*Photos by Rebecca
The abundance of Tex-Mex or Mexican restaurants in Austin is definitely a defining characteristic of this culturally-diverse town. But, each one has its own charm, specialty, salsa (I judge my favorites by the salsa and am a tough critic!), and environment.  Each one can serve a different purpose, depending on the size and makeup of the group you are entertaining or being entertained with.

The chic patio at Garrido's overlooks Shoal Creek and is inviting and relaxing for outdoor dining out on the town.

Last weekend, Allison, Aviva, Jessica, and I went to check out Garrido’s, Austin’s newest Mex-Mod (I first used the term Mex-Mod in my post here) restaurant at 360 Nueces, on the bottom of the 360 high-rise near 3rd Street. Garrido’s is tucked away in the corner neighboring Mulberry (a cozy wine bar and New American restaurant), and Blu Cafe, Bar, & Lounge. It’s off the beaten path just enough that its back patio looks out onto Shoal Creek, making it a small, natural oasis for relaxing dining, despite its central location downtown.

Go to Garrido's for the Bocaditos, a light snack before heading out on the town.

 I Rebeccammend Garrido’s for a few refreshing drinks (I had the Raspberry Mojito which was tart, yet sweet, and crisp, just what I needed to combat the hot and humid weather), and the Bocaditos if you want a small bite before going out. Bocaditos, meaning “small bites” or “snacks” in Spanish, are along the same lines as Tapas, usually finger-food, and smaller portions that will leave you satisfied without being full to the brim. This is the specialty at Garrido’s, so I asked to try one of the shrimp mini-tostadas with slaw, chipotle-horseradish aioli, and mango salsa along with my dinner. The presentation was clean, colorful, and enticing, and the small bites were delicious.

The Raspberry Mojito at Garrido's was the perfect summer thirst-quencher and so enjoyable on their relaxing back patio.

Small bites, or appetizers, refreshing drinks, and chic, relaxing patio Rebeccammendation: Garrido’s at 360 Nueces. Also, try their happy hour for $4 Margaritas and $2 off drinks and appetizers from 4-7 PM.

Related posts:

1. Mex-Mod and Retro-Chic
2. Dahling, Try European-Style Brunch
3. Viva Vivo!
4. Haute Off the Press!
5. Fun Fast-Food Finds