When I saw Tofu as an alternative to Beef in the Burrito section of the menu, I should have walked out of the restaurant. Vivo was recommended to me by a co-worker as, ""the best Mexican food in Austin."" After refusing to take another taste of the bitter salsa, and biting into an enchilada that featured salt as its main ""spice"" I was reminded that people in Austin have no idea what their talking about when it comes to Mexican food. I have had Taco Bell meals that were more authentic than the food I ate at Vivo, and it didn't cost me $10+/plate. The atmosphere at Vivo is great, and the patio is nice when the weather is good, but the tall, pretty hostess at Vivo is way too proud of it. There is a palpable arrogance when you walk in the door. She may as well greet you by saying, ""welcome to Vivo ... how lucky are you to be eating here?"" Our server was great, but the food came out a little slow. The place was not that busy, and it's Mexican food we're talking about here! Chicken or beef in some sort of tortilla surrounded by beans and rice ... kitchens should be cranking this stuff out pretty quickly. Vivo was not the worst dining experience I've ever had by any means, but if I go out of my way to go to ""hip"" Austin joint, fight for parking, wait 20 minutes to be seated and pay close to $15 for lunch, It better be worth it. Vivo was not.
Pros: Ambience, Roses for the ladies, dim lighting inside, bright patio outside
Cons: It's not Mexican food and it's too expensive.
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