Austin Monthly "The Cool Issue" December 2012

The Ultimate Guide to Local Craft

Beer 30

brewers, bars and brewpubs plus, insider tips from the experts

LIVE OAK BREWing’s

Drew Durish AT DRAUGHT HOUSE PUB & BREWERY

Art & Soul The city’s most

colorful, dynamic signs and murals

KeeperBridget of Cool Dunlap DECEMBER 2012

w w w. a u s t i n m o n t h l y. c o m

sets her sights on the east side

December 2012

86

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LOCAL CRAFT

BEER

contents

Good Things Brewin’ From Belgians and stouts to IPAs, these 30 local breweries, brewpubs and beer-centric bars and eateries are serving crafted suds that are worth a sip.

30

BREWERS, BARS AND BREWPUBS PLUS, INSIDER TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS

LIVE OAK BREWING’S

DREW DURISH AT DRAUGHT HOUSE PUB & BREWERY

ART & SOUL

THE CITY’S MOST COLORFUL, DYNAMIC SIGNS AND MURALS

Photo by nicole mlakar.

KEEPERBRIDGET OF COOL DUNLAP SETS HER SIGHTS ON THE EAST SIDE

Cover photo by Nicole Mlakar Shot at Draught House Pub & Brewery Model Drew Durish of Live Oak Brewing Wardrobe by Stag and Goorin Bros.

100

106

Is Austin Losing Its Cool?

ARTifacts

Cool is in the eye of the beholder, and something we pride our city on being.

We gathered five of Austin’s movers and shakers to discuss whether the capital city can keep its cool with new changes and developments.

Aside from the pecan trees and gorgeous lakes, part of this city’s beauty comes from its public art, including murals and signage. Check out how photographer Matthew Mahon captured them through his lens.

December 2012

austinmonthly.com 17

contents

December 2012

35

Travel

117

Hit the slopes in Montana or Colorado; or, spend your holiday season on the sunny shores of Puerto Rico.

Events out comedian 125 Check Louis C.K. at ACL

117

Live; visit the LBJ Presidential Library after its yearlong renovation; Zadie Smith reads from her long-awaited novel NW at BookPeople; plus, Broadway hit Billy Elliot dances its way into the ZACH Theatre, and more.

Dining Paul Qui’s East Side King partner Moto Utsunomiya talks expansion; Sundays are fresh and local at Mueller Farmers’ Market; sip a latte in a sweet setting at Vintage Heart Coffee.

Columns

Dudley recalls 46 Dale fond memories of his

151

74

Luxe leather garments give plenty of city girl attitude in sleek black and white.

20 austinmonthly.com

Talk

Style

35

59

Lady Bird Johnson is honored with a new book and stamp; Natalie Portman takes the tourist’s approach to Austin; former MTV VJ Adam Curry takes up residence near Lake Travis; Dexter Williams lights up the Hill Country; plus, CD reviews and more.

December 2012

Make your outfit pop with a statement coat; Austin Monthly staffers review new beauty products; Celebrity Style Guide founder Heather Campbell-Green shares her favorite things; soft yet undeniably tough, leather is always cool in our book.

older brother, Donnie.

Things I’ve Learned Rainey Street developer Bridget Dunlap talks her European adventure, not conforming and the best advice she’s ever gotten.

178

Scene

out photos from 52 Check the Austin Film Festival red carpet and more.

28 Publisher’s Note 30 Contributors 32 Feedback

Photos by: fashion, jonathan zizzo; adam curry, jon shapley; drink, Jenn hair. skiing photo from thinkstock.

a taste of the sea 151 atGetClark’s Oyster Bar;

THE MAGAZINE OF AUSTIN December 2012

Vol. 20 | No. 12

P U bl i s her / ed i to r i a l d i r ec to r Lyn Brady

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief Erin Quinn

Senior Editors

Madeline Hollern, Sarah Thurmond

Editorial Assistant Kimya Kavehkar

Copy Editor

Jennifer Kaye

Writers-at-Large

Becca Hensley, Lynne Margolis

Contributing Writers

Paul Carrubba, Dale Dudley, Amy Gabriel, Christine Galasso, Charlotte Moore, Jennifer Segelke, Sam Sumpter

a rt Art Director

Kevin Goodbar

Photo Director

Cory Rivademar

Associate Art Director Jenn Hair

Ad Production Manager Debora Lic贸n

Contributing Photographers

Sean Brecht, Matthew Mahon, Nicole Mlakar, Jack Opatrany, John Pesina, Jonathan Zizzo

