WEST AUSTIN. Mexican and Tex-Mex joints are a dime a dozen in Austin, but Abuelo's stands out for both ambience and an extensive menu. The restaurant is reminiscent of a posh Mexican courtyard with its colorful murals, statuary, and plenty of lush foliage. The food ranges from Tex-Mex standards like enchiladas and fajitas to more authentic dishes. Tortilla soup, a staple in the Southwest, is quite good here, as is Fundido del Mar, a concoction of shrimp, scallops, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and poblanos in a white wine-cheese sauce.

BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. Recognized for several years in a row by the "Austin Chronicle" for serving the best margaritas in town, you'll find this casual restaurant among the popular Barton Springs strip of eateries. Dozens of varieties of the famous cocktail are offered, including banana, pink passion, and pineapple. The best seat in the house isn't actually in the house but on its outside patio, where you can enjoy traditional Tex-Mex fare while people-watching.

SOUTH CONGRESS AVENUE. Austin's diverse local flavor includes this authentic Argentinean café, where patrons sip Vienna roast coffee and engage in quiet conversation over piping hot empanadas and <i>tostado de jamon y queso</i> (toasted ham and cheese). The charming, cozy ambience is reminiscent of the busy streets of Buenos Aires. Relax on the shaded patio, or take a hummus wrap and espresso to go.

BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. Chuy's is a real local favorite, and its colorful, whimsical decor features an Elvis shrine, lava lamps, and approximately 1,000 wooden fish dangling precariously from the ceiling. New Mexico chilis are grilled up front and served in many of the tasty Tex-Mex dishes, and Southwest enchiladas come stuffed with smoked chicken and cheese and crowned with a fried egg.

SOUTH AUSTIN. One of Austin's favorite spots for Mexican food, Curra's has numerous dining areas, a large patio, and great eats. Start with queso flameado, an amazing combination of melted jack cheese, peppers, and chorizo. Standout main dishes include Punta de Filete (tenderloin chunks and mushrooms in chipotle sauce) and the perky Camarones a la Margarita (shrimp with chile pasilla, gold tequila, orange liqueur, and lime). Curra's tamales are excellent as well, and you can choose from pork, bean, chicken, or veggie varieties.