I recently spent a weekend in Austin with my 11-year-old daughter, Mary, and while we left our itinerary open for lots of spontaneous adventures, one place we knew we absolutely had to visit was De Nada Cantina. An institution in East Austin, De Nada is known as *the* place to go for the best margaritas in Texas, and, of course the most delicious and authentic Tex-Mex cuisine. After spending a very hot afternoon at Hamilton Pool, De Nada Cantina was the perfect place for us to enjoy a memorable meal in Austin, Texas.

Spanish for "no problem," De Nada lives up to its translation's easygoing namesake. Bold colors, captivating plants, and an aesthetic straight out of mid-century Mexico City make the allure of this East Austin restaurant impossible to resist.

And why resist? De Nada is an absolute treasure. The comida is as colorful as the restaurant's exterior -- both literally and figuratively. Using fresh produce and bold spices, the tacos and salsas from De Nada are the Platonic Ideal of Tex-Mex cuisine.

The food here is unapologetically classic and traditional, "street food" that's *not* fast casual, nor is it fussy or pretentious. The proteins are perfectly seasoned and, in the vein of true Mexican cuisine, non-meats play a starring role, with sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and zucchini making many cameos on the menu.

Mary and I ate our weight in chips and salsa -- the chips were so light and perfectly salty that paired perfectly with my margarita.

We also ordered a couple of vegetarian tacos made with roasted sweet potato and black beans and served with the softest and most delicious homemade blue corn tortillas I've ever had.

My margarita on the rocks absolutely lived up to reputation; not only had I read about De Nada's libations in several visitor guides and publications, but our Airbnb hosts even recommended this East Austin spot!

My 11 year old, meanwhile, ordered De Nada's acclaimed Agua Fresca made with watermelon that was the perfect thirst quencher after a day in the hot Texas sun.

After our meal, we hung out at the bar and enjoyed the ambiance of this delightful little cantina. With a fan whirring above us, Mexican music playing in the background, the chatter of fellow diners, and the palpable ambiance of this authentic little cantina, dining at De Nada truly was an experience.

If you live in or around Austin, I'm sure you've been to De Nada Cantina -- it's a Texas institution! And even if you live further out from ATX, this restaurant is absolutely worth the drive -- or including in your travel itinerary like I did! Learn more by visiting De Nada Cantina's website.