Linger Over Tasty Duck Carnitas Tacos at the Renowned Nixta Taqueria
With Michelin, James Beard, and Food & Wine credentials under its belt, Nixta Taqueria has grown from an East Austin neighborhood joint into a national destination.
What to order
- Vegetarians and vegans are excused, but you’re not an Austinite until you’ve had Nixta’s duck carnitas taco ($10). That’s law. Made with seared duck legs that are cooked low for 16 hours, the dish packs the fatty, meaty, and decadent flavor only duck can provide. The earthy corn torilias play well against the richness and a citrus salsa provides an extra pop of flavor..
- The tuna tostada ($15) layers citrus- and tamari-cured yellowfin over avocado, and chipotle aioli, then finishes it with microgreens and a little furikake. It’s sharp, creamy, crunchy and a little messy.
- The enchilada potosina tacos ($9) are a window into chef Rico’s creativity. Made with a potato-and-chorizo purée, duck-fat refried beans, shredded cabbage, and salsa inside the tortilia (that is pre-worked into the masa), making for a delightful homage to San Luis Potosí in Mexico, where Rico’s family is from.
Best for
With the beautiful scenery, counter-service, and patio dining, long dinners over bottles of wine with large parties are the peak Nixta experience.
Take note
Nixta is a special restaurant, but there is one rub. Save for some specials, Nixta’s small and tailored menu rarely changes. This is a shame, considering chef Rico is quite talented and the food is outstanding. There is a remedy though, if you’re finding yourself a bit bored after frequent visits. Every Thursday through Saturday, Nixta has two nightly seatings for a tasting menu at $95 a head that put the restaurant’s innovation on full display. Reservations can be booked on Resy.
