Be Vocal. Help Local. / Helping Refugees / Home with Kids / Local Beers
No. 70 May/June 2020
Cel eb ra ti n g th e ver y b est of Ce n t ra l Texa s fo o d cu lt u re
Reach the Community That Supports Your Business Use our strong social and online program to reach the people who support our Central Texas community. Contact us at info@edibleaustin.com 30K monthly page views 49.9K followers 13,600 fans 100.3K monthly viewers 32.2K + followers
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PHARM FRESH JUICE & NUT MILK
IT’S A FAMILY TRADITION Featuring three of our best-selling all-natural Angus steaks, our Family Pack includes two bold, center-cut New York Strips, two lean and hearty Sirloins and two buttery boneless Ribeye. Boasting a peerless approach to sustainability, animal care and breed research, 44 Farms produces steaks with no added hormones, antibiotics or artificial ingredients. Quality is bred into everything we do, and you’ll be able to taste the difference.
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raw organic cold pressed available only at Peoples Rx • peoplesrx.com/deli
HAPPY HOUR DAILY 53 BEERS ON TAP AWARD-WINNING MARGS LIVE MUSIC 5 NIGHTS A WEEK
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TELLING THE STORY OF HOW THE CITY EATS AND DRINKS • NO. 52 SPRING 2018
THE
Drinks ISSUE
BOTTLING LIQUID COURAGE MAKING SPICEBUSH FIZZ BIOINTENSIVE ORCHARDS BOOM IRISH BARS’ FLUID IDENTITY A BREWERY-FERMENTARY-JUICERY IN ONE Member of Edible Communities
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Celebrating the Harvest of the Hamptons and North Fork
No. 36 High Summer 2012
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TELLING THE STORY OF HOW GOTHAM EATS • NO. 30 JULY�AUGUST ����
NO. 10 FALL ��� 5
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REAL GREEK YOGURT LONG ISLAND CITY BEER CRAWL THE KINSTON KRAWL IN NORTH CAROLINA CONNECTICUT SENSE MEMORIES WHAT ARE BLUE POINT OYSTERS?
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Spring 2020 MARIN & WINE COUNTRY
Celebrating the harvest of Marin, Napa and Sonoma counties, season by season
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CONTENTS A Uniquely Texas Experience! Come Celebrate with Us! Our cellar or reception hall is perfect for your next meeting, holiday or birthday soiree. Winery Tasting Room
lick
464 Becker Farms Road, Fredericksburg
— or — Tasting Room on Main
307 East Main, Fredericksburg
honest ice creams
ilikelick.com
Hours: Mon - Thurs, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Fri & Sat, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sun, Noon – 6 p.m. Main Street open an hour later except Sundays. Last wine tasting, 30 min before closing.
South Lamar, Mueller & North Burnet
REG U LA RS
10 What’s on Our Counter 12 N otable Edibles
20
30
EDIBLE AT HOME Healthy home habits
WHAT'S IN SEASON
for kids
Home cooking was never this fresh
Make It Sweet
Oatmeal & Company
34 Farmers Diary New Leaf Farms & L'Oca d'Oro
www.beckervineyards.com 830-644-2681
Help Refugees
48 S napshots Around Austin 50 Where to Find It 51 E dible Ink
Getting Outside in Austin
On the Cover Jester King's Jeff Stuffings is maintaining business & helping the community. Photography by Patty Robertson.
6 / EdibleAustin.com
24
40
CHEERS TO LOCAL BEERS
BE VOCAL. HELP LOCAL.
10 brews for your
Ways local companies
home crew
are helping
EdibleAustin.com / 7
PUBLISHER’S note
T
hese are certainly challenging times for all of us — at the time this magazine goes to print, we are still under shelter-in-place orders in Austin due to the outbreak of COVID-19. We struggled with the decision of whether to go ahead with this issue, to change to an onlineonly version, or to cancel or delay the printing altogether. After much thought and outreach to our advertisers, we came to the conclusion that now, more than ever, people are searching for insightful, informative and inspirational reads about our community while stuck at home, feeling disconnected and looking for things to do (perhaps in the kitchen). So we forged ahead, in spite of our writers’ and photographers’ lack of access to the people and facilities featured in these pages. And we did our best to put together a magazine full of content that is relevant, timely and engaging (but honestly, who knows what else could change by the time you’re reading this!). We revised our distribution strategy to include all of the Austin area H-E-B and Randall’s stores, along with our primary distribution partners at Whole Foods, Central Market, Royal Blue Grocery, Wheatsville Co-op and other local stores and restaurants where possible. Our hope is that our magazine finds its way to you and provides you with some enjoyment during these difficult times. While so many local businesses were forced to shut down and so many of our great Austin dining, drinking and entertainment establishments are suffering tremendous economic losses, some businesses have also been trying to weather the storm and help their communities in creative and innovative ways. From a brewery turned country store to a distillery turned hand sanitizer manufacturer, you can read all about some of these heartwarming and inspiring stories starting on page 40. We are also delighted to bring you the story of a wonderful partnership, still in its infancy, between renowned Austin restaurant L’Oca d’Oro and the Multicultural Refugee Coalition. This is a great example of how our local restaurants continue to improve their offerings while also promoting sustainability and providing employment opportunities. You can read about this groundbreaking initiative on page 34. In our Notable Edibles, we feature the mother-son duo at Oatmeal & Company who are introducing people to tantalizing gourmet oatmeal flavors, and we take a moment to highlight an amazing Austin baking institution, Make It Sweet. And, to help pass the time at home, we give you a tour of 10 great local beers you can find for your virtual happy hours, along with some fun recipes that can involve everyone in your household — from your kids to your pets. We wish you all continued health and happiness and look forward to celebrating with all of you on a string-lit Austin patio some evening when businesses (and our lives) are up and running again! Sincerely,
Edible Austin Mission
PUBLISHER Monique Threadgill monique@edibleaustin.com
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Ralph Yznaga
COCKTAIL HOUR
FROM THE COUCH?
ralph@edibleaustin.com
EDITOR Sarah McConnell sarah@edibleaustin.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Sarah Welch
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Claire Cella
ADVERTISING SALES Stephanie Walsh stephanie@edibleaustin.com
DISTRIBUTION Craig Fisher, Flying Fish
CONTACT US 512-441-3971 info@edibleaustin.com edibleaustin.com 4611 Bee Caves Rd., Ste. 212 Austin, TX 78746
and Soda
Edible Austin is published bimonthly by Edible Austin L.L.C. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be used without written permission of the publisher. ©2020. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us. Edible Austin is a member of Edible Communities.
To transform the way Central Texans eat by connecting them to the local food growers, producers and makers, thereby strengthening the local food economy and creating a sustainable local food system. Edible Austin is a locally owned media company and the authority on the local food scene as captured in print and digital and through our community events.
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Take a look at what we are enjoying this month.
