Nestled conveniently near the Arboretum in Austin, Bulevar Mexican Kitchen has quickly become a favorite dining destination for those seeking authentic Mexican flavors without the worry of gluten contamination. My husband chose this gem for my birthday celebration, and having previously enjoyed their sister restaurant, ATX Cocina, our expectations were high – and delightfully exceeded.
What truly sets Bulevar apart is their unwavering commitment to being a dedicated gluten-free facility. This was particularly crucial for my adult daughter and me, as we both navigate life with Celiac disease. Initially, my daughter, who also manages multiple food allergies, wasn’t planning to order, anticipating limited safe options. However, our attentive waitress immediately stepped in to explore what the kitchen could create for her. The chefs not only rose to the challenge but crafted a dish that accommodated her complex dietary needs and was, in her words, “delish!” This level of care and adaptability solidified Bulevar as more than just a restaurant; it’s a welcoming space where dietary restrictions are met with understanding and culinary creativity.
A Dedicated Gluten-Free Paradise: Safety, Taste, and Variety
Bulevar’s dedication to being entirely gluten-free provides an unparalleled sense of security for diners with Celiac disease and gluten sensitivities. This commitment translates into a menu brimming with variety, where you can confidently explore a wide range of Mexican culinary traditions without the usual cross-contamination anxieties. From appetizers to desserts, every dish is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring both safety and exceptional taste.
Menu Highlights: A Flavorful Journey Through Mexican Cuisine
Our dining experience at Bulevar was a delightful exploration of their menu, showcasing both traditional and innovative Mexican dishes. Here are some standouts from our meal:
Appetizers & Shared Plates
The MASA Y MANTEQUILLA is an absolute must-try. The whipped butter, paired with the sweet and tangy orange-tomatillo jam, sea salt, and charred radish, served alongside grilled masa bread, is a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s generously portioned, perfect for sharing and setting the stage for the culinary journey ahead.
My personal favorite, the DUCK CARNITAS HUARACHE, was a burst of savory goodness. The smoked bean base, topped with tender duck carnitas, avocado, radish, onion, cilantro, and salsa verde, created a harmonious blend of smoky, fresh, and vibrant flavors. The huarache itself was perfectly crisp, providing a satisfying textural contrast to the rich toppings.
The CRAB TOSTADA was another highlight, featuring generous portions of lump crab, creamy avocado, chive, and radish. The freshness of the crab and the clean, bright flavors made this tostada an absolute winner.
While the CAMPECHANA, a red chili marinated shrimp and octopus cocktail with avocado, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro, was flavorful, it didn’t quite reach the heights of the other dishes. It was a solid choice but perhaps not something I would rush to order again given the other exceptional options.
Main Courses
For a hearty main course, the PORK RIB CARNITAS are highly recommended. A half Berkshire rack, beautifully tender and flavorful, is served with cilantro, onion, and a bright orange vinaigrette. It’s worth noting that this dish is primarily ribs, so consider ordering a side to complement it and make it a complete meal to share.
The SWORDFISH dish, specially prepared for my daughter, showcased the kitchen’s ability to cater to dietary needs without compromising on flavor or presentation. Served with molcojete salsa, lemon preserve, and green onion purée, it was, as mentioned before, “Soooo good!” and a testament to their culinary skill and consideration.
Sides & Sweet Endings
The PAPAS A LA PLANCHA, charred fingerling potatoes with salsa seca, preserved lemon vinaigrette, olive oil, and sea salt, were the only dish that didn’t quite resonate with our palates. While generously portioned, they were our least favorite, though still perfectly edible.
However, the desserts more than made up for any minor misstep. The CHURROS, gluten-free and freshly made, served with dark chocolate and tres leches sauces, were an absolute delight. They were light, crispy, and perfectly sweet, a quintessential Mexican dessert done exceptionally well.
The MEXICAN CHOCOLATE CAKE with cinnamon ice cream was another fantastic sweet ending. Rich, decadent, and perfectly spiced, it was a comforting and satisfying conclusion to our meal.
Beyond the Food: Ambiance and Service
Bulevar Mexican Kitchen offers both indoor and outdoor dining options, with ample parking conveniently located near the Arboretum. The restaurant boasts beautiful views, adding to the overall ambiance. Throughout our visit, the service was consistently great, attentive, and genuinely helpful, especially in accommodating dietary restrictions.
Final Verdict
Bulevar Mexican Kitchen is more than just a gluten-free restaurant; it’s a destination for anyone seeking delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine in a welcoming and safe environment. Whether you require gluten-free options or simply appreciate expertly crafted dishes and exceptional service, Bulevar is a must-visit in Austin. We are already planning our return and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
