Texas queso is a staple at bars, Mexican restaurants and barbecue joints alike, and every year, Austin celebrates this Tex-Mex dip in one of our cheesiest traditions! Taking place October 13, 2024, Quesoff, a beloved festival celebrating all things queso, is a must-attend event for cheese enthusiasts and casual snackers alike. Held at the iconic music venue Mohawk, this year's Quesoff promises a day filled with gooey, cheesy delights.

A man and woman in matching yellow shirts scooping queso into little cups at Quesoff 2023.
Credit to Vaughn Luciano.

History of the Quesoff

What we now know as the Quesoff began as a light-hearted conversation in 2011, over drinks between co-founder Adi Anand and Mohawk owner James Moody. Fueled by a mutual love for queso and inspired by the city's culinary culture, they created an event that has now become a staple in Austin's vibrant festival scene. When co-founder Anand recounted the story to Austin Monthly, he summed up its origins: “A few too many scotches in, and it was like, ‘We both love queso. The city loves queso, so why not have a quesoff?’”

What to Expect

The 2024 Austin queso festival will feature multiple contestants ranging from professional chefs to passionate home cooks on October 13. In Quesoff tradition, four queso categories are up for grabs: meaty, spicy, veggie, and wild card. Spectators will have the opportunity to taste these unique creations, indulging in the cheesy goodness crafted by each contestant. Tickets will go on sale closer to the event. 

Supporting a Good Cause

The Quesoff isn’t just a feast for the taste buds; it also serves a philanthropic purpose. All sales from the festival directly benefit the Central Texas Food Bank, making every chip dipped a step toward fighting hunger in the community.

View of both the upper and lower deck outside at Mohawk with people standing everywhere.
Credit to Vaughn Luciano.

Venue Details

Located on the corner of 10th and Red River Streets in Downtown Austin, Mohawk offers a fantastic backdrop for this culinary showdown. While exploring Austin's queso offerings, attendees should also be mindful of parking options, as the area can get busy during major events. There is no official parking, so street parking or a downtown garage is your best bet.

Stay tuned for more information on Quesoff tickets and how to sign up to participate in this year’s showdown!

Exploring More of Austin’s Queso Scene

Whether you’re a queso connoisseur or just looking for a fun way to spend a day in Downtown Austin, the Quesoff offers a perfect blend of quirky culinary competition, community support and local culture. After indulging at the Quesoff, queso enthusiasts can extend their cheesy adventure by exploring our curated list of top queso spots in the city—a perfect starting point for discovering Austin’s most beloved Tex-Mex joints.