(512) 447-7825
1619 S First St
(Annie Street)
Austin,
TX
78704
30.2491
-97.755
Neighborhood: Bouldin
What People Are Saying About Jovita's Mexican Restaurant
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short – With better than average Mexican fare and a well-stocked bar, Jovita's, with its funky mural of Cesar Chavez, sits in the heart of South Austin. Bands play on the beautiful indoor/outdoor patio, but the sounds travel through the open doors, past the bar and to the furthest tables. As longtime weekly host to such talent as Don Walser, Jovita's offers a steady dose of world-class live music in true South Austin style.
Stay Away Like The Plague
by atxbobcat07
In a town of many amazing Mexican places to eat, Jovita's is definitely not one of them. Their food is horrible compared to what you can get within a mile radius, the drinks are more watered down than a swimming pool and the owner and the employees have an attitude that is unnecessary. Get over yourself and take a lesson from the other cool, fun places in town.
- Cons: Crappy Service, Crappy Drinks, Horrible Food
Worst service in Austin
by 1twangster
Went to Jovita's about 6 weeks ago. It took over 30 minutes to get my food after placing my order. And there is no way to catch a buzz here, unless you get your own beer from the bar, or go out and drink your own beer in the parking lot. The service is horrible. Menu was changed to some frou-frou fare; not the good Tex-Mex they used to feature. I said I would never come back here to eat.
But, due to circumstances beyond my control, I had to eat here 2 weeks ago. I sat in the restaurant area for 30 minutes and was totally ignored by the waitstaff. (I will not beg someone for service.) I go to Jovita's for the music, and I like to drink beer. No beer, no menu, no food. This is the worst restaurant in town. Their service is pathetic. I will never, ever return for food and I will only go for the music and (try to) drink beer to support the band.
I recommend staying away from this place if you want to eat. They do not deserve any dining customers. But, on Thursdays, go eat somewhere else, then head to Jovita's to hear the Cornell Hurd Band.
- Pros: Great music on Thursday night
- Cons: Miserable, nearly non-existent service. Goofy menu.
OK Austinites, LA transplants excluded, Jovitas is the shi@.
by AustinTruth
If you are looking for a REAL South Austin, take no BS kinda place, this is it. The reviews of slow service and a "scary staff" only high light the fact that those reviews were from out of towner's, or north siders. The flavor and vibe of this cultural hub can't be matched. The new chef, Cesar, takes great pride in providing authentic mexican fare. If you are looking for tex-mex, go elsewhere.
The staff are friendly as as anywhere else, so long as you mind your manners. South siders work for family owned joints, no corporate BS allowed. So if your expecting a free drink because the one you got wasn't quite up to your standards, don't hold your breath.
The music is as varied as the south side culture. You will find Salsa, Singer-Songwriter styles, Folk, Country, Rock-a-billy, hard Rock, Punk, and even Soul and Blues. You just cant beat it.
The bartender is a quirky fellow. He exudes Texas manners and charm and can make one hell of a margarita. But know this, if you are out of line, you will be told so and you will be asked to vacate the premises. Ignore this at your own risk.
Over all, if you cant stand the monotony of Chilli's, On the border, and the multitude of other chain eateries and want to experience Austin as it was, and should still be, then get your butts to Jovitas and Eat, Drink, and Listen. LOVE YOU AUSTIN!!!
- Pros: Um, Everything
- Cons: not much parking but a friendly lot attendant to guide you to a spot.
The Details on Jovita's Mexican Restaurant
Happy Hour:
An afterward happy hour runs from 4pm to 7pm Tuesday to Friday and from noon to 7pm weekends.
When to Go:
As Jovita's is really a restaurant, the music takes place during reasonable hours, usually around 8pm. The Cornell Hurd Band and Harry Bodine Trio are regulars.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Travelers Check
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Lunch Spot, Group Dining, Live Music, Happy Hour








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