Austin Mexican Restaurants Archives

Private Dining in Austin: Best Mexican Restaurants for Exclusive Gatherings

November 24, 2025

Looking for the ideal spot for your next event in Austin? At Iron Cactus, you’ll find excellent private dining in Austin that combines contemporary Mexican cuisine with polished event spaces in the heart of downtown.

Whether you’re planning a corporate meeting, a rehearsal dinner, or a milestone birthday, Iron Cactus offers a variety of settings to suit your needs:

The Cactus Room is a fully private space with its own bar, seating up to 90 guests comfortably or 120 for a cocktail-style event.
The Mezzanine (2nd floor) is semi‑private and overlooks the main dining area. This space is ideal for smaller gatherings and seats up to 40 people.
The Rooftop Patio delivers Austin skyline and 6th Street views and features climate‑controlled comforts!
Need room for a big celebration? You can reserve the entire restaurant! Our three levels accommodate up to 500 guests with multiple bars and private rooms.

Plus, the event team at Iron Cactus takes care of everything! The setup, fabrics (white tablecloths, black napkins), and A/V capabilities will make your event feel seamless and polished.

Why Iron Cactus Stands Out for Private Dining in Austin

Prime location in the heart of downtown Austin on 6^th Street
Flexible spaces let you tailor your gathering size
Excellent event support means less stress for you and more celebration for your guests
High‑quality cuisine and drink offerings elevate the experience beyond “just another restaurant rental”
100% seed-oil-free kitchen for cleaner eating

Book Your Private Dining Event Today

Don’t wait until prime dates fill up. Visit our website to view spaces, inquire about availability, and secure your ideal date. Whether you’re hosting 20 or 200 guests, Iron Cactus is ready to make your private dining event unforgettable.

Downtown Austin Mexican Restaurants with Healthy & Seed Oil Free Options

October 30, 2025

Looking for a healthy Mexican restaurant in Downtown Austin that doesn’t sacrifice flavor? You are in luck. At Iron Cactus, we have taken a bold step toward better dining: we are now a 100% seed-oil free kitchen! This makes us one of the first Mexican restaurants in Austin to do so.

Why Go Seed-Oil Free?

Most restaurants cook with oils like canola, soybean, and sunflower oil. Known as industrial seed oils, they are highly processed and high in omega-6 fats. Not to mention, they are linked to inflammation and other health concerns. At Iron Cactus, we wanted something better for our guests.

So, we made the switch.

We now cook exclusively with avocado oil and extra virgin olive oil! Not only do these natural oils support a healthier lifestyle, but they also deliver even better flavor. Whether you’re keto, paleo, Whole30, or just health-conscious, you will taste the difference with every bite.

Your Healthy Dining Destination in Downtown Austin

Our downtown location offers stunning rooftop views, 100+ premium tequilas, margaritas, and a vibrant atmosphere. Now paired with a cleaner, healthier kitchen! Whether you’re out for lunch, dinner, or happy hour, Iron Cactus makes it easy to enjoy great Mexican food that aligns with your wellness goals.

Iron Cactus isn’t just another Mexican restaurant. We’re part of a better-food movement—and we’re proud to lead the way. Come experience Austin’s favorite healthy Mexican restaurant and taste what seed-oil-free dining is all about.

Siete Blue Corn Tortilla Chips with your dinner

Healthier Mexican Food Starts Here: Iron Cactus in Austin Is Now Seed Oil Free

September 16, 2025

If you’re looking for healthy and delicious Mexican food in Austin, we have big news: Iron Cactus is now seed oil free! That means we’ve taken a big step to make our food better for our customers. All without giving up any of the bold flavors you love!

What Does “Seed Oil Free” Mean?

Most restaurants cook with oils like canola, soybean, corn, or sunflower. These are called seed oils, and they are used because they’re inexpensive and easy to find. The problem is that seed oils are heavily processed and high in omega-6 fats! Both things which may cause inflammation in the body.

At Iron Cactus, we care about our customers health. We have made the decision to replace those oils with natural, healthier options like:

Avocado oil for all our frying and sautéing
Extra virgin olive oil in our salad dressings and tortillas

We’re proud to be one of the first Mexican restaurants in Austin to make this change!

Why It Matters to Your Health

By removing seed oils, we are going back to real cooking. Whether you’re following a paleo, Whole30, or clean-eating lifestyle, you can feel good about what you’re eating at Iron Cactus.

Plus, many people say food cooked without seed oils just tastes better! Our chips fried in avocado oil? Super crispy and full of flavor. Our olive oil dressings? Fresh and rich. And guess what? Your favorite dishes still taste just as indulgent…just made in a healthier way.

