El Alma

Really nice overall. Great view from deck and good service.

Dark, pasilla mole is good. Has a light texture, not too hot or oily. The duck enchiladas are tasty but not 'ducky' enough in flavor.

Chili rellano's are prepared without batter frying so it has a light, clean taste. Most of what i ate and saw other's eating looked light and clean as well. Not heavily, sauced, oiled or cheesed over.

Portion size is small for the price point but in keeping with a lighter approach to food offerings overall. Or, maybe they just don't want to throw away a bunch of rice and beans that (some) people don't completely eat. :)

Get there early for happy hour!
Portion sizes for food were on the smaller side but everything we ate was done well. The mushroom empanada was a hit.
The upstairs patio is really a vibe!

First of all, service is great and food perfectly acceptable. But the 'lux' image of this establishment has not kept up with the times. Giant, laminated menus; sticky tables; dingy decor. This wonderful restaurant needs a loving refresh.

The food and drinks were delicious. I especially enjoyed their brunch options. The margarita was very good as well. Service was friendly enough but very slow.

Had a few drinks and some appetizers, one of the best patios in Austin.

Went on the Sunday afternoon after SXSW. Super chill vibe, quick and great service and the food was yummy and well priced. We sat outside on the rooftop. There is a large parking lot to the right of the building, wasn't hard to find a spot The stairs on the way up are a bit uneasy to walk on if you're in heels, so platforms or tennis because stilletos would be a fall risk. 10/10 would recommend.

I went there yesterday. Got the queso fundido and the duck mole enchiladas and was nearly hospitalized for food poisoning. So although the service was great. I will not be returning. The food not only tasted mid, but also put me out.

Stopped in for dinner last night, and was reminded of what a gem El Alma truly is. First off, very friendly service from everyone - the hostess to the runners & busers. Julianna our server was fantastic. Great cocktails, I had the Flaquita Margarita which was a little tart but refreshing, and my husband had the Mexican Old Fashioned (divine!) to start. We both switched to the Margarita Clasica, on the rocks, which were delicious. If you haven’t already, definitely try the Avocadorita - a personal fav! We started with the Ceviche Classico, which was such a generous portion and stacked with fresh seafood and tons of flavor. For the mains, my husband had the Enchilada Plate with Tinga de Pollo and Pasilla Mole. I had the Adobe Grilled Shrimp over stacked enchiladas. Both were delicious, and so so filling. We also split a Pastor Taco which had incredible seasoning and flavors. Overall some of the best Mexican food I’ve had in Austin, especially impressed with the mole variations and authentic flavors which are hard to come by.

We had a great experience at El Alma. The restaurant is very cozy and their staff are very friendly. Prices are a bit high though.
We had their Chicken Enchiladas and they were delicious. Highly recommended.

Had fantastic tacos and a yummy cocktail. Waitress was great. 10/10