The*Rebeccammendations

From the HeART

TheRebecca — Thu, 10 May 2012 04:49:17 +0000

After the Storm painting by Brent Yezek of SketchArts

One of the things I love the most about Austin (and find myself talking about weekly these days) is how everyone I meet seems to have multiple passions, or at least they seem to be involved in more than one profession, activity, or group. It’s to the point where I’ll ask someone, “What do you do?” (the typical profession question) and their response is, “Well, which do you want to hear first?” I love that about Austin – people are multidimensional and it makes our community that much smaller. You may end up working with a friend’s kickball teammate. It’s really quite fantastic and amazing all at the same time.

So, when at a friend’s birthday over a year ago at a bar I met a new friend, I quickly discovered that Brent Yezek was a landscape architect…AND an artist. I began to ask more questions as I was intrigued by his unique profession and also his hobby. Even though it’s Austin, it’s not every day that I meet a young professional male artist. So, I took his card and proceeded to look up his website. I was amazed at his work! His photos were abstract enough to leave room for imagination and precise enough to paint a literal picture of a recognizable scene or setting. Since that day, I’ve seen Brent flourish as an artist and can only imagine how much time he spends on his artwork outside of work. I get excited when he posts new pictures of Austin scenes and love his style and eye.

And, so, now I write about this not only to introduce you to his masterpiece portfolio, but also to let you know about a fantastic event he is hosting tonight (Thursday, May 10): Art Over Alzheimers, an art auction and fundraiser for Alzheimers, since he has been personally affected by it through his grandfather. And, let me just say that I would be thrilled to take home ANY of the paintings he has up for auction. They are amazing! If you have a minute to stop by, enjoy and put in a bid for his work, you will also enjoy food, drinks, and tunes and support the Alzheimers Association. The event takes place at Platinum Realty in the 360 Building on at 3rd and Nueces from 6-9:30 p.m. Here are more details on the Facebook event. Share or bring a friend!

And, if you’re looking to get artsy this weekend, visit Art of the Pot, a fantastic pottery tour! Notice the link in the previous sentence has the locations for last year’s event, but here is the lineup for this year. It’s also the PERFECT place to find a mother’s day gift! I went last year and left with 2 new pottery pieces that I didn’t have when I walked in, and a ceramic tequila tasting cup made by Keith Kreeger Pottery. I even got to meet the potters that made the pieces I purchased! Now that is why I love local business – meeting the people behind (or in front leading the way) them and their stories and remembering them when I use their products. Even if you can only made it to one stop on the tour, it’s worth a visit! Learn more and share on Facebook. Art it up this Mother’s Day weekend!

De-Lick-cious!

TheRebecca — Wed, 09 May 2012 03:42:57 +0000

Chocolate Orange and Grapefruit Ginger Ice Cream at Lick on S. Lamar

Oookay, listen up! Have you been to Lick yet? You know, the “honest”, aka organic and LOCAL ingredient-packed ice cream scooped up in a cheerful shop on S. Lamar? If not, WHAT are you waiting for? And if you have, what’s the wait on going back? I visited for the first time on Foursquare Day (4-16, get it? 4 – squared?) at a social event hosted by Social Media Club of Austin. I was de-light-ed by light consistency – it was almost sorbet-like, airy, yet creamy, a magical creation! I’m a big fan since I usually go for frozen yogurt since they’re less heavy than traditional and rich ice creams. I happen to find lighter frozen treats more refreshing, versus the feeling I get after eating thick and creamy ones - like they weigh me down. The two flavors I tried at Lick on my first visit were different than other ice creams and yogurts I’ve spooned through or licked through a cone. I felt satisfied and rejuvenated from the fresh ingredients and lighter feel.

And, the flavors – innovative, local, earthy, and natural like Honeyed Peaches and Rosemary (with Round Rock Honey), Caramelized Carrots & Tarragon, Texas Au Lait (with milk, cream, espresso, pure cane syrup and a touch of Mexican vanilla), and Too Hot Chocolate (with local Delysia chocolate, Round Rock Honey, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and chipotle peppers). The best part of the ice creams to me was the ‘honest’ part of their tagline ‘honest ice creams’. The local ingredients are the stars of the show, versus the dairy base or even waxy characteristics I’ve experienced before in traditional ice creams. In the Chocolate Orange, I enjoyed real orange particles, and the Grapefruit Ginger tasted pure and natural – a great combination straight from its sources. I even tried a flavor with beets in it and was drawn by the pink color derived from the fresh roots. I can’t wait to go back to expand my ice cream flavor horizons. It’s time to give the ol’ goodies like Mint Chocolate Chip and Cookies n’ Creme a break and go back to farm where the milk in ice cream comes from for the flavor profiles too.

The shop is easy to miss as it’s tucked away in a shopping center near Barley Swine – it’s in good tasty company in the transforming block on S. Lamar. But, make sure to drive in circles until you find it (like me), and then your tastebuds will drive you right back. What a great way to embrace the summer heat – lick it away! And, call me on your way so I can meet you there for a scoop, or two (wink).

Oh, and I think their ice cream cups are recyclable – that way, you can reduce waste after you lick every last drop. Check their Facebook page for the latest flavors!

Swiftly Scurry to the Attic

TheRebecca — Wed, 02 May 2012 04:50:52 +0000

Chocolate 7 Ways Dessert at Swift's Attic

Let’s start with dessert and work our way backwards, shall we? It just makes sense since the photo above of Chocolate 7 Ways so accurately expresses the explosion of flavors and excitement I felt after my first visit at Swift’s Attic, the newest ‘top’-notch bistro to raise Congress Avenue to new heights. Literally, Swift’s Attic, sits atop Austin’s infamous jazz club, Elephant Room and pairs quite nicely with its class and elegance.

Swift’s Attic is based on small plates. But, not just any small plates. Each ingredient seemed to be placed with intention and carefully crafted to carry the diner to new decadent destinations. Okay, that sounds quite dramatic, but each plate that my friend and I shared really did create a tasty experience that is unlike others I’ve experienced lately, and one that I remember and can’t wait to return for.

Take, for example, the dish on the next page. The well-seasoned quail was a treat, although the hot water cornbread was so rich and perfect, it belongs on the dessert menu! Matt, our superb waiter, explained that the hot water cornbread fritters have a consistency of hush puppies, and they are the chef’s grandmother’s special recipe. When eaten with the raisin rum butter, I mean, this dish is destined to become a ‘we’re known for this’ dish.

Bandera quail, hot water cornbread, golden raisin rum butter (um, uh-mazing)

The Cobia was a light way to start the meal (remember, we’re going backwards) and the bite-sized pieces were a welcome way to slow the meal so I was prepared to savor it and pay attention to each forkful.

Cobia crudo, kale frickles, gremolata, grapefruit gastrique

The blistered shishito peppers were rustic, yet smooth, fresh and earthy, and fragrant. Matt mentioned about one in every ten peppers is hotter than the others. I got the hot one I was a fan of the green finger foods, I didn’t even need the dipping sauce. Another fantastic starter.

Blistered shishito peppers, Garroxta cheese, Banyuls vinegar

Oh, and the cheese plate. Not your average cheese plate. So fantastic! The apple butter, peppercorn gastrique, and roasted fig and olive jam trio, all made in-house, were just the fancy fix to spread atop fresh toasty bread from Walton’s Fancy & Staple with a sliver of carefully selected cheeses.

Peppercorn gastrique, house made beer nuts with Avery White Rascal, roasted fig and onion jam, homemade apple butter, bread from Walton's, Basil Hayden from Vermont, and Ballerina Cheese

This was just one way to work your way through the menu at Swift’s Attic. Almost the entire menu called out to me, we just had to commit to a few intriguing dishes, and admit that we’d be back to try new plates, and indulge in more of these first-visit favorites. I recommend visiting on a weeknight and calling ahead for a reservation or grab a seat at the vintage-mod bar before or after galavanting downtown. I can’t wait to swiftly sneak back up to the attic for some flavorful treasures.

I hope you’ll make a stop at Swift’s! Report back on your visit and menu favorites!

Pizza Two Ways

TheRebecca — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 03:47:50 +0000

The Marinara PIzza at The Backspace

Does two of something in a row constitute a pattern? I think so. I tend to notice patterns. It’s not too hard to notice one, like, when I tried two new pizza locales within 24-hours last weekend. And, pizza is not something I take lightly. I’ve very picky about when I’m going to pick up a slice of a cheesy and savory ‘pie’ that has been a personal favorite food since I was a little girl. But, last weekend, I decided to dive in full force without any preconceived notions or inhibitions.

The first spot was a unanimous favorite among my fantastic company of Jason, Todd, and David (Yes, me and the boys. Lucky me!): The Backspace, situated in the ‘back space’ behind Parkside on 5th and San Jacinto. It’s been on my to-go list for a very long time. And, I was so thrilled with our experience! I love how quiet and under-the-radar it feels. It was like we were in a back alley in New York City dining in a hidden gem of a wood-fire pizza shop.

The Marinara Pizza (pictured above), was fantastic. To me, the sauce is a major factor when I evaluate pizza. This one was flavorful and light – loved it! I appreciated the garlic on this pizza, the simplicity, and the toasty crust. Notice I said ‘toasty’ versus ‘crispy’. To me, toasty describes the thicker crust edge that was also airy with bubbles and when baked in the wood-fire oven added a nice toast to the exterior. Crispy to me describes pizza with a crunchy thinner outer edge and dough on the base of the pizza. This pizza had a softer dough base. Winners all around. The mushroom pizza was fantastic too! I think the simplicity (one beer on tap) of the concept and the way it makes you feel like you know about a little best-kept-secret is what drew me in. What a great place for a date or an intimate friendly gathering!

The Rocket Pizza with Cheese, Soppressata, Arugula, and Shaved Parmesan at Via 313.

*Excuse the low lighting but it depicts the rustic nature of this Detroit-style pizza trailer experience.

I wish I could remember which friend of mine recently looked me in the eye and said, “You HAVE to try Via 313 pizza.” They proceeded to tell me that it’s Michigan-style (Via=from, MI area code=313) pizza and square-shaped. I responded with, “Is all Michigan-style pizza square?” The answer is no. When my friends Rachel and David and I found ourselves hungry for a bite between a drink at Eastside Showroom and a concert at ND Studios, that advice rang in my head and we walked across the way to the food truck started by two brothers from Michigan at E. 6th and Waller just outside of Violet Crown Social Club. I got to meet co-owner, Brandon, who mentioned their square pans are industrial metal trays that were used to carry automotive parts in Detroit, also known as the ‘Motor City’.

The pizza we ordered, The Rocket, was thick (not as thick as Chicago pizza I’ve experienced), savory, cheesy and cut into square quarters. We added mushrooms, which I appreciated to add another hearty texture to break up the cheese.They even delivered it to us on the back patio of Violet Crown Social Club, which I love, 1) because I love to see local businesses partnering and 2) I appreciate bars with tasty food. It was flavorful, filling, and the cheese was the star of their pizza show. It’s not the typical pizza-type I go for (I’m usually a thin-crust girl), but it was hot out of the oven, had a thick layer of cheese, a crispy crust, and hit the spot for an evening snack. Plus, now I know what Detroit-style pizza tastes like!

I’m glad I stepped outside of my pizza box and usual favorites to experience two very different, and both great slice-y finds. Austin’s pizza scene is expanding, any way you slice it!

If you’ve read my blog before, you probably know that I’m a BIG Salvation Pizza fan. What are your latest local pizza favorites?

New-Age Charoset: Ingredient Freedom

TheRebecca — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 15:59:23 +0000

Pouring Sweet Kosher Wine into Charoset Apple Mixture

The holidays always present us with opportunities to reflect and improve. This Passover, I’m doing just that. Reflecting on where I was last Spring, appreciating the new family members (like my adorable niece) that will be celebrating with us this year, and even reflecting on past Passovers. Like this one, where I made Golden White Cranberry Charoset (a sweet wine-soaked apple mixture representing mortar used to build pyramids when the Jewish people were enslaved in Egypt thousands of years ago). Can we say: throwback to my original blog layout from 2009 look that really does look retro in color and style?

Since I have several food allergies, including one with nuts, traditionally a key component in this symbolic dish, I created that dried-fruit alternative in 2009 and have stayed pretty close to that made-up recipe every year since. As I take my reflections and use them to make this Passover and this year even better than those in the past as well as celebrate the freedom that this holiday represents, I’ve taken the liberty of adding a new ingredient to my version this year. I was looking for something dense, but not necessarily crunchy, to give the mixture some depth and a taste that would slightly counteract the lip-smacking sweetness of the extra sweet wine, Honeycrisp apples, and sugary tri-colored raisin mix. What is this mystery ingredient? Dried apricots! They add a little bittersweetness to the mix and the texture I was looking for.

Raw Charoset ingredients before mixing in the food processor.

Despite the fact that I attended the Austin Food Blogger Alliance (AFBA) recipe-writing class this week and learned all about how important exact measurements and instructions are to a successful outcome, I’ll admit I eye-balled all of this 6-ingredient Charoset. Most of that is because you can add any of the elements to your taste and liking. If you’re not a raisin nut, don’t use them at all, or use a few, (golden are really key), if you like a lot of cinnamon or wine, add some extra. Here’s a rough recipe (so rebellious of me!) just for you, adapted from my original! I hope you try this new-age version of an old-time Jewish recipe classic.

Ingredients:

1 package golden raisins (I used a tri-colored raisin package this time)
1 package Craisins (dried cranberries, or a few ounces from the bulk department in most grocery stores)
1 package of dried apricot halves
About 10-15 apples for batch that fills a large serving bowl or dish(I prefer a mix of Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, and Jazz apples..they are the sweetest…if you haven’t had one of these varieties, IRebeccammend them!) Note: I picked these three varieties yesterday too without even consulting this original recipe! I must know myself well
1 bottle of Manischewitz Cream White Concord Wine or any other Kosher for Passover sweet white wine
1/4 cup ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons of honey (there should be enough sweetness, but apples and honey just go together ) Note: actually left out the honey this year because it was already so sweet with the extra-sweet wine I found.

Instructions

Cut apples into slices, and then cut the slices in half, peel half of them, and place them all in a food processor.
Dice the apricot halves.
Add raisins, craisins, and dried apricots in with each batch of apples you add to the processor.
Grind the apples/dried fruit mixture in the food processor until there are no larger pieces left.
Add to your bowl for refrigeration or serving dish.
Repeat Steps 1-4 until all apples are diced/shredded.
Add about 1 cup of the sweet white wine, or to taste, and toss throughout with a spoon (try not to add tooo much, to avoid soggy-ness)
Add about 1/4 cup ground cinnamon, or to taste and toss throughout with a spoon (this, combined with the sweet wine is what creates the memorable taste of charoset, so don’t forget the cinnamon!)
Add about 2 tablespoons of honey to the apple mixture and toss throughout with a spoon. (Optional)
Cover your bowl or dish tightly since apples oxidize when cut open and exposed to the air ((ask my science fair project repeated circa years 1995-1998), and will turn brown.
Refrigerate before serving…tastes best if you let it refrigerate overnight to soak up all the flavors.
Serve and enjoy!

I think maybe next year, we’ll try to infuse our El Pasoan bordered roots into our menu, like this Mexican Passover recently featured in the Austin American-Statesman!. Who says we don’t have the freedom to spice up our traditional recipes? Hey, as long as bread’s not involved…Happy Passover (or Easter)!

Newbie Roundup + Blog Birthday!

TheRebecca — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 14:24:00 +0000

Pretzel and Beer Cheese @ Easy Tiger

Did you hear? Jumbo pretzels are the new birthday cake. That’s right, readers! Today is TheRebeccammendations’ THIRD Birthday!! My VERY first post included a photo of a recipe (Hamantashen, triangular cookies traditionally eaten on the Jewish holiday of Purim) and the details of the recipe and I decided the theme would be entertaining since I like to host in my home and for visitors in Austin. In fact, it was through this very first post that I met my long-distance blog penpal (we frequently comment on eachothers’ blogs, but have never met in person), Charles of Judicial Peach in St. Louis. It was through Charles that I met my friend Eric Silverstein before he opened his food truck, The Peached Tortilla, to provide feedback and ideas on the concept. He’s since (on his own accord), won the 2011 Food Truck of the Year Award by Eater Austin.

We celebrated TheRebeccammendations’ first birthday with my favorite birthday party ever at The Belmont featuring so many incredible local businesses, a beyond delicious and adorable cake by Coco Paloma Desserts, and three very talented musical acts: Courrier (who is in now in the running to perform at the Billboard music awards, go vote!), the ever-so-talented Matt McCloskey who has since produced a vinyl record that caused quite the debate in the comments section of my blog, and Jordan Whitmore who is about to release an album!

It was around the time of TheRebeccammendations’ second birthday that I had realized that blogging had helped me discover my passion for small and local businesses and that all of the previous blog posts I had written were filled with stories of how business owners or artists started out and came to do what they love for a living. A few months later in June 2011, I launched a community-focused small business marketing consultancy, LocalizeAustin. It was also in that second year of blogging that I joined the Austin Food Blogger Alliance founding board that I still serve on today, and a group that just produced its second official City Guide to food just in time for hungry SXSW crowds and Austin visitors.

Now, I’m three years into blogging (although the last year has featured fewer posts due to time constraints associated with launching LocalizeAustin), and almost 9 months into LocalizeAustin, but every time I post a new story about something fun to do in this town, I remember why I started and where it’s led me and I feel at home. So, I’ll keep writing, keep connecting with those who give Austin character through the businesses they start, the music they play, and the art they create. I’ll continue to help them tell their stories and attract new eyes and new believers. Thank you for all of your support up to this point – let’s keep the blog rolling!

***This post is the first of a series I’ll be writing on Austin newbie spots. The picture above is of a giant pretzel and “beer cheese’ offered at Easy Tiger, what I termed Austin’s newest “beerkery” (beer spot + bakery) since the likelihood that their menu caters to the St. Patty’s Day crowd today is high! If you haven’t stopped by there yet, do it. I ‘Rebeccammend’ the Ommegang Rare Vos beer (from NY), but it is not bitter, it’s refreshing and light and tasty alongside the jumbo pretzel. Oh, and their veggie sausage is pretty delicious too! They even have house-made Chex Mix, and, their Morning Tiger looks delicious but I have not yet tasted it: Multigrain Raisin Walnut Roll, Non-fat Greek Yogurt, Rolled Oats with Honey, Agave Syrup or Homemade Preserves.

Watch for the next feature in my newbie mini-series!

Austin Food Hidden Gems: 2012 City Guide

TheRebecca — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 15:51:26 +0000

Top to Bottom, L to R: (Row 1) Foreign & Domestic, Salvation Pizza, Lulu B's, Lucky's Puccias (Row 2) Olivia, La Mexicana Bakery, Gourmands (Row 3) Easy Tiger, Uncorked Wine Bar, Rio's Brazilian Cafe

I’ve always been partial to the off-the-beaten path finds. The hole-in-the-wall eateries and drinkeries that I just stumble upon and that don’t have all of the attention (but deserve it!). For the purpose of this post as part of the City Guide by the Austin Food Blogger Alliance in preparation for the influx of SXSWers, we shall call these: hidden gems. Maybe they’re just spots locals know and talk about, but we want Austinites looking to expand their horizons and visitors looking to experience the city like a local to know the inside scoop on some of the best finds. I could talk about this list forever, but I’ll try to keep it concise and easy to follow:

City Center

Easy Tiger (East 6th, just West of I-35) – A bakery up top (street level), restaurant and bar downstairs hidden underground and a beer garten in the back yard, great for late night noshes, even early breakfast to get moving before a big day at SXSW or a place to unwind among all the madness. Who can go wrong with a freshly baked pretzel and a beer? Easy to miss (but shouldn’t be missed) if you try to avoid ‘Dirty 6th’ between Congress and I-35.
La Condesa* (Bar/Happy Hour) – A restaurant I described after my first visit at ‘Mex-Mod’, but because their menu is so unique (flavor combinations like you’ve never seen before), diners end up wanting to try many dishes and split them, which can add up. So, try the bar area (to the right and up the small flight of stairs upon entering) for happy hour for fantastic specials, incredible ceviche and drink deals. If you can get your hands on the Crab and Green Apple Guacamole, do it!
Lucky’s Puccias – Looking for a simple but filling meal before you head on your way to the next event? Although Whole Foods Market is a sight to see for newcomers and a house favorite (me=house), tucked away just behind it in the Southeast direction on 5th Street is this delicious food trailer serving up freshly-baked Italian sandwiches on the patio of Tiniest Bar in Texas. Inside the airy baked-on-the-spot bread come ingredients like artichoke spread, pesto, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, mushrooms…shall we go on?
Royal Blue Grocery – It describes itself as a ‘compact urban grocery’ and has three locations (247 West 3rd Street, 360 Nueces Street, 609 Congress Ave) downtown and will nourish you like none other in the simplest way. I ‘Rebeccammend’ the 360 Nueces location to get away from the crowds. Grab a pice of fruit to replenish your energy, a cup of coffee or a juice, or a made-to-order sandwich (even hot pressed!) or salad that will make you happy you thought to dine at a grab-n-go instead of a full-service tourist attraction. Although, you can eat at the picnic tables placed on the sidewalk if you want the full cafe experience. A side of people-watching with that sandwich?
Sweetish Hill Bakery (Satellite location – truly hidden!) – The best tuna sandwich in Austin (in my humble opinion) hides inside the Baker Botts building located at 98 San Jacinto. In fact, you might even miss it if you worked in the building if you weren’t looking for the chalkboard with the daily lunch specials in the hallway leading to the secret shop. You can get this at the main location on W. 6th Street, but for SXSW goers, this location is MUCH closer, and well, hey, there’s something special about knowing about the hidden gem. *Note- only open on weekdays.
TRiO – This restaurant sits downstairs at the Four Seasons Austin Hotel also on San Jacinto Boulevard with a beautiful view of the hotel grounds overlooking Town Lake. Dine here for happy hour if you want to catch some SXSW celebrities, quiet from the crowds, and some top-notch specials on appetizers/drinks. The Tuna Tartare is the best I’ve had – graced with a sweet soy glaze, served atop soft avocado.
Violet Crown Cinema Lounge – This boutique indy film theatre on 2nd Street may be screening films for the SXSW film portion of the festival, but for Interactive and Music-goers, the lounge could be a quiet retreat from the buzzing streets. Need somewhere to meet a colleague or report back to your team all of the knowledge and experiences you soaked up? This could be just what you need. Hey, if you sneak in a movie on your stay, even better!

West Downtown (West of Lamar)

Fabi & Rosi – If you arrive in Austin a few days before the festival (because flights were hard to come by), or leavea few days after, this could be the perfect restaurant to dine at just outside of the city center. Serving fresh dishes and local ingredients, Fabi & Rosi is housed in a little cottage a little bit South and just West of Downtown. I dined here for the first time during Austin Restaurant Week 2011 with a new friend I met on Twitter at SXSW last year!
House Wine – I.love.this.wine.bar. It truly is located in a little house tucked away just West of Lamar and is easy to miss if you’re driving by! A good landmark to find this gem is P. Terry’s burger stand (turquoise) on the corner of Barton Springs and Lamar. It’s just adorable and just the right place to put your feet up and unwine-d in the afternoon or evening/on the weekends. Skip the main attractions on Barton Springs and show your crew you know where you’re going by turning onto little Josephine street leading to House Wine.

South Austin (South of the River/Cesar Chavez)

Elizabeth Street Cafe – I JUST visited for the first time and boy is this the place to be. There was a wait. And people waited. If you can go early or grab a drink while you wait, it’s worth it for Vietnamese tastes like their perfect Spring rolls with three dipping sauces and more than generous bowls of soup (Pho). Their dessert menu looked incredible too. Located on South First Street, this mod cafe is clean, quality, and full of flavor.
La Mexicana Bakery (open 24 hours!) – Located on South First Street near Wilson Street, La Mexicana is the place to get a traditional Mexican baked good like an apple empanada (guilty) or a traditional taco any time of day. 24 hour bakeries are just ingenious to me.
Lulu B’s – I’m jumping up and down as I get to this bullet point! In fact, there’s not much necessary to say about it because it’s just that good. Period. A Vietnamese trailer on South Lamar, there’s always a 20 minute wait (at least, even if you call in your order), but it is just my favorite! Their BBQ or Lemongrass Chicken Sandwiches (Banh Mi) served on crispy baguettes with picked vegetables and what I call Chinese Chili are just the perfect sweet, spicy lunch! Top it with their red sriracha sauce and you have THE winner. Lunch of Champions. (Oh yes, their spring rolls are also fantastic.)
Olivia – I don’t think my friend Jerrod will mind that I’m sharing this photo of him taking a hunk out of the burger (with an egg on top!) showcased in the photo gallery at the top of this post. Olivia is easy to drive by on South Lamar, but its farm-to-table philosophy makes their menu a treat worth treating yourself to. This is a nicer option if you’re looking for an Austiny restaurant to get a glimpse of the city’s culinary angle and have a real meal (versus on-the-go options abounding during the festival). Weekend brunch is a great way to experience this quality menu at a more manageable price.
Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop – Just go. My favorite cupcakes in Austin, this little bakeshop on S. First Street knows how to make ‘em. And, I’m not the biggest cupcake person, but if I go for one, this is where you’ll find me. That’s all.

East Side (East of I-35)

Gourmands – Just a stones throw from the dive bars on E. 6th Street (East of I-35), Gourmands is so modest, but it shouldn’t be! With a URL of: lovethysandwich.com, their menu is truly sacred, along with their homemade cripsy potato chips, housemade picked vegetables, and serious sandwiches that call out your name to take a BIG bite. Located on E. Webberville just off of E. 7th Street.
Hot Mama’s Cafe – This little Mediterranean Cafe’s mantra is power to the women of the world or, the hot mamas if you prefer. Their lemon garlic hummus and homemade toasty pita bread is just the perfect snack or lunch accompanied by fresh vegetables. Their cookies are pretty darn good too. Stop by for a cup of coffee, Mocha Coke and other bubbly bevs, and just a place to unwind inside or out on their enclosed patio. Located on E. 6th (East of I-36).
Rio’s Brazilian Cafe – Cheese Breads. This is house Rio’s got started, selling their Brazilian cheese breads at the farmer’s market on weekends, and now they serve these soft savory round doughy treats out of their cafe on Pleasant Valley (East of I-35)! Their menu is delicious – everything I’ve ever eaten there is simply fantastic – fresh and flavorful. Great outdoor patio and the inside cafe looks like you’re dining in someone’s home. Owners Ben and Elias will make you feel at home the moment you step into the cafe.
Uncorked Tasting Room & Wine Bar – This wine bar sits atop a hill on the East Border of I-35 at E. 7th Street. Other than a perfect place to grab a glass of wine and watch the crowds buzz by from their high-up outdoor patio, this is a great spot for late night dessert!

North Austin (North of 6th Street)

Apothecary Wine Bar & Cafe – North of 45th Street on Burnet, this wine bar is a regular of mine. In fact, I think I’m there at least once a week, though living in the neighborhood makes it very convenient. Coffee, tea, European-style all-day menu with delicious bites like roasted red pepper hummus, olives, bruschetta, crepes, salads, and even mini pretzel bagels with lox and creme fraiche. Great place to wind up for the day at brunch or wine-d down in the evening. GREAT business meeting spot too!
Food Heads – Favorite sandwich shop in Austin. Their fresh breads, build-your-own sandwiches or hard-to-choose-from menu will have you saying ‘you complete me’. Serving up winning lunches (and extended hours now into the evening), this little house just off of Guadalupe Street on 34th Street is simply on-point. (Look for a Rebeccammendations sticker on the front door window!)
Foreign & Domestic – Hidden for sure, in a residential neighborhood off of 53rd Street, this gastronomic and gourmet spot is both urban and homey. Get ready for adventurous ingredients and a quirky experience but foodies in Austin continue to buzz about this complex find.
Salvation Pizza – My favorite pizza in Austin. (No, I haven’t tried it all, but when I find what I like, I stick to it!) Just two doors down from FoodHeads (above), it’s simply fresh and flavorful. No rubbery cheese, no flavorless ingredients. The thin and crispy crust holds each bite of flavor and helps you savor your slice. Also served out of a red and yellow house, you’ll feel like you’re sharing big ol’ pizzas with your neighbors on their porch on a Sunday evening when you dine here.

What are some of your favorite hidden gems that I missed? I’m always looking for new ones!

The Hues & Vieuxs of New Orleans

TheRebecca — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 02:07:28 +0000

Sami & I at the French Market!

It took me wayy to long to get there. And by “there”, I mean New Orleans. It seemed that everyone I knew or talked to had already been to ‘The Big Easy’…except for me. So when my friends Sami and Daniel moved there in December, it only took me about two weeks to find a flight special to get there, now that I had a place to stay (yes, I invited myself) and friends to explore it with! It was nice to visit on a non-Mardi Gras weekend so that I could see the city in its normal state. Well, mostly normal. None of it was normal for me. (Um, eating a fried oyster sandwich? Me?) Thus the reason for my visit, and that’s what vacation’s all about – stepping outside of your norm. I was ready to explore the food, the sights, the sounds, and the colors of ‘Nawlin’s'! And, boy, did I indulge! Take a look!

Cafe du Monde is a must-visit. It’s legendary, and yes, I realize I might be the last person ever to be here. But if you haven’t visited, the pounds and mounds of powdered sugar are a sight to see and taste.

Cafe au Lait and Beignets at Cafe du Monde

Sami knows me. She knew THIS was my kind of place. This being Sucre. I come from a long line of sweet-tooth bearing family members, so an adorable, colorful, and artistic bakery such as Sucre on Magazine Street seemed to be made for me. It didn’t matter that we stopped in at about 5 p.m. I quickly lost all concern for ruining my dinner appetite. It was just happening. I pretty much jumped up and down like an excited little girl at the counter of sugary possibilities. We finally settled on decadent White Chocolate Bread Pudding (tasted like french toast covered in maple syrup with the consistency of very moist cake) and a little S’mores skillet, both of which came with a side of our choice of gelato. Such a simply beautiful bakery that knows how to do it right.

Dessert Happy Hour at Sucre

Yes, those are macaron towers below. Aren’t they adorable?

Sucre Display on Magazine Street

I fell in love with this local New Orleans artist at Greg’s Antiques on Decatur. I was told by the shop owner his name is John Ordoyne, but I cannot find his work online! Aren’t the vibrant colors amazing?

John Ordoyne Art at Greg's Antique on Decatur

I was lucky enough to be in New Orleans on the weekend of an annual pre-Mardis Gras parade known as Krewe du Vieux. It’s a crazy parade full of brass bands, colorful R-rated floats, and inappropriate humor. Sami and I ended up with beads (no, we did not do anything inappropriate to get them), even dreidels and silly trinkets given out by the paraders.

Krewe Du Vieux Pre-Mardi Gras Parade!

All in all, I would say I got a great glimpse and taste of the New Orleans I always dreamed of visiting. The colors and the energy continue to amaze me! The music continues to move me, and I long for the day when I return to the city that makes my blues melt away with their blues. I truly felt why they call it ‘The Big Easy’.

*Thank you Sami and Daniel for a fabulous first trip to New Orleans!

Eat Out In Party Winner!

TheRebecca — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 03:10:09 +0000

Written By Guest Blogger: Linda Nguyen of Girl Eats World

Hi! My name is Linda and I love me a themed party. When I saw that Rebecca was partnering up with the great people of Eat Out In (a restaurant delivery service) hosting a contest for party ideas and the prize being a generous gift certificate to Eat Out In, I was already salivating at the possibilities. As I trolled the many restaurants that Eat Out In services, I saw that Get Sum Dim Sum was an option. Immediately, I was reminded of a handful of my friends who have never had dim sum and knew I wanted to host a “Never Have We Ever” party.

Upon receiving the exciting news that my party idea actually won me the gift certificate, I instantly recruited one of my best friends, Brandi, who had never had dim sum and always says yes to an adventure, as a co-host. We invited a group of girls who had never had dim sum either and started scheming. A few days before the party we were informed that Get Sum Dim Sum was relocating and therefore could not serve the party. We decided to go with the next best thing and chose Bombay Bistro. Though most of our guests had had Indian food, Bombay Bistro is one of my favorite Indian restaurants and was a delicious complement to our party!

We put together a spread of exotic snacks that included mochi desserts, dry squid, shrimp chips, and meal worm cookies!

I’m proud to say that 6 of the 8 attendees were brave and ate the meal worms.

We also had some unique beverages available. Aloe Vera Juice (a favorite!), grass jelly drink, chocolate wine and Rooh Afza (rose flavoring).

We fashioned a photo booth for our guests. (Comment from Rebecca: How cute is this?!)

We had a confessional booth where one could go and make a postcard to send to Post Secret.

We even had a bucket list making station.

We spent the evening trying new snacks and activities. Even with all that fun, we all agreed that the real star of the party was the yummy food!

Thank you to Linda for documenting their Eat Out In ‘Never Have I Ever’ party and for the guest post! A mega THANK YOU to Eat Out In for sponsoring this contest! Take a look at their delivery menus/restaurants here for a fun night in!

Lions, Easy Tiger, & Beers, oh my!

TheRebecca — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:21:19 +0000

Pretzels Scream Out to Me at Easy Tiger

Lions don’t actually fit in with this post, but for purposes of the play-on-words title, it’s a package deal. Or, maybe they do fit in. Easy Tiger, Austin’s newest beerkery (beer + bakery) just opened up after much anticipation and it’s delicately situated amidst the ‘dirty sixth’ jungle. But, it seeks to provide a tasty and unwind-y haven – a place you might go to feel transported to a setting of slower pace. After all, baking bread and brewing beer takes time and craft, both of which this speakeasy-ish spot make you appreciate upon trickling downstairs where you’ll land below ground level. Savory meats, such as mixed sausage sandwiched between thick pretzel bread with creative mustards (think beer + whole grain mustard) are among the bites you might find on the menu. And, who doesn’t just enjoy a classic pretzel? I was fortunate enough to be invited to a pre-opening event, so I only got a glimpse of the full menu spread. But, I did get to talk to owners Chad and Chef Drew Curren (renowned from TV’s Top Chef), who were just beaming with pride and bursting with excitement over the opening. Look how smiley they are below!

Chef Andrew Curren (left) and Owner Chad (right) smile about the opening of their concept, Easy Tiger.

They told us of how they thought of the name, one that signifies a place where you hold your horses, slow down, and forget time for awhile. Of course, once a passing idea in a conversation over a beer, it began to take shape. The concept lineup includes movers and shakers in the Austin food, beverage, and baking community. Just take a glimpse at the recent CultureMap article for a taste.

Perhaps I’m most excited about the likely late night snacks/dessert to be had here, (those cravings always creep up in the later hours of the evening), unique lunch possibilities, and the grab-n-go freshly baked treats (think baguette/chocolate croissants) available just inside the front door for an early morning downtown breakfast meeting. The location could be a challenge when it comes to parking, but it’s seems worth the walk, whether for breakfast, lunch, or evening bite/beer. Several local beers were available, in addition to wines and cocktails. I’ll report back after a repeat visit.

Don’t forget to stop by to lay low in the beer garten out back. You’ll probably forget you’re only a hop, skip, and a jump from I-35 traffic. We might have to rename the place “crouching tiger, hidden garden”. Sneak away for a treat and retreat at Easy Tiger. You might just see me there! Or maybe not, I may be incognito to truly escape reality.