Chuy's - Barton Springs

My first encounter with Chuy’s was in 1985, virtually. My mom came home from a visit to Austin (she was researching grad schools) raving about Chuy’s, and the next thing I knew were naming a kitten Chuy. We moved to Austin in 1986, and Chuy’s was the first restaurant we visited. Loved it from the beginning and still love it now, in Houston!

The drinks are strong, the chips are free, and they have Elvis decor. Basically, I love it.

I went here on the last night I was in Austin. It was my farewell Tex-Mex dinner before moving to Canada. I savoured that meal like no other. My dad, sister, and her boyfriend were there too since it was also an early birthday dinner for her. We got the appetizer plate while waiting for a table (since it’s ALWAYS such a long wait, even on a Monday! that must mean it’s good, haha), then I got the Lite Combo Plate #8 with a crispy taco and queso. MmMmMmMm! I will miss you Chuy’s!

the food is ok. the environment is fun and sort of tacky.

but it’s practically a rite of passage to visit this place.

after a day at Zilker Park.

One of my favorite restaurants, along with Hula Hut. Can’t get enough of it. Best place to go after a dip in Barton Springs. Queso Compuesto all the way. I will always want to go back here!

The chuychanga and CHUYGOOEY!!! If you want a BIG giant queso like fest – do the CHUYGOOEY. It will change your life…it changed mind.

Ask for some Creamy Jalepeno with your chips. I swear by that stuff, it’s incredible. It’s ranch with tomatillo souce and fire roasted green chiles. There’s not actually any jalepenos in it. I’ve started making my own, because I can’t get enough.

I spent 7 years in Houston and frequented the Chuy’s there religiously. When I moved to Austin it was like coming to Chuy’s Mecca. There are so many to visit. There’s even the Hula Hut—Chuy’s tropical sister.

My favorite dish is the Elvis Presley fried chicken. A chicken breast breaded with Lay’s potato chips! Sometimes it’s not on the menu, but you can ask, and sometimes they have it.

I usually get the Chuychanga, delish.

You have to try the creamy jalapeno sauce. mmmmmm.