Come Taste the Difference

Whether you’re eating with us for date night, happy hour, or an afternoon lunch, you can trust that your meal at Iron Cactus is free of seed oils and full of real flavor. We’ve always been passionate about great ingredients and now, we’ve taken that passion to the next level.

Come see why we’re leading the way in healthy Mexican dining. Visit us in downtown Austin on historic 6th street and taste the clean difference for yourself.

It’s Not Too Soon to Book Your Holiday Party at Iron Cactus

August 29, 2025

Are you someone who plans ahead for the holidays? Well – you should be! It might not feel like it, but the holidays are just around the corner! This means that the most memorable holiday parties in Austin and San Antonio get reserved months in advance. At Iron Cactus, we make it easy to host a festive celebration that your guests will talk about well into the new year.

Why Book Your Holiday Party Early?

The number one reason to book early is to make sure you get the date you want! Prime dates in November and December fill up fast—especially for large groups. Whether your holiday party is for your company, family, clients or friends – securing your ideal time and space now ensures a stress-free celebration later. Beat the rush and get first pick of our private and semi-private rooms in Austin and San Antonio.

Austin

Our Downtown Austin location offers the best view of historic 6th Street! The 2nd Floor Mezzanine event space is a casual setting, perfect for smaller cocktail-style events. This area is semi-private and overlooks the main dining room. If you need more privacy, The Cactus Room maintains the same industrialized nineteenth century décor as the restaurant and accommodates up to 90+ guests.

You can also reserve our 3rd floor rooftop patio for your event. Featuring a fully enclosed interior cocktail and bar area, plus access to a large exterior patio. The exterior patio is also equipped with fully radiant heaters, motorized sectional shades, and wind screens—just in case the weather does not cooperate.

San Antonio

Our downtown San Antonio location has a floor to ceiling view of the River Walk and celebrates the authentic Mexican culture with inviting vibes inside. If your event is more casual, consider booking your group in the Upper Dining area to celebrate with a cocktail party. Need something more private? Look no further than the Cactus and Agave Rooms. Each room can serve on its own or be combined if you need a bigger space.

Reserve Your Holiday Party Today

No matter the space you choose, Iron Cactus will deliver the flavor in every bite of our contemporary Mexican food! Don’t wait until it’s too late—book your holiday party now! Our event teams in both Austin and San Antonio are ready to help you plan a celebration that’s bold, festive, and truly unforgettable.

Authentic Full-Service Mexican Catering in Austin & San Antonio

July 28, 2025

Planning an event in Austin or San Antonio at a venue of your choice? Whether it’s a corporate lunch, birthday party, or wedding shower, elevate your experience with Iron Cactus Full-Service Mexican Catering. Known for our bold and unique flavors, Iron Cactus brings the same contemporary Mexican cuisine from our restaurants directly to you!

Iron Cactus is not your average caterer. We offer a variety of menu options to choose from and can provide full-service catering or delivery only. Our full-service offerings come with buffet setup, table linens, service station and two hours of buffet service.

We can help make the day of the event easier by helping arrange for anything else you may need – from china and silverware to table, chair or tent rental. And do not forget the bar and cocktail service! You do not want your guests to be thirsty!

Our team specializes in catering events of all sizes—from intimate gatherings to large-scale galas or banquets. We cater to:

Birthday parties
Anniversary parties
Wedding showers and rehearsal dinners
Corporate events
Business luncheons
Holiday parties
Family reunions
And more!

From start to finish, our catering coordinators ensure every detail is handled. Iron Cactus brings professionalism, hospitality, and flavor to every bite from Pollo Relleno and Pescado del Mar to Southwest Paella and Shrimp Parrilla. No matter what meal you choose, your guests will be sure to love it!

Ready to plan your next unforgettable event? Visit our website and complete our off-site catering request form. If you are interested in an on-site option, we have you covered there as well! Whether you live in Austin or San Antonio, Iron Cactus is your go-to partner for exceptional Full-Service Mexican catering.

Two spicy watermelon margaritas sitting by sliced watermelon

Turn Up the Heat: Spicy Margaritas at Iron Cactus

June 23, 2025

If you like some heat in your cocktails, look no further than Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant. Known for its flavorful Mexican dishes and extensive tequila list, Iron Cactus has also mastered the art of the spicy margarita.

Every margarita is handcrafted by highly trained bartenders using premium tequila. Adding some heat to your margarita creates a unique cocktail that is as exciting as it is refreshing!

Lucky for you, there are several spicy margaritas on the menu to choose from:

Spicy Mango Margarita – A tropical twist with a fiery finish! Featuring 1800 Silver, mango, fresh lime, jalapeño, and chile lime salt.
Spicy Watermelon – A taste of summer with a kick. Featuring Altos Plata, watermelon, jalapeño, simple syrup, and fresh lime.
El Pepino – A refreshing twist to a classic. Featuring Milagro Silver, jalapeño, cucumber, fresh lime, agave, and cilantro.
Spicy Smoked Paloma – A smoky creation made with Mezcal. Featuring Creyente Joven, fresh grapefruit, grapefruit soda, and agave.

