Austin is a vibrant city for savory eats, but also offers an explosion of “sweet treats,” as our generation likes to call it. These viral spots, spread through TikToks, Instagram reels and even Youtube shorts, quickly captured the city’s attention, often offering desserts that blend different countries’ cultural traditions with a modern look. I spent the last two weeks exploring these desserts, and I’m excited to share my thoughts on places to satisfy your sweet tooth while experiencing a world of flavors.
Dame Cafe: The Viral Hot Chocolate Sensation
If you’ve spent any time on Instagram recently, you’ve likely come across the eye-catching Mexican hot chocolate from Dame Cafe. Founded a year ago by local Austinities, the spot shares their Mexican heritage through special drinks. Located in the Hamilton Food Park, this viral coffee truck stands out for its signature hot chocolate, topped with a perfectly torched marshmallow lining the rim of the cup.
It’s not just about the visual appeal—though that’s certainly part of the aesthetic. The drink itself is rich, velvety and spiced to perfection. Beyond its famous Mexican hot chocolate, Dame Cafe offers a menu full of unique drinks, including a cherry shaken espresso, an Abuelita latte made with Mexican chocolate and a Canela latte infused with brown sugar and cinnamon. If you’re on the hunt for a new coffee spot with a cultural twist, this one is definitely worth a visit!
Lumi’s Crepes: A Dubai-Inspired Delight with Fresh Strawberries
Taking inspiration from Dubai’s rich dessert culture, Lumi’s Crepes brought a twist to a classic treat, and quickly became one of Austin’s most buzzed about dessert spots on Instagram. Lumi’s specializes in delicate, thin crepes of different flavors and visually stunning chocolate-covered strawberries.
I saw their viral Instagram reels of Dubai-style chocolate-covered strawberries and quickly made the drive up north from campus to get them. While the presentation was breathtaking, I felt the strawberries lacked the chocolate to enhance the dessert’s sweetness. Given the $18 price, I expected a more indulgent experience. However, after asking for more chocolate, the strawberries became much more satisfying, and I appreciated the staff’s effort to make my dining experience worthwhile.
It would have been ideal if they were perfect from the start, and a lower price point would have been a welcome bonus. Nonetheless, the flavors were enjoyable once I received the extra chocolate, and the overall experience was a fun sweet treat.
I also tried their Pistachio Kunafa Crepe, which was truly exceptional as the crispy kunafa strands were a delicious contrast to the soft and airy crepe.
Lumi’s Crepes is not just about the taste—although that alone is worth the visit. The attention to detail in their presentation with artistic drizzles and an array of toppings makes every dessert an Instagram-worthy masterpiece. Lumi’s Crepes has all the makings of a standout Austin dessert destination, where tradition meets modern indulgence in every bite.
El Postrecito: Latin American Sweets with a Modern Twist
El Postrecito on First Street is a gem that embodies the rich flavors and traditions of Latin America. This local favorite has become a go-to destination for those seeking authentic Latin American sweets with a modern flair. What sets El Postrecito apart is its commitment to preserving traditional Latin recipes while prioritizing fresh, high-quality ingredients. This dedication to authenticity is evident in every homemade dessert, each crafted with love and care.
They have a variety of treats like the waffle with cajeta & almonds and the pineapple aguas frescas. These offerings not only highlight the diversity of Latin American desserts but also support the local producers and talent.
After seeing several reels, I was drawn to their Churros Angel’s Kiss on the menu, which is a cup of churros topped beautifully with strawberries and a rich sweet cream. As I’m writing this review days later, I’m still thinking about the flavors and how they came together. El Postrecito is more than just a dessert shop—it’s a celebration of Latin American culture and a testament to the power of local businesses.
Austin’s Sweet Global Journey
Whether you’re sipping on a trendy, visually-stunning hot chocolate at Dame Cafe, enjoying a delicate crepe infused with the flavors of Dubai at Lumi’s, or indulging in a sweet Latin American classic at El Postrecito, Austin’s viral, ethnic, sweet treat scene has something for everyone. These spots aren’t just about satisfying your cravings—they’re about experiencing the world through dessert, one bite at a time. With each new place offering a unique, culturally inspired take on sweetness, it’s no wonder these trendy spots have captured the attention of locals and visitors alike.
