MEALS TO FUEL AUSTINITES FROM DAWN TO DUSK P.22
THE TASTY
side
OF AUSTIN
T S E B LSOWN
W T O B IN
CHRISSY SCHIFF
Occupation: Stylist | Retail Therapist Hobbies: Shopping • Listening to Live Music • Reading • Cooking Favorite places to dine: Uchi • Uchiko • Vegan Food at The Beer Plant Favorite place for an adult beverage: Trudy’s for Mexican Martinis Favorite things to do in Austin: Boating on Canyon Lake Golfing at the UT Golf Club • Live Music @ ACL Live • Comedy @ Esther’s Folly’s Chrissy’s Smile Makeover: Mark Sweeney, DDS
Beautiful Smiles for a Beautiful Life.
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“ F INDING A HOME ISN ’ T A B OUT S QUA RE F O O TAGE A ND NUMBER OF BEDRO OMS . IT IS A B OUT YOUR LIF E STYLE A ND HOW YOUR HOME WILL E NHA NC E YOUR LIF E . MY G OA L IS T O HELP C LIENTS LIVE THEIR BE ST LI F E IN AUSTIN. ”
THEPRIVATE C OLLE C TIVEAUSTIN. C OM
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8701 FM 2244, Austin, TX 78746
August/September
CONTENTS
10
Publisher’s Note
12 Local
Flavor. Fire. Faith.
How one local woman fires up the community with her one-of-a-kind sauces
15
Art+Entertainment
Object of Art
A painter turns a local nuisance into a never-ending muse.
31 Go+Do
Change is on the Rise
A local nonprofit creates and implements curriculum on empowering the next generation of changemakers.
37
Home+Away
A Weekend in Washington, DC
Begin to uncover the nation's past through experiential learning in the capital city.
43
Sip+Taste Brew Crew
A New York-style pub serves up classic sandwiches and ales to their adoring regulars.
Read more at eastsideatx.com.
22
Best Bowls in Town
Whether seeking out a heaping family-style serving, a perfectly cooked noodle bowl (not to share!), or a balanced breakfast bowl to get the day going, this diverse and delicious line-up covers every possible craving with a talented list of restaurants that you must try!
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR NEXT MOVE. Calling Holly and Govalle home, they have a front row seat to its development and uniqueness. “Making smart real estate decisions is a mix of knowing exactly where the market is headed, and what your personal needs are.” Their personal experience as buyers and sellers in the Austin market, coupled with their intimate knowledge of the city gives them, and their clients, a winning advantage.
MEGAN GALLAGHER Associate, REALTOR, GRI m) 407 922 7182 o) 512 222 3364 megang@denpg.com
“Austin is growing and evolving quickly, but the heart of Austin is still alive and well. Connecting with long term Austinites on what they love about the place they call home as well as sharing the spirit of Austin with transplants relocating here bring an incredible fulfillment to our work.”
EMILY WALDMANN Associate, REALTOR m) 425 442 0727 o) 512 222 3364 emilyw@denpg.com NEXTMOVEAUSTIN.COM
CONTEMPORARY FINE ART GALLERY COMMITTED TO CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH LEADING LOCAL AND REGIONAL ARTISTS. (737) 209-0379 . IVESTERCONTEMPORARY.COM @IVESTER_CONTEMPORARY . 916 SPRINGDALE RD. BLDG. 2, SUITE 107
SCAN TO VEIW CURRENT ARTWORK
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7
TRADITIONALLY INSPIRED MA D E I N E A ST AU STI N
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EAST THE REFRESHING
1023 Springdale Road Austin, Texas 78721 eastsideatx.com
Publisher Nillo Studios, LLC Creative Director Will Bowling Publishing Editor Ashley Bowling Asst. Editor Abby L. Johnson Business Development Will Bowling Copy Editor Pam Bowen Social Media Joanna Fuller
side
OF AUSTIN
Contributing Photographers Eric Morales, Ashley Haguewood, Baptiste Despois, Rachel Benavides, Brittany Dawn Short
LOVE EASTSIDE STORIES? GET THEM STRAIGHT TO YOUR FEED
Contributing Writers Guadalupe Triana, Tejal Thakkar, Deven Wilson, Jessi Devenyns, Alison Bryce, Janine Stankus, Kayla Butts, Chris Ferguson Distribution Will Bowling Submissions info@eastsideatx.com Advertising advertise@eastsideatx.com
Events & Media Anna Skelley
Thank You to our Community Sponsors! Tiffany Hentrup
CONNECT WITH US eastsideatx eastsideatxmag We promise we read every single comment! Copyright © 2016 Nillo Studios, LLC. EASTside Magazine is published by Nillo Studios, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without express written consent. Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice, but is rather considered informative. Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.
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9
EASTSIDE’S PREMIER DOG BOARDING & DAYCARE
eastside | editor's note
“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.” -George Bernard Shaw
T
he East Austin culinary scene is rich and varied and, for many, represents the heart and soul of the community. We gather over food, line up for hours with friends at our favorite barbecue spot, or wake up before the sun to grab the best breakfast tacos for visiting friends and family on a Saturday morning. But oftentimes, we get stuck in a rut and confine ourselves to just a few specialties or cuisines. The Eastside offers global, nuanced, and inventive dishes, and it would be a shame to miss out on savoring even just one delightful bite.
DOGS CAN PLAY FOR THE DAY & STAY FOR THE NIGHT!
(512) 524-2525
JACKIESPLAYANDSTAY.COM - SINCE 2012 -
Sampling the offerings of various local chefs is perhaps our favorite way to explore the city, and we invite you to come along for the journey. In this issue, we ate our way through the Eastside in search of the best bowls. From dense noodles bowls, to light and easy granola bowls, to refreshing poké, we sought out bold flavors and beautiful presentation in restaurants across East Austin. Moving beyond bowls, in this issue, we highlighted EcoRise, a local nonprofit that’s working tirelessly to educate and equip the next generation with the vital tools they will need to face climate change. We take our reader’s on a trip to Washington, DC, to explore Black history in the nation’s capital. And bringing it all back to food, we spoke to an inspiring woman who harnesses the power of her kitchen creations to make a tangible difference for impoverished students living thousands of miles away. We hope this issue inspires readers to commune with loved ones at a new favorite restaurant, take themselves out for a solo dinner, or simply try something novel from their go-to breakfast joint. Wherever you enjoy your next meal, may it be delicious! -Abby L. Johnson
GREAT FOR DOGS WHO DON’T SOCIALIZE
CALL TODAY TO BOOK! (512) 928-BLUE SKYBLUEKENNELSATX.COM - SINCE 1972 10 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
On the Cover
Oseyo’s Japchae bowl is the star of our cover, and it practically has us drooling already. The translucent sweet potato noodles and vibrant veggies pop in this photo taken by Brittany Dawn Short.
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R U O Y IT ’S . Y T I N U M COM BE PART OF IT
GROOVIN’
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11
with them then and there,” she remembers. However, she explains that it took 36 years before she had an idea that could help them. After nearly four decades, Connie Jo’s ‘ah-ha’ moment came in the form of a sauce. Now, after perfecting the recipe, she uses the commercial proceeds from her sauces’ sales to support her non-profit Nasaru Inc., an organization that aims to build boarding schools in Uganda and Kenya for impoverished children.
eastside | local
Contact:
conniejosauces.com
Flavor. Fire. Faith. Connie Jo’s All Purpose Sauces
WORDS BY
Jessi Devenyns Baptiste Despois
PHOTOS BY
After five years of working to perfect her home sauce recipe in hopes of creating a revenue source for a non-profit, a miracle happened to Connie Jo Kirk.
S
eeking the answer to the unsolvable riddle of a perfect sauce, Connie Jo remembers she was standing, hands over her sauce pot, when she heard her grandmother's voice
suggesting a secret ingredient which Connie Jo will not divulge. But it worked. “It was delicious,” she smiles. Now she sells her sauce to restaurants and supermarkets all over Austin.
12 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
Over the years, Connie Jo has pursued many passions, from supporting humanitarian projects to professionally singing jazz and blues. But at the end of the day, she always comes back to the kitchen. While most people know how to turn on a stove and wield a spatula, early on, Connie Jo presented a particular talent for melding flavors into compelling combinations. One of her best-known creations was her barbecue sauce which, for a long time, was simply a doctored store-bought bottle – a trick she learned from her mother. “My mother would buy a cheap bottle of barbecue sauce, and it was bland…and then
she would add stuff to it to make it taste homemade. It was so good. And I got in the habit of doing that,” she admits. She remembers her friends encouraging her, “Well damn, if you could make bad sauce taste this good, you could make your own.” The idea haunted her. For months after that, Connie Jo visited stores to check the basic ingredients on labels for barbecue sauces before she started mixing her own. It took five years, but Connie Jo finally perfected her sauce into six bottled flavors that can complement a wide array of dishes – not just backyard barbecue. And each
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purchase, she assures, goes to support African children in need. For decades, the needs of the African peoples have guided Connie Jo’s efforts, and it all began in the mid-1970s when Connie served in the Peace Corps. In a small African village, she endured the tragic experience of watching an 18-month-old pass away in the mother’s arms. “This is what led me to the barbecue sauce,” she says quietly. “It was like I held myself responsible for that baby dying.” That day she decided that her bond to Africa and desire to serve its people would be for life. “I fell in love
Taste Test The search for the perfect flavor lit a fire under Connie Jo who spent years working to craft a flavor that could be used for a variety of occasions – not just barbecue. Try using her sauces on tacos, eggs, and as dips. The sauces are available at Royal Blue Grocery, Cherrywood Coffeehouse, and Counter Cafe. They come in six flavors including spicy ginger and original diabetic-friendly option called Faboo BBQ Sauce. Later, Connie says she would like to develop an apple and habanero version.
In the heart of Austin. Out of this world.
Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park is your new go-to destination for live entertainment in downtown Austin.
100 FREE TICKETS TO EVERY CONCERT
are available to the community through an online giveaway. Enter for a chance to win at waterloogreenway.org
{the tasty side of austin}
moodyamphitheater.com 1401 Trinity St, Austin, TX
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13
MAKE THE ChoiceTO CARE FOR Yourself During the pandemic, it was hard for women to feel comfortable getting their annual breast screening. The natural consequence of these delays often results in late stage disease. Make the choice to care for yourself again. Schedule your mammogram today!
14 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
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Art+ entertainment
August
+Sept 2022
16 every-
day art
AN AUSTIN PAINTER TURNS THE COMMON GRACKLE INTO A PLAYFUL SUBJECT.
18 entertainment
A LOCAL PODCAST PRODUCTION COMPANY IS DIGGING UP THE DIRT ON AUSTIN'S PAST.
20 event calendar OUR FAVORITE LOCAL EVENTS HAPPENING IN APRIL & MAY
eastside | art
She prefers the objecthood of a solid canvas and how “it becomes this thing that you can hold and treasure.”
Object of Art
Eliciting Connection via Everyday Subjects WORDS BY Janine PHOTOS BY Eric
Stankus Morales
Ah, the majestic grackle! The sharp-beaked, beadyeyed bird is something of a mascot in Austin. For many locals, they’re a nuisance. But for artist Carly Weaver, they’re faithful muses. 16 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
C
arly works from her East Austin home, which she shares with her husband, her seven-year-old daughter, several chickens, a rabbit, and two dogs. Most days she can be found in her driveway, table-sawing large panels of wood into her future canvases. A converted bathhouse serves as her backyard studio, stacked floor-to-ceiling with paintings, materials, and supplies. Carly recalls a time in 2011 when her backyard was plagued with squawking grackles who were fond of snatching the dogs’ food. “I remember saying to my husband, ‘I’m going to paint those damn things. I’m going to paint them big.’” So she did, using oil paint on wood to capture the birds’ deep, blue-black hues, and picturing them in dozens of different positions. She hasn’t stopped. Carly has since scaled her paintings down from feet to inches, but she works exclusively on wood. find more at eastsideatx.com
While her subject matter spans well beyond grackles, Carly tends to work in different series that focus on a singular subject. “Everything I do is obviously satisfying something very different in what I need as an artist to feel inspired and fulfilled,” she explains. Her kitchen wall, for example, is covered in finelined bicycle sketches that appeal more to her mechanical drawing aptitude than the bold, inky birds. She also does sweeping charcoal landscapes—reimagining photographs she takes on road trips—that allow her hand a certain freedom to convey a sense of movement. As to what sets her on a certain track, Carly says, “All of the artwork has to come from some interconnection…whether it's ‘because I hate those damn birds’ or whatever.” Her own love/hate fixation on grackles somehow struck a chord with audiences, (who are maybe equally intrigued/ repulsed by the “damn birds”). The bicycle series was another personal interest that resonated with the community. Carly first decided to draw her own bike, then started drawing bikes belonging to other people which she would photograph
Did you know? In case you were wondering, Carly’s not just an artist but a woodworker as well. She cuts and builds all her own panels. Before stepping out as a full-time artist, Carly had a job helping vision-impaired people re-learn how to operate in the world. One of the activities she led was helping students with woodworking projects, designed to boost other senses and build confidence!
“She’s responsive, a strong advocate for her clients, and very fun to work with!” - Lance P.
Start your search at AllieMartinezAustin.com.
Allie Martinez REALTOR, GRI
alliemartinez@realtyaustin.com AllieMartinezAustin.com 512-240-2603 2021 Diamond Club Top Producer, 2020 & 2021 Corazón Circle
on walks around town. People literally see their own bikes in her work, which brings commissions from fellow cyclists. But is it personal interest or people’s connection to the work that keeps her going on a certain track? Perhaps both. She explains, “When your passions are tied into your living… it just all starts to muddle.” That muddling is a bit of a blessing for Carly, who was able to quit her day job three years ago to focus on her art and connect more with her artist community. She has two group shows coming up, and she’s already preparing to host a group exhibition at her home—a prominent stop on the East Austin Studio Tour. Work-wise, Carly has been branching back out into bigger, multi-panel works, portraiture, and even sculpture. But don’t worry, the birds will always be around. “I don’t think I should ever stop painting grackles,” she says with a genuine laugh. “I’m invested in getting in well over 100 poses!”
Contact:
carlyweaver.com info@carlyweaver.com carlyweaverart
Upcoming Art Shows Cloud Tree Gallery ATX August 20 - September 11 Pecan Street Festival ATX September 17-18 in partnership with Mariel Wilmoth Austin Studio Tour November 12-13, 19-20 2606 E 2nd St. + 7 other artists
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17
eastside | entertainment
Did You Know?
The Drag Audio Production House has produced several notable student-led podcasts, including The Orange Tree, a podcast recounting the story of the 2005 murder of 21-yearold Jennifer Cave. The series reached Apple Podcast’s and Spotify’s Top 10 charts following its release.
More Podcasts from The Drag Audio Production House • Story Submarine • The Orange Tree • Devilish Deeds
Digging Up the Past
Exploring the Story of the Servant Girl Annihilator WORDS BY Jessi
Devenyns PHOTOS BY Baptiste Despois
Oakwood Cemetery stands as a solemn reminder that what is past is not forgotten. Austin’s oldest city cemetery is not only the resting place for a list of notable figures, but it’s also the final stop for many victims who fell in the wake of the Servant Girl Annihilator. Although, until recently, few knew that to be the case. 18 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
• Request Pending • Darkness • Crooked Power • 35
O
f the eight victims of the 19th century serial killer who prowled the streets of Austin, the majority are buried at Oakwood Cemetery according to Katey Outka, assistant director at The Drag Audio Production House and the producer of the podcast Devilish Deeds, which tells the tale of the serial killer who terrorized Austin in 1885. In an open, unmarked grassy area in Oakwood Cemetery lie thousands of anonymous graves that the City of Austin is working to identify. Some of those remains, according to Katey, have the same names as those whose lives were brutally ended in the final aughts of the 19th century. “I met with someone from Save Austin’s Cemeteries who said, ‘You know, they're buried in this section,’ and he gestured to that open grassy area in Oakwood… find more at eastsideatx.com
[Now] they're finding these people with the same last names. I'm [thinking] that's gotta be them.” The identification of these victims is taking some investigation. In the meantime, Katey, who has been following this story as a journalist for nearly a decade, helped develop Devilish Deeds to highlight these Austinites—primarily domestic servants for Austin’s wealthy residents—and give life to their perspective. While many have theorized about the identity of the culprit and their motives, one rarely-explored story is the accounts of the victims. Under Katey’s guidance, The Drag picked up the yarn in its newest podcast series and wove a narrative focused on this angle. However, it was not an easy trail to follow.
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“[It was] really difficult and inconsistent and especially hard when you're telling a story about primarily Black victims because so often they didn't name these people,” says Katey who spent hours combing through the archives of the Austin History Center as well as periodicals from the Austin American-Statesman.
Small Business Bookkeeping agruedabookkeeping.com
Specialized Services • Full Charge Bookkeeping • Payroll • QuickBooks • Inventory • Invoicing • Purchase Orders • Accounts Receivable • Preparation of Annual & Quarterly Taxes • Sales Tax LLC Formations
This heavily-researched podcast slices its own path through this muddy Texas true crime story, giving voice to those who were silenced and prompting a sometimes-brutal introspection of Austin’s evolution as the state’s capital and the home of the country’s firstknown serial killer. “It's one of those things that just kind of sticks with you,” explains Katey. “It's one of those stories.”
Contact:
(512) 963-9387 | 2823 E MLK Jr. Blvd., Ste. 130
thedragaudio.com 300 W Dean Keeton St.
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19
eastside | events
&
13 THINGS WE LOVE IN
AUGUST SEPTEMBER HAAM Day September 13, 6am-10pm
HAAM (Health Alliance for Austin Musicians) Day 2022 is happening, live and in-person at Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park. For more than 16 years, HAAM Day has been Austin's biggest fundraising event supporting local musicians and is one of the city's most iconic celebrations of community with 200+ music performances. The event is free and open to the public while donations to support local musicians are encouraged.
1401 Trinity St. | myhaam.org/haam-day
Disney’s Newsies
zilker.org/summer-2022
Introduction to Kumiko
August 24-28, times vary
Join the LGBTQ+ community in supporting positive and visible film programs relevant to the lives of LGBTQ+ people during aGLIFF’s celebration of the 35th PRISM 35. Festival badges to the event as well as membership to help support LGBTQ+ stories throughout the year are available starting at $125. Badges include a PRISM 35 commemorative t-shirt and cover access to all in-person screenings, festival parties, and events.
Celebrate the end of the summer at The Front Festival, an experience curated by Future Front. Fill the weekend with music, film, art, conversations, and community connection. Showcases will be held at three different locations throughout Austin, including Parish in East Austin. Day tickets are available for $25 while weekend passes are $40.
Austin Bat Fest August 27, 4pm-12am
It’s an Austin tradition to witness 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging from the Congress bridge at dusk. The flight is not the only exciting event scheduled for the day. There will be two stages with live music, more than 50 arts & crafts vendors, delicious food and drinks, fun children’s activities, and a bat costume contest, among other bat activities. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased online prior to the event or with cash at the gate.
100 S Congress Ave. | roadwayevents.com/event/bat-fest 20 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
austinschooloffurniture.com
August 26-28, times vary
August 20, 11am-6pm
austinpride.org
Learn how to create beautiful Japanese decorative panels by hand during Austin School of Furniture’s Introduction to Kumiko class. The woodworking of kumiko is a traditional technique that creates beautiful decorative and delicate wooden patterns consisting of many wooden bars crossed and laid out to form various geometric designs. This beginner level course is $200. 1600 W Stassney Ln. |
The Front Festival
Austin PRIDE Celebration
Get ready for the 30th annual, twice postponed, Austin PRIDE Festival and Parade. With over 400,000 projected attendees, the day will be fun-filled with inflatable games and carnival rides, drag queen story time, vendor booths, drinks, and food. The cost of advanced tickets are discounted, while tickets at the gate are $20 for adults, $10 for ages 7-17, and entry for children under 6 is free. 2101 Jesse Segovia St. |
September 3, 9am-5pm
6700 Middle Fiskville Rd. | agliff.org/prism
Locations vary | futurefronttexas.org/events
Now-August 13, 8:15-10pm Enjoy a free showing of the Newsies every Thursday-Sunday at the Beverly Sheffield Hillside Theatre in Zilker Park. The cast and crew will take the audience through the real-life newsboy strike of 1899 through the eyes of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of a life as an artist away from the big city. While the show is free to attend, concessions and apparel are available, and donations are accepted. 2206 William Barton Dr. |
PRISM 35
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Free Day of Yoga
September 5, times vary Free Day of Yoga was created in 1998 and has blossomed into an event with thousands of participants each year. Try yoga for the first time, learn a new technique, meet an instructor, or discover the benefits of yoga during Austin’s Free Day of Yoga. Plan to attend a class at one of the participating studios, such as Yoga East Austin on Berkman Drive at Moody Amphitheater and Meredith Heritage Tree Deck at Waterloo Park.
freedayofyoga.com
Yara Taino Harvest Gathering September 18, 4-7pm
Gather with others who wish to uplift Puerto Rican culture in Texas by attending Yara Taino and Guaytiao’s fall harvest. Play batu (Taino WORDS BY Alison
Bryce
ball game), dance Areyto (Taino ceremonial dance), and thank Ataabey (Mother Earth) for the harvest that is blessing lives this year. The free event is for the whole family.
701 Tillery St. #13 | prfdance.org
Austin Museum Day September 18, times vary
Plan to spend a day at one of Austin’s local museums for free on Austin Museum Day. The 24th annual event is a free celebration of art, culture, history, music, nature, and science. While the day includes museums all throughout the Austin area, support some Eastside museums such as Women & Their Work, Thinkery, and Asian American Resource Center.
austinmuseums.org
Blended Festival
September 24-25, 2-10 pm Sip wine and listen to music during
Blended Festival at Circuit of the Americas. While the Welcome Village will be full of local vendors selling their unique products, the drinks will be flowing in the 100-foot wine tent. A culinary stage will also be set up showcasing local and nationally renowned chefs. Two stages will host a number of artists throughout the festival. General admission starts at $119 for the two-day event.
9201 CTOA Blvd. | blendedfestival.com
Texas Craft Brewers Festival October 1, 2-6:30 pm
Discover new brews while enjoying local favorites at Texas Craft Brewers Fest. With more than 200 distinct Texasbrewed craft beers, attendees are sure to find a new fave. All tickets include a commemorative tasting cup and 10 sample tickets — each redeemable for a 3-ounce pour. VIP tickets are $85 and include early access, while general admission is $40. Designated driver tickets are also available for $20 and include free non-alcoholic drinks and snacks.
BENEFITTING CENTRAL TEXAS FOOD BANK
2101 Jesse E Segovia St. | texascraftbrewersfestival.org
Austin Restaurants Week September 1-11, times vary
Try new foods while supporting local restaurants during Central Texas Book Bank’s Austin Restaurants Week, an annual event that celebrates fine dining at an affordable price while helping fight hunger in central Texas. While restaurants all across the city will be participating, multiple Eastside establishments grace the lineup: Hillside Farmacy, Siena Restaurant, Juniper, and more.
austinrestaurantweeks.org {the tasty side of austin}
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THE
BESTin Town BOWLS Bountiful, Beautiful Bowls East Austin is chock-full of culinary delights, but there are only so many tacos one can eat before searching out a meal that is not handheld. There’s something about the shape of a bowl that lends itself to careful arrangement of ingredients, delightful variation in textures, and diverse flavor profiles, allowing it to house an incredible number of gorgeous dishes. Ranging from sunup bites to sunset dinners, from sweet to savory, and reaching across culinary lines, this line-up of the best bowls brings together creative, flavor-packed, and wholesome meals from all over the Eastside. WORDS BY Abby PHOTOS BY
L. Johnson Brittany Dawn Short, Baptiste Despois, & Will Bowling
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t s e B
S L W O B
e l d o No
LES
AP J S ’ O OSEY
OD O N E CHA
avieen he e betw c n The la . a ght b dsend h the ri is a go it s eyo w s le l O b w ta d o belove odle b s vege o u n m io o it a fr tr lling chae” ory, nu Finding ingly fi h “Jap omfort nd sav is c a d n s Kole e d rb e s this betw er ca an noo ermeate d Kore the line p te g hich le ra in w b e ty ls in cele dern s that, to are bow le, mo s just w p etae n g v e im e h ie s v rt h A ac the ea ll crisp ing it. ti to o s n , rd w d e vors o v stir-frie and o way d ted fla all the rfectly l. Toas e a t, e p ved in m a d jo h n filling rean nely s dles a warm, y for fi ss noo a is ers, la w th p g p g ir e in rm the bell p to fo h, mak d e is in re d b i, e m in th zucch bles co underlie inach, me oil rlic, sp a g c of sesa ti a of arom slivers
carrots, celery, and mushrooms infused with complex umami flavors, topped off by a vibrant sprinkling of green onions. The Korean sweet potato starch noodles on which the other ingredients lay are cooked to a chewy perfection. They twirl easily around chopsticks (or a fork if you must), making for a satisfying noodle pull. The cellophane-like appearance of the noodles makes them almost as beautiful as they are delicious. Add tofu to this already vegan dish for some plant protein, though the hefty portion and complimentary banchan should be enough to fill up even the hungriest of patrons. Contact: 1628 E Cesar Chavez St. oseyoaustin.com | @oseyoaustin
SIP, SLURP, & TWIRL • 888 Pan Asian's Egg Noodles with BBQ Pork:
A generous portion of chewy egg noodles with barbecued pork and a side of bean sprouts, lime, cilantro, and jalapeños so patrons can customize to their liking. (Top Left)
• Sweet Chive's Beef Noodle Soup Bowl: Delicious noodles served with extremely tender beef in a savory broth with baby bok choy and preserved mustard greens. (Bottom Left)
• Xian Sushi & Noodle's Dan Dan: This authentically Sichuan-inspired dish offers thick, hand-pulled, home-made noodles with red chili-oil sauce, beef, baby bok choy, pickled vegetable, cilantro, and bean sprouts. (Right)
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25
t s e B kfast
S L W O B
a e Br
RY BERO GO FDAST K BREA • Brunch Bird's Best Ever Granola Bowl: Plant-Based Goodness
• JuiceLand's Wild Child Smoothie Bowl: Wholesome & Bright (Above)
PAPERBOY’S GRANOLA BOWL Dessert for breakfast may sound like a fantastical childhood dream, but at Paperboy, it is nearly a delectable reality. Their house made granola (a unique combination of gluten-free oats, pepitas, sesame seeds, and golden raisins) takes center stage in this bowl served with a dulce de leche drizzle, strawberry juniper jam, fresh strawberries, Thai basil, and of course, the creamy yogurt that allows this delightfully decadent concoction to pass as a breakfast item. The sweet, nutty, textural granola adds interest and an earthy tone
DIDU YO W? O KN
to the bowl while the basil delights as it shines through the glistening sugar with its grounding herbaceous quality and anise-like flavor. The dulce de leche’s caramel-like taste is an unexpected twist that complements the fresh strawberries’ tartness, and the strawberry juniper jam is complex with its piney overtones. Not too heavy, this granola bowl is refreshing and energizing. Contact: 1203 E 11th St. paperboyaustin.com @paperboyaustin
The origin of granola can be traced back to the 1863 invention of Dr. James Caleb Jackson, a health cereal he called ‘granula.’’ Dr. John Harvey Kellog (yes, that Kellog) created a similar mixture, more like today’s granola, and marketed it as granula. When he was sued for copyright infringement by Jackson, granola as we know it was born.
26 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
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• Blenders & Bowls' The Bowl of Paradise: Dreamy Island Vibes
• Hillside Farmacy's Granola Bowl: Best Local Honey (Below)
t s e B Veggie
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w n th ce ouille , Ratat y in the 18 e, France it ic s N s o t y a nece s living in w r s nd a farme eded to fi vegetable e r n e o m is h m t wh u r s o ll their spoiled. F d a use a e y e the n call f e b or , it is ofte w.’ n e t o s s rea ant’s ‘peas
UNBE-LEAF-ABLE VEGGIE BOWLS
JUSTINE’S RATATOUILLE Austin is a veggie lover's dream. A plethora of plant-based joints and food trucks are available to satisfy any green cravings. It can be a little bit more of a search, however, to find a vegetable-based dish that doesn’t feel like an alternative to something better, or one that is served in an elevated atmosphere. Justine’s ratatouille manages to check all these elusive boxes. The environment at Justine’s is serene, cool, provocative, and effortlessly sophisticated all at once. After an enjoyable swim through a sea of unfamiliar French appetizers, find safe harbor in the familiar ingredients of this novel dish. Yellow squash, zucchini, tomato, red bell pepper, onion, and eggplant come to
life in a wash of olive oil and herbes de Provençe. Justine’s serves this one-pot dish of simmering veggies with a generous portion of toasted baguette slices, perfect for soaking up every drop. Humble though it may be, the ratatouille only heightens their mostly authentic French dining experience. Small touches of Austin are found throughout the moody motif and traditional menu offerings, like a cold Lonestar beer and a record wall. The Provençal dish is hearty and warm, bringing the fresh flavors of a bountiful, earthy harvest together into one colorful, renewing meal. Contact: 4710 E 5th St. | justines1937.com @justinesbrasserie
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• Jacoby’s Jackfruit Rice Bowl Who knew plant-based barbecue could be so good? The smokey, fall-off the fork jackfruit is tender and succulent on a bed of fluffy rice, cozied up next to a beautiful arrangement of rainbow carrots. • Nasha Indian Restaurant's Aloo Gobi (Potatoes and Cauliflower) This classic Indian dish is a starchy, comforting meal. Seasoned potatoes and cauliflower are bathed in a fragrant yellow curry. Never over-cooked, the texture of veggies in this dish is just right. • Launderette's Roasted Carrots These carrots are not the mushy, over-boiled ones of childhood nightmares. These roasted root vegetables retain just enough crunch to be interesting. Served with turmeric yogurt, carrot top chutney, pickled raisins, and chipotle puri chips, this delectable dish shines as a main course. eastsideatx.com
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t s e Btein
SWEET CHIVE’S N FA LOU RU
LS
W O B
Traditional Chinese tea egg’s beautiful marbled exterior and unique taste are achieved by cracking a hard-boiled egg and slow cooking it in a concoction of soy sauce, black tea leaves, and a variety of spices. Though this method of preparation originally set out to keep eggs fresh for a longer period of time, today, this delicious treat is a household delicacy found throughout most provinces.
PROTEIN-PACKED BRUNCH BOWLS
o r P
• Cherrywood Coffeehouse's Shrimp & Grits Head over to this favorite neighborhood joint and enjoy a classic southern breakfast, exceptional hospitality, and of course, delicious coffee served alongside decadent shrimp, crisp bacon, and sautéed sweet onion in a bowl of buttery grits.
• La Santa Barbacha's Huevos Rancheros Barbacoa Bowl This food truck situated outside Native Hostel brings the best of classic breakfast food together with Tex-Mex staples. Enjoy barbacoa and fried pinto beans with your morning eggs to get the day started!
An unassuming family-owned and operated restaurant situated on East Cesar Chavez has made it their mission to bring homegrown flavors of Taiwan and culinary influences of Manchuria to Austin. For those in search of a filling, comforting lunch or dinner that veers off the beaten path, consider this braised pork dish. With a passing glance, this seemingly unembellished dish appears straightforward in its simplicity. The magic of Sweet Chive’s Lou Ru Fan, a traditional Taiwanese dish, lies in its careful and largely hidden preparation. Discerning eyes and palates will discover, however, there is much more to this humble bowl than meets the eye. Miso braised minced pork finds a soft bed in traditional, fragrant white rice. The first bite of pork has a surprisingly sweet undertone derived from the cinnamon and ginger, though finishes up on a savory high note. It’s topped with green onions and garnished with yellow radishes that add both color and bite to the dish. However, one may argue that the true star of this meal is the traditional tea egg. This hard-boiled egg cooked in tea leaves overnight is a marvel to behold with a spider web-like pattern spiraling out across its surface. Those who choose to dine in will enjoy the artwork of local students hanging on a gallery wall or the beautiful, eco-conscious works created by Austin-based muralist Emily Ding as they chow down. *Be sure to try Sweet Chive’s beef noodle soup as well, a standout noodle bowl and the owner’s favorite. Contact:
2515 E Cesar Chavez St. sweetchive.online @sweetchive
t s e B Poké
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Pok slice’ s.’ Food ing ‘to ce mean ise into pie ermined et w d s s e o v r s its a c ians h nt dish ha ho r o t is ie h w c n s a r is he that th in early fis pieces of s origin ut off small a snack r c would aily catch fo ork. w d t a ir e d h r t ha while
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EPIC POKÉ’S OG BOWL 'Taste the rainbow' takes on a new meaning at Epic Poké. With every color on the spectrum lighting up the menu by way of fresh, lush vegetables, perfectly picked fruit, and carefully sourced fish and traditional protein options, the highly customizable menu items are ripe with possibility. The OG Bowl features a little bit of everything that makes a classic poké bowl so wonderful, with an emphasis on healthy ingredients. Purple rice and sweet potato noodles are the wholesome base for fresh, succulent raw salmon and Ahi tuna lightly covered with tangy ponzu sauce. Carrots, cucumbers, edamame, corn, and purple cabbage brighten up the dark sauce, and pickled ginger and seaweed salad add
slight tartness to the island flavors. Crispy tempura bits add an extra crunch, and sweet mango and spicy jalapeño duke it out but neither manage to overpower the other. Each flavor makes its presence known, resulting in a varied symphony on the palate. This oversized bowl is a piece of art with each ingredient of this irresistible puzzle lovingly arranged by hand, much like the whimsical knick-knacks that line the walls of this cozy establishment. Vegan friends can enjoy Epic Poké as well with their Vegan Glow Bowl that nixes the fish in favor of tofu without sacrificing flavor. Contact: 6448 E Hwy 290 #A-100
epicpoke.square.site | @epicpoketx
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POKÉ PICKS • Ah Sing Den's Poké Nachos While not technically a poké bowl, this delicious, inventive dish can’t be missed. The crunch of the wonton chips and the creamy smashed avocado are the perfect complement to the fresh tuna that sits atop this perfect-for-sharing dish.
• Poké Austin Unagi Bowl Shake up the traditional poké bowl with the unagi bowl from Poké Austin. Subbing the typical raw fish for oven-roasted freshwater eel, this dish satisfies poké cravings while offering up new flavors to explore. • Malibu Poké's Spicy Chili Tuna This mostly traditional poké bowl is elevated to new heights with Serrano and red chili thread, adding a kick, and crispy shallots that add a delicate sweetness.
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Happy Hour 1511 E 6th St, 78702
3-7PM Everyday
$
6 Margaritas
HALF Nachos, Queso, PRICE & Guacamole
W W W. BL AC K F E AT H E RV I N TAG E WOR K S . COM 30 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
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A us t i n’s Olde s t g Op e rat i nx Te x-Me n t a R e s t au r
Go+ do
August
+Sept 2022
32 go
& be the change
AN EAST AUSTIN NONPROFIT EMPOWERS THE NEXT GENERATION IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE.
34 go & eat
FROM CLASSICS TO NEW TAKES ON OLD FAVORITES, DISCOVER A LINEUP OF THE BEST BURGERS EAST AUSTIN HAS TO OFFER.
eastside | go&do
Change is on the Rise Cultivating the Next Generation of Eco-conscious Youth WORDS BY
Tejal Takkar of EcoRise
PHOTOS Courtesy
EcoRise is an East Austin grown social enterprise that aims to teach school-aged children about environmental sustainability, civic engagement, and critical thinking.
32 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
W
hile working in international education for a number of years, Gina LaMotte, EcoRise founder, developed her passion for providing young people “opportunities to have a voice while learning critical 21st century skills that will prepare them for the futures that they face.” EcoRise curricula “teach about environmental sustainability and climate change as well as leadership, civic engagement, creative problem solving, and systems thinking.”
country. EcoRise, originally Uplift Austin, initially worked with Title One schools primarily in East Austin, because “young people who were coming from historically marginalized communities didn't have as much access to resources and programs.” Over time, the program grew to serve students across all backgrounds because the team realized that “sustainability is not taught to students anywhere, and we need all students to have this awareness and this level of environmental engagement on these topics.”
Gina launched EcoRise at a charter school on the Eastside where she was welcomed with open arms. From that one school 14 years ago, EcoRise has grown to serve over 800 teachers in Austin and over 8,000 teachers around the
This program focuses not only on environmental literacy but also on “how [to] take that into the world and become changemakers.” Gina adds, “This action piece is key to our impact because students feel a level of empowerment
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“
IF WE COULD MOBILIZE YOUTH TO BE ENGAGED IN SOLVING LOCAL ISSUES IN THE COMMUNITY, NOT ONLY COULD THEY BE DEVELOPING REAL SOLUTIONS THAT ARE AMAZING AND OUTSIDE THE BOX OF OUR ADULT THINKING, BUT THEY ALSO ARE EXERCISING CREATIVE PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS, AND THEY'RE LEARNING TO BECOME ACTIVE CITIZENS INTO THEIR ADULTHOOD.” -GINA LAMOTTE
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CBD|THC|CBG and community engagement.” Many of the students who experienced EcoRise’s programming have gone on to be interested in careers in sustainability or have taken action impacting their communities. A current project that exemplifies this is taking place in Colony Park, where EcoRise is working with nonprofit Equidad ATX and architecture firm Gensler to co-design an outdoor space. Students worked with Gensler on the designs, taking into consideration what the community’s needs were from a student’s perspective.
Coming up, EcoRise has a number of exciting projects. Gina mentions that they are excited to launch “youth councils focused on climate equity in San Antonio, Austin, and Atlanta” with the goal of increasing civic engagement at the high school level. They are also working to build out their internships and green jobseeking programs to extend their impact beyond the classroom. Contact: 1023 Springdale Rd. Bldg. 1, Suite J info@ecorise.org
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Tinctures Gummies Flower Vapes Drinks and More
RosewoodCBD.store 1210 Rosewood Ave
512-587-0888 eastsideatx.com
33
3
eastside | go&do
Cherrywood Coffeehouse
More of a home than a house, Cherrywood’s legacy as the Eastside's tried and true cafe comes through in their old-school style burgers and comforting food. Housing a Brady bunch of burgers, choosing between the beloved Wife Burger, Veggie, or The Big Mick is a real pickle. Luckily, that just means there are several reasons to come back for more. And that's just one of the reasons East Austin found a sense of home at Cherrywood. cherrywoodcoffeehouse.com | 1400 E 38th 1/2 St.
Hank’s
6
best
1
Anchoring a strip mall inside Windsor Park, there’s nothing suburban about this all-day cafe. This bright beacon of coastal cuisine, soaking in the sun through their oversized windows, serves up knockout burgers. Fatal blows from the sharp cheddar on the cheeseburger and veggies that punches above its weight will take your breath away. Add $5 off all burgers (including veggie burgers) during their everyday happy hour, and it makes for a KO deal. hanksaustin.com | 5811 Berkman Dr.
Dai Due
WORDS BY Deven Wilson PHOTO BY Ashley Haguewood
Burgers
The ever-evolving, classic comfort food that East Austin has perfected
2
Our savory national dish shines on menus all over the Eastside. Ranging from new classics to burgers that dare to question if meat was ever needed between buns to be a good burger in the first place, there’s a patty for every palate to salivate over.
_Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile
Perched above the banks of the Colorado River, Jacoby's Restaurant honors the American tradition of a well-cooked burger while elevating it to a new standard. Whether it's the farm-to-table excellence from their family-raised beef or the golden fries, making a trip to the glamorously rustic outpost to score $5 off the burger during happy hour feels more like a heist than a happy hour deal. jacobysaustin.com | 3235 E Cesar Chavez St.
34 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
Salt + Time
Enter an unassuming minimalist butcher shop and leave through their refined butcher-to-table restaurant. Inside, sitting next to drool-worthy beef fat fries, a ½ pound slab of beef on a brioche bun rests as the paleo paragon of this concept of blending fine dining with the neighborhood staple of a butcher shop. Each bite brings time to a halt, as the flavorpacked juicy patty dances with the crispy fries on the tongue. saltandtime.com | 1912 E 7th St.
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How does a chef walk away with this year's winner of the James Beard Book Award? By turning Dry-Aged Wagyu into a double patty burger with ground-up bacon, Stryk cheddar cheese, and served alongside beef fat fries, that’s how. There is nothing ordinary about this carefully crafted burger combination from this unassuming upscale butcher shop on Manor Road. daidue.com | 2406 Manor Rd.
6
Paperboy
Paperboy’s grown up, and they have quite the view. When most burger joints force their patties to never see beyond the light of the drive-thru window, Paperboy’s stunning rooftop offers a chance to take a bite into a savory burger with a bird’s-eye view of the Eastside. Savor each bite of the crisped-to-perfection potato wedges while filling your comfort cravings and also soaking up the impeccable atmosphere. paperboyaustin.com | 1203 E 11th St.
1
+
Nom Burger
Meat lovers beware. This vegan burger bites back. A pandemic baby turned rising foodie star, Nom Burger slings various meatless burgers at the plant-based oasis of Vegan Nom. There’s a breakfast burger, a traditional veggie burger, and two guilt-free, cheesy, smashed patty burgers convincing vegans and omnivores alike, one bite at a time, that plantbased patties are simply scrumptious. eatnomburgers.com | 2324 E Cesar Chavez St.
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PATIENT FOCUSED MEDICAL IMAGING YOUR EXPERIENCE IS OUR TOP PRIORITY OFFERING MRI, CT, ULTRASOUND & X-RAY • 7 Covenient Locations
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longhornimaging.com | 4316 James Casey St F100, Austin, TX 78745 36 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
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Home + away
August
+Sept 2022
38 home
FORM AND FUNCTION ARE AT THE HEART OF THIS EASTSIDE'S BUNGALOW REMODEL.
40 away EXPLORE EVERYTHING WASHINGTON, DC HAS TO OFFER AND THROUGH THE LENS OF BLACK HISTORY.
eastside | home
Individualized Sanctuaries Optimizing Space and Elevating Style WORDS BY Guadalupe Triana PHOTOS COURTESY OF Dréa Peters Interiors
In the vibrant Holly neighborhood, many classic craftsmanstyle homes still sit in their untouched, original form. While quaint and inviting from the outside, these homes often prove challenging to renovate into modern-day functionality while preserving the style and character of the original home. Due to the tricky layout of his bungalow, homeowner Brent David struggled to furnish the main living spaces. He desired a place that not only met his needs and suited his lifestyle but also flowed naturally.
I
n 2020, Brent enlisted the help of local interior designer Dréa Peters to magically transform his living areas. She struck a balance between beautiful form and everyday function. Throughout the space, Dréa incorporated soft, neutral colors that emphasized comfort and coziness. Her use of modern, organic materials throughout the space creates an elevated sanctuary. As a result, Brent can now dine, entertain, lounge, and work comfortably in his home—things that weren’t possible before. “Each project has a challenge,” says Dréa. “Sometimes it’s situational, where the client wants a space to function a certain way and the space was not intended to do that.” For this particular remodel, Dréa was intentional about keeping some of the home’s original elements intact to stay true to the Holly 38 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
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The Future of Design
neighborhood’s eclectic flavor. “I really wanted to embrace those aspects, as well as the structural integrity of the home,” Dréa says.
Earlier this year, Dréa Peters Interiors was named a finalist for an Austin Home & Design Award in two categories: Custom Cabinetry and Best Specialty Room. Top finalists were selected by architecture and interior design professionals from around the country. This was Austin Home Magazine's second year running the competition.
With every project, she aims to incorporate locally sourced materials and artisanal goods. And for renovation, Dréa brought on Mockingbird Made, a local made-to-order furniture design studio, to create a pop-up TV cabinet that completely transformed the function of the room. Once the custom piece was introduced, the rest of the space was developed around it. By incorporating a light and airy organic room divider that fiber artist Ellen Bruxvoort created, the space was further opened. The unique partition, along with the rest of the mid century modern design elements, helped establish rooms that are modern, fresh, and functional. In her various projects, she’s found that Austinites are always open to unconventional mixing of materials, colors, and patterns. To create an eclectic, one-of-a-kind space each time, she draws from her hometown of New York while mixing the laidback cozy elements for which Austin is known.
Contact:
hello@dreapetersinteriors.com dreapetersinteriors.com @dreapetersinteriors
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39
eastside | away
A Weekend in
Washington DC
Exploring Black History WORDS BY Tejal Thakkar
Washington DC has a rich history of Black greatness. Soak in the contribution of our country’s Black community while exploring to the vibrance of the nation’s capitol.
Day One To start the trip, take KB Tours African American Heritage walking tour, which is teeming with some of the most important landmarks in African American history, including the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and the reflecting pool where Dr. King delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech. After the tour, head over to U Street, stopping at Ben’s Chili Bowl for lunch and
out The Sweet Lobby, a Black-owned café that rose to fame when they won Food Networks’ “Cupcake Wars.”
admiring the iconic mural on the side of the building that features notable Black Americans throughout history, including Harriet Tubman, Taraji P. Henson, and the Obamas. After lunch, take a self-guided audio tour through historic U Street and Shaw, a historically Black neighborhood. For dinner, check out Dukem, a U Street staple. Rumor has it that their Injera (a fermented flatbread) is shipped to DC directly from Ethiopia. After din-
ner, make a stop at Jojo Restaurant and Bar, a Black-owned establishment serving up delicious food and live jazz, blues, funk, soul, and R&B music.
Day Two Start the day at the Black-owned diner, Steak N Egg, in the Tenleytown neighborhood. Once tummies are full, head over to the popular Museum of African American History. After perusing the museum’s stunning exhibits, enjoy lunch at Matchbox, which is operated by the largest Blackowned food management company in the U.S.
40 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
Begin the afternoon with a short walk to National Portrait Gallery, featuring scientists, statesmen, and film stars including Obama’s portraits among others. After this, stop at Black Lives Matter Plaza, the city block that became iconic during the 2020 Black Lives
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Matter movement. At night, enjoy the smooth tunes at Blues Alley, the world’s longest-running jazz supper club nestled in the heart of the beautiful Georgetown neighborhood.
Day Three Make time for a visit to a few more DC sites before leaving. The National Museum of African Art, a global African art museum displaying over 9,000 works of traditional and contemporary African and Black art. To satisfy lunch cravings, Eastern Market has a number of food and market vendors. Afterwards, check
At Howard University, visitors can soak in the history by standing on the campus of the famed HBCU before heading over to the renowned Howard University Gallery of Art. End the trip on a high note at Cane, a cozy spot serving Trinidadian cuisine. The restaurant was opened by famed chef Peter Prime and his sister, Jeanine Prime, and has won several awards.
Where to Stay
Soak up African American history at Willard InterContinental Washington, DC. This is the historic place where Dr. King finished his famous "I Have a Dream" speech.
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BEER WINE PIZZA PATIO
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INTERIOR DINING NOW AVAILABLE, PATIO & CURBSIDE: TUESDAY - SUNDAY
oddwoodbrewing.com 3108 Manor Road Austin, TX 78723
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Sip+ taste
August
+Sept 2022
44 taste feature
DID YOU HEAR THE NEWS? THIS NEIGHBORHOOD PUB IS MORE THAN JUST AN AMAZING SANDWICH SPOT.
46 farm to table
SAVE EVERY BIT OF THE HARVEST WITH THESE CLASSIC & SURPRISINGLY SIMPLE PICKLING AND CANNING TECHNIQUES.
48 dining guide
A CURATED GUIDE TO THE BEST PLACES TO INDULGE IN EAST AUSTIN
50 sip
feature
AN ICEHOUSE BRINGS 80S COWBOY CULTURE TO LIFE.
A
mid the happy din of a dwindling lunch rush, longtime friends and business partners Shafer Hall, Andrew Porter, and Dick Hall take turns describing the origins of The Front Page, an easygoing neighborhood pub they opened together in 2019.
eastside eastside || taste taste
“We all overlapped in New York for about ten years and lived together for three of them,” explains Shafer. “We were very invested in our original community bar, The Four Faced Liar. It was a place where, at any given time, you knew 80% of the people inside, and 50% of them were in your phone [contacts]. We really liked that situation, so that’s what we’re building here.” Much of the pub’s décor was directly inspired by the group’s time in New York, such as the wainscoting and dark wood walls behind the bar that serve as a backdrop for an expanding collage of photos and tchotchkes from new and former regulars alike. And suddenly, a series of modest metal trays arrive in unison, and there were sandwiches, closely followed by the aroma of their signature fresh house-baked bread. The no-nonsense caprese boasts thick slices of tomato, mozzarella, pesto, basil, and arugula, while a neighboring smokey turkey sandwich competes for attention, topped with a savory combination of Swiss cheese, spinach, mustard, and tomatillo chutney. A hearty southern Italian sandwich and some Texas bruschetta round out the spread, all flanked by several tall, frosty pours from the sixteen available brews on tap. The drinks and counter-style sandwiches pack a genuine punch, noteworthy not only for their taste but also their price. It’s refreshingly clear that Shafer, Andrew, and Dick are more concerned with their community and
Brew Crew
The Front Page: An East Austin Pub
WORDS BY Christopher Ferguson, AIA PHOTOS BY Baptiste Despois
In Govalle’s bustling Springdale General complex, this casual neighborhood hangout offers a full bar and New York-style sandwiches to a growing community of weekday regulars. 44 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
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Neighborly Spirit
craft than slinging twenty-dollar slices of bread. As the saying goes, ‘the clothes make the man,’ the bread really does make the sandwich at this brew house. One visit and it’s easy to see why the place has earned its growing momentum. Contact: (512) 712-4005 1023 Springdale Rd., Bldg. 1, Ste. F thefrontpage.pub @thefrontpageatx
The rich wood interiors and bar were designed and installed by Blue Sky Design, who also call Springdale General home.
To Go!
Find options for delivery and corporate catering at thefrontpage.pub.
EAST AUSTIN 1901 e 7th St. | (512) 981-MODS (6637) NORTH AUSTIN
DALLAS
13219 ReSeARch BlvD #200 AuStin, tX 78750 (512) 953-SKin (7546)
502 S Fitzhugh Ave. DAllAS, tX 75223 (214) 235-9473
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WWW.SHAMANMODS.COM eastsideatx.com
45
eastside | farm to table
The Practicality of Pickling & Preserving Simple Canning for Beginners WORDS BY
Kayla Butts Benavides
PHOTO BY Rachel
Most of us think of canning as an archaic undertaking reserved for food manufacturing companies, enthusiastic backyard gardeners, and our great Aunt Ida. However, this process that some consider an overzealous time suck has assumed a life-sustaining role throughout most of civilized human history. 46 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
R
omans made their own fermented cabbage during Alexander the Great’s reign, fish have been salted and stored in China since 3500 BC, and Napoleon Bonaparte fed his starving soldiers using methods similar to modern day canning. Fast forward to today’s climate of social and political unrest, volatile markets, and an increasing cost of goods, all of which have created what some believe is a perfect storm leading us towards doomsday. Few skills will equal survivability during a zombie apocalypse like knowing how to safely store foodstuffs. Regardless of this unlikely scenario, knowing how to preserve food is turning out to be a tasty and cost-effective skill. It’s best to keep food prep simple. Jelly, pickles, and canned tomatoes are the trifecta for canning. This larder fodder is difficult to screw up and can be made in less time than it takes for a trip to the grocery store itself. However, despite being a long-standing find more at eastsideatx.com
convention, the dangers of faulty canning can be irksome. Improperly canned food can house harmful microorganisms: bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. The good news is that bacteria tend to have difficulty proliferating in acidic conditions without exposure to air. Safe canning practices include adding a source of acid, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or citric acid. Further, remove air from canned goods by running a non-reactive plastic knife or spatula in between the food and the side of the jar. And remember that any suspect canned goods, peculiar in color, smell, or texture, should be thrown out. Having pickled deliciousness in the cupboard that will store for months makes for easy access when craving a quick snack or a simple grab for when unexpected guests arrive. Be it today or five centuries ago, machete brandishing zombie assassin, or dear Aunt Ida, canning is as undeniably utilitarian skill that shows no sign of going out of fashion. It may be time to invest in that pressure canner (and maybe a small arsenal to fight the walking dead).
RECIPES
Quick & Crunchy Pickles Makes: 4 quarts Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 7 minutes Ingredients: 2 lbs. pickling cucumbers, such as Kirby ¾ c. distilled white vinegar ½ c. apple cider vinegar 1/3 c. granulated sugar ¼ c. kosher salt 6 garlic cloves, peeled & left whole 1 ½ t. peppercorns, whole 1 ½ t. mustard seeds 1 bunch fresh dill, separated into sprigs Directions: Slice, spear, or leave cucumbers whole, as desired. In a medium sauce pan, heat vinegars, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Stir solution and remove from heat once sugar and salt dissolve. Place cucumbers, garlic, dill, peppercorns, and mustard seeds in quart jars. Cover with vinegar solution, leaving a one inch space at the top of the jar. Refrigerate pickles for up to three months, or process for 15 minutes in a pressure canner.
Easy-Peasy Strawberry Jam Makes: 6 half pints Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Ingredients: 3 lbs. fresh strawberries 4 c. granulated sugar ¼ c. bottled lemon juice, plus two seeded lemon wedges 1 pinch salt Directions: Prepare strawberries by rinsing, removing stems, and roughly chopping them. In a large pot, combine all ingredients over medium heat. Stirring frequently and mashing berries with the back of your spoon, bring mixture to boil and continue to cook for 3 additional minutes, until thickened (approximately 20 minutes total). Remove lemon wedges from the
{the tasty side of austin}
jam and skim off foam from the top (if desired). Transfer jam to clean, sterilized jars, leaving about ½” head space at the top of each jar. Prepared jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or at room temperature for six months if processed for 10 minutes in a pressure canner. Discard any jars that have not sealed within 24 hours.
Savory Stewed Tomatoes Makes: 2 quarts Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Ingredients: 5 lbs. fresh tomatoes 2 T. olive oil 2 T. butter 1 large onion, chopped 1 bell pepper, chopped 1 stalk fennel, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 ½ t. salt ½ t. red pepper 1 t. citric acid (or 2 T. bottled lemon juice) Directions: Fill a large pot with water at least 4” deep and place over high heat. After removing their stems, rinse the tomatoes and cut a large superficial “X” into each tomato’s skin. Once the water is starting to boil, cook each tomato for 1-2 minutes and remove with a slotted spoon, transferring to a second pot of cold water. Peel tomatoes and cut them into quarters. In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add onion, bell pepper, and fennel. Cook for 5 minutes, until fragrant and starting to become translucent. Add garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds. Add tomatoes, salt, red pepper, and citric acid/lemon juice. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until tomatoes have broken down. Transfer stewed tomatoes to clean, sterilized jars. Store tomatoes in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To can, process in a boiling water canner for 35-45 minutes. Discard any jars that did not seal after 24 hours.
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O U R FAV E R E S TA U R A N T S
pick 15
FOR THE EASTSIDE
EASTSIDE
dining guide Mour Cafe
Featuring a rotating selection of the world’s most satisfying dishes, Mour Cafe is where gastropub meets comfort. They serve environmentally conscious ingredients, sourced from local farmers, which bring flavor that’s uniquely Austin to each soul-filled dish. mourcafe.com | 1414 Shore District Dr. Bldg. 3, Ste. 120
The menu at Cisco’s provides flavorful TexMex options for any meal of the day. Order favorites like their mouth-watering breakfast tacos or comforting cheese enchiladas for dinner. Either way, the food and the service will have you wanting more. 1511 E 6th St. | ciscosaustin.com
Rosewood Restaurant
This locally owned Gulf Coast Chophouse is located in a historic 1890s home with expansive outdoor dining overlooking downtown, featuring locally sourced 40-Day Dry Aged Bone in Ribeye and all the comforting favorites with an inventive twist. 1209 Rosewood Ave. | rosewoodatx.com
Artessano
The fresh tropical fruit juice and the arepas are why you need to visit Artessano. As a food trailer specializing in Colombian food, expect dance music and lots of friendly conversation when you visit. 1211 E 6th St.
Oddwood Ales
Designed as a cozy neighborhood pub, Oddwood Ales provides a variety of flavorful ales, home-made pizzas, and Italian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with arcade games and a pet-friendly patio. 3108 Manor Rd. | oddwoodbrewing.com
Swift Pizza Co.
Bring the whole family any night of the week to enjoy incredible pizza, unique drinks, and all around entertaining vibes. This nostalgiainducing pizza joint offers fun for all ages. 3223 E 7th St. | swiftpizzaco.com
Hillside Farmacy
Something about Hillside Farmacy’s weekend brunches, patio dinners, and cocktails just make you feel better. Perhaps that’s due to its historical location in the lovingly renovated 1950s Hillside Drugstore. Or perhaps it’s because the fresh, carefully selected seasonal food that comes from local farms and onto your plate is just good medicine. 1209 E 11th St. | hillsidefarmacy.com
Cherrywood Coffeehouse
With an expansive patio and a continual rotation of events, you’ll find yourself frequenting for the community as often as food, which is an inviting array of tacos, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and smoothies. 1400 E 38 1/2 St. | cherrywoodcoffeehouse.com
Bobo’s Snack Bar
This community tasting room offers an old Austin vibe, and most importantly, plenty of snacks to accompany their wine, beer, and cocktail menu. Locally sourced ingredients fuel this neighborhood space, with options to accommodate most any dietary need in a cozy, inviting environment. 3850 Airport Blvd. | bobossnackbar.com 48 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
Cisco's
find more at eastsideatx.com
Flyrite Chicken
Disrupting the fast food industry one sandwich at a time, Flyrite is a drive-thru with all-natural, antibiotic-free chicken as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options. 2129 E 7th St. | flyritechicken.com
Xian Sushi & Noodle
Fruta Feliz
A happy place where breakfast is served all day. Of course, you can also get lunch, but why would you when you can have chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and authentic breakfast tacos at 8PM? 3124 Manor Rd.
Intero Restorante
Intero, meaning “whole,” is dedicated to the thoughtful use of every ingredient in their dishes. Homemade pastas, farm-totable plates, and artisan chocolates make up their bold, yet intimate, Italian menu. 2612 E Cesar Chavez St. | interorestaurant.com
Fresh, hand-pulled noodles are the star of the show at Xian. Enjoy a bowl of Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry or the Dan Dan where noodles are pulled to guest’s preferred thickness then drenched in authentic Asian flavors. Visit for happy hour to enjoy their $5 menu. 1801 E 51st St., Ste. C370 | xianfresh.com
S-H Donuts
This unassuming store-front houses an outstanding array of fluffy-light donuts, a variety of kolache flavors, and savory breakfast croissants. Even if the food wasn’t enough, the warmth of the owners Sochea and Sarong make the trip to S-H worth it every time. 5313 Manor Rd.
Sour Duck Market
An offshoot of Odd Duck, Sour Duck Market is bringing the same custom approach to the fast-casual dining scene. With a menu packed with local flavors, Sour Duck so deliciously captures the spirit of Austin. 1814 E MLK Jr. Blvd. | sourduckmarket.com
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eastside | sip
Like a Cowboy A Classic Icehouse with an Austin Twist WORDS BY
Guadalupe Triana Baptiste Despois
PHOTOS BY
In Texas, some traditions don’t change; they simply get upgraded. Today, the team behind Micklethwait Craft Meats and its sibling taco truck, Taco Bronco, has taken the Texan icehouse tradition and given it a modern-day Austin twist.
I
oak trees that are perfect for keeping cool in the heat. “We have this unique location that’s close to downtown but also has this small-town vibe,” describes Tom.
In 2020, Tom and his partners started to feel the effects of the pandemic firsthand as work projects began to get axed. While seeing the business next door to Micklethwait Craft Meats vacate the space was tough, they knew it was an ideal space to proceed with their next concept.
On most weekends, guests can catch a vinyl set or two from local DJs in addition to talented musicians. Whether there for the live music or to catch up on school or work, there’s something for everyone. Saddle Up offers a full espresso menu, a variety of natural wines, draft beer, local ciders, and plenty of alluring cocktails, like a refreshing Prickly Pear Frosé. For groups looking to unwind, Saddle Up serves prosecco, sparkling rosé, as well as mimosa kits with freshly squeezed orange juice, in buckets of ice with plenty of cups to go around.
As the team fine-tuned their idea, a neighborhood grocery store with all kinds of snacks and plenty of beverage offerings came to life. “We wanted it to be a place people could visit, chill out, and get some food to take home,” Tom explains. In February 2022, Saddle Up finally opened its doors, creating a place where the whole neighborhood, including kids and furry friends, could hang out all day.
In addition to a cool beverage, patrons can munch on delicious house-made goodies, like the cheekily named twonkys, ding dangs, and oatmeal cream pies—the team’s richer, and more indulgent, take on classic Little Debbie snacks. With plenty of yummy eats and thirst-quenching beverages from which to choose, guests will find a reason to keep coming back to this modernday Austin icehouse.
n cities like Houston and San Antonio, the icehouse has historically been the go-to for essentials like bread, milk, eggs, pre-packaged snacks, and of course, ice and cold beer—all in an open-air setting. According to some, it’s a concept that can be traced back to the 1840s. “I think this model is going to be a popular, relevant thing,” owner Tom Micklethwait says of his take on a traditional concept. “It’s an experience [that] people are looking for.”
Today, the Saddle Up backyard offers 10,000 square feet of space nestled under giant, shady
50 EASTside | Aug/Sep 2022
Contact:
1309 Rosewood Ave. saddleupbeerhouse.com @saddleupaustin find more at eastsideatx.com
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