6 Best {Salsas}
Mild to Spicy
Words By Alison Bryce Photo By Tono Daal
Chips and salsa are a staple food for many but finding the right spiciness can be a challenge. East Austin has a diverse array of salsa samplings to please a variety of palates.
Taqueria Chapala
The salsa served at Taqueria Chapala is a hot addition to any item on the menu. This spicier-than-most choice can be enjoyed as a single appetizer, paired with the Chile con Queso, or added to a dish for an added kick. However, the primary salsa at this restaurant is the salsa mojo, a medium temperature and smooth textured option while the salsa verde is a close second with even stronger flavors.
2101 E Cesar Chavez St. | taqueriachapala.site
Kala’s Kuisine
The chutney salsa at Kala’s Kuisine can be mixed with a variety of dishes to make it perfect for any palate. This sweet and spicy sauce blends Nepalese and Latin flavors, making it the most unique on the salsa list. It can be added to Indian chutneys as a spicy alternative or used as a sweeter substitute to traditional salsas. With a wide variety of ingredients from bell peppers to peaches, this salsa is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Mueller Farmers’ Market | kalaskuisine.com
Taqueria La Sabrosita
This yellow food truck may not look like much from the outside, but the flavors that come through the window are incredible. All of the salsas on the menu are popular, but the tomatillo sauce blends the traditional spices together in a savory way that stands above the others. Everything on the menu is traditional Mexican food, and the salsa is no exception.
850 E Rundberg Ln. | tortillerialasabrocita.com
Pollo Rico
This fresh tasting salsa served along with homemade chips that have a seasoning dusted on them makes the perfect appetizer. It’s not very spicy but packed with loads of flavor. In this red salsa, the cilantro, roasted garlic, and lime mix together in perfect harmony. While the to-go option is given in multiple small containers instead of a larger one, the portion is still easily enough for multiple guests to indulge.
1717 S Pleasant Valley Rd. #280 | pollosricos.com
El Chile
Being provided with complimentary chips and salsa upon sitting down is one reason to love a restaurant, but the free salsa that is provided at El Chile is next level. Their signature smoky, roasted tomato salsa is a darker dip which has been known to lead guests eating so much that they are full by the time their meal arrives. Another favorite brought to the table is a spicier habanero salsa. This bright orange option may be too strong for some so make sure to have a rita ready but all can enjoy the aroma that it gives off.
1809 Manor Rd | elchilecafe.com
Tamale House East
Don’t let the name fool you. Tamale House East has various salsas from which to choose. The Garden salsa, which is closer to a medium spiciness, is chunky and perfect to scoop with the house-made chips, while the Spicy Chipotle Ranchera will bring taste buds to life. Each bite is full of roasted and hot flavors mixed together. Although it’s more of a dip-the-chip salsa rather than a scoop, the Creamy Jalapeño salsa is perfect for any green salsa lover.
1707 E 6th St
