DC Restaurant Review: Austin Grill

Austin Grill was one of the first places I went to as a teenager in DC. The Cleveland Park location had great tacos and margaritas and beers for cheap. It was always packed and always fun. Austin Grill has grown to a regional chain and their menu has changed to meet demands and to compete with the likes of Cactus Cantina and Rio Grande. That was a shame when they changed the menu...it was the beginning of the end. AUstin Grill used to be an icon in DC, it was serious austin tex-mex now its a chain.

I am not abog fan of the salsa and chips at this joint. I like cripser chips and this place had chunky chips. They actually have a green salsa which is good here. The starter we also had some guacamole. It was a little spicy with a helathy portion of jalepenos but the guacamole seemed to have been watered down or maybe it was too many limes. In essence it seemed like the avacoda was only half there.

While this place is chain there are still some great items on the menu. Migas, Nuevos Rancheros, or chirizo eggs and cheese tacos are staples at this place and really the only reason for goings. I had the chorizo and egg tacos, simple and good. They actual rival La Victoria Taquira in Houston. Maybe not that good but it hints at that kind of goodness. My friend had the migas with tortillas. On some level I think tortillas should be served with every meal. They are a great compliment too anythiing. Its weird that i like tortillas so much even though I oppose the wrap movements completely. The migas are fried eggs, cheese, beans and salsa. These are great dishes.

i have had everything ont he menu and it is your typical tex-mex. Nothing earth shattering but the eggs dishes do rule. If you are Texan this is not the best place for you.

I am going to go to Rio Grande soon so that we can figure out whats the best tex-mex in DC. Think a comaprison of slasa, fagitas, tacos, enchiladas, burritos...

DC Scale: In the midst of committee hearings and getting touch questions from the freshman Member from MD.