El Alma

El Alma is a vibrant rooftop Mexican restaurant and cantina perched on Barton Springs Road in Austin, Texas, just steps from Zilker Park. The upstairs rooftop patio offers breezy views of the Barton Springs corridor and downtown Austin skyline, shaded and cooled by misters amid tropical greenery. Chef Alma Alcocer-Thomas crafts contemporary Mexican cuisine using local Texas ingredients such as redfish, lamb, and Texas quail, with standout dishes including enchiladas, tacos, and flautas. An impressive lineup of margaritas and Latin-inspired cocktails rounds out the experience. The funky, multi-tiered space with a rock facade waterfall and lush plantings creates a welcoming, neighborhood atmosphere. Weekend brunch, a daily happy hour, and a pet-friendly south Austin location make El Alma a beloved Austin gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.