La Mancha Tex Mex Tavern - Austin

The service was exceptional from beginning to end. We requested a table with a view of the UT basketball game, and the host graciously moved us twice to ensure we had great seats near the big screen TVs. Our server was wonderful, always ensuring our water glasses were full and that we had plenty of chips. The restaurant features a spacious dog-friendly patio, a bar area, and several additional seating sections. There are TVs all around if you're keen on watching a game, and parking is a breeze in their large lot. This place truly embodies a neighborhood restaurant vibe, and I can't wait to come back soon!

Upon being seated inside at a booth, we initially enjoyed the retro Tex-Mex vibe of old Austin. However, our enjoyment quickly faded when our margaritas and queso arrived—both were truly terrible. The margarita was overly sweet, and the Firehouse No. 12 queso tasted like canned beef with a few sad slices of avocado floating in unappetizing cheese. It was quite unappealing. The worst dish of the night was the Caldo de Pollo soup. We never thought we would find ourselves longing for the culinary skills of our local eatery, Julio's, but they would have been a welcome relief compared to what we were served at La Mancha. It was basically a small cup of tasteless broth with random, unseasoned ingredients bobbing around. It was incredibly disappointing. The El Numero Tres combo plate fared better but still didn't impress—just more pre-packaged, lifeless food. Our daughter’s quesadilla plate was the saddest of all: a microwaved cheese-filled tortilla accompanied by some rice, and that was it. We certainly don’t plan on returning here anytime soon. It’s a shame that a place with so much potential, given its proximity, turned out to be so poor. Two stars. If you're looking for a better option, head over to Billy's down the block; it’s far superior in every way.

The patio is pleasant, the margaritas were enjoyable, and the chips were quite tasty. However, the overall quality of the food was just average. The service was efficient, and we were seated promptly. The portion sizes are reasonable for sharing. If I happen to be in the area and crave a margarita, I'd consider coming back, but I don't anticipate making a special trip.

The service was great but food was very average. I got el numero uno combo, which comes with a cheese enchilada, a crispy beef taco, a pork tamale verde, refried beans, and rice. My friend got el numero tres combo. It was okay, but not very appetizing. We did not really like the chips and salsa. It does seem like a fun place for drinks.

I have finally found Tex-Mex in Texas, sat at the bar and Amriss was extremely helpfully and made recommendations though-out. I had the Corona-Rita with their unreal chips and salsa and ordered the Mexican Street Corn app. I do wish it was on the cob but the flavor was spot on. Amriss made several recommendations and I settled on the El Numero Dos Combo Plate which was exactly what I was looking for. I made sure to save some salsa for my enchiladas to add a kick. I did add the Charro Beans which had me at bacon and were excellent. Service was perfect and I would not hesitate to recommend La Mancha to anyone!!