WEST AUSTIN. Mexican and Tex-Mex joints are a dime a dozen in Austin, but Abuelo's stands out for both ambience and an extensive menu. The restaurant is reminiscent of a posh Mexican courtyard with its colorful murals, statuary, and plenty of lush foliage. The food ranges from Tex-Mex standards like enchiladas and fajitas to more authentic dishes. Tortilla soup, a staple in the Southwest, is quite good here, as is Fundido del Mar, a concoction of shrimp, scallops, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and poblanos in a white wine-cheese sauce.

ROUND ROCK. Festive atmosphere ­ think colorful neon, cactus and agave plants, bustling service, and lively music ­ is the perfect complement to Antonio's vivacious Tex-Mex food. All your favorites are present and are well-prepared with fresh ingredients and appealing presentation. Choose from burritos, tacos, chili, queso dip, and plenty of vegetarian options. Everyone is sure to find something tasty, and there's a good selection of tequilas, too!

BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. Recognized for several years in a row by the "Austin Chronicle" for serving the best margaritas in town, you'll find this casual restaurant among the popular Barton Springs strip of eateries. Dozens of varieties of the famous cocktail are offered, including banana, pink passion, and pineapple. The best seat in the house isn't actually in the house but on its outside patio, where you can enjoy traditional Tex-Mex fare while people-watching.

BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. Chuy's is a real local favorite, and its colorful, whimsical decor features an Elvis shrine, lava lamps, and approximately 1,000 wooden fish dangling precariously from the ceiling. New Mexico chilis are grilled up front and served in many of the tasty Tex-Mex dishes, and Southwest enchiladas come stuffed with smoked chicken and cheese and crowned with a fried egg.

EAST AUSTIN. More than once, Cisco's has been called the type of place that makes Austin the city it is. Family-owned, it opened in the '50s and quickly became <i>the</i> spot for breakfasting politicians. The crowd is a bit more diverse these days, but the food remains just as good. One whiff of homemade biscuits and spicy migas, and you'll be hooked. If you're tired of the eggs-and-salsa drill, sample picadillos (rolls filled with zesty ground beef) as an alternative. At lunch, fajitas, enchiladas, and the like take the forefront. Casual and super friendly, the place also comes with charmingly outdated decor and family photos.