Queso, let’s talk about it…

So I was trying to figure out how to start this blog and I figured what better way than to start with my hometown Austin, Texas. And in my humble opinion, I don’t really think you can talk about Austin without talking about the Queso.

There’s a reason that my water bottle has a sticker on it that says “Gimme Queso!” (which by the way my husband got for me at the super cool Central Austin library gift shop). So whether you live in Austin or you’re coming to Austin for the weekend, let’s get down to the cheese of the matter and talk about where you should be getting that chili con queso.

There’s countless places across Austin that sell queso, but I’m just gonna talk about my personal top three. Each one’s different, each one’s amazing and each one is a must have.

First up is Torchy’s Tacos. Their green chili queso is creamy but also spicy since it has their “Diablo” hot sauce and guacamole plopped right in there. Top it with Cotija cheese and cilantro and pair it with crispy corn chips, but you’ve got and a date with perfection. You can also get an upgraded version called Hillbillly Queso with chorizo added in. I would highly recommend either option, as long as you try at least one of them. It’s hard to put into words how delicious it is, but you should definitely put it in your mouth. While you’re there, be sure and try the Trailer Park taco. Make sure and get it trashy- which by the way, just means that has queso on it instead of lettuce. Also, the Tipsy Chic is amazing! The bourbon bacon marmalade with the green chilis and chicken brings just the umami you need in your life. If you’re if you’re vegetarian Torchy’s even has an option for you – a tasty fried avocado taco that I would recommend as well. (Make sure to get extra creamy poblano sauce!)

Next up on the list, Kerbey Lane’s white queso. This one’s a little bit less spicy and on the thicker and creamy side. They make it multi layered and interesting for you by adding in guacamole, but they also put some fresh pico de gallo in there which goes pretty amazing with the creaminess. while you’re there, make sure and try out some of their pancakes. They always have a seasonal offering that’s worth giving a try. I just love that you can get delicious breakfast food along with top notch queso. I mean what else could you want? Other than maybe wearing your fleece PJs while eating there. Plus you can even get the queso vegan. Pretty impressive right?

The third queso that I wanna talk about is actually not available in any of the restaurants. It’s for that night you wanna stay in at home or hang out with your friends at their place or stay in at your Airbnb while you’re visiting Austin. It can be found right in the refrigerator section of H-E-B. It’s called Queso Blanco Dip and it’s by a company called Culinary Cowgirl. If you’re looking for a delicious snack on your night in, look no further. Pair with your favorite chips – (our personal favorite is H-E-B lime chips tortilla chips ) and you are set for a delicious evening of creaminess and crunchiness.

But wait…I’m trying to be healthy and I just can’t eat those things right now! 😱
Have no fear, a healthier creamy cheese option is here. My awesome friend Jamie has introduced me to this make at home healthier cheese dip option that can satisfy that cheesy craving without all the guilt. I’ll link in below.
Enjoy!

If you’d like to buy a Gimme Queso! Sticker from the artist himself, as well as other Austin themed souvenirs, click the link below: