Z’Tejas

One of the reasons I love living in Austin so much is that there are so many locally owned and operated restaurants. One of my all time favorite Austin restaurants is Z’Tejas.

Z’tejas started out in 1989 on Austin’s famous 6th Street in a historic downtown house. Since then the restaurant has grown and now has 2 more locations in Austin and 6 more locations across the country including locations in Salt Lake City, UT, Phoenix, AZ, and Costa Mesa, CA.

All of the newer Z’tejas restaurants are very nice with bar/cocktail areas, booths, patios, etc, etc. However, the first location in that old house on 6th Street has a funky eclectic vibe. It is truly a different experience. No booths, cramped seating (tables are put in every which corner they can squeeze) linens and furniture are mismatched and it is always loud and busy. I made the mistake of taking my grandmother there one day when she was in town for lunch and because it was so load and busy she could not hear a thing. I felt so bad, here I was trying to give her an authentic Austin experience and she couldn’t enjoy it! (I mean she raved about the food after we left I just should have taken her to one of the other locations were the mood is a little more mellow.)

Not only is the dining experience unique and eclectic at Z’tejas but the food is outstanding! The menu, largely influenced by the south, signifies the bold robust flavors of Arizona, California, Louisiana, New Mexico and Texas. I have eaten there many a time and never been disappointed!

On Saturday and Sundays they serve a scrumptious brunch with migas, breakfast enchiladas, and breakfast quesadillas. Every brunch item comes with your choice of a apple bran muffin (which is extremely moist with apples, shredded carrots, and raisins in it) or a banana nut muffin (ok- but not my mom’s) and a bowl of fruit.

For lunch and dinner the amazing food continues with their Chicken Avocado Sandwich, with grilled cilantro pesto chicken breast topped with melted Jack cheese and fresh
avocado slices, served on a bun with lettuce, red onion, tomato and jalapeño mayonnaise. (one of my favorites). To the Parmesan Pecan-Crusted Chicken Salad Baby spinach, Roma tomatoes, crispy bacon mixed with warm bacon dressing and topped with Parmesan pecan-crusted
chicken and goat cheese (another favorite). And their tortilla soup is also amazing with fresh avocados in it! Every day each Z’tejas has a daily entree special and a daily dessert special, so you will never tire with their menu.

During their Happy Hour appetizers are half off and consists of Jumbo Quesadillas, Chile Pork Verde, Ahi Tuna, and several more. You sure can’t beat half price!

If you happen to be in Austin then the 6th Street location is a must, if not try to check out Ztejas in at one of their other locations. I promise you, you will NOT be disappointed!