Contributing Illustrators Jesse Kuhn, Mack White

Contributing Stylist Cristina Facundo

ADV ERTISI N G Account Executives

Jon Beck, Caitlin Gary, Lorre Swanson, Shane Todd, Lauren Von Berg

ADM I N ISTRATIO N Controller

Michael Krainz

Accounting Assistant Julie Poirier

Office Manager Hollis Boice

I N TER N S Editorial Ashley Cedeno,

Lara Grant, Andrea Kurth, Tally McCormack, Sheyna Webster

Design Zachary Abbott, Kristin Manrique Photo Jon Shapley, Haley Shepard

w ebs i t e a n d s o c i a l me dia austinmonthly.com

THE MAGAZINE OF AUSTIN DEcEMBEr 2012

Vol. 20 | No. 12

r ea d er s erV i c es Mailing address

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co r P o r at e chief executive officer & President Richard M. Franks

chief Financial officer Todd P. Paul

chief Marketing officer Forbes C. Durey

a dV ert i s i N G director of sales Darla Walker

director of National advertising Nathen Bliss

M a r Ket i N G a N d eV e N ts corporate director of Marketing & events Cathy Hale

Marketing & events coordinator Meghan Athnos

© copyright: Austin Monthly is published by Open Sky Media, Inc. The entire document of Austin Monthly is © 2012 by Open Sky Media, Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the express written permission of the publisher.

Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice but is considered informative. Austin Monthly is locally operated. Occasionally we make our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services that we believe would interest our readers. If you do not want to receive these offers, please advise us at Austin Monthly circulation Department, 1250 S. capital of Texas Highway, Bldg. 3, Ste. 395, Austin, TX 78746. Please include your exact name and address as it appears on your subscriber label.

letter

a note from the publisher

Across the country, people know this is a cool place.

HOw could it not be with the laid-back people, festivals, great restaurants, outdoor activities and amazing music?

Lyn Brady Publisher

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December 2012

photo by andrew chaN. HAIR BY CRAIG PIATTI. MAKEUP BY ANGELA TORRES.

w

hen you tell someone you live in Austin, it’s likely that his or her reply is, “That is such a cool city.” Across the country, people know this is a cool place. How could it not be with the laid-back people, large number of festivals, great restaurants, plentiful outdoor activities and amazing music?

Which is why it’s so shocking that Forbes put out a survey in July that said Austin is less cool than all the other major cities in Texas. The magazine’s rankings were based on arts and culture, recreation, diversity, local eats, median age, unemployment and net migration for 2011.

While all of Austin’s numbers were great, we simply can’t compete with some of the bigger cities when it comes to pure numbers. Still, the feature got us thinking: Is Austin losing its cool factor? We went to the experts—longtime residents of this city, including Amy’s Ice Creams’ Amy Simmons, Esther’s Follies’ Shannon Sedwick and Transmission Entertainment’s James Moody—to find out what they had to say on the matter. Read the results in “Is Austin Losing Its Cool?” on page 100.

Since it’s our annual Cool Issue, we knew we had to focus on one of the coolest things in town: our city’s fast-growing craft beer industry. Folks have been brewing here since the ’90s, but in just the past two years, 11 breweries have opened, from Austin Beerworks and Jester King to Hops & Grain and Thirsty Planet. And, according to the Texas Craft Brewers Guild, our state’s brewing industry contributed $608 million to the state economy in 2011 alone. Find out all about our local beer industry in “Good Things Brewin’” (page 86), including meeting the brewers in town. Plus, discover which bars and restaurants focus on beer, including hardto-find brews, and brush up on your beer knowledge, from telling a porter from a stout to which type of beer to serve in what kind of glass.

Finally, we wanted to shine a spotlight on one of the things that makes Austin the funky place it is: the many bold, beautiful signs and murals that color our city.

They’re such a part of our landscape, you may not even really see them anymore.

