The James Beard Foundation Awards finalists had just been announced, and since Texas has its own category for Best Chef and we happened to be nearby nominated Chef Edgar Rico's Nixta Taqueria, we decided to stop by for dinner.
At Nixta, corn takes center stage (Nixta is named after Nixtamilization, or the process through which corn is transformed into tortillas), and the vibe is casual, with a pleasant outdoor seating area.
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| Sikil P'aak |
The Sikil P'aak consisted of a pumpkin seed dip sprinkled with puffed amaranth. It was served with veggies and a masa-black-sesame cracker.
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| Chips-n-Dips |
The chips and dips were addicting. The dips consisted of salsa morita and duck fat refried beans. You can get avocado crema for an additional fee.
I really enjoyed the Sweet Potato Molotes. The creamy center and the spicy salsa roja complemented each other nicely.
The Enchilada Potosino Taco, with potato chorizo puree, duck fat refried beans, cabbage, roasted tomato salsa, and queso enchilado was so delish! It was quite a filling tostada, and the flavors melded together perfectly.
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| Sweet Potato Molotes |
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| Enchilada Potosino Taco |
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| Quesadilla |
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| Bean & Cheese Taco |
Both the Quesadilla and Bean & Cheese Taco included Panela Cheese, which I loved! The cheese is firm and mild in flavor, but also added a nice saltiness.
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| Smoked Pork Machete |
The Smoked Pork Machete was a special of the day, and it was enormous! Smoked pork was braised in a pink pineapple salsa, and served with a salsa morita and escabeche. It was amazing!
Chef Edgar came out to serve a few of the dishes, and I briefly talked to him about Nixta and his nomination. It was obvious how grateful he was and the immense passion he put into his food.
For dessert, Chef Edgar graciously gave the kids Paletas!
With coconut milk, coconut cream, and toasted coconut chips, this paleta was such a delight!
For dessert, Chef Edgar graciously gave the kids Paletas!
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| Coco Rico Paleta |
With coconut milk, coconut cream, and toasted coconut chips, this paleta was such a delight!
The meal was fabulous, and I highly recommend a visit while in Austin!
Thank you Chef Edgar for the hospitality!
Nixta Taqueria
2512 E 12th St
Austin, TX 78702
Nixta Taqueria
2512 E 12th St
Austin, TX 78702
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