet Taco). My order presentation was great. I ordered the Mexi-Cali Shrimp Bowl. Good portion and flavorful. read more

Velvet Taco - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

My friend and I came here for a goodbye dinner (I'm leaving Austin-- big sad) and we had great time. All the tacos were reasonably priced for Austin, and the interior had this cool low-ceiling kind of divey feel which was neat. The food came out promptly and tasted great, and all the tacos were really decent portion sizes. I'd say the only slight downsides to Velvet was that the service and cleanliness of the place were both fairly average, although it wasn't bad enough to detract a star. Aside from that, everything was A+ and I'd definitely go again. Oh wait, I won't be in Austin anymore. RIP. read more

Velvet Taco - Tacos - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Best spot ever for delicious tacos with a twist! Get the fried cauliflower tacos , you will not be disappointed The margarita & sangria swirl is amazing!! read more

Velvet Taco - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

That chicken tikka bowl is the best! Don't think I'll ever get tired of it. Can't go wrong here tbh.

Fast and Friendly Service Easy and Accessible Location Lupe thanks for welcoming me in with such a warm smile read more

We were in town and needed something quick and easy for a late dinner. Walking on Congress and saw Velvet Taco. Being for the Dallas area, I am very familiar with this restaurant and we were not disappointed for a quick bit. Always a great selection of taco options. From the simple to the extraordinary mix of textures and flavors. Plenty of seating and it's comfortable. We will return on our next visit to the city and in need of a taco fix. Make sure you stop by and give them a try. Enjoy! read more

Velvet Taco - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Really amazing and creative tacos. If you are looking for tradition this is not the place to go but if you want creative fun tacos go here. Chicken and waffles taco? Yes please! Pretty quick service, reasonable prices and super casual atmosphere. read more

This spot is amazing. They are open late, their food is good and their customer service is excellent. Both times we have gone Benjamin has taken care of us. read more

I'm always a fan of Velvet Taco, especially their paneer taco! The crispy paneer paired with the tangy yogurt sauce is seriously delicious. I just wish it were a little less salty -- but aside from that, this spot always delivers! read more

Velvet Taco - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Very surprised by how good the food was. Just didn't have high hopes for the area and what seemed to be a high traffic corporate lunch spot, but they surpassed expectation. We ordered the tofu Nashville taco which had great breading and perfect spice to it. The tofu was soft but crisp on the outside. The pickles were the perfect balance and the drizzle of ranch made the taco. We also got the brisket bowl with cabbage, as well as the steak bowl with rice. Both were very good. Would easily come back if I'm ever in the area, as there's something for everyone, including vegans and vegetarians. read more

Velvet Taco - Nashville Hot Tofu - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

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In town for the UT game. We have been to the velvet taco before and decided to go for a quick solid meal. The velvet taco did not disappoint. We started with queso and chips. The queso was real good that came with green chiles. The green chile salsa added the perfect amount of heat to go with the creamy queso. We ordered a combination of salmon, shrimp and buffalo chicken tacos. All three were excellent. Tip of the day: the salsa is very good but be real conservative with the amount you add to fish or shrimp tacos because it will overpower the mild fish/shrimp. Plenty of space inside that easily accommodates small or large parties. Staff was very friendly and service was super fast. Excellent experience. read more

Velvet Taco - Queso Blanco - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Brisket Taco was great, Rotisserie chicken was not great, i wouldn't get it again. tortilla chips are so fragile can't scoop without breaking and quac was bland. I would order just the brisket taco again, everything else not so much. Very bland food but knowing the area and people they serve im not surprised. read more

BIG fan of Velvet Taco. I'm an East Coaster visiting Austin for work and heard good things, so decided to stop by. Their tacos were so good, I came back again the day after. Super impressed with their vegetarian options (the Nashville hot tofu was my favorite) and the service was outstanding. My only complaint is that I don't have a location closer to my house. Don't hesitate - RUN to Velvet Taco! read more

Velvet Taco - Nashville Hot Tofu and Beer Battered Cauliflower tacos - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

Excellence across the board food and service was amazing shout out to our server Lupe she was fantastic. I definitely will recommend Velvet Taco to everyone read more

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Velvet taco is hands-down, our favorite go to place for a late night snack. They have a huge variety of taco options on their menu and they're also quite nice about substituting something. It's open till pretty late which is the best part about it. Spicy paneer tikka - 9/10 Beer battered cauliflower - 8/10 Korean fried rice - 7/10 Spicy chicken tikka - 10/10 I usually get the chicken tikka taco and the spicy paneer taco. Their prices are really good and if you go kind of late, you might run into a crowd after the bars but otherwise they have a big enough seating space that you'll be able to find seats. It is kind of like an order at the counter and see yourself place. Very casual and fast service. read more

I'm a bit baffled by the 4.5 stars this place has. It was mediocre at best. While my tofu taco was tasty, it was cold as was the famed cauliflower taco. The large, "bad ass margarita"on the sweet side, needing more "bad ass", The best thing this place had going for it was the guacamole and chips. Guac was fresh and large portion. The chips were thin and perfectly salted. I was expecting a casual atmosphere, however while I was eating a worker slopped down a bucket of soapy, dirty water right next to me and began vigorously cleaning the table. I had to look away as it was unappetizing. read more

Velvet Taco - Large "big ass margarita", tofu taco cauliflower taco, guacamole, chips & chips. - New American Near Me - Austin, Texas

September 2025 It's pricey for a reason - they take great care in the ingredients and balance. It's worth it for the high quality. Service was fine. Ordered through the app for pickup and it was a smooth transaction. Nothing particularly memorable. Slow-Roasted Angus Brisket: 10/10 This alone is a great reason to visit. It is absolutely packed with flavor and worth every penny. I'm getting 2 next time. Spicy Chicken Tikka: 10/10 Do you like Chicken Tikka Masala? Do you also like tacos? Behold this beautiful fusion of the two. Absolutely delicious and worth it. Beer Battered Cauliflower: 5/10 Underwhelming. Just not a whole lot going on, nothing to be excited about. Great middle-of-the-road vegetarian option. read more