There is also a mocktail to satisfy any friends who refrain from alcohol. The Habanero Pineapple Margarita features habanero, pineapple, carrot, lime and bitters with a Tajin rim. It is the perfect spicy drink without any liquor!

What to Eat with Your Spicy Margaritas

No margarita is complete without a delicious bite! Pair your cocktail with Iron Cactus favorites like our famous Tableside Guacamole. Made to order and right at your table with fresh ingredients, it is a must try!

Round out your meal with one of our sizzling fajitas. They are the perfect match to a spicy drink! Choose from certified Angus Beef Skirt Steak, Tequila Adobo-Marinated Shrimp or Chicken, Herb-Grilled Vegetables or a Combination. Fajitas come on a sizzling hot platter with Mexican rice and beans. Featuring shredded lettuce, cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, and of course, warm flour or corn tortillas.

Ready to spice up your night? Iron Cactus has two locations in prime locations – on the River Walk in San Antonio and in Downtown Austin on Historic 6th Street. Stop by and try a spicy margarita today!

Gluten-Free Mexican Food: Flavor Without Compromise

May 29, 2025

If you’re gluten-free and craving authentic Mexican food, look no further than Iron Cactus. We are proud to offer a wide variety of items on our menu that can be made without gluten. With fresh ingredients and bold flavors, Iron Cactus makes it easy to dine out without worry.

Start your meal off with the Ahi Tuna Ceviche featuring ahi tuna, fresh avocado, blanco tequila, pico de gallo and lime juice. Follow that with our sizzling fajitas – Certified Angus Beef® Skirt Steak, Combination Steak and Chicken, Tequila Adobo-Marinated Shrimp, Herb-Grilled Vegetables, and Tequila-Marinated Chicken Breast.

Or try some of our other house favorites items on the menu! Our Southwest Paella features Jumbo shrimp, mussels, bay scallops, roasted poblanos, jalapeño Texas sausage, lobster cream, and cilantro-lime rice. Pescado Del Mar is another great choice featuring seared Atlantic cod, gulf shrimp, bay scallops, citrus butter sauce, sauteed spinach, and cilantro-lime rice.

Looking for more classic Mexican dishes? Enjoy our enchiladas – veggie, shrimp or chicken – all can be made gluten free. We also have tacos! Enjoy shrimp tacos, baja fish tacos or a favorite – the vegan tacos that feature portabella mushrooms, black beans, lettuce, fresh avocado, sun-dried tomatoes and pico de gallo.

All things considered, do not forget a cocktail to round out your meal. Most of Iron Cactus’s signature margaritas and tequila cocktails are naturally gluten-free. Try the Prickly Pear Margarita or a simple Ranch Water made with 100% agave tequila.

Remember, when you arrive at Iron Cactus, ask your server for the gluten free menu and let them know about your dietary restrictions or other food allergies. We look forward to seeing you at our Downtown Austin or San Antonio River Walk location!

Please note that our gluten free menu options are based on the most current ingredient information from our food suppliers. Our normal kitchen operations do involve shared areas. The possibility exists for food items to come in contact with other food products. Due to these circumstances, we are unable to guarantee that any menu item can be completely free of allergens.

Sip in Style with Mocktails at Iron Cactus

May 22, 2025

This summer, mocktails are the newest trend taking over local restaurants. If you are looking for delicious non-alcoholic drinks in Austin or San Antonio – look no further than Iron Cactus. The recently launched line of mocktails are bold, flavorful, and alcohol-free beverages that are perfect for your next night out.

What Are Mocktails?

To put it simply, mocktails are essentially alcohol-free cocktails. At Iron Cactus, they are handcrafted by our highly trained bartenders with the same creativity and attention to detail as our traditional cocktails. Whether you’re a designated driver, staying health-conscious, or simply refraining from alcohol, our mocktails offer full flavor without compromise.

Featured Mocktails at Iron Cactus

Mexican Food and Margaritas just go together. Luckily, you can still indulge in one without the alcohol! Our Strawberry Cucumber Margarita features strawberry, cucumber, lemon and sugar. It is the perfect combination for a hot summer day! If you like things spicy, then the Habanero Pineapple Margarita is a perfect choice. It is made with habanero, pineapple, carrot, lime, butter and Tajin.

If you enjoy your drinks with a more tropical feel, you do not want to miss our Mango Mojito! It features mango, fresh mint, lime and Tajin. We also have a Cinnamon Pineapple Tini that features pineapple, cinnamon, lime, bitters, and foam.

