This is an excerpt from the print edition of Dirty Linen #136 (June/July 2008).
The full article is in the magazine, available on newsstands, by subscription, and at the Dirty Linen webstore.
by Annette C. Eshleman
On any given Sunday, the air around a small taco establishment in South Austin, Texas, is filled with the sounds of gospel music. Maria's Taco Xpress presents a Gospel Brunch, also known as "Hippie Church," every Sunday with a rotating roster of music performers and some of the best breakfast tacos to be found anywhere. The music and musicians change from week to week, covering genres from old-time gospel, to rock 'n' roll, to reggae.
Maria Corbalan started Taco Xpress with her 1997 income tax refund, and from its meager beginnings in a tiny trailer the business has grown to become an institution in the funky atmosphere of South Austin. The establishment was painted by local folk artist Michael Peschka and is adorned with more charm per square foot than one might believe possible. Maria's small patio stage presents live music several times a week, but it's the Sunday Gospel Brunch, nicknamed "Hippie Church" by locals, that routinely packs the parking lot and several neighboring side streets. The line to enter the restaurant and place an order regularly stretches out the door, while out on the dog-friendly patio, patrons eat, relax, listen to music, and dance.
Maria's Taco Xpress 2529 S. Lamar Blvd./ Austin, TX 78704
This is an excerpt from the print edition of Dirty Linen #136 (June/July 2008).
The full article is in the magazine, available on newsstands, by subscription, and at the Dirty Linen webstore.
![[cover #136]](/linen/136/cover136t.jpg)
Copyright ©2008 Visionation, Ltd.