In less than a decade, Torchy’s Tacos built a taco empire. How? By capturing the spirit of Austin’s culture. From the tacos to the smiling pitchfork-wielding devil mascot, Torchy’s simultaneously feels familiar, rebellious, and damn delicious.

Breakfast is served all day here, offering the typical egg-and-whatever combos you’ll find at most Austin taco establishments. But it’s their lunch tacos (also served all day) that recklessly (yet skillfully) toss gourmet ingredients and flavor combinations together. While Torchy’s has many highs, there are a couple of lows. A few Torchy’s locations have bars that serve over-sugared double-wide margaritas with floating beer cans that feel more at home in a Carlos N Charlie’s than here. While we commend them for attempting to create a drinking experience, all you really need is a Pacifico or Topo Chico.

With locations all over Austin, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and now in Denver, the Torchy’s global domination is real. Each location has something a little different to offer in its aesthetics. But if you want to experience the epicenter of Torchy’s culture, checkout the flagship location on South Congress.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Jordan Haro

The Trailer Park

It’s fried chicken in a tortilla, so of course it’s amazing. Ask for it “trashy” in which queso replaces lettuce. It comes with poblano ranch, which is very mild - we go for the diablo sauce instead.

Fried Avocado Taco

Proof that “vegetarian” doesn’t mean “light,” this is the best non-meat lunch taco on the menu.

Mr. Pink

A kind of healthy-ish fish taco simply consisting of fresh ahi and slaw. Reliable.

photo credit: Jordan Haro

Queso

It’s one of the best in town.