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 New old school |
604 Brazos Street Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 391 7121 http://www.1886cafeandbakery.com/ |
The 1886 was once the gathering point for pretty much all of Austin. With its diner-cafe feel, most flocked to The Driskill's lobby for wholesome food, the quality bar and the friendly atmosphere. The now revived 1886 Cafe and Bakery is no different. Walk across the chequered tile floor and take a seat beneath the art-deco chandeliers. The 1886 Bakery opens early and offers great chocolate croissants, muffins and aromatic coffee. If you're in for breakfast, the Cast Iron Skillets or Benedicts are just what you need. The lunch and dinner menus cover a good range of pasta, salads and steaks. It may say 1886, but step in and you know, it's still Austin chic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tex-Mex favorite |
1616 West Fifth Street Austin, TX 78703 United States +1 512 474 1222 http://www.ditch.com/ |
If there is a wait at this popular restaurant, order a classic margarita or a 'floater' and dip into the chips and hot sauce and/or queso. Before long, you will be addressing a plate full of the Tex-Mex standard of your choice. Or try any of the variations on barbecued chicken-the chalupas of this variety are especially tasty. Entrees make this a fairly inexpensive spot, provided you do not get carried away on the margaritas. The atmosphere is fun and lively, and El Arroyo has a sense of humor: Just check out the pointedly witty billboard out front, with daily commentary on politics and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephan Segraves  |
 Photo: Swendner Photography |
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Egg white and blue |
808, East Cesar Chavez Austin, TX 78702 United States +1 512 457 9074 |
Looking comfortable under the cypress trees in an old two story townhouse, Azul is first and foremost a sandwicheria. Sure, they stock Hipster beers and some reds and whites, but when you're at Azul, you come for the eggs, meat and sandwiches. It feels a bit like a tapas bar, where you can sample bits, and the platter tray's a good bet. However, there's nothing meager about the pork tenderloin sandwich, the prosciutto filled PLT and the Mediterranean Tuna melt. Have more than your fair share, call for a cup of coffee and enjoy your siesta on the outdoor patio as the music lulls you to sleep. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Meat & Smoke |
3927 Ranch Road 620 South Bee Cave Austin, TX 78734 United States +1 512 263 3999 bustersbeecavebbq.com |
Sweet South Texas Quail, Pulled Pork, Sugar Duck and the Garlic H-Bomb (smoked pork shoulder stuffed with garlic and jalapenos), slurp! Is your mouth watering yet? Then what are you waiting for, head down to Buster's at Bee Cave and go crazy at this barbeque heaven. You can also order that perfect summer party grub, since they offer catering as well. Quality preparations, variety and good vibes make Buster's a great barbeque stop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Cruising Town Lake |
208 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 480 9264 http://www.capitalcruises.com/ |
For cruising around on Town Lake, the best way to go is on a Capital Cruise. Have dinner with friends or just your date, while watching the beauty of Austin's downtown from the peaceful water. Sightseeing tours are available along with canoes and kayaks; or you can take out paddle boats for an outdoor activity with the family. So whether it is a romantic evening for two or a day on the lake with kids, this service can meet your needs. Furthermore, the Hyatt caters cruises and serves shrimp pasta, beef or chicken fajitas, and more. They will work with your company or group to customize a menu if you desire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lake Travis' Fun on the Water |
5973, Hiline Road Austin, TX 78734 United States +1 512 266 1683 http://www.cncaustin.com/ |
This sun and fun restaurant is located right on the water for all those Lake Travis visitors looking for good food, drinks, and live music. Parking is widely available on both land and water and their Tex-Mex cuisine and margaritas are widely popular. They are known for their "no shirt, no shoes, no problem" mentality and they are a great stop for those spending the day out on the water. If their live music and laid-back mentality is not enough, patrons can come enjoy the sunset over the water that has brought that extra added flavor to this Austin favorite. -Nicholas Van Zandt Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Casual restaurant |
4001 North Lamar Blvd Austin, TX 78756 United States +1 512 206 1000 http://www.centralmarket.com/c... |
Whether it's a quick lunch or leisurely dinner on the deck, this cafe goes way beyond expectations for a grocery-store eatery. As Central Market is no ordinary grocery store, so Cafe on the Run is no pedestrian deli. Soups, salads and sandwiches are all executed with creative flair; for instance, the roast beef sandwich is dressed up with Brie, and the turkey with Havarti. Ingredients are fresh, and most of them are available at the adjacent grocery. And if you don't want to exercise your sweet tooth, stay away from the bakery case. The Creme Brulee and Italian Cream Cake will tempt you every time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The barrio meets the bistro |
1809, Manor Road Austin, TX 78722 United States +1 512 457 9900 http://www.elchilecafe.com/ |
El Chile Cafe y Cantina is a chic, yet unpretentious hangout. The walls mimic the adobe ochre and the artwork displayed around the restaurant is tasteful. What's equally tasty is the tortilla chips with avocado, salsa and fish. They do have the usual fare of tacos, enchiladas and especialidades. If you're game, also attempt the pear margarita or the tejas tea. The Happy Hour is only on weekdays, but you wouldn't know the difference. El Chile Cafe y Cantina is all about having fun, is a vibrant place and is unlike most other eateries that are Tex-Mex. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Frat party, almost |
2911, San Jacinto Boulevard Austin, TX 78705 United States +1 512 322 9168 |
Walking into the Crown & Anchor is like walking into the University of Texas boathouse. The 5 HD screens showcasing games, burgers and fries and a good selection of beer make the pub a popular hangout amongst college students and professors too. For the wagering kind, there's the dartboard and pool tables to win a few bucks. If you don't worry about parking or about noisy pubs (there's no such thing as a quiet pub!), spend an evening at this unofficial Austin Institution. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home-grown ingredients |
2113 Manor Road Austin, TX 78722 United States +1 512 476 5858 http://www.eastsidecafeaustin.... |
The central feature of this cozy cafe is not indoors, but out back, it is a kitchen garden overflowing with the herbs and vegetables that populate the menu every day. Cleverly integrated into soups, side dishes, appetizers and entrees. The soups are standouts,and the ever-changing selection of side dishes keeps the menu fresh. Half orders are available for those with a smaller appetite. While you wait for a table, browse Pitchforks & Tablespoons, the garden and kitchen shop on the grounds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ddeebboorraahh |
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Flavors of the Mediterranean |
2905, San Gabriel Street Austin, TX 78705 United States +1 512 474 2905 http://www.astiaustin.com/ |
The brains behind Asti probably got the inspiration for Fino when having a meal while perusing through an atlas. The cuisine is broadly categorized as Mediterranean but includes French, Spanish, Italian and Greek. This holds true for the wine list of around 90 labels as well, which include the staple French and Italian but also have vintages from Portugal and far away Australia. The tapas bar is a good bet as it lets you taste a bit of everything. Tuesdays are Spanish nights and Fino has Happy Hour everyday. Keep in mind, there are no rules: or maybe just one; come to Fino with an open mind and an empty stomach. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For barbeque and more |
1400 Barton Springs Road Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 479 0485 http://www.greenmesquite.net/ |
A cheap and satisfying eatery for barbecue lovers and non lovers, Green Mesquite offers it all; from lean and tender pork ribs, 'po' boys' to vegetable burgers. Sip on a chilled beer while you dig into your Chicken Fried Steak in the cheery outdoor courtyard or roll up your sleeves for the all-you-can-eat special. They also offer Low Carb Plates for the health conscious and reasonable Kid's Plates served with fries. Live music, succulent barbecue, beer and bright sunlight; this is a little piece of Texan barbecue paradise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dan Machold |
 Photo: Daniel and Rose |
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Brunch, continental |
811 West Live Oak St Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 444 4747 |
Southern-style cooking is often thought of as down-home, but at this restaurant, home is a plantation. Relaxing over brunch on the veranda, one almost expects to see Scarlett O'Hara floating by in a hoop skirt. The brunch buffet is always full to groaning with everything from boiled shrimp to a standing rib roast, carved to order. The dinner menu may be traditional, but all the entrees are reliably tasty. The breads are fabulous and the desserts are sinfully rich. Enjoy sipping on a mint julep while watching the peacocks make their way across the lawn. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Aaron Stidwell |
 Photo: Aaron Stidwell |
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Viva la salsa! |
709, East 6th Street Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 443 4252 http://www.habana.com/ |
The family friendly Habana Calle 6 is deliciously Cuban. The crowd, an assorted mix of Cubans and Puerto Ricans, packs the place for the authentic food and live music. The speciality of the Habana is the Platano Loco (sliced plantain with pork and ham stuffing). Rice and beans, ropa vieja and the staple lechon lasado are surely a hit. For dessert, the tres leches cake is what most choose; not surprising, considering it's built a reputation of being the best in the city. Whether you choose to dine indoors or outside, is you wish. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Upscale restaurant |
3509 Ranch Road 620 North Austin, TX 78734 United States +1 512 266 1369 http://hudsonsonthebend.com/ma... |
Tucked away in the trees near Lake Austin is a country home, where some of the best game in the city comes to the table. A taste for the exotic is definitely welcome here, as are hearty appetites. Instead of those tired old Crab cakes, try Omar's Rattlesnake Cakes. Sample rabbit, javelina, boar or venison one at a time, or get a mixed Grill Platter for a varied feast. You can even do a modern take on surf-and-turf, a Black Angus Beef Tenderloin topped with lobster. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Good Ol' Fashioned Barbecue |
100 Red River Street Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 478 4855 / +1 800 669 3602 http://www.ironworksbbq.com/ |
The old Weigl family iron works no longer forges metal, but a tasty assortment of fine Texas barbecue. With walls adorned by branding irons, the motif is quintessentially Western, perhaps for the benefit of conventioners from the nearby convention center. At the counter, order your choice of sliced beef, chicken, beef ribs, pork ribs, pork loin and sausage for a two-meat combo plate completed with sides of potato salad and beans. Or make your choice of meat by the pound. The spicy sauce is a tangy counterpoint. And if you are craving barbecue somewhere far away, note that Iron Works ships their goods anywhere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeremy Keith |
 Photo: Jessica |
 Photo: Richard Rutter |
 Photo: Craig Cook |
 Photo: John Tornow |
 Photo: Doug Smith |
 Photo: James Park |
 Photo: Charles Hope |
 Photo: michele perras |
 Photo: EAR FARM |
 Photo: Cory Forsyth |
 Photo: Greg Robleto |
 Photo: Sylvia |
 Photo: Christopher Sienko |
 Photo: Nathan Wright |
 Photo: Andy Ruff |
 Photo: littlerobothead |
 Photo: Greg Harrison |
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Sleek cafe and bakery |
500 East 4th Street Hilton Austin Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 482 8000 http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/ho... |
Located in the Hilton Hotel, this newcomer has a creative pastry chef that makes nibbles delicious with pumpkin cheesecake bars and Heath-sprinkled biscotti, or savory items such as pesto and Parmesan scones, sandwich wraps, and salads. Their coffee comes from Arabica beans produced exclusively for the cafe. The food and coffee will lure you in, but the comfortable leather couches and free wireless internet will make you want to stay all afternoon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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New York deli |
618 W Sixth Street Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 472 2037 |
If bagels and blintzes are your pleasure, there's no better spot than Katz's, the downtown deli that is open 24 hours. Start the day with bagels and lox, come by at lunch for a corned beef sandwich and, when the late-night munchies strike, stumble in for a blintz. If you haven't ever tried a fried pickle, stop in for a peculiar treat. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gideon Tsang |
 Photo: Yuval Kordov |
 Photo: Matt Galisa |
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Spicy fusion dining |
1400 S Congress Ave Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 472 3901 http://www.marsaustin.com |
Spicy food from a variety of origins makes dining in this place a taste-tempting treat. Try the Tea-Smoked Duck, which is finished in a clay oven, or, for something more traditional, the Tandoori Chicken. The buzz about Mars would not be complete, however, without a mention of the Rice Paper Fish which is the catch of the day cooked in rice paper with whatever combination of herbs, spices and vegetables that strikes the mood of the chef. The results are typically fantastic. If you feel adventurous, try the spicy Thai-style noodles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Game for game? |
8108, Mesa Drive Austin, TX 78759 United States +1 512 853 9480 http://www.mesaranchaustin.com/ |
The Mesa Ranch could've been a hunter's lodge and you wouldn't have known the difference. Hats and lassos hang casually around the restaurant and you smell leather in the air. Pick a bar stool to be served a stiff drink, head out to the patio and you'll be served a traditional southwestern ranch meal. Expect steaks, seafood, chicken and game cooked over mesquite. The Mesa Ranch specialties are the Nopalitos, cactus soaked in tequila brine and grilled poblano. They don't come much more rustic than this. The live music is southern, but unlike the usual honky tonk. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Shine on |
303, Red River Street Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 236 9599 http://moonshinegrill.com |
The Moonshine Grill sits in the oldest building in Austin and the decor tastefully reflects the same. The sweeping arches and exquisite mirrors on the brick and stone walls, not to mention the warm fire place all make for a cozy setting. The starters everyones raves about are the "Corn Dog" Shrimp (skewered shrimp in cornmeal batter, served with honey and blueberry mustard). The choice entrées are the Broiled Rainbow Trout and Texas Flat Iron Steak. Behind the main restaurant is a refurbished carriage converted into a bar, making the The Moonshine Grill an ideal setting, no matter what the occasion. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Restaurant with Lake Travis View |
6550 Comanche Trail Austin, TX 78732 United States +1 512 266 2442 http://www.oasis-austin.com/ |
This sunset gazers' spot recently revamped its menu so that people would come here for the food. But even the best food cannot compete with the view. With tiered decks stair-stepped down the side of a 450-foot cliff overlooking Lake Travis, The Oasis has a table with a view for everyone. It is a magnet for tourists and locals alike. The menu is varied, split between Tex-Mex and traditional fare like prime rib ($18.95) and grilled salmon ($16.95). Frozen drinks are a specialty, but are expensive and even the soft drinks are $1.95. But who can quibble with prices when the sunset is so, well, priceless? Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Barron Fujimoto |
 Photo: Robert Simmons |
 Photo: Spencer Nick |
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Bird in hand |
1928, Riverside Drive Austin, TX 78741 United States +1 512 326 1888 |
El Regio is a term for the area around Monterrey, which is where the owner's from. El Regio means 'the regal one' in Spanish. El Regio is also a term synonymous with the pollo asado. Grilled marinated chicken is all this little drive through shack specializes in, and people would drive across town for it, were they not to have multiple outlets. The pollo asado is served with beans, tortillas, onions(sweet and grilled) and a tomato/green avocado salsa(may cause problems if consumed in excess). This is largely a drive-through, but they do have picnic tables around. El Regio is one place where being given 'the bird' is not a problem. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Vamos a la cantina |
1206, West 38th Street Austin, TX 78705 United States +1 512 419 7482 http://www.santaritacantina.com |
In Texas, you're bound to bump into Tex-Mex eateries at every corner. Santa Rita Tex-Mex Cantina is one the many, and it's just as good. Jalapeno Wings, Quesadillas and Crispy Flautas, they have them all, with the meats roasted on a rotisserie. Don't worry about bringing children here; the kids meal option offers choices between enchilada, quesadilla or the favorites, taco and burger. If the spice gets to you, firefight with the margaritas or martinis and ice teas for the kids. The Cantina also sells t-shirts and gift certificates. Santa Rita Tex-Mex Cantina has Happy Hours throughout the week and it's great if you want to speed the 2 martini limit! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Casual restaurant with great patio |