Luckily, photographer Matthew Mahon does. Flip to “ARTifacts” (page 106) to view his take on cool signs, such as those from Top Notch, Threadgill’s and Horseshoe Lounge, as well as fantastic murals, like the one at More Home Slice painted by renowned artist Shepard Fairey. We think you’ll see them all in a whole new light.

Speaking of lights, after a two-year hiatus, the Trail of Lights is back! Make it a point to head to Zilker Park this month to view the lights and take advantage of yet another cool thing our great city has to offer.

contributors

Charlotte Moore After decades of working for different media outlets, including the Austin American-Statesman and CBS affiliate KEYE TV, Charlotte Moore is embarking on a journey of freelance writing and working on the book of short stories she’s always wanted to pen. Moore, who studied journalism at the University of Texas at Austin, co-wrote “Good Things Brewin’” (page 86), and learned a thing or two about beer during the process. “After the many combinations of ingredients I’ve seen, smelled and tasted working on this piece, I don’t think I will ever drink Heineken again,” she says. Moore enjoys spending time with friends and family, especially her 19-year-old daughter, Hayley.

Jonathan Zizzo Dallas-based photographer Jonathan Zizzo shot the fashion editorial “Concrete Jungle” (page 74) this month in black and white because “framing the black and white fashion against the walls and architecture made for a beautiful graphic combination,” he says. Zizzo was also inspired by the opportunity to shoot all over downtown Austin. “The great thing about this shoot was the flexibility to roam the city,” he says. “It’s during those spontaneous moments that great images happen.” He has shot a bevy of celebrity portraits, including Drew Barrymore, and major ads for Red Bull and Neiman Marcus.

Jesse Kuhn Illustrator Jesse Kuhn, who created the art for “Is Austin Losing Its Cool?” (page 100), doodles and sketches as president of his multidisciplinary studio Raw Toast Design. This feature’s subject matter sparked his creativity. “I was immediately drawn to the tone of this piece,” he says. “Anytime there is a chance to illustrate anything slightly off, strange or ‘uncool,’ count me in!” Kuhn’s work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Indianapolis Monthly and Time Out New York. He attributes his success to his parents, who gave him his first box of crayons.

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December 2012

feedback

photo contest

my own private austin photo contest We asked our readers to show us their photos of what makes Austin beautiful. Here are the top three images from the photo contest, as voted by our Facebook friends.

#

1

first place Anisha Bandorawalla snapped the winning photo from the top of Mount Bonnell. “I enjoy taking photographs, especially of nature. It’s one of my favorite hobbies,” Bandorawalla says. “I was inspired by the peaceful and gorgeous view at the top of Mount Bonnell, and the serenity you feel when you are up there.” second place “6th and Congress” by Gino Barasa 32 austinmonthly.com

third place “Sunlit Tree in South Austin”

by Kelly Wendt

Corrections: In our November 2012 issue, we incorrectly listed the measurements for the spices in the Kerbey Lane pumpkin pancake recipe as tablespoons. They should have been in teaspoons. We regret the error.

FOllow us Be sure to check out the editors’ blog, Austin Amplified, on our website, austinmonthly.com.

And follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/AustinMonthly, YouTube at youtube.com/AustinMonthly and Twitter at @Austin_Monthly.

December 2012

talk dec e mB e r 2012

the people, news and views that have the city abuzz

and the Winner Is…

artist renderinGs courtesy michaeL Van VaLkenBurGh associates and thomas phiFer & partners.

I

n october, the city awarded michael van valkenburgh associates and thomas Phifer & Partners the prize of redeveloping the waller creek area. the new york–based firms won over the waller creek conservancy’s design competition jury with its thoughtful approach to transforming the swath of land that runs along red river street from 15th street to lady Bird lake into a chain of parks ideal for family outings, outdoor concerts (see inset of illuminated “Poppy” bandshell), public discourse and more. it even has the “potential to pull together the east and west sides of our city,” says architect don stastny, who oversaw the competition. while implementation is still in the planning stages, and the cost and end date have yet to be determined, at least we have a vision for what lies ahead.

For more ATX insider info, go to austinmonthly.com

December 2012

austinmonthly.com 35

facts, stats and more

bIrd’S tHe Word ladY bIrd in a nEW BooK, JoHnSon GETs hER saY

Michael Gillette was just 31 years old when he first sat down to interview Lady Bird author Johnson in 1977. as the director of the LBJ michael Gillette Presidential Library’s oral history program, Gillette would spend 14 years listening to the former first lady as she recounted her life, from her formative years in East Texas, to her courtship with Lyndon (which included driving to a “lovely little country road” called anderson Mill), to the White house years.

Those interviews were transcribed and have now been compiled into a loving tribute, Lady Bird Johnson: An Oral History, released on nov. 26. “she was one of the most gracious people i’ve ever known, and if you were in her company, her home, she made you feel as if you were a friend and a guest,” says Gillette, who developed a close friendship with Johnson. “our staff became like family to her.” —kIMyA kAVEHkAR

tHe HeAt iNDeX WHAT’S HOT

Queue up

BiZ whiZ

austin software firm solarWinds tops Forbes’ list of “america’s Best small companies.”

ciao chow

looK out!

ladY and tHe StaMP Lady Bird Johnson would have turned 100 on Dec. 22. To mark the occasion, the United states Postal service has put out a commemorative stamp, making the former first lady a member of an elite group of austinites.

StepheN f. auStiN “the Father of texas,” paired with sam houston, got a stamp in 1936, the centennial anniversary of texas independence. lYNdoN B. JohNSoN issued in 1973, the year of his death, johnson’s stamp was worth 8 cents. Bill picKett Born in travis county in 1870, the black

rodeo rider’s 1994-issued stamp had to be reissued because his brother’s image was mistakenly used.

JameS a. micheNer the best-selling author, who lived his final years in austin, received his in 2008. rogerS horNSBY part of the Legends of Baseball series, the stamp for hornsby Bend’s namesake came out in 2000. BarBara JordaN the first black woman to serve in the state legislature, jordan’s forever stamp became available in 2011. o. heNrY more than 100 years after his death, storyteller William s. porter got his stamp of approval in september on what would have been his 150th birthday.

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December 2012

File this under “What took ’em so long?” the new department of public safety megacenter in pflugerville lets customers reserve a spot in line.

a fight involving 17 women at hot Bodies strip club results in a man’s eye being struck by the heel of a thrown shoe.

this time, it’s for real! to make way for a boutique hotel, south congress food truck vendors are told they have to be out by march 2013.

worKer woeS

just call it unemployedVille: Game developer Zygna lays off 100 employees at its austin studio.

oh No he didN’t

ut football coach mack Brown on the Longhorn network: “i didn’t ask for it.”

WHAT’S NOT

photos By: michaeL GiLLette, Lindsey eLan WaLL; Food traiLer, cory riVademar. photos courtesy: Book, oXFord uniVersity press; stamps, usps.GoV; mack BroWn, Wikipedia.orG. aLL other heat indeX photos From thinkstock.

talk

talk

apocalypse 2012 of residents do not own an emergency kit, according to a recent survey conducted for the City of Austin’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

The Just-In-Case Emergency Kit Besides water, food, first-aid kit, etc., we suggest you also have these items ready for Dec. 21.

Shovel

Good for digging holes, poking things (i.e., bodies) and the occasional need for some zombie head–bashing

If the myth debunkers are right, doomsday is doomed

he big event we’ve all been waiting for finally arrives on Dec. 21. The day of the apocalypse, the one that supposedly coincides with the end of the MesoAmerican calendar of Mayan civilization, has been causing a sensation in mainstream media and on the Internet for years, with end-of-the-world prophecies running the gamut from natural disasters (earthquakes, flooding, you get the idea) to a nuclear holocaust. Yet according to experts like University of Texas professor David Stuart, the theories are, well, dead wrong. In his 2011 book The Order of Days: The Maya World and the Truth About 2012, Stuart exposes the falsehoods as promulgated by “kooks” and the media. “Nearly all of the books and television shows on 2012 are by gurus and spiritualists who wouldn’t know a Maya glyph if one hit them on the nose,” he writes. Still, if Armageddon does occur, don’t say you weren’t warned. —LAR A GR ANT

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December 2012

In case the Earth is engulfed in a sun supernova

Nuclear Radiation Suit

We found some on eBay for less than $20!

photos from thinkstock.

Or Is It? T

Sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection

Want to practice your survival skills before Dec. 21 (aka “The End of the World”)? Then take part in the Run For Your Lives Zombie Run, where participants try to conquer a zombie-infested 5K obstacle course while also encountering man-made and natural obstacles, including mud, water and probably some fake blood.

The event takes place on Dec. 15 at the Big Longhorn Ranch in Cedar Creek. For more information, go to runforyourlives.com.

Comfortable Shoes

If TV shows like The Walking Dead and Revolution are any indication, you’ll be doing a lot of walking during an apocalypse.

Glass Bottles

For target practice, which you’ll be doing a lot of to kill time

photocredit

It’s the End of the World.

Undead Alert!

talk

people, places, things

“In MY Heart, trUlY, I’M a CoUntrY gUY.” Adam Curry, pictured right from his MTV days

Q&a

Meet tHe neW neIgHborS

d

uring the late ’80s and early ’90s, adam curry was famous for being the well-coiffed host of mtv’s Headbangers Ball. following his vJ-ing days, he became an internet pioneer, owning the domain name mtv.com before the cable music channel ventured into the web and producing the first podcast in 2004, for which he subsequently was given the nickname “the Podfather.” last november, curry and his new wife, dutch actress-turned-photographer micky hoogendijk, moved to austin and set up house in the hills above lake travis.

How are you adjusting to life in texas? micky: the first thing he did when we got here was buy a big black truck, and he got himself a gun. adam: and we do the texas two-step. we take classes. in my heart, truly, i’m a country guy. the host of Headbangers ball is into country music? adam: today’s modern country, yeah. Just about every musician i know from the ’80s now plays in

a country band. country today is very much ’80s rock. they’re playing the same riffs and licks as the ’80s.

Do you ever get recognized? adam: since i’m known for Headbangers Ball, i’ll see very nicely suited men turn into complete metal heads as they reminisce about the days of old. “hey man! mtv sucks now! there’s not even music anymore.” micky: and the women that are now moms, they go back into that young girl thing. then they look at me and say, “i’m so sorry!” i’m like, “it’s ok.”

Have you checked out much of our music scene? adam: to be quite honest, i’ve been to so many concerts, and it was always side of stage, backstage, sound booth, all the great spots. it sounds elitist, but i don’t think i’m prepared to stand in the midst of thousands of people. i appreciate a small band that just happens to be playing in a bar.

nataLie DoeS aUStin!

ever since terrence malick began shooting his mysterious movie here last year, celebrity sightings have become as common as tex-mex restaurants. michael Fassbender and ryan Gosling have been spotted all over town, but no cast member has been as out and about as natalie portman. here’s how to do austin an oscar-winning actress’ way.

1. take a stroll along the hike-and-bike trail around Lady Bird Lake. natalie made it a family affair with husband Benjamin millepied, 1-year-old son aleph and their dog, Whiz. 2. time your walk like the millepieds did and end up at the congress avenue Bridge by sundown. then watch the bats take off on their nightly food run. 3. even vegan celebs scream for ice cream. treat your family to some scoops of amy’s on south congress.

4. take a road trip. natalie took her brood to marfa, where witnesses saw her waiting for a table at local eatery cochineal. 5. rush the stage at austin city Limits music Festival. in natalie’s case, it helped to have a film crew with her. 6. Get your mug on the Godzillatron at a ut football game. natalie did it just by being in the stadium.

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December 2012

nataLie portman iLLustration By mack White. the currys photo By jon shapLey. inset courtesy adam curry.

First of all, how did you end up in austin? adam: we decided to take a tour of as many states as we could in an rv. a friend said i had to come visit him in austin. i thought, “texas? tumbleweeds? i don’t think so.” then we pulled up, and it looked like the hollywood hills, where we were living at the time. everyone here was so happy and proud of their city. we couldn’t get it out of our heads. two months later, we’re living here.

talk

people

continued from page 40

As a tech guy, what do you think of our tech industry?

Adam: A lot of people are trying to coordinate the obvious: technology startups that are music startups. That is something that should have Austin written all over it, but it hasn’t really happened. I don’t know if there’s any money to be made in the music business anymore, but if someone’s going to figure it out, it just may be here.

You do podcasts with John C. Dvorak (noagendashow.com), where you discuss politics, current events, etc. Any thoughts on our politicians?

Adam: I don’t hold many politicians in high regard. Rick Perry seems like a guy I’d love to have a beer with, but he’s obviously a total d--che. Ron Paul, on the other hand, I think is fantastic.