BURNT CARAMEL COMPANY
These handmade caramel sauces truly bring out the sweetness in life. Only containing four simple ingredients, Burnt Caramel Company’s sauces are great for topping ice cream, dipping pretzels, spreading on toast or fruit and even adding to drinks. The sauces, which are family recipes, come in two varieties: Original Caramel Sauce and a delicious Chocolate Caramel Sauce for all of the chocolate lovers out there. Check out the company’s website for unique ways to incorporate these into a variety of recipes, such as garden party crostinis or turtle thumbprint cookies. Burnt Caramel Company’s products can be found at Con’ Olio Oils & Vinegars, Spread & Co., South Congress Hotel and Kendra Scott’s Sips & Sweets Café, and online at Burnt Caramel Company’s website. 734-657-2577 burntcaramelco.com
W H AT ’ S
ON OUR COUNTER
by ADDISON STARR / photography by MONIQUE THREADGILL
HARPER & SOUL PROVISIONS If you’re looking for a healthy, yet tasty snack, look no further than Harper & Soul Provisions’ scrumptious nut blends. In addition to being super delicious, these nut mixes are also grain and gluten free! One of our favorites is their Cardamom Coconut Nut Blend — a mixture of coconut flakes and nuts that is lightly sweetened by natural ingredients such as Vermont maple syrup. A great way to add these nut blends to your daily diet is to sprinkle them like granola on your yogurt or atop smoothies or salad bowls for a bit of crunch. If you want to be a bit more creative, use your favorite mix as a topping on tacos. Trust us, it’s delicious! Find Harper & Soul Provision’s nut mixes at People’s RX, the Texas Farmers Market at Mueller or online. harperandsoulprovisions.com
LOVEPUPPIES BROWNIES Brownies are a classic on their own, but brownies with innovative flavors are awesome. And LovePuppies Brownies is making some of the most mouth-watering flavors of this chocolate lover’s favorite dessert. Even if you’re not a chocolate lover, there’s a LovePuppies brownie for you: try the Red Velveteen or the blondie version called Trailer-Park-Chic. What makes these brownies even better is that they are made with high-quality ingredients like locally sourced eggs, dark chocolate and Mexican vanilla. Check out their website to see what seasonal flavors they have, too, like the Kentucky Screwdriver with hints of bourbon and orange liqueur for the upcoming summer months. Pick these brownies up at Austin favorites like Torchy’s Tacos, Thom’s Markets or The Natural Gardener. lovepuppiesbrownies.com
LOTUS KITCHEN Sometimes we all want to add a little spice to our cooking, and Lotus Kitchen sauces are serving it up. With a wide selection of varieties, from Chicken Korma Simmer Sauce to Cilantro Mint Chutney, these products provide a burst of flavor when added to simple dishes. Our favorite is the rich and creamy Butter Masala Simmer Sauce, a traditional Indian cooking sauce that can be added to things like chicken, vegetables or even pizza! These sauces are great for when you’re looking for something to make your everyday meals just a little different — and we could all use a little pop of bright, unique flavor right now. You can find these transformative sauces at your local H-E-B or Central Market store, or you can browse all of Lotus Kitchen’s products on the Cookwell & Company website. cookwell.net If you have an idea for a great, local product to be featured, email us at info@edibleaustin.com. 10 / EdibleAustin.com
EdibleAustin.com / 11
NOTABLE edibles
NOTABLE edibles
A Sweet Spot in the Community
Make It Sweet
by SARAH MCCONNELL / photography by RALPH YZNAGA and SARAH MCCONNELL
“It started as an opportunity to do something different.” —JENNIFER BARTOS
F
PHOTO BY RANDY BARTOS or Jennifer Bartos, it all started with a career change and a
were to start this business in the months just after September 11, 2001.
passion
Due to the economic climate of the time, the couple decided a retail store
for baking.
Make
It
Sweet,
her
specialty
retail
store devoted to all things baking, has grown and evolved
over nearly two decades into a destination for Austin’s local baking community. Tucked off of Research Boulevard in North Austin,
Make
It
Sweet’s
expansive
storefront
entices
patrons
with its colorful logo and offerings of specialty supplies and ingredients for bakers of all kinds. From professional pastry chefs with formal culinary training to stay-at-home parents with a knack for making elaborate cakes to hobbyists looking to take a class for fun, this local shop has a little something for everyone. Bartos
speaks
her
specialized in weddings. From there, the two expanded operations to include supplies and classes for cakes, cookies and candies of all kinds. Though Randy only intended to help in the beginning, he has remained an integral part of Make It Sweet for the last 18
years.
“It’s
blossomed
into
something
that
we
both
do,”
Bartos says of their joint involvement. She delights in being able to
what makes it work, though,” Bartos says optimistically. Over time,
the
business
into
what
it
is
today.
“That’s
part
of
the market for classic recipes like gingerbread cookies and cinnamon rolls
the business has expanded from a small, 3,000-square-foot shop to its
or looking to branch out to something a little more exotic like pepper
current location in North Austin, which is 7,000-square-feet and still
bacon spice cookies, Make It Sweet has it all. The store even offers
“bursting at the seams,” Bartos says with a laugh.
take-home candy-making kits, in flavors like Butterscotch Chocolate
earned national recognition for her talents on television shows
be able to show people the variety of things that you can make with the
like
techniques that you learn from pastry,” Bartos says.
Toffee Swirl and Cookies and Cream, that come with all the
Make It Sweet’s class schedule includes a variety of offerings like cake
from home. For both kids and adults alike, these kits are a fun and
“Who does not love Oreos and white chocolate?” —JENNIFER BARTOS
decorating, baked donuts, french macarons, kolaches and scones, in
delicious way to spend some time in the kitchen, especially during this time of social distancing. And luckily, not only is Make It Sweet still open
For Bartos, the joy of Make It Sweet is not found in the impressive size
“My entire life, I have always loved baking and cooking,” she says.
classes designed for both serious bakers and those just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon. Patrons shouldn’t be fooled by the use of
during this time, but the store is also offering virtual cooking classes that
With this motivation, she took an opportunity for a career change,
“sweet” in the store name. The shop also offers a variety of classes
are great for kids, parents, and anyone else looking for a fun activity while
leaving the financial services industry and enrolling at the Auguste
focused on savory dishes like breads, pizzas, empanadas and Bartos'
stuck at home.
Escoffier School of Culinary Arts (previously known as the Culinary
favorite, pretzels. In the pretzel class, students make four different kinds
Academy of Austin) to pursue her passion for baking full time.
of pretzels, two savory and two sweet. “Pretzel making, specifically,
Upon graduating, her original dream was to open “a really fancy
introduces people to the variety that can be made with the same dough,”
dessert restaurant.” Reflecting on this idea with a laugh, Bartos says
Bartos says.
up,
One
grow
delicious recipes for all sorts of holidays and occasions. Whether one is in
anyone looking to learn a little more about her profession. “It’s fun to
Growing
success.
In addition to in-person classes, Make It Sweet offers a variety of
never know from talking to her that the down-to-earth chef has Challenge.
about
business after buying All in One, a locally owned shop that
meet the supply needs of bakers while also getting to teach classes to
Network
humility
In February 2002, Bartos and her husband officially launched their
would
Food
with
would be a wiser decision in the long run and haven’t looked back since.
Bartos
says
she
remembers being captivated by chefs with their own cooking shows, like Julia Child and Graham Kerr, not knowing at the time that one day she would be making television appearances of her own.
she envisioned a restaurant with “ports and champagne and all kinds of plated desserts,” but her husband, Randy, persuaded her that a retail store would be a wiser decision given that their plans
12 / EdibleAustin.com
ingredients
and
directions
needed
to
create
gourmet
candy
Since launching in 2002, Make It Sweet has grown from a quaint, twoperson operation into the largest cake supply store in Texas, with a staff of 16 and classes offered every day of the week. In the beginning, Bartos says the biggest challenge was the amount of time and effort
of the shop, however, but in the fact that the business is built around the concept of celebration. In many instances, customers come in with hopes of finding specialty tools or ingredients to craft sweet treats to celebrate life’s most joyous moments. "People make sweets
99
percent
of
the
time
for
really
happy
occasions.
It’s a really positive kind of business,” Bartos says. Cooking classes too,
are
cheerful
as
friends
and
strangers
gather
together
to share an experience and learn new skills side by side.
needed to make the new business a success. It required working
Make It Sweet is located at 9070 Research Blvd. Suite 203 Austin,
long hours around the clock, even during personal time off, to
TX 78758 and is online at makeitsweet.com
EdibleAustin.com / 13
NOTABLE edibles
Overnight Success Oatmeal & Company
by SARAH MCCONNELL / photography by RALPH YZNAGA
“What I've tried to do is create something that disrupts the current norm for breakfast.” —DARIAN WASHINGTON
D
arian Washington didn’t know it at the time, but the
Originally from a small town just north of Pasadena, California, she
simple question — "Can we just make our own?" — posed by
moved to Austin in 2017 to accept a position in corporate retail and
her then-11-year-old son, Derrick, had just set the wheels of
marketing with Whole Foods Market. In January 2019, however, she
Oatmeal & Company in motion. Two years later, Washington now brings
learned her position was being eliminated. “I went from having one life to
her own twist to the classic breakfast item with flavor combinations
having another life,” Washington says.
like Blueberry Cardamom, Lemon Lavender and Smoked Peach Bourbon.
What she couldn’t see at the time, however, was that while the
Washington’s entrance into the oatmeal industry didn’t come from
corporate doors in her life were closing, the doors to Oatmeal &
any particular love of oatmeal but instead from the desire to provide a
Company — the “cushy side gig” she started in 2018 — were
delicious, convenient and wholesome breakfast for her son, a self-
beginning to open. As Washington’s mindset began to change, she started
described “Pop Tart addict.” Hoping to entice Derrick to try
to see the circumstances as an opportunity to expand Oatmeal &
something new, she brought home a sample of banana, espresso
Company into something that could fully provide for herself and Derrick.
and chocolate overnight oats, though he swiftly countered her efforts
She already knew she had a desirable product: After that first fated batch
with a request of his own: "Can we just make our own?" Using
of oatmeal, she had shared their creation with various friends and
a blend of warm spices, almond milk, apricots, cranberries and
Whole Foods coworkers and quickly found herself with dozens of
specialty ingredients from the Korean market, Washington and her son
requests for her oatmeal products. Before she knew it, people were leaving
concocted their own hazelnut apricot overnight oats. “Wait, Mom, this is
empty mason jars with flavor requests and offering candies and cookies as
really good,” Washington says she remembers Derrick saying. And with
payment for her delicious blend of oats.
that, Oatmeal & Company was born.
Now, it was time to make Oatmeal & Company official. “Because why not?
About a year after launching the company, Washington moves around
Right? You have an opportunity to do something that you think is going to
the kitchen on a warm March day, while lovingly crafting a bowl of
make you happy. You should do it,” Washington says of the decision to fully
Blueberry Cardamom oatmeal. With Derrick by her side, she
commit to the company while putting a pot of boiling water on the stove.
explains how the unexpected business venture came to fruition.
On those first few tough days when the weight of her circumstances and the new endeavor seemed overwhelming, Derrick was the constant in her life that provided the motivation she needed to keep going. “I learned that
14 / EdibleAustin.com
EdibleAustin.com / 15
NOTABLE edibles you always have to have a ‘why.’ My kid is my ‘why,’” she says with a glance and smile at her son. When a dream like this takes shape in her mind, Washington says she visualizes herself as an archer with a quiver full of arrows. “I take an arrow out of my quiver, put it in my bow, tie a note to the end of the arrow, and then I aim. I pull back; I let go, and I imagine it flying through the universe with this note flailing behind it,” she says, arms extended as if holding an imaginary quiver. If the dream hasn’t come to fruition yet, Washington says, that just means the arrow is still flying.
“Mom, this is so good... I think you're on to something.” —DERRICK WASHINGTON Within the span of one short year, Oatmeal & Company’s flavors
Fresh, juicy melons from your yard to your table...
have expanded to include Strawberry Basil and Bananas Foster. According to Washington, the fun part is finding the perfect combination
of
flavors
and
textures
that
yields
the
right
balance. For example, in the Blueberry Cardamom, the warmth of the
8648 Old Bee Caves Rd (512) 288-6113 | ....
cardamom brings out the sweetness of the blueberry while balancing
FFFFFF UU!
its tanginess. In the Smoked Peach Bourbon, smooth peaches enhance the subtle smokiness and temper the power of the bourbon. When asked about her favorite flavor, Washington says she is partial to both the Blueberry Cardamom and the Strawberry Basil, but especially
The coronavirus pandemic has left us facing shortfalls at a time when many families need help the most.
Blueberry Cardamom because it’s the “collective favorite” she shares with Derrick. As Washington puts the finishing touches on the bowl of oatmeal on
his own details to the story. The tight bond between the two is evident,
the counter, she delicately adds blueberries, cardamom, cinnamon and a
and it’s clear that, for this mother-son duo, it’s not just about making
touch of sugar to the bowl of steamed oats before stirring the ingredients
oatmeal; it’s about the process of creating and experimenting together.
together to create a soft shade of lavender. The result is a creation that is both beautiful and delicious. While Washington cooks, Derrick stands by her in the kitchen, ready to help however she may need, chiming in to add
G WE’RE RAISIN MEALS N O I L L I M E ON R THIS SUMME
Help us end summer hunger and our community can tackle recovery together.
Though Washington’s products aren’t in grocery stores yet, they can be found online and at a number of farmers markets in the Austin area, including SFC Farmers’ Market—Downtown and Texas Farmers' Markets at Lakeline Mall and Mueller among others. Washington says her business goal is to see her oatmeal distributed in grocery stores across the country. Her personal goals, however, are closer to home. “My ultimate goal is to be a grandma,” she says with a laugh. The unseen factor in Oatmeal & Company’s success is the enthusiasm, encouragement and constant support Derrick provides his mom. As they pose for a picture, the precocious 13-year-old grins at his mom and wraps an arm protectively around her. Whatever the future holds, they’re in it together. You can find Oatmeal & Company at local farmers' markets and order online at oatmealandcompany.com
16 / EdibleAustin.com
DOWNTOWN & SUNSET VALLEY Republic Square
centraltexasfoodbank.org
Toney Burger Center
Saturdays, Year Round 9am - 1pm, Rain or Shine!
Presented by
sfcfarmersmarket.org EdibleAustin.com / 17
edible AT
HOME
notable EDIBLES
Building Healthy Habits at Home by SARAH WELCH
T
o put it mildly, this spring hasn’t panned out like we
While that’s all well and good, as children are notoriously picky,
expected. Most years, rising temperatures and blooming
and for many families, encouraging the little ones to eat — much
wildflowers are harbingers of the end of school followed by
less enjoy — balanced meals on a regular basis may be easier
family vacations, picnics and evenings dining on the patios of our
said than done. Fortunately, Barnoud and Kissko have some
favorite restaurants. This year, thanks to COVID-19, things look a little
ideas.
different as classrooms have moved online and most parents have
whole family (no short-order cooking) and always including at least
shifted to remote work. No doubt there’s been a lot of anxiety and
one thing the kids enjoy. Additionally, she suggests maintaining
uncertainty in recent weeks, but here at Edible Austin, we’re
consistent meal and snack times to help make sure that kiddos (and
working hard to focus on the positives. And one of those is that
the adults, too) are coming to the table hungry.
homebound families have time to rediscover the fun of cooking and eating together.
Kissko
recommends
serving
balanced
meals
for
the
They also caution against forcing children to try new foods when they’re resisting. “It’s important to expose kiddos to new foods
For insight into how to create healthy meals that the whole
without forcing them to eat something they really don’t want to eat,”
family can enjoy, I reached out to two nutritionists who are well-
says Kissko. “Sometimes it takes multiple exposures of a food before a
versed in young people’s health. Jennifer Barnoud, MS, RDN,
child will try it or like it!”
LD, CEDRD, is an expert in college health nutrition and eating disorders; Marcie Kissko, RDN, LD, specializes in school nutrition and eating disorders. Both of them shared some fantastic advice on making mealtime fun. First, I asked them to break down what makes a healthy meal. Both emphasized three key ingredients: carbohydrates, proteins and fats. For carbs, think pasta, rice, starchy vegetables and fruit. Barnoud also recommends less common whole grains that may not be as likely to be sold out in grocery stores, such as barley, millet or buckwheat. “If you can cook rice,” she says, “you can cook these.” For proteins, look for eggs, meat, dairy and legumes; and for fats, think along the lines of avocado, nuts, seeds, oils and butter. Kissko also suggests adding a non-starchy vegetable, such as green beans, carrots or spinach, to increase variety and give dinner a vitamin/mineral boost.
Barnoud adds that sometimes that means up to 20 exposures. “Often young toddlers will put food in their mouth just to spit it right back out,” she says. “Don’t respond. Just offer again, and do not force them to eat anything. Children are naturally intuitive eaters. Sometimes they will eat more or less, and that’s okay.” When dinner is ready, sit down at the table together to eat. “Try to eat most or all meals as a family,” urges Kissko. “If everyone in the house is home all day, it might be tempting to spread out and eat meals while watching a show or playing video games. Family meals are so beneficial for various reasons, so try to have everyone eat together as much as possible.” If lack of outside activity makes table conversation topics few and far between, “You can spice things up by asking trivia questions or funny questions like, ‘would you rather have one eye in the middle of your head or two noses?'."
Marcie Kissko RDN, LD
18 / EdibleAustin.com
PHOTO BY HUYEN NHI PREWITT
EdibleAustin.com / 19
edible AT
HOME Contemporary Italian, focused on using “whole” local ingredients
Specialty chocolates & coffee
Happy Hour, Dinner, Late Night Dining and Sunday Brunch
Vegetarian & gluten-free friendly
Jennifer Barnoud MS, RDN, LD, CEDRD
2612 E Cesar Chavez 512.599.4052 interorestaurant.com
Of course, not depriving kiddos of cookies and other treats
Private dining room available
doesn’t mean turning the cabinet into a free-for-all, Barnoud says. “If you do not want them to have a particular food when they
WE’RE RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER, AND WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED.
are asking, tell them when they will have it to prevent scarcity mindset. For example, ‘We aren’t having cookies now, but we can have one with dinner tonight,’ or ‘Let’s add that to our grocery list, and we can have it for a snack later.’" Above all, Barnoud and Kissko remind us that, when it comes to building healthy relationships with food, it’s critical that parents are modeling desired behaviors. “Kids are listening to everything adults say, so the more we can model neutrality when talking about food and our bodies, the more they will learn how to do those things too." PHOTO BY MONIQUE THREADGILL
Spring threw us into uncharted territory this year, but for many Outside of dinnertime, there are plenty of fun ways to give kids
Austin families, the opportunity to work together to build
autonomy over their snacks and make eating an adventure.
lifelong healthy habits and create new family traditions around
Barnoud
the dining table may be just one silver lining of these otherwise
recommends
looking
for
the
same
carb/protein/fat
balance in snacks that you do in meals, and Kissko agrees.
isolating weeks.
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GROCERY • ESPRESSO • WINE & BEER TO STAY OR GO • LUNCH SPECIALS • GRAB & GO 3RD & LAVACA • 4TH & NUECES 6TH & CONGRESS
3RD & BRAZOS • RAINEY STREET • 6TH & COMAL ROYALBLUEGROCERY.COM
THE LEANING PEAR Hill C ountry -inspired Cuisine
“Create a snack drawer or container that contains single servings of things like dried fruit/fruit leather, nuts, crackers, cookies or trail mix. Let them pick one thing from the snack drawer and then pair it with a piece of fruit, a cheese stick or something else from the fridge, making sure to keep it macro-
Unique. Well Crafted. Delicious.
balanced, like Jen said.” For even more fun, she suggests creating games like blindfolded taste and smell tests as novel ways to expose kids to various spices and ingredients you have in the pantry.
111 river road, Wimberley, texas 512-847-pear | leaningpear.Com
So, does healthy eating at home mean going the whole summer without junk food? Absolutely not! Barnoud and Kissko both caution that, if kids are deprived of highly palatable foods, they’re likely to become obsessed, which could lead to binging behaviors once they do get access. They also caution me against the term, junk food. “It’s really important how we talk about food, too,” says Kissko, “including not calling nutrient-dense foods ‘good’ or sweet treats ‘bad,’ but keeping them on a neutral playing field.”
PHOTO BY HUYEN NHI PREWITT
20 / EdibleAustin.com
EdibleAustin.com / 21
edible AT
HOME
edible AT
HOME
Here are a couple of fun and delicious ways to keep kids (and pets!) entertained while staying home. recipes and photography by KRISTI LEIPSNER
Homemade Dog Treats Camp Fire Cake Makes 3 dozen 3" bones Total Time: 50 minutes Makes 10-12 slices
1 c.
pumpkin puree
Total Time: 90 minutes
2
eggs
¼ c.
natural peanut butter (NO Xylitol or
Your favorite 2-layer chocolate cake recipe
sugar substitutes—these can be toxic to dogs)
Your favorite chocolate frosting recipe
1 c.
flour (plus more for rolling)
15
pieces of butterscotch candy, unwrapped
½ t.
cinnamon
15
pieces of cinnamon candy, unwrapped
1
cannister of rolled chocolate wafers
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line large baking sheet with silicone baking
1
bag of small marshmallows
mat or parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin,
eggs and peanut butter. Stir well until ingredients are thoroughly Bake the cake according to directions, then set aside to cool. While it
combined. Add flour and cinnamon, stirring until just combined.
cools, make the frosting. Once the cake is cool, frost it with an offset
Flour a flat surface and roll out the dough until it is ¼” thick. Use
spatula to create thick swirls on the top and sides.
flour as needed to keep dough from sticking to counter or rolling pin.
Preheat the oven to 375°. Put the butterscotch candies into a plastic bag and the cinnamon candies into another. Crush the candies with a meat tenderizing tool until they are pea-sized or smaller. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Put spoonfuls of each candy on the parchment, forming 3 to 4 red mounds and 3 to 4
Cut shapes out of the dough with cookie cutters or your own hand-drawn masterpieces and place on the prepared baking sheet. (I put flour on the cookie cutter edges, too, to prevent sticking.) Bake for 30 minutes. Remove treats from the oven, and cool on a rack. Spoil your pooch with tasty homemade treats!
yellow ones, leaving about 2 inches between each mound so they
Note: Treats can be stored in an airtight container in the
do not combine when they melt.
refrigerator for a month or in the freezer for 6 months.
Bake about 5 minutes, until the candy liquifies, watching carefully. The candy should be melted but not bubbly. When the candy is liquified, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Working quickly, drag a toothpick through the melted candy from the center to pull it into "flame" shapes. Pull in just one direction, and don’t let the flames get too thin or they may break. If the candy hardens too quickly, put it back into the oven to soften. You will want to make 6 to 8 flames of varying sizes. Let the flames cool completely, and gently break them apart. Arrange the wafers to look like campfire logs on top of the cake. Arrange the candy flames in between wafers to look like fire. Add marshmallows around the base of the cake (if you have a torch, lightly torch the marshmallows for a little extra flair).
22 / EdibleAustin.com
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edible POURS
Cheers to Local Beers Now More Than Ever by SEAN ARMSTRONG / photography by RALPH YZNAGA
F
or many, these recent, uncertain weeks have been a time to
Luckily for beer aficionados, canned and bottled brews still remain
reflect on what matters most. They’ve been a time for video
widely available.
conferencing, hand sanitizing, homecooking, homeschooling,
to-go tacos and binge-watching Tiger King. They’ve been a time for solidarity with family, friends and neighbors. And they’ve been a time for cold beer. Specifically, delicious, locally crafted beer. As most bars and restaurants remain indefinitely shuttered, local
Hans’ Pils Real Ale Brewing Co. 5.3% ABV
Many breweries are also offering growlers, crowlers and other to-go options straight from the taproom.
Blanco-based Real Ale may be best known for their wildly popular Firemans #4, but their crisp and refreshing
Along with washing your hands, social distancing and tipping delivery
Hans’ Pils is truly spring in a can. Fresh, bright and leafy
people generously, enjoying tasty beer has become a matter of civic duty. In
overtones hit with a tickling carbonation that quenches
the interest of public health, here are 10 stellar local brews to bring you some
thirst in the Texas heat like nothing else. Toss in an
much-needed cheer during these uncertain times.
eye-opening amount of hops for an otherwise traditional
breweries, along with the entire industry, have struggled to cope with the
pilsner, and you’ve got yourself the ideal companion for
crisis, too.
freshly cut lawns, overworked grills and long, lazy hours in the hammock.
Pecan Porter (512) Brewing Company
6.2% ABV
Porter fans, rejoice. This bonafide Austin classic is finally available in bottle form. Brewed with organic Texas pecans, the hearty concoction’s robust, nutty aromas are well-balanced with sweet, malty notes and hints of chocolate lurking within its delectable depths. Its impenetrably dark pour and otherworldly flavor profile make this longtime favorite the perfect pairing for starry Texas nights and long bouts of quiet contemplation.
24 / EdibleAustin.com
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edible POURS
Dale’s Pale Ale Oskar Blues Brewery 6.5% ABV
A Pale Mosaic
Since opening a brewery here in 2016, Austinites have
Hops & Grain
been proud to welcome this Rocky Mountain import as one of our own. The generously hopped American Pale
If beer is to be considered art (and it surely must be), then
Ale has long been a favorite in the craft beer scene, and its
A Pale Mosaic is art in its highest form. True to its name,
eyebrow-raising balancing act of floral, headstrong hops
this very drinkable IPA is made up of a magical mosaic of
and pale malts fully back up its reputation. With its
Old World malts and New World hops. The result is a crisp,
endless swiggability and unpretentious packaging, Dale
complex whirlpool of flavor that is right on the money.
simply can’t fail.
Blood Orange IPA Austin Beerworks 7.0% ABV
5.9% ABV
Hefeweizen Live Oak Brewing Co.
5.3% ABV
There is nothing subtle about Blood Orange. One look at
Launched decades before the craft beer boom, Live Oak’s
its iconic white and orange can, and you’ll know you’re in
much celebrated and sought after hefeweizen remains a
for a unique experience. Normally, when we’re all taking
paragon of traditional German brewing sensibility. This
showers and attending social events, this fashionable six-
easy-drinking brew brims with sweet clove, banana and
pack would be one to accessorize with. These days, we
vanilla flavors matched by a healthy dose of wheat malts
can still appreciate its bright bursts of citrusy hops and
and, refreshingly, nary a hint of hops. One sip makes you
dangerously deceptive drinkability all on its own. After all,
yearn for simpler times — when we didn’t have to think
it’s what’s on the inside that really counts.
twice about running into H-E-B for a case to bring to our buddies’ cookouts. The way I see it, Live Oak Hef is the official beer of Texas summer — and maybe fall, winter and spring, too.
26 / EdibleAustin.com
EdibleAustin.com / 27
edible POURS
Mr. Mingo Jester King 4.5% ABV Who is Mr. Mingo? It’s a mystery known only to the mad geniuses behind one of Jester King’s latest — and perhaps
Urban Chicken Saison
most pleasant — concoctions: a lighthearted farmhouse ale artfully brewed with roselle hibiscus flower. As with
Friends & Allies 4.9% ABV
all their beers, Mr. Mingo is unfiltered, unpasteurized and entirely unconventional. The funky, lipstick pink brew’s
As the name implies, old country values mingle casually
initial tartness is well matched by its vivacious carbonation
with refined, city slicker sensibilities in this modern take
and high guzzlability, making Mr. Mingo a great choice
on the classic farmhouse ale. Saaz and Magnum hops, notes
for a daytime drinking partner. Despite the audacious
of fruit and spice and a low alcohol content make this a
color, the promised hibiscus arrives almost as a whimsical
saison for all seasons.
afterthought — a refreshing dessert to showcase the mysterious Mr. Mingo’s flowery personality.
Convict Hill Oatmeal Stout Independence Brewing Co. 8% ABV
Parks & Rec Zilker Brewing Co. 5.3% ABV
Good morning. The sun has risen over the Hill Country,
Some beers are just meant to be enjoyed outdoors. With
and you’re famished. Thankfully, Independence Brewing’s
a portion of every sale going toward the Austin Parks
stoutest of stouts has you covered. Dense and dark,
Foundation, the aptly named Parks & Rec certainly pairs
Convict Hill’s heady, rich, roasted malts, sweet chocolate
well with a fresh breeze. A bright burst of hops (led by the
aromas and undeniably smooth, oaty finish make it an
Centennial variety in honor of Zilker Park’s recent 100th
integral part of a well-balanced brunch.
anniversary) makes this pale ale an appropriately fresh and vibrant go-to for spring.
You can find these local beers at most Specs, Total Wine, Twin Liquors and H-E-B supermarkets in the Austin area, or online through the breweries’ websites.
28 / EdibleAustin.com
EdibleAustin.com / 29
W H AT ’ S
IN
SEASON story and photography by RACHEL JOHNSON
Summer’s bounty is arriving in full force, showcasing fruit and vegetables with amplified flavors and dazzling colors. We believe the best way to honor peak-season produce is with simple (and easy) preparations that allow the natural sweetness of these fruits and
Summer Melon Salad with Pistachios
vegetables to shine. These recipes showcase peak-season stone fruit, juicy melons and summer squash, all kissed by the Texas sun.
Makes 4 servings Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Pick Stone Fruit Plums, peaches, nectarines and apricots are all available at different times during the summer, so it’s important to pay attention to what fruit is at its peak throughout the season. If you notice peaches at a variety of stands at the farmers market, that’s a sign! Pick firm, fragrant fruit that gives slightly when pressed near the stem. Keep in
1 c.
cantaloupe pieces, cut into cubes or shaped
into balls
1 c.
honeydew pieces, cut into cubes or shaped
into balls
2
limes, zested and juiced
2 T. honey
mind that with every touch, the fruit is more susceptible to bruising.
2 T. apple cider vinegar
Please be mindful of your farmers’ inventory, and keep the handling to a minimum!
1 T.
olive oil
1 T.
chopped fresh mint or basil
4 c. baby arugula Arugula
Melons
Basil
Mint
Beets
Okra
Blackberries
Onions
Blueberries
Parsley
Carrots
Peaches
Cilantro
Peppers, Hot
Corn
Plums
Cow Peas
Shallots
Cucumbers
Squash
Dewberries
Sweet Potatoes
Eggplant
Tomatoes
Garlic
Turnips
Green Beans
Watermelon
Kale
Zucchini
30 / EdibleAustin.com
¼ c. toasted pistachios, roughly chopped
In a large bowl, toss the cantaloupe and honeydew with lime zest and juice, honey, vinegar, olive oil and fresh herbs. Refrigerate for 20 minutes. Just before serving, toss the arugula with melon. Top with pistachios.
PHOTO BY RALPH YZNAGA
EdibleAustin.com / 31
what's IN
SEASON
Stone Fruit Muffins
This recipe calls for fresh stone fruit, and it’s delicious with whatever is in season! Makes 1 dozen muffins Total Time: 45 minutes
PHOTO BY LUM3N
2 c.
all purpose flour
1 T.
baking powder
½ t.
table salt
1
large egg
1 c.
granulated sugar
4 T.
unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 ¼ c.
sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 ½ c.
diced stone fruit (plums, peaches, nectarines, etc.)
3 T.
turbinado sugar
Preheat the oven to 350°, and grease a standard muffin tin with cooking spray. Whisk flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl until combined. In another bowl, whisk the egg and granulated sugar until very thick and pale yellow (about 30 seconds). Whisk in melted butter. Add sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and mix until just combined. Make a well in the flour mixture, and add the egg mixture. Fold carefully, and add fruit just before the batter comes together. Do not overmix. Use an ice cream scoop or large cookie scoop to drop mounded cups of batter into each tin. Top with a generous amount of turbinado sugar for a crunchy topping. Bake until light golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center of the muffin comes out clean — 25 to 30 minutes. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
32 / EdibleAustin.com
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FARMERS diary
FARMERS diary
I N G
TG I NTGH E P LP ALNATNI N
SEEDS THE
TO HELP
l p
REFUGEES T o H e lp
HOW L'OCA D'ORO AND NEW LEAF FARMS ARE PARTNERING TO HELP PEOPLE IN NEED
L’Oca d’Oro
by NATHAN MATISSE
New Leaf Agriculture & L’Oca d’Oro
PHOTOS BY PATTY ROBERTSON
PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN REMDE
C
onsider it a small variation of the city’s
produce directly at places like the Texas Farmers’ Market at
famously weird ethos: in the Austin
Mueller, supplying restaurants like Lenoir and artisan producers like
food community, even the most natural
Barton
collaboration can start entirely by chance. Starting in the winter of 2018, renowned local
Supported
Mill,
Agriculture
and
setting
(CSA)
to
up share
its
own directly
Community with
the
Austin community.
Italian restaurant L'Oca d'Oro featured a special
But simply by walking through L’Oca d’Oro’s door that fateful day, the
polenta
Oaxacan
organization planted the seed for what looks to be its most exciting and
green corn, an heirloom variety from Barton
high profile restaurant partnership to date. As of early 2020, New Leaf
Springs Mill. Like everything at this neighborhood restaurant, the
Agriculture will be partnering directly with L'Oca d'Oro to provide
dish had been thoughtfully constructed — creative flavors, locally
produce specifically requested by the restaurant.
on
its
menu
made
with
sourced ingredients and (presumably) delightful results.
“This partnership with L'Oca d'Oro is so exciting — they’re challenging
“Somebody from the Multicultural Refugee Coalition (MRC) came
us to grow some really specific things that aren’t found in a lot of places
in and saw it on the menu,” says Adam Orman, general manager and
and aren’t grown in Texas,” says Katie Cox, communications coordinator at
co-owner of L'Oca d'Oro. When Orman said the corn came from Barton
MRC. “They wanted to grow these peppers, for example, Italian sweet frying
Springs Mills, the MRC representative was amazed. As it happens, MRC
peppers. The way Matt [Simon, agricultural director] describes it, Chef
grows their corn.
Fiore [Tedesco] kind of dared him to grow these, and we accepted the
At that point, MRC’s latest initiative, New Leaf Agriculture, was just in its infancy. Though MRC — a nonprofit whose mission is connecting refugees with entrepreneurship opportunities — had been
34 / EdibleAustin.com
Springs
challenge. It’s still kind of in the works, but these small partnerships allow us to fill a niche in the Austin culinary environment, so this was really serendipitous.“
growing vegetables in community gardens around Austin since 2011,
The burgeoning relationship between L'Oca d'Oro and New Leaf starts with
they’d recently secured 12 acres in Elgin to ramp up their
food, of course. Generally, New Leaf’s space (more robust than many urban
agriculture initiatives. Soon, New Leaf Agriculture was selling its
farms), expertise (agricultural know-how developed around the world) and
EdibleAustin.com / 35
FARMERS diary
FARMERS diary
“They were hitting all the values we want to be a part of: growing amazing products, doing it sustainably, and giving refugees jobs.” —ADAM ORMAN / L'Oca d' Oro
Adam Orman (right) by CHRISTIAN REMDE
model (reserving space and asking restaurants what they can grow for
Orman agrees. “It all has to go together,” he says.
them) mean new produce opportunities await Tedesco and his staff.
“And it can be a really difficult inflection point on
He’s partnered with other Austin farms before, conducting his
both sides — from the perspectives of the labor
own research on different soil types to discover how they might lend
organizations we’re a part of and the sustainability
themselves to interesting ingredients that can then be incorporated
and food sourcing organizations we work with. If
into L'Oca d'Oro’s particular brand of Italian cuisine. He anticipates
you source well, you know that your food has as
the unique produce New Leaf can offer will spark new inspiration and
little environmental impact as possible, and you know the people who work for the sourcing organization
present creative challenges for the restaurant. “Some of the things they grow — like the Texas roselle (hibiscus) for instance — when they asked me to try it, I was like, ‘Geez, what the heck can I do with this?’ It’s such a cool opportunity,” Tedesco says. “I always want to be amazed by new things as a chef. There’s an awe factor with new products and the creativity that they inspire in
are being taken care of, because you’re not sourcing from industrial farms. Well, what are you doing inside your restaurant? Are you paying everyone $2 an hour? It’s great if you’re paying everyone inside the restaurant a living wage, but are you doing that by subsidizing with industrial, low cost ingredients?”
the kitchen.” What makes this particular partnership ideal is how L'Oca d'Oro’s and New Leaf ’s missions so closely align. Orman and Tedesco have been vocal advocates in local and national restaurant communities on common industry issues like living wages for staff, local sourcing and sustainability. New Leaf was founded to empower Central Texas refugees through fair wages and entrepreneurial opportunities. Ever
since,
they’ve
approached
farming
and
their
business
practices in ways that promote sustainability and limit the environmental impact of distribution. As a restaurant, Tedesco says L'Oca d'Oro has always tried to align itself with those organizations and food producers with similar ethical goals, meaning any time they source ingredients or new products, they have a high standard. 36 / EdibleAustin.com
Fiore Tedesco (right) by CHRISTIAN REMDE
EdibleAustin.com / 37
FARMERS diary
FARMERS diary Matt Simon by PATTY ROBERTSON
“It’s encouraging restaurants are not only including local produce, but wanting the people making and growing those things to be as valued as the food being put on the plate.”
—KATIE COX / MRC
PHOTO BY RALPH YZNAGA PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN REMDE
For now, the two businesses have already exchanged more than a few ideas, although no plans have been fully finalized. Orman and Cox say to expect the fruits of this labor to show up more toward the fall. But given the natural fit and long-term potential involved, even some of the big, down-the-road ideas are already sprouting. “We make a lot of the amari and spirits on our menu. And one of the amaro we make is an Amaro Rosso in the style of Cappelletti or Campar,” says Tedesco. “Now we’re working on developing an amaro to bottle. And I’d love to make it from the Texas roselle New Leaf is growing, using it as a natural coloring agent. It’d be a totally unique product in its character, flavor and footprint. I haven't even discussed it with them yet, but that’s something we can make as a partnership.”
PHOTO BY PATTY ROBERTSON
38 / EdibleAustin.com
EdibleAustin.com / 39
BE
CAL VO
“We wanted to see the surplus ingredients go to both help
Be Vocal. Help Local.
CA
L
people right now with
H E L P LO
How businesses are keeping their doors open
various shortages at grocery stores and also to help us, as we try to scrape by.” —JEFF STUFFINGS / Jester King Brewery
and giving back to the community
by SARAH MCCONNELL
S
upport for local businesses has long been a defining
visitors during those four days. “Closing down Jester King
characteristic of Austin’s identity and culture. For those
Kitchen was definitely a shock,” says Jester King cofounder
who live here, the slogan “Keep Austin Weird” is more
Jeff Stuffings, and the sudden closure of the restaurant left the
than just a catchy phrase for T-shirts and bumper stickers — it’s
business with a surplus of ingredients on hand. The business
a message of support for small businesses, reminding them that
planned to continue offering beverages and menu items through
their community stands with them. In the wake of store closures,
to-go services and curbside pickup, but with a fraction of the
reduced staffing and economic uncertainty due to COVID-19,
traffic it normally sees, there was still an abundance. Not knowing
local businesses in Austin need this support now more than
what to do with these ingredients and looking for a way to make
ever — and they’re doing more than ever to support their
up for lost revenue, Jester King saw an opportunity to help both
communities in return. Here are five creative ways, guaranteed to
their own business and the community at large. They decided to
make you smile, that local businesses are coming together to keep
open a country store.
their doors open and support Austinites, showing how the very worst of times can bring out the very best in humanity.
Jester King Brewery Jester King Brewery is well-known not only by Central Texans but by craft beer lovers all over the country. Nestled on a 165-acre ranch in Dripping Springs, this local brewery offers guests exquisitely crafted beers and gourmet food against the breathtaking
backdrop
of
the
Texas
Hill
Country.
The
brewery’s restaurant, Jester King Kitchen, is just as renowned for its delicious pizzas and other quality menu items made unique by its Hill Country setting. This bustling brewery is open to the public Thursdays through Sundays, and under normal circumstances, sees roughly 2,000 40 / EdibleAustin.com
PHOTOS BY PATTY ROBERTSON
EdibleAustin.com / 41
spotlight on LOCAL
spotlight on LOCAL
With offerings that include everything from staples like brown sugar and produce to specialty ingredients like truffle oil and white distilled vinegar (and even toilet paper), the country store is focused on providing artisan goods and ingredients that people can cook well with at home. Making the best of the situation, the brewery even set up animal pens along the country road leading to the pickup area,
produced more than 1,200 gallons of hand sanitizer for first
McCullough created an online form where unemployed service
responders and other members of the community. From police
industry workers can sign up for meals. The two also set up a
and sheriff departments in Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi
fundraising platform where 100 percent of proceeds are given to
and Houston to Salvation Army shelters and various hospitals, the
restaurants that volunteer their services, helping them cover food and
distillery has provided for the needs of many across the state. Though
staffing costs associated with the initiative.
other states, like New Mexico and Georgia.
“It’s not something we’ve ever done before,” Stuffings says with a
Knowing their work is helping the community at large, Campbell says
laugh. All joking aside though, he says now is the time to support
his staff has maintained an upbeat and positive attitude in spite of
local independent businesses. “We definitely need help getting
the crisis surrounding this uncertain time. “My company has a sense
through a tough time like this.” While he acknowledges the
of purpose right now,” he says. “There are a lot of things to be really
challenging times Jester King and many local businesses are facing,
proud of as one of the co founders of Desert Door, but this is seriously
he says so far the curbside service has exceeded their expectations.
PHOTO BY DESERT DOOR
Through the sale of beverages, menu items and provisions from their
Desert Door Texas Sotol
offering to the community in the process.
Chi’Lantro Korean BBQ and MezzeMe Turkish Kitchen, Ko and
and first responders, the distillery has even shipped hand sanitizer to
mascot) raised on their property.
make it through these challenging times, while providing a unique
Old Thousand, Burro Cheese Kitchen, Tso Chinese Delivery,
in from all over the country. In just one week, Desert Door
the primary customers have been Texas law enforcement agencies
so visitors can catch a glimpse of the goats (the brewery’s unofficial
country store, the local brewery remains optimistic that they will
Almost immediately, requests for hand sanitizer began pouring
the thing we’ve done as a team that I’m most proud of.”
“Being able to see all these restaurants step up, even in a time of crisis, it just solidifies our love for the city, for the industry, and for the people. It’s been amazing.”
When most people think of Desert Door, they don’t think of hand sanitizer — they think of sotol, a unique spirit reminiscent of tequila
— CHELSEA MCCULLOUGH / HUNDRED FOR HOSPITALITY
or bourbon that’s crafted from plants harvested in West Texas. And they think of the local distillery celebrated for making it. With the onset of COVID-19, however, the distillery realized it was uniquely
“We’ve had an overwhelming number of restaurants, business owners,
qualified to provide for the communty in a different way: instead
local companies and potential sponsors step up and just say, ‘How
of supplying alcohol for cocktails and consumption, Desert Door
can we help?’” McCullough says. Within just a few days, Hundred for
could use its resources to produce much-needed hand sanitizer.
Hospitality raised $6,000 and in less than a week, it raised nearly $10,000. Many local restaurants even offered to provide meals
One of Desert Door’s co-founders, Ryan Campbell, said he and his
regardless of whether or not donations were given to cover their
team began having regular phone calls in January about how the virus
costs. The event also surpassed its goal of providing meals for 14 days,
could affect their business. With the closure of their tasting room and the cancellation of marketing events planned at South by Southwest
PHOTO BY JANE KO
raising enough to provide meals for at least 25 days, with additional donations and sponsorships continuing to roll in.
and other spring and summer festivals, Desert Door started exploring how they could make hand sanitizer with the hopes of both helping
Hundred for Hospitality
materials needed for their new venture.
Jane Ko, the famous food and travel blogger behind “A Taste of Koko,”
“Even if this is just a drop in the bucket, we just want to help in the
was inspired to start Hundred for Hospitality by her strong desire
best way we know how,” McCullough says. Despite the difficulties
to help the restaurant industry and provide for workers who are
many in the industry are facing, this event exemplifies the best of the
unemployed as a result of COVID-19. “The restaurant and hospitality
restaurant community coming together to support each other in the
industry are the backbone of our city,” says Ko (also known as Jane
midst of uncertainty.
equally as important that message gets out.” —RYAN CAMPBELL / DESERT DOOR
42 / EdibleAustin.com
Koko or just Koko). She teamed up with Chelsea McCullough, founder of the public relations agency Mylk Collective and brand manager for 365 Things Austin, to organize an event aiming to provide 100 meals for 14 days to unemployed hospitality workers across Austin. “What I’ve seen is the restaurant industry and service industry feel like the rug has been pulled out from under them, and they just feel abandoned,” Ko says. With the help of restaurant partners that
CAL VO L
are happening, and I think it’s
restaurant and service industry that the community cares for them.
CA
good, and positive things that
Hospitality came from a shared desire to show those in the
BE
“There’s a lot of amazing,
PHOTOS BY PATTY ROBERTSON
Ko and McCullough say their inspiration to organize Hundred for
for an adjustment to their distilling license and began sourcing the
the community and recouping income. Soon after, the distillery filed
H E L P LO
include P. Terry’s, The Peached Tortilla, Austin’s Pizza, Easy Tiger,
EdibleAustin.com / 43
spotlight on LOCAL
spotlight on LOCAL
Farmhouse Delivery with decreased demand as a result of COVID-19. But for Farmhouse
offerings, Farmhouse Delivery saw an opportunity to help farmers
Delivery, a service that sends locally sourced produce, meat and
who sell directly to these restaurants and support the local restaurant
dairy directly to subscribers’ doorsteps, the challenge is the opposite:
industry at the same time. “We’ve been talking with restaurants
demand has skyrocketed.
and bakeries to find creative ways to help them get out to our
With offerings that include fresh, organically farmed produce, meal kits and various other groceries, Farmhouse Delivery became three times busier than usual as people everywhere were encouraged to stay home. The uptick in business was so significant that the delivery service had to withdraw from certain markets, temporarily suspend new orders and place some customers on a waiting list. Although they have yet to return to the Dallas market and some people are still on a waiting list, within a few weeks, the business was able to better adjust its operations and hire additional employees to help handle the new level of demand. They even created fun ways to engage with their customers still on the waiting list by sending weekly recipes, crafts, and other activities, maintaining an optimistic outlook about the ways the boom is helping producers in the community as well.
Nationally, Sourced is donating 5 percent of every order to the U.S. Bartenders Guild’s Bartender Relief Fund to support bartenders not just in Austin but all over the country. “This was our way of helping the community at large in cities that we don’t currently deliver to,” Angelillo says. Locally, Sourced has partnered with various farmers and spirit retailers in the community to provide the necessary
customer base,” Scherzer says. By partnering with local restaurants
ingredients for each drink. HausBar Farms is one such provider, which
such as Antonelli’s Cheese Shop and L’Oca d’Oro to help maintain
normally sells its produce to Austin restaurants. “They’re fabulous
production levels and deliver their products, Farmhouse Delivery
people, and we’re so grateful to be able to partner with them and get
has expanded delivery options to include more dairy and protein
their fresh, local produce,” Angelillo says.
than it has in the past. In doing so, the business has been able to help
The Austin community specifically has been incredibly supportive of
support a wider variety of farmers and producers who usually sell directly to restaurants.
“On the positive side, we're helping more farmers than ever.” — STEPHANIE SCHERZER / FARMHOUSE DELIVERY Scherzer says the key to supporting local restaurants and providers during this time is just being aware of the impact it can have all the way down. The business also launched its Donate a Box program in which 100 percent of proceeds during the month of April are given to Friends of the Children Austin, a non-profit that supports 96 families with recently unemployed members through the provision of food, support and household staples, like paper towels and toilet paper. In one week, Farmhouse Delivery received more than 300 donations through its Donate a Box program, generating nearly $8,000
PHOTO BY SOURCED CRAFT COCKTAILS
the delivery service and the mission behind it, Angelillo says. Of the various cities across the country where Sourced currently operates, including New York and Los Angeles, Austin remains the number
Sourced Craft Cocktails
one market. “It’s great to see our home really take care of each other,”
Many may know Sourced Craft Cocktails for the high-quality drinks
At Edible Austin, we want to support our local businesses, restaurants,
and services they provide in Austin and other cities across the
stores, markets and other members of the community as we continue
United States. Now, Sourced Craft Cocktails is offering a delivery
to navigate the COVID-19 crisis together. Through our “Be Vocal. Help
service with the same first-rate beverages but with a more specific
Local.” initiative, we are providing updated information about local
purpose. Sourced’s new business venture aims to support bartenders
businesses as they respond to the situation. You can find a list with
in the midst of COVID-19 while also promoting fun and enjoyment to
regularly updated information by visiting our website and clicking on
its customers in this time of social distancing.
“Be Vocal. Help Local.” If you’re a local business owner and want to be
Angelillo says.
added to the list - or if you’re piloting new initiatives to support the
“It's great to see our home, really take care of each other.”
community - let us know by emailing us at info@edibleaustin.com or tagging us on Instagram (@edibleaustin and #bevocalhelplocal). We would love to help amplify your voice.
— TIM ANGELILLO / SOURCED When music and culture festivals originally scheduled for spring and early summer were postponed, more than 6,000 bartenders’ shifts were cancelled as a result. To keep their bartenders working despite the cancellations, Sourced came up with a plan to deliver high-quality cocktails directly to customers’ doors. Once customers choose their drink of choice, bartenders assemble and deliver mixers, spirits and
PHOTO BY LAURA HAJAR
BE
for Friends of the Children Austin.
CAL VO L
In the wake of forced restaurant closures and scaled back menu
CA
Most restaurants and businesses in the food industry are struggling
H E L P LO
all the necessary equipment to customers directly at home. “This is a
“We’re helping more farmers than ever,” Farmhouse Delivery founder
way to get a little bit of comfort and a little bit of enjoyment and a little
Stephanie Scherzer says of the increased demand. One of the factors
bit of fun while you’re at home,” Sourced founder Tim Angelillo says
that has always set Farmhouse Delivery apart from other services
of the delivery service. The company even offers a virtual happy hour
of its kind is its focus on sourcing food locally. The majority of
option that delivers the same cocktail to all participants and promotes
delivered goods come from within Texas — most from within 150
camaraderie while respecting social distancing.
miles of Austin — from farmers and producers who grow fresh, organic foods using sustainable practices. Not only are customers getting fresh, high-quality goods, but every purchase is also supporting
PHOTO BY LAURA HAJAR
the local farming community. 44 / EdibleAustin.com
EdibleAustin.com / 45
Updates on Your Favorite Local Events & Festivals Many events and festivals originally scheduled for spring and summer have been cancelled or postponed as a result of COVID-19. Find out if your favorite events are still happening or when they have been rescheduled by checking our list below. You can also find the latest status of your favorite events by checking the calendar on our website at edibleaustin.com/events. ABC Kite Fest - This family-friendly event featuring kite flying, music and more in Zilker Park has been cancelled this year. abckitefest.org Art City Austin – This event celebrating local art and artists is postponed and will be rescheduled for fall 2020. artcityaustin.org Austin Fashion Week – The longest-running and largest fashion event in Texas is rescheduled for May 27-31, 2020. fashionbyaustin.com
PHOTO BY ARANXA ESTEVE
Austin Food & Wine Fest – This festival celebrating the culinary
Mack, Jack & McConaughey (MJ&M) – The fundraising event hosted
community of Central Texas has been rescheduled for Nov. 13-15, 2020.
by Matthew McConaughey, Jack Ingram, and Mack Brown is rescheduled
austinfoodandwinefestival.com
for May 31-Jun. 1, 2020. mjm2020.com
Bluebonnet Festival – The annual event happening the second weekend
Moto GP – The world championship motorcycle race is rescheduled for
in April has been cancelled this year. bluebonnetfestival.org
Nov. 13-15, 2020. motogp.com
Cap 10K – The largest 10K in Texas has been cancelled this year.
Old Settlers Music Festival – One of Central Texas’ signature
cap10k.com
music events has been postponed and will be rescheduled for fall 2020.
Far East Fest – Austin’s largest all-you-can-eat Asian food festival is postponed. A new date has not been announced yet. fareastfest.com Hill Country Living Festival – This free and family-fun event is rescheduled for Oct. 24, 2020. hillcountryalliance.org/rainwaterrevival/ Hot Luck Festival – The live music and food festival has been cancelled this year. hotluckfest.com
oldsettlersmusicfest.org Pecan Street Festival – The arts, crafts, and music festival has been been cancelled this spring. The Fall Pecan Street Festival is scheduled for Sept 19-20, 2020. pecanstreetfestival.org Rodeo Austin – The annual event “where weird meets western” has been cancelled this year. rodeoaustin.com RTX Austin – The event celebrating animation, gaming, comedy, and internet culture has been rescheduled for Sept. 5–7, 2020. rtxevent.com SXSW – The iconic festival for film, music and creativity has been cancelled this year. sxsw.com Victory Cup Derby Day – This event featuring polo, hot air balloons, horses, fashion, and fun is rescheduled for Sept. 4-5, 2020. victorycup.org/derbyday World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play – The PGA Tour golf tournament has been cancelled this year. pgatour.com
PHOTO BY VICTORY CUP
EdibleAustin.com / 47
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Where to Find It This Source Guide is a directory of our advertisers. Many of our advertisers are also our distribution partners, where you can find a complimentary copy of the magazine. Please check their website for their latest status.
BEVERAGES Becker Vineyards This vineyard is one of the most visited in Texas beckervineyards.com
Spec's Spec's offer a wide selection of wine & spirits for less specsonline.com
Tito's Handmade Vodka Tito's taste-tests every batch to make sure you only get the best titosvodka.com
FARMS & FARMERS MARKETS 44 Farms 44 Farms offers the finest meat selections 44farms.com
SFC Farmers' Markets Downtown & Sunset Valley Saturdays 9am-1pm sfcfarmersmarket.org
Texas Farmers' Market Saturdays 9am-1pm at Lakeline Mall, Sundays 10am-2pm at Mueller texasfarmersmarket.org
DINING Barlata With offerings that include more than 40 kinds of tapas barlataaustin.com
Hays City Store Music, drinks, desserts, casual dining and more hayscitystoretx.com
Intero
STORES Book People The leading independent bookstore in Texas bookpeople.com
Central Market They live up to their promise every day of being "Really into Food" centralmarket.com
The Herb Bar This oasis has been a haven for healing since 1986 theherbbar.com
Make It Sweet Make It Sweet is the largest cake supply store in Central Texas makeitsweet.com
The Natural Gardener Austin's charming organic nursery tngaustin.com
People's RX Everyone's favorite pharmacy has it all peoplesrx.com
Royal Blue Grocery A modern grocery store with a local twist royalbluegrocery.com
Wild Organics The best hemp-derived CBD in the industry wildorganicliving.com
EVENTS, PLACES & MORE Austin Mental Health Care
Embrace traditional & modern Italian cooking interorestaurant.com
Professional mental health care offering free consultation.
Kerbey Lane Cafe
512-597-6712 and communityclinical.com
Serving Austinites made-from-scratch comfort food since 1980 kerbeylanecafe.com
Central Texas Food Bank They supplied 39 million meals last year centraltexasfoodbank.org
Lick Honest Ice Creams Where honest means using the purest ingredients ilikelick.com
The Leaning Pear An eatery focused on fresh, seasonal & local food leaningpear.com
Texas Coffee Traders Serving the freshest roasted coffee texascoffeetraders.com
50 / EdibleAustin.com
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