Austin, Texas, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and among its many delights are countless variations on the classic chicken quesadilla. From hole-in-the-wall taco trucks to upscale restaurants, finding the perfect cheesy, chicken-filled tortilla is a quest worth undertaking. This guide dives deep into 21 of Austin's best chicken quesadillas, offering insights into what makes each unique and worth a visit. We'll explore different styles, price points, and atmospheres to help you find your new favorite.
Finding Your Perfect Chicken Quesadilla in Austin
The best chicken quesadilla is subjective, depending on individual preferences. Do you crave a simple, classic quesadilla? Or are you looking for something gourmet, loaded with extra ingredients and unique flavors? This guide categorizes Austin's top chicken quesadilla offerings to help you narrow down your search.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chicken Quesadilla
- Type of Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or a blend? The cheese plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture.
- Chicken Preparation: Is the chicken grilled, shredded, or diced? Marinated or seasoned simply?
- Toppings & Sauces: Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo – these additions can elevate a quesadilla to new heights.
- Tortilla Type: Flour or corn? The tortilla's flavor and texture impact the overall experience.
- Price: Austin offers options at various price points, from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy.
- Atmosphere: Are you looking for a casual, quick bite or a more upscale dining experience?
The Top 21 Chicken Quesadillas in Austin (Categorized for your convenience)
This list is not exhaustive, but it showcases a diverse range of Austin's chicken quesadilla offerings, organized by style and price point. Remember that tastes are subjective, so exploration is key!
Budget-Friendly Bites: Quick, Casual, and Delicious
- Taqueria Los Güeros: Known for its authentic flavors and generous portions. Expect simple, delicious quesadillas at a great price.
- Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ: A unique fusion of Tex-Mex and BBQ, offering a surprisingly tasty chicken quesadilla with a smoky twist.
- Polvos: A classic Austin eatery serving up consistently good, affordable Mexican fare, including a satisfying chicken quesadilla.
- ** Veracruz All Natural:** Food truck fame! Simple, fresh ingredients make this a favorite for a quick and tasty lunch.
- Micklethwait Craft Meats: While known for BBQ, their chicken quesadilla is a delicious and unexpected treat.
Mid-Range Marvels: Elevated Ingredients and Flavor
- Matt's El Rancho: A long-standing Austin institution with a reliable menu and a hearty chicken quesadilla.
- Chuy's: Popular for its fun atmosphere and good food, Chuy's offers several creative quesadilla variations.
- Torchy's Tacos: Famous for its creative tacos, Torchy's also serves a delicious and inventive chicken quesadilla.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar: Yes, they do quesadillas! A unique take on the classic, often featuring gourmet ingredients.
- El Chilito: Known for its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, offering a well-executed classic chicken quesadilla.
Upscale Experiences: Gourmet Quesadillas for Special Occasions
- Odd Duck: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique and seasonal chicken quesadilla. Expect unexpected ingredients and flavors.
- Justine's Brasserie: A French-inspired restaurant with surprisingly good quesadillas, featuring higher-quality ingredients.
- Josephine House: Known for its elegant atmosphere, their chicken quesadilla is a luxurious and refined take on the classic.
- Uchi: While primarily a sushi restaurant, Uchi's occasional special menu items might include a truly exceptional chicken quesadilla.
- Launderette: This stylish restaurant serves up creative and delicious quesadillas that often incorporate unique and seasonal ingredients.
Unique and Inventive Quesadillas: Beyond the Classic
- Via 313: Detroit-style pizza joint, surprisingly good quesadillas. Expect bold flavors and textures.
- The Peached Tortilla: Asian fusion influences meet Mexican classics. Be prepared for adventurous flavor combinations.
- Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden: A fun atmosphere and a unique take on quesadillas, often incorporating sausages and beer-related elements.
- Loro: Asian smokehouse with a surprisingly good quesadilla, expect unique flavors.
- Home Slice Pizza: Pizza place that also has a tasty and unique quesadilla.
- Tyson's Tacos: Food truck specializing in fusion tacos with creative chicken quesadilla variations.
Finding Your Perfect Quesadilla: A Final Word
This list provides a starting point for your quest to find the perfect chicken quesadilla in Austin. Remember to explore, try new places, and discover your personal favorites! Don't be afraid to venture beyond the obvious, as many hidden gems await. Happy eating!
