Austin Taco Project, located in the revamped Hilton Austin hotel at 500 East Fourth Street, announced it is slated to open in early March. This will be the hotel’s second new restaurant; Texas comfort food-focused Cannon + Belle debuted last month under the direction of executive chef Peter Maffei (formerly of shuttered Finn & Porter).
Pegged as a departure from “taco conventions” (where are those held?), the menu at Austin Taco Project ranges from globally-inspired tacos to build-your-own creations. By mixing and matching different flavors, textures, colors, and cultures, the restaurant aims to offer a new interpretation of tacos.
A recent preview included a selection of fixings and shells including such as roast pork banh mi, smoked barbecue beef brisket, crisp tikka chicken, wonton taco minis, lettuce boats, and the obligatory soft and hard corn and flour tortillas. Mexican street-style corn, crispy tots with a local egg, and blistered shishitos are among the sides. For beverages, expect a custom cocktail program and craft beers.
The space will include an expansive front patio, and the restaurant plans on having pub games. Once it debuts, Austin Taco Project will be open from 4 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. fulfilling the downtown crowd’s late night taco cravings. The restaurant is now hiring multiple front and back of house positions, including its chef de cuisine.
The Dallas-based mini-chain Velvet Taco is rolling out its first Austin location this March, though out in Domain Northside. That fast-casual joint also promises a contemporary take on tacos thanks to globally-influenced ingredients.
- Taco Restaurant and More Planned For Hilton Austin’s Renovations [EATX]
- Austin Taco Project [Official]
- Austin Taco Project [Facebook]