Curra’s continues the family legacy.
Words Sandy Reitman | Photos Will Bowling
On the corner of Duval and 43rd streets, you’ll find a walkable block of small businesses: a grocer, specialty shops, food trucks, and a few noteworthy restaurants. Curra’s Hyde Park is right in the middle of it all. Opened in 2021, just as Covid restrictions were lifted, it’s the family-owned restaurant’s second location after its south side flagship, which opened in 1995. After over 30 years of business, it’s still the perfect mix of new and old Austin.
Daylon Miguel Garcia, manager and owner of the Hyde Park location, has worked in the family business since he was seven. The name “Curra’s” comes from his grandfather’s nickname, roughly translated to mean “a well-dressed gentleman.” Most recipes come from his grandmother, Julieta Garcia, and the matriarchs before her. You’ll see her name mentioned on the menu, and for good reason.
One of their most popular dishes is Mole Enchiladas, made with 30 ingredients and an entire two-day process to perfect. Some argue it’s the best mole in Austin because guests travel from afar, arriving suitcase in hand, to taste the goodness coming out of this kitchen. Their Tacos al Pastor are listed among “The Greatest Tacos Ever Sold” by Texas Monthly.
Besides the incredible food, Curra’s has a standout beverage program featuring aged whiskey to top-shelf tequila and everything in between. As Austin cocktails’ price tag increases, Curra’s consistently strives to offer inventive, quality cocktails at approachable prices. They might be most famous for their Avocado Margarita, coined 25 years ago while Daylon’s uncle and the bar manager were drinking margaritas and eating guacamole, wondering what the two together would taste like. Thus, a legend was born: a cold and creamy blend of two fan-favorite menu items.
Crediting his grandmother for teaching him that there’s no substitute for hard work, Daylon says the winning combination in a successful restaurant these days is authentic food presented beautifully. Rather than shying away from the “phone eats first” culture, Curra’s embraces it with dishes that not only taste good but look good, too.
Last summer, the Frio Flight went viral after a social media influencer visited Curra’s and posted their photogenic new drink special. It features four full-sized Don Julio margaritas, each beautifully garnished, displayed on an elevated stand.
The exposure resulted in over 40,000 views on Instagram. That month was the busiest in all 30 years of business.
Happy Hour is 4-6pm every day, with $8 handcrafted cocktails (made with fresh juices), $8 ceviche, $5 guacamole, and $5 queso.
Contact:
(512) 350-5358
4215 Duval Rd.
currashydepark.com
@currashydepark