1624 Barton Springs Road Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 474 9991 http://www.theshadygrove.com/ |
Sit at a patio table under the huge oaks and you will discover why this spot is called Shady Grove. One of the best patios ever created is reason enough to stop by, and the consistently tasty, crowd-pleasing food is a great bonus. Happy hour is offered Monday through Friday 4pm to 7p. A menu standard is the Hippie Sandwich, a concoction of sautéed vegetables, cheese and a sub-style roll. Add a chicken breast and you have got the Hippie Chick. Kids love the chicken fingers and the burgers are great, too. Plus, this place has personality - just check out the bathroom (housed in an old Airstream trailer). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pete L. |
 Photo: Pete L. |
 Photo: pixy led |
 Photo: Brad Ehney |
 Photo: Erin Stoll |
 Photo: CassidayCaitlin |
 Photo: ritzy periwinkle |
 Photo: neal williams |
 Photo: Jens Zalzala |
 Chinese food with a touch of class |
7858 Shoal Creek Boulevard Austin, TX 78757 United States +1 512 302 4600 http://www.suzischinagrill.com |
Upon entering, you will be struck by the softness of the place. The lighting and decor creates an ambiance that is both comfortable and classy. The food is tasty and unique, and the service is impeccable, especially since it is Suzi herself who actually delivers the food to your table. The Sesame Chicken is a house favorite and you can tailor the degree of spiciness of any dish to your taste. As an appetizer, try the Hot and Sour soup. Loaded with different types of seafood and a touch of pepper, you will be pleasantly surprised at its flavor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lots of food for a small price |
4412 Medical Parkway Austin, TX 78756 United States +1 512 467 8533 |
A favorite of the locals on Saturday mornings, this tiny family-owned business is bursting with people willing to wait in a line that extends out the front door for a simple breakfast taco. But their food is anything but simple. The Taco Shack breakfast specialty, the Shack Taco ($1.75), is filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese and chorizos' just bursting with flavor. Although they can certainly prepare a basic breakfast taco with your choice of fillings, try the Burnet Road Burrito ($2.95) if you are extra hungry and want something to fill you up. For lunch, try the Shack Lunch Special ($3.85). No matter what you order, you will not be disappointed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Chea |
 Photo: arvind grover |
 Photo: ngenworks.com |
 Photo: Antonio R Matta II |
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Not just Tacos |
2529 South Lamar Boulevard Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 444 0261 http://www.tacoxpress.com |
This Mexican eatery serves homemade grub in a home-like setting. The aroma of Corn Tortillas and Migas waft around as you are seated in a small area surrounded by bar stools. A great place for breakfast, it is pretty busy at other times as well. Those with vegan cravings, try the vegetarian enchiladas. Others can gorge on are Gorditas, Queso, Chalupa, and of course, tacos. Beer, margaritas, Cimichuri and Salsa Roja are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Elder |
 Photo: Heather Leah Kennedy |
 Photo: mathew |
 Photo: Brian Sharp |
 Photo: Andrew Elder |
 Photo: Chris Summerlin |
 Photo: radiohook |
 Photo: Jon Bernhardt |
 Photo: Stephanie Flores |
 Photo: neets means |
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Comfort food, slick setting |
3801 North Capital of Texas Hwy Davenport Village Shopping Center Austin, TX 78746 United States +1 512 347 1000 http://www.thistlecafe.com |
What started as simply a brunch and lunch spot, with takeout on the side, has branched out to become a viable dinner alternative. The relaxed surroundings during the day are spruced up with white linens at night, signaling a change in menu and attitude. When you visit, you will smell the scrumptious baked goods as soon as you open the door. Menu items include such Austin brunch favorites as migas and breakfast tacos, and more refined fare such as salads and pastas. The tortilla soup has a distinctive flavor, and the chocolate meringue pie is not to be missed. This is a popular spot, so expect to wait during peak times, such as weekends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
