Messhall Cafe

October 2024I was desperate for something to eat, so I stopped at Messhall Cafe. It's a charming little spot. The sandwich I got was awful. But, some of the hot plates looked decent. And the service was fast/kind.Grilled Chicken Sandwich:Unseasoned tough chicken, unseasoned tomatoes, lettuce, mayo, and white American cheese on a plain white bun. It served its purpose - survival. But no chance in hell I'd willingly seek this out. Maybe would have been better if ANY condiments were available. Do not recommend.

This place is very convenient for me when at work. There's not many places near my job to grab a quick breakfast or lunch. They usually have a sign out on the sidewalk but it can easily be missed. It's a small place with tables setup inside and a few outside with reasonably priced food. They have a variety of things from omelettes, tacos, burgers, to chips. My go to is usually the bacon and egg taco with an iced coffee. Management has changed a few times however they have still kept the same quality customer service.

Great spot near the Capitol when you're on foot and need a quick coffee or breakfast taco (that doesn't cost as much as OneTaco down the street). The staff is very friendly and the bacon and potato tacos are wonderful. Try the salsa verde!

Since Mark retired, I've noticed some seemingly budget-cuts that probably make sense for the business to keep this a fantastic cheap cafe, but I've been going less and less, and I used to go every day. Can y'all bring back the old sausage patties? The new ones are dry and crumbly. I LOVE the salsa but you've been out of it the past two times I've come in. Actually, it seems like things run out more frequently, like potatoes and beans! I understand the color-coded taco-wrap system, but the paper makes it hard to travel if you've got "drippy" items, and it seeps through. Maybe try colored stickers instead?

A sight for sore eyes to be sure. Especially when you work downtown, it's hard to find an affordable place for lunch that tastes good, but man Messhall delivers.They have one daily special that ranges from fried chicken to meatloaf to fish with some veggie sides. Even if that's not your thing they have burgers, chicken tenders and fries, etc for very very good prices. A little greasy but can't complain especially with the full belly afterwards.Best hidden gem in downtown :D

Inexpensive breakfast and lunch. I have no idea how they operate unless the lease space is free. Food is decent but not something that will have you coming back. The prices will though. I used to go by and get breakfast tacos before work and they were the least expensive you could find anywhere close by. Went by this time for lunch and chose to get a burger and fries. Kinda reminded me of the food you would get at a ballgame. However they do have a blue plate special that varies daily. Bottom line if you are hungry and have $5 you can eat eat here. Hard to believe given we are in Austin.

Small but good no nonsense place to grab a bite to eat or a drink. Good food (breakfast tacos) and friendly employees. Saw several local law enforcement officers eating here which usually is a sign that a place is good to eat, while also feeling safe at the same time. I'll be back the next time I'm back here.

THIS REVIEW POSTED AS OF JUN 01, 2018I am excited to try this cafe out (One block from my place).*NOTE*: Pricing has increased by approximately 23% ...*** New menu and pricing have not yet been listed ... *UPDATE*: Staff told me that they are now open until 3pm.I am basing this review on a phone call where I was told, by an employee, that the Veggie-Burger was no longer $3.25 but had increased to $3.99 ... Based on this one item, I did the math and $3.99 represents a ~23% increase over the original price of $3.25 ...*** STILL CRAZY CHEAP !THIS REVIEW POSTED AS OF JUN 01, 2018

It was voted by the Austin Chronicle 2010 Best Lunch Refuge for the Downtown Masses. It's true because you can't find the place since it is in the basement. Don't need to worry though. You can access it from the outside. Where is this located? In case you miss it, you go down north of Lavaca Street and when you hit the end of the road, it is on your right. There's a neon sign says Open and the address itself is the Office of the Secretary of State. It is small but there are tables outside and a couple of tables inside. It is open only from 7am - 2pm. But the cooking is so good. The people are very nice. Now if you are on a diet this place is not for you. It's comfort food. I recommend calling in advance so you don't have to wait a long line. I would say this place is the best kept secret. Well that is until I blew I secret wide open. But seriously try it out. Your wallet won't hurt you.

I have been eating at Messhall Cafe since I discovered them last year. They are not out to redefine your dining experience, give you free range anything, or make you overpay. The space itself is very basic, as is the food, but that's the charm of coming here. I typically get a burger and fries, which comes in at very affordable $6. The staff there is very friendly, remembers regulars, and they all have a good sense of humor.A quick aside and word of warning, it's really easy to miss the restaurant! They're located in a basement-esque part of the building at 1019 Brazos Street. Just look for the flashing open sign and stairs leading down.