Torchy's Tacos founder lists artsy Lake Austin estate for $25.5M

A three-parcel, nearly five-acre Lake Austin estate owned by Torchy’s Tacos founder and former CEO Mike Rypka is on the market for $25.5 million — enough cash to buy more than five million Trailer Park tacos at Torchy’s.The property consists of a 10,227-square-foot main house, along with a 7,016-square-foot second house and a detached one-bedroom casita, plus an undeveloped two-acre lot. The price tag for all three components of the estate is $25.5 million. Or the main house and the empty lot can be purchased separately for $19 million.This property is actually pretty close to neighbors, but dense trees and a canal shield it.Photo courtesy of Twist ToursRypka bought two of the lots in 2017 and the third lot in 2020, according to the luxury real estate news and listings website Mansion Global.Altogether, the lakefront estate features 10 bedrooms, nine bathrooms and three half-bathrooms. The main house is situated on a one-acre lot within The Island, an exclusive community at Lake Austin. The listing from Eric Moreland of Moreland Properties says the lakeside compound “offers an unparalleled opportunity for luxurious waterfront living … .”This patio feels like part of a completely different place.Photo courtesy of Twist ToursThe three-story, stone-and-stucco main home, built in 1999 and renovated by the seller, “was made for entertaining,” Mansion Global says. Features of the home include:Grand foyerLake Austin views from the rotunda-style living roomMain-level formal and informal dining areasChef’s kitchen with a walk-in freezerCatering kitchenLounge with a walk-in humidorA huge cigar storage space and interesting lighting add interest to this "lounge."Photo courtesy of Twist ToursAmong the amenities in the primary suite are two walk-in closets, a backlit granite shower, heated floors, and a living area. Elsewhere in the home are a game room, lower-level pool lounge, lower-level kitchenette, saferoom, three-car garage, and two-slip boat garage. A single system controls music, lighting, patio heaters, and security. (Compare this playful palace to the more serious former home of retired Torchy's CEO GJ Hart.)A game room helps the space avoid stuffiness.Photo courtesy of Twist ToursExtras include electric vehicle charging, pre-wiring for solar power, a backup generator, and a pickleball court.Of course, there’s also the five-bedroom retreat, detached one-bedroom casita, and vacant two-acre, tree-dotted lot.“Whether seeking a move-in ready luxury residence or a property with potential for expansion, this compound offers endless possibilities for elegant living on Lake Austin,” the listing says.