ATXReview
Included In
It’s no surprise that children often end up a little like their parents, usually falling somewhere in the middle, and Bulevar is no exception. It’s from the folks responsible for the always busy downtown spots ATX Cocina and Red Ash, and Bulevar pulls almost equally from the two. There’s the one parent who loves a good dry-aged steak grilled over a wood fire (Red Ash), and the other who enjoys classic and bold Mexican flavors (ATX Cocina). The end result is Bulevar: a Mexican restaurant and steakhouse at The Arboretum that pulls influence from both sides, and occasionally lets them mix a little.
photo credit: Richard Casteel
Bulevar is more than just a backup option when you want a good dry-aged steak but didn’t make a reservation three months in advance (we’re looking at you, Red Ash). Because while the meat section of the menu might look familiar—both offer large-format cuts, priced by the ounce—you can expect entirely different flavors here. Dry-aged, prime porterhouses come basted in chile morita butter and served with blistered shishitos, while a grilled beef tenderloin is served over sweet and savory moles. Then there’s the rest of the menu that leans even further into Mexican influences, with everything from lamb cheek machetes and duck carnitas huaraches, to lump crab tostadas. And all of it’s served in a modern dining room that feels very Texas-meets-Mexico.
photo credit: Richard Casteel
Hanging basket lamps, colorful bench seats, and giant paintings add homey touches to the space, while the stone brick walls and wooden accents give it a southwestern feel—which shouldn’t be too surprising considering the building was previously occupied by Z’Tejas for over 30 years. It’s a massive space that’s broken into a series of smaller rooms that make the entire experience feel more intimate than the size would lead you to believe. And tying it all together is the massive back patio with a pretty epic view overlooking the hills of northwest Austin. Come here for a date night to remember or with that friend who never stops talking about wanting a good steak. This is where you want to be at sunset, with a frozen hielo margarita in hand.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Richard Casteel
Salsa Tasting
photo credit: Richard Casteel
Guacamole
photo credit: Richard Casteel
Crab Tostada
photo credit: Richard Casteel
Machete
photo credit: Richard Casteel
Duck Breast
photo credit: Richard Casteel
Bone In Filet