We combine intimate knowledge of Oaxacan cuisine and precise culinary skills to bring the best of these vibrant flavors to Austin, Texas. Each menu item incorporates a tremendous balance of multiple handmade elements + the finest produce and proteins we can source. Nixtamalization is done in-house with Texas corn as the basis for our tlayudas, memelas, tortillas, and more. Our kitchen spends their days roasting chiles and toasting seeds for our several moles and deliscious salsas. Fresh seafood is also at the forefront of our menu appearing in several dishes like aquachile, ceviche, campechano, and mezcal-cured salmon. The bar boasts a playful menu of distilled agave spirits and boasts more than 150 mezcal and tequila options from small batch producers.

Chapulín Cantina has been a labor of love for seasoned restaurateurs Ryan Samson & Daniel Brooks, also of Vespaio, Licha’s Cantina, and formerly Entoeca. The transformed space at 1610 South Congress transports guests to a lively, fun, and culturally rich Oaxacan experience.

“Heal yourself with the light of the sun and the rays of the moon. With the sound of the river and the waterfall. With the swaying of the sea and the fluttering of birds. Heal yourself with mint, neem and eucalyptus. Sweeten with lavender, rosemary and chamomile. Hug yourself with cocoa beans and a hint of cinnamon. Put love in tea instead of sugar and drink it looking at the stars. Heal yourself with the kisses the wind gives you and the hugs of the rain. Stand strong with your bare feet on the ground and with everything that comes from it. Be smarter every day by listening to your intuition, looking at the world with your forehead. Jump, dance, sing, so that you live happier. Heal yourself, with beautiful love and always remember…You are the medicine.”                                                          

Maria Sabina

Mexican healer and poet