A large number of local eaters consider Torchy’s the poster child of Austin tacos. All three locations serve a long menu of bulging, top quality tacos that run the gamut from fried chicken to fried avocado. What they don’t advertise is the fact that the place is overrun by college girls, hipsters and all manner of tattooed white guys. Torchy’s doesn’t strive for authenticity in any way—which is fine when you have a wide base of customers that line up in droves—so don’t expect much of an experience here (except maybe at the outdoor Trailer Park location). That said, any comprehensive tour of Austin’s taco landmarks should include a stop at Torchy’s.
RECS: The Green Chili Pork and “Republican” (jalapeno sausage) tacos are top notch, though not much different from the less expensive equivalent available elsewhere. I’d recommend the “Ranch Hand” (essentially steak-and-eggs) and the “Brushfire”—a jerk chicken taco that might be the most potent tongue-burner in all of Austin. If you’re in the mood for something breaded and deep-fried, go for the Baja Shrimp or Fried Avocado.
