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Matt's El Rancho: A Tex-Mex Icon in Austin, TX

Matt's El Rancho, a Tex-Mex gem located in Austin, TX on S Lamar Blvd, has been a local favorite for over 70 years. With a bustling atmosphere and authentic cuisine, this restaurant is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. The legendary Bob Armstrong queso, shrimp enchiladas, and beef and chicken fajitas are just a few highlights of their extensive menu. The attentive service, outdoor seating, and vibrant ambience make dining here a memorable experience. Whether you're a Tex-Mex aficionado or a first-timer, Matt's El Rancho is sure to impress with its delicious food and inviting atmosphere.

Matt's El Rancho at a glance

  • Address 2613 S Lamar Blvd Austin, TX 78704
  • Phone (512) 462-9333
  • Restaurant type Tex-Mex restaurant , Bar , Latin American restaurant , Mexican restaurant , Restaurant .
  • Popular for Popular for lunch , Popular for dinner , Good for solo dining .

Photos & Gallery

Matt's El Rancho: Reviews & Ratings

Abbey
4

Great atmosphere and tasty food. The beef enchiladas were delicious and came out fast. The salsa is tasty but definitely leans on the spicier side! The outdoor seating is a wonderful sanctuary from the noise of the city. A must-visit in Austin.

Shahram Mehraban
5

Came here for a quick lunch after a business meeting. Didn’t expect much from a Tex mex restaurant called Matt’s and I was impressed. Service was friendly and fast. Inside is very cozy and warm. They have patio seating in the back. Chips and salsa hit the spot. Waitress recommended the Asadero tacos and boy am I ever glad I went with it. It was so tender and flavorful that I didn’t add the fixings that came with the food. $20 for two tacos which is pricey but well worth it.

darilyn clewies
5

I dined in Friday evening 10/24 about 730pm the light was very intimidating, but it moved really fast. It seems crazy and chaotic, but it’s worth the weight. We got margaritas from the bar as we waited for our table. We got seated inside in the back. It was very loud so we asked for a table on the patio, which I would recommend we ate right by the pond. The food was delicious. The roasted garlic and jalapeños to die for service was greatthat chips and salsa. Amazing if you like spice every time I go to Austin, I will try to make this place. It was delicious.

Scott Marzoli
5

Out if town for a wedding from New Jersey! Perfect cosmo cocktail - made w fresh lime and Cointreau! Great prices, Good service- food came out fast and was hot! Had the fresh guac, chicken and cheese enchiladas. Brenda our server was the best! Sat on outdoor patio in the sun! Nice breeze! Enjoyed this place on our mini vaca!

Adam Cohen
5

Was a little drunk so the stuffed quail was the only thing I took a picture of but wow. This place really is worth the hype. Not a fan of Tex mex at all, but Matt’s is truly a step above. The quail was perfectly cooked and flavorful. The Asadero Tacos are incredible, and the flautas were perfect but make sure you can eat them there, not very good leftover. The knockout martini is a must have, it was like 4 margarita martinis in one and comes out in the shaker itself. So good. Didn’t try the queso because I’m an idiot but I’ve heard that it’s the bomb. Can’t wait to be back, always booming.

Dez
5

The food was AMAZING and the service was great. Everything came out hot, flavorful, and exactly what we were hoping for. Our server was attentive, friendly, and did a great job taking care of us the whole night. The only hiccup was seating. We had requested outdoor seating but were sat indoors. That one is honestly on us too. We didn’t say anything right away because I didn’t realize my sister had requested outdoor seating until after we were already seated. When I did ask, they let us know it would be about a 30 minute wait to move outside, which we understood and decided to stay put. Drinks were solid. My Coke Zero tasted good, but my sister mentioned her regular Coke tasted a little flat. My other family has alcohol drinks & they said it was great. Overall, the food and service absolutely made up for the small things. Still a great experience and we would definitely come back.

Joseph Pratt
5

Fantastic place to get Tex-Mex. The brisket nachos were incredible but the quesadilla was by far the single greatest quesadilla I have ever had. Absolutely phenomenal. I have heard great things about Bob's Queso, but I didn't get to try it. Next time for sure (and you can bet there will be a next time even though I live across the country.

Charlotte
5

Matt’s is quintessential Tex-Mex! The Knockout Martini is a must-try, and starting with the Bob (queso) sets the perfect tone for the meal. The shrimp and steak fajitas are outstanding—flavorful, tender, and absolutely delicious. A true Austin staple that never disappoints! Please note that Matt’s can get quite busy during peak hours, but the service moves quickly. The tables are set close together, and the lively atmosphere can get loud—so sip your drink, soak it all in, and enjoy the experience!

Location

  • Matt's El Rancho
    Matt's El Rancho
    2613 S Lamar Blvd Austin, TX 78704 Hotline: (512) 462-9333

Welcome to Matt's El Rancho, a legendary Tex-Mex restaurant located in Austin, Texas. Known for its iconic Bob Armstrong queso and delicious cocktails, Matt's El Rancho offers a vibrant and bustling dining experience.

With a diverse menu that includes seafood, Mexican, and Tex-Mex dishes, Matt's El Rancho caters to a variety of palates. Customers rave about the flavorful entrees and the attentive service provided by the staff.

  • Enjoy outdoor seating on a quaint patio, or dine inside the spacious and well-designed restaurant.
  • Make sure to try the shrimp enchiladas, taco salad, or the Matt's Especial for a taste of traditional Tex-Mex flavors.
  • Don't miss out on the legendary Bob's Dip, a delectable combination of queso, guacamole, and ground beef.

Whether you're looking for a casual lunch spot or a lively dinner destination with friends, Matt's El Rancho has something for everyone. With options for vegan and vegetarian diets, as well as catering services for groups, this restaurant truly caters to a wide range of diners.

Experience the warm hospitality and authentic Tex-Mex vibes at Matt's El Rancho, where every dish is a taste of home and every visit is a memorable dining experience.

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Offers delivery
    • On-site services available
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards