Hidden Tex-Mex Gem in Downtown Austin
I must have driven past this spot hundreds of times in the last seven years and never noticed it. Isn’t it funny how the scenery around you can just be blurred in the background? I’m glad I finally opened my eyes and saw this spot because it’s not just super cute, but the food is REALLy good.
Ok you’re probably wondering WHAT is this restaurant?!
It’ called Pelon’s and it’s located on the corner of Red River and 8th – directly across from Stubb’s. They’ve been there for seven years and I NEVER knew it! I don’t want you to sleep on this spot like I did, so I’m going to highlight my favourite menu items (plus there’s a fun surprise at the end!)
Chicken Flautas
Crispy, flavorful, chewy and served with queso… I’m sold!
Don’t forget the cocktails! We enjoyed The Paloma and The Flaca with our flautas.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
These tacos were absolutely perfect. Jumbo grilled shrimp with tons of spice, sauteed zucchini, and pico de gallo with pineapple (I’m not a huge pineapple fan on my savory foods but I really loved this) and it was served with street corn (see below) and charro beans. PS you can get the zucchini as a side and I wish every place did that. It’s all so DELICIOUS.
Mexican Street Kernels
They do street corn really really well – tons of hot sauce, a huge sprinkling of queso fresco and perfectly grilled corn. I love when side dishes are as good as the main meal!
Spiced Chicken Enchiladas
Tons of pulled chicken with a heavy smothering of white cheese and tomatillo sauce. We really loved these enchiladas – the perfect blend of spices and that cheese was dreamy!
Chicken and Steak Fajitas
These came out steaming hot and piled high with char-grilled chicken, steak, peppers and onions (does anyone else love the caramelized onions that kind of stick to the bottom of the pan?!) It’s served with all the fixings (guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, lettuce, and pico).
More drinks, please! We enjoyed The Higher Shelf and Mexican Martini with our Tex-Mex feast and the flavors paired perfectly!
So here’s the surprise… Bar 508 Mezcalerita is right next door, literally in the same patio, and it’s the perfect bar. They have light bites, large TV’s inside, and a second floor deck that has the best sunset viewing! These two spots are doing amazing things in the food and drink world and I highly recommend checking them out!