No matter which one you choose, enjoy our handcrafted mocktails whether you’re relaxing on the Iron Cactus rooftop patio in downtown Austin or dining by the San Antonio River Walk. They’re a perfect pairing with our signature Mexican dishes, like our tableside guacamole, tequila-marinated chicken fajitas, stuffed avocado or pollo relleno. Come in and try one today!

Private Rooms for Corporate Events in Austin

April 23, 2025

Let Iron Cactus bring life to your Corporate Events in Austin! With several private and semi-private dining rooms to choose from, there is sure to be a space that fits your need. Coupled with our contemporary Mexican food menu, there are many options for delicious food and drinks to satisfy your team. Fun fact: our event spaces also have A/V capabilities!

The Cactus Room is our most popular choice for corporate events. This unique space includes a private bar and maintains the same industrialized nineteenth century décor as the restaurant. This option provides you and your guests with privacy but still maintains the feel of being on downtown 6th Street. The room accommodates up to 90 people for a seated event and up to 120 for a cocktail-style event.

The 2nd Floor Mezzanine event space is a casual setting, perfect for smaller cocktail-style events. This area is semi-private and overlooks the main dining room for a fun, in-the-middle-of-everything feel! It can easily accommodate 40-50 people depending on your event.

You can also select our rooftop patio, which has the best view of Sixth Street available. Enjoy cool fan-driven misters during the summer months or radiant heaters when it cools off! Our patio includes a fully enclosed interior cocktail and bar area and access to an exterior patio through three automatic motion-activated sliding doors. We also equipped the exterior patio with fully motorized sectional shade and wind screens—just in case Mother Nature does not cooperate with our event plans.

Do you need space for even more people? You can rent the entire restaurant with room for up to 500. Enjoy all the spaces in the restaurant, 3 private bars, and the delicious Mexican food and tequila cocktails!

The next time you are looking for space for Corporate Events in Austin – look no further than Iron Cactus. We would love to share our space with your team and show you all a great time. Get started by filling out an event request form here.

Discovering Unique Event Spaces in San Antonio

February 4, 2025

San Antonio is a vibrant city with a rich history, a lively culture, and an array of stunning venues perfect for hosting memorable events. Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, a wedding, or a private celebration, finding the right event space can make all the difference. If you’re looking to book an event in San Antonio, you’ll be delighted by the variety of unique venues available, including the renowned Iron Cactus.

Why San Antonio is Perfect for Your Next Event

San Antonio blends historic charm with modern elegance, offering diverse venues that cater to different styles and needs. The city’s warm hospitality, exceptional dining, and entertainment options make it an excellent location for any type of event.

Unique Event Spaces in San Antonio

1. Iron Cactus – A Premier Event Destination

Located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, Iron Cactus is one of the most sought-after venues for hosting private events. This iconic venue offers:

A prime location along the historic River Walk
A beautifully designed space with a blend of rustic charm and contemporary flair
Award-winning Tex-Mex cuisine that adds a flavorful touch to any occasion

Whether you’re hosting a wedding reception, corporate dinner, or social gathering, Iron Cactus provides a perfect setting with outstanding service and ambiance.

2. The Pearl Stable

A historic yet elegant venue, The Pearl Stable offers a unique atmosphere for weddings, galas, and corporate events. Its high ceilings, grand chandeliers, and charming architecture make it an unforgettable setting.

3. La Cantera Resort & Spa

For those seeking a luxurious experience, La Cantera Resort & Spa provides breathtaking hill country views, elegant ballrooms, and top-notch service. This venue is ideal for weddings, conferences, and retreats.

4. The Briscoe Western Art Museum

For an event with a cultural touch, The Briscoe Western Art Museum offers a refined setting amidst stunning western art collections. It’s perfect for corporate events and elegant receptions.

5. The Gardens at West Green

If you’re looking for an intimate and picturesque venue, The Gardens at West Green is a beautiful outdoor space, ideal for weddings and special gatherings.

Tips for Booking an Event in San Antonio

1. Choose the Right Venue for Your Needs

Consider the type of event, guest count, and preferred ambiance when selecting a venue.

2. Book in Advance

San Antonio is a popular event destination, so it’s best to secure your venue early, especially for peak seasons.

3. Consider Catering and Amenities

Opt for venues that provide excellent catering options, like Iron Cactus, to ensure a seamless experience.

4. Check Accessibility and Accommodations

Make sure the venue is convenient for guests, with nearby accommodations and parking options.

5. Personalize Your Event

Many venues offer customizable packages to tailor the event to your unique vision.

Conclusion

San Antonio offers an incredible selection of venues, each bringing its own charm and character. No matter the occasion, this city has the perfect space to make your event a success!

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Private Dining in Austin: Best Mexican Restaurants for Exclusive Gatherings