Steak Fajitas, An Austin Favorite.Photo byDown South Today

Austin, the Texas capital, is renowned for unique food that reflects the city's vibrant and diverse culture. From food trucks serving up innovative fusion dishes to traditional Tex-Mex eateries, Austin offers a wide range of flavors. One of the city's most iconic dishes is breakfast tacos, a delicious blend of eggs, cheese, and various fillings wrapped in a warm tortilla. Juicy BBQ ribs and legendary brisket are standard fare.

Austin's impressive music scene is just as renowned as its culinary offerings. Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Bob Wills, and many more are bedrock in Austin’s acclaimed musical heritage. From iconic music venues like the Moody Theater to the vibrant street performances on Sixth Street, Austin embodies a diverse music landscape that includes everything from Texas Swing to Blues and Gospel.

Red River Fajitas

INGREDIENTS:

2 lbs. Skirt Steak, trimmed

1 onion, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

12 corn tortillas

Marinade:

½ cup Italian dressing

½ cup apple cider vinegar

½ cup quality soy sauce

1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce

1/3 cup brown sugar

2 Tbsp. lime juice

Small clove of fresh garlic, crushed

PREPARATION:

Combine Italian dressing, vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire, brown sugar, lime juice and garlic. Marinate steaks in the refrigerator 6-8 hours or overnight. Wrap tortillas in foil. Place steaks, peppers and onions on grill over medium-hot coals. Grill steaks 4-6 inches from med-hot coals, 8 minutes covered or 10-12 minutes uncovered, turning once. Place tortilla packet on outer edge of grill to warm, turn once. Remove steaks from grill and slice at an angle, across the grain, into ¼-inch thick strips. Serve with tortillas and condiments of your choice.

Guacamole, a Texas Classic.Photo byDown South Today

Hill Country Guacamole

3 avocados, pitted

1 small jalapeño, seeds removed if desired, finely chopped

1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for serving

1/4 c. small white or red onion, finely chopped

Juice of 1 lime

1/2 tsp. (or more) kosher salt

Tortilla chips

In a large bowl, mix avocados, jalapeño, cilantro, onion, lime juice, and salt, then slowly turn bowl as you run a fork through mixture (this will ensure guacamole stays chunky) until desired consistency is reached; season with salt, if needed.

Top with more cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips.

Tito's Vodka is made in Austin and in a Bloody Mary, goes well with a Texas Brunch.Photo byDown South Today

SWEET LIFE

Lecia Duke’s renowned Quintessential Chocolates are Texas originals. The liquid centers are filled with everything from Tequila to Tennessee Whiskey.

One of Lecia Duke's Liquid Center Texas Chocolates.Photo byQuintessential Chocolates