Con Vista al Mar Austin — Restaurant in Austin

Disappointing Experience at Con Vista Al Mar!

I had high hopes for Con Vista Al Mar, a Latin seafood spot here in Austin—but the experience missed the mark in more ways than one.

The food felt overcomplicated and poorly executed. I ordered the Chilango taco, which features chicharrón, and it was a big letdown. The chicharrón had no crunch at all—it was stale and tasted like it had been sitting for a while. The tortillas were cold, and the flavors just didn’t come together.

My friend ordered the shrimp cocktail, which we were told would be spicy—but the level of heat made it hard to enjoy. It was also extremely thick—almost like a paste—which made the whole thing feel heavy and off-putting. A shrimp cocktail should feel more balanced and refreshing, not like something you have to work through.

The biggest disappointment for me was the Ensenada-style fish taco. Having been to Ensenada, I expected something simple and clean, centered around a crisp fried fish. But this taco was shockingly sweet—so sweet I couldn’t finish it. Later I learned it had pineapple, which was listed on the menu—I just didn’t catch it because I ordered based on the name alone. That part’s on me. But when I politely brought up how unbalanced the sweetness was, the cashier dismissed it with a quick “it’s on the menu” and walked away. No offer to swap, no sense of hospitality—just a shrug.

On top of that, I had to ask for a water refill, ask for the check, and constantly try to get someone’s attention—despite the restaurant being nearly empty.

For a place that presents itself as rooted in Latin flavors and culture, I expected at least a baseline of warmth and hospitality. Sadly, I got neither.

To be honest, the whole experience felt like a watered-down, Americanized take on Mexican seafood. Maybe I have to go to Mexico to try there locations if...

Came on Monday 9/16, less than a week after opening - I noticed their prices went down over the weekend, so for folks who said it was overpriced, some of it was valid and I don't think there's a world where I'd ever pay $10+ for a taco, but they did noticeably lower the prices over the weekend. They may want to continue to calibrate.

We ordered the classic aguachile ($25), fresh oysters ($28 for 8 but we got 10), and pescadillas. The best and most surprising was the aguachile - I initially slightly balked at the price, but between myself and my friend, it took us a while to finish the whole aguachile, so i definitely think we got our money's worth. It was great - enough lime and good flavors! The oysters were "local" (so probably gulf) - the mignonette was their own take on it and it was yummy! I'm a dollar oyster girly so anything over $1/gulf oyster is expensive for me but enjoyed nonetheless!

The pescadillas were a bit of a letdown - i know that CDMX does quesadillas without cheese (for some reason - still baffled) unless you ask for cheese. They needed more filling and honestly they were kinda dry.

I know folks are saying that the frozen margs are small - but they're powerful and delicious!!

Otherwise, the music was a bit loud at times but I enjoy the music so it wasn't the worst. A bit warm inside but not too bad. Our server was super attentive and kind! But it was a Monday and there weren't many tables full.

I would come back, if only to try the ceviche, which we didn't get to! I would really like to see this place succeed and be able to keep coming back! There aren't many good brick and mortar ceviche/aguachile places - this place can fill that gap as long as they can continue to fix...

"Con Vista al Mar" is a place that brings the taste of Mexico’s Pacific coast to Austin’s downtown—along with some prices that might leave your wallet gasping for air.

Walking in feels like stepping into a time machine back to 1980s Mexico, with all the vintage charm of a seaside joint. The décor screams “I sold shrimp cocktails before you were born,” but it’s got just enough of a modern flair to remind you you’re not actually in Puerto Vallarta.

The staff? On point. They’re ready to help you navigate the menu like seasoned marineros. I wish I could say the same about the bar menu—it’s not ready yet. But don’t panic, they’ve got enough Mexican spirits and beers to keep you happily afloat.

Now, let’s talk food. The seafood is legit—like, close-your-eyes-and-you’re-almost-back-in-Mexico legit. The shrimp is so fresh it might as well have crawled out of the Gulf. But then... there are the tostadas. Look, for the price I’m paying, I expect tostadas that are crispy little plates of heaven. Instead, they feel like an afterthought. If I’m shelling out downtown Austin prices, I want the tostadas to at least put in some effort, you know? It's like driving a Ferrari with bicycle tires. Fixable, sure, but you’re kind of ruining the whole vibe.

So, should you go? If you're pinching pennies, maybe skip it. But if you are driving a Tesla and looking for an authentic Mexican seafood experience—complete with an old-school ambiance and some seriously fresh shrimp—this place has your name on it. Just, uh, be prepared to pay Austin eclectic prices for those memories of Mexico. And maybe skip the...