The chile relleno at Alteño.
Ana Gutierrez / Austin American-Statesman
A modern Mexican restaurant has arrived on Rainey Street, bringing upscale dishes inspired by the highlands of Jalisco, an extensive tequila selection and a menu of margaritas to downtown Austin.
Alteño, located on the ground floor of the 1 Hotel Austin at 98 Red River St., opened in August. The restaurant is part of Fonda Fina Hospitality, led by chef Johnny Curiel and co-founder Kasie Curiel, and has expanded to Austin after establishing its flagship location in Denver. The hospitality group also operates a Charleston location.
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Its Denver location has received national attention, including recognition from Esquire magazine and a Michelin recommendation.
The space
A rendering shows the interior of a forthcoming Mexican restaurant concept planned for 1 Hotel Austin, part of a 74-story mixed-use tower at 98 Red River St. in downtown Austin’s Rainey Street district. The restaurant is expected to open in summer 2026.
Provided by 1 Hotel Austin
The restaurant is part of the 74-story mixed-use development by Lincoln Property Co. and Kairoi Residential that includes apartments, office space and a 251-room hotel. Bar seating is available, with small tables for two and larger booths, as well as group tables available for bigger parties. Outdoor seating overlooks Waller Creek.
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A private dining room is also available in the back of the space past the kitchen.
The atmosphere
Patrons sit at the bar near the entrance of Alteño.
Ana Gutierrez / Austin American-Statesman
Alteño has a polished but relaxed atmosphere, with a crowd that often includes hotel guests, business travelers and downtown professionals. The setting lends itself to after-work gatherings, with guests chatting over drinks at the bar or settling in for a longer dinner.
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Its location on Rainey Street also puts it in a part of downtown known for its upscale restaurants, hotels and nightlife. While the dining room has a refined feel, it doesn’t require a special occasion to visit. Guests can stop in for a margarita and a few appetizers or make it an evening with the restaurant’s larger plates.
The menu
The chile relleno and barbacoa tatemada at Alteño.
Ana Gutierrez / Austin American-Statesman
The restaurant draws from Johnny Curiel’s upbringing and the influence of his father, an alteño, or highlander, whose recipes and cooking techniques helped shape the menu.
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Appetizers include the ostiones nakachi, oysters served with a bottle of habanero oil, and the kanpachi aguachile. The tostada de toro features bluefin tuna served over whipped avocado, while the guacamole a las brasas pairs roasted tomatoes with queso fresco. Other options include queso fundido, Caesar salad and tacos such as the taco de ribeye and taco de gobernador.
For larger plates, diners can choose from dishes including chile relleno, New York strip and lenguado Veracruz, which features halibut served over butter rice.
Margaritas are among the highlights of the cocktail menu, which includes several variations on the classic drink. The spicy avocado margarita is one of the more distinctive options, while palomas and negronis offer alternatives. The restaurant also has a full bar with an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal, alongside a wine list that includes bottles and wines by the glass.
The price
The dining room inside Alteño.
Ana Gutierrez / Austin American-Statesman
Alteño falls on the higher end of Austin’s dining scene, with prices reflecting its upscale setting and premium ingredients. Smaller plates range from $10 to $27, while entrees start at $30. The most expensive dish on the menu is the chuleta de res, priced at $190.
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Cocktails range from $16 to $18, including the restaurant’s variations on the classic margarita. Wine is also a significant part of the drink menu, with glasses priced up to $32 and bottles starting at $70.
Alteño is worth a visit for its thoughtfully prepared Mexican dishes, extensive cocktail selection and polished but relaxed atmosphere, though the steep prices make it better suited for a special occasion than a casual night out. For diners looking for a more casual visit, ordering a few appetizers and drinks at the bar is an option. Those planning a full dinner should expect a higher bill, particularly when ordering larger entrees and wine.
Dining and Cooking