Taco Bell Cantina, the boozy edition of the fast food chain, made its debut yesterday on campus, much to the delight of Austinites and UT students alike. Eater popped in to take a quick peek at the first-day scene.
The black and white exterior led into a crowded cantina on opening day at 5 p.m., where guests were partaking in taco supremes, cheesy gordita crunches, and spicy sauces. No, there is no drive-thru attached to the location.
Employees create the alcoholic versions of the Twisted Freezes by pouring the selected flavor (strawberry kiwi, cantina margarita, Mountain Dew Baja Blast) into a cup, pausing halfway through to drop in a shot of the chosen liquor, and then continue to fill it up to the edges.
Prominently displayed are the local booze offerings. There’s a shelf featuring Tito’s Vodka, Treaty Oak Rum, and Tequila 512. Along with imported and domestic beer options, the taps include Austin breweries Live Oak Brewery and (512) Brewing Company.
Two Texas-themed neon signs line the wall, as well as a seemingly out-of-place light fixture at the entrance. The main wall is decorated in giant drawings of what defines Austin and Taco Bell: guitars and tacos.
Taco Bell Cantina’s hours are 7 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, and 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Alcohol is only served from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight on Friday and Saturday, which means you can get morning boozy slushies when needed.
