Nixta Taqueria

A ways down on East 12th Street sits this well-loved and colorful little building, rocking some of the best corn tortillas in town and embodying an incredibly welcoming vibe. A counter-service joint serving up top-notch tacos and tostadas, this place is also known for their beautiful murals that decorate the place. As an added bonus, you can also make a donation toward their community relief efforts in partnership with Austin Mutual Aid’s Free Fridge Project, which helps purchase groceries, sanitary items, and more for those in need.

Chef Edgar Rico harnesses Mexican tradition and his culinary know-how to elevate the humble taco, dishing up a bill of heirloom corn tortillas filled with textures and colors you’d expect to see in a fine dining establishment, all served in a neighborhood setting. Tacos and tostadas begin with fresh masa made in-house from heritage corn. The vegan Beet Tartare Tostada is delicious, a crisp shell topped with earthy roasted beets, salsa macha aioli, avocado crema, horseradish, and lime for a one-two punch of flavor and texture. Make the Coco Rico Paleta your dessert—it’s a popsicle made with coconut milk, coconut cream, and toasted coconut chips.
How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating or order delivery via Favor.

The 2019 hole-in-the-wall addition has developed a loyal Eastside following thanks to their incredible homemade corn tortillas packed with veggies and proteins. Standouts from the relatively short menu include Tuna Tostadas (marinated yellowfin tuna cured in citrus, soy, avocado, spicy mayo, cilantro, and furikake) and the Duck Carnitas Taco (duck confit, salsa cruda, watermelon radish, shaved white onions, cilantro). And who doesn’t love an almighty Breakfast Taco? Especially when it's ladled with housemade bacon, roasted fingerling potatoes, Tillamook cheddar, scrambled eggs, and lacto-fermented hot sauce, and served until 5 pm.
How to book: Stop by for first-come, first-served seating.