Micky: Something you told me you like about Austin was that you could be a Republican or Democrat, it’s all OK here. But in general, people here are more relaxed about everything.

What do you like to do in Austin?

Micky: Our favorite thing to do is the Saturday morning farmers’ market at Republic Square. Then we go to Halcyon for coffee.

Adam: Don’t forget, bottomless mimosas!

Micky: Restaurant-wise, we’re quite fond of Hudson’s on the Bend, Siena, Uchi and the food trucks on Rainey Street are great.

Sounds like you like it here.

Micky: The biggest thing is that every day when we come home, we tell each other, “People here are genuinely nice.”

Adam: There’s no pretense. At least none that we’ve discovered.

—SARAH THURMOND

sounds of the city

best of live For more shows, turn to page 140.

Urban Legend Terrany Johnson lays down the tracks for new artists to follow

H

ip-hop in Austin is finally getting the boost it needs, thanks to local rap legend Terrany Johnson (known to his fans as Tee-Double). Through a new program called Urban Artist Alliance, he’s helping aspiring hip-hop artists learn the music business while bridging the different genres of the city.

Johnson, who recently was elected to the Board of Governors for the Texas Chapter of the Grammys, started the alliance this fall through his company, Kinetic Global. The program offers free boot camps, where notable industry professionals guide aspiring artists through the process of producing and promoting music. “I want it to be an ever-evolving thing, a long-term place for artists and future artists to get all the training they need to find success,” Johnson says.

Beyond that, Johnson hopes a dialogue develops.

“All the genres of music in Austin are starting to talk to each other—that’s what we really want,” he says.

“I want to use my connections, my resources, to help these artists find their paths; we’re just a step in the process, they need the drive.” —Sheyna Webster

Meshell Ndegeocello One World Theatre Dec. 4 Of Montreal Mohawk Dec. 4 Bloc Party Emo’s East Dec. 12 Bryan Adams ACL Live at the Moody Theater Dec. 15

Hello Caller

Danny Malone

Dark Twain

Balloons

Hello Caller’s latest album of “dark, indie rock” is lush, intricate and very worthy of a listen. Led by singer and primary songwriter Brian Ferguson, the group augments its classic pop structures and melodies with delicate harmonies and wafts of folk instrumentation. It’s a beauty of a listen.

Quiet, complicated and bittersweet are words that come to mind with Balloons. Malone delves into the dichotomy of love—its joy and pain—with a subtle yet emotive voice that glides over a blend of nakedly honest acoustic singer-songwriter balladeering and minimal synths and drum loops.

Indian Jewelry

Matt Hebert

Erin Ivey

Peel It

Tomorrow In The Sun

Dreamy Weather

Imagine an ’80s underground club filled with pale-skinned, black-clad scenesters. That’s the mood of Peel It. Downcast post-punk with plenty of off-the-wall electronic bits and enough drone to make Lou Reed smile, it may be a hard listen for some, but give it a go.

This record is reliable, no-frills, jeans-andconcert-tee rock (think Bob Mould). Hebert’s strength as a songwriter shines here, and his slightly gruff, groggy vocal delivery seethes with honesty, which adds a layer of pathos to the musical tales he spins.

As far as live albums go, this one is awesome— period. Recorded at the Cactus Cafe, Ivey’s performance is intimate, with simple arrangements that allow her oh-sovery-lovely voice to be the center of attention. At times, you feel as though she’s singing just for you.

Keeping You in the Loop on Austin’s Music Scene

Available now: Chris Isaak’s live concert DVD Beyond the Sun, which was taped at Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater in February. Released through Vanguard Records, the DVD features Isaak performing songs from Sun Records, the label that made Elvis famous, plus rehearsal footage and interviews.

In other ACL Live news, Sirius XM Radio opened a new broadcast studio at the music venue in October, with Willie Nelson and Mayor Lee Leffingwell making appearances at the grand opening. Shows airing from the studio include “Radio Margaritaville” (channel 24) and “Willie’s Roadhouse” (channel 56).

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December 2012

Lost Songs

Trail of Dead is too hard for indie, but too clever to be lumped in with lunkheaded modern alt-rock and punk. On Lost Songs, the band plays it safe and continues to straddle the line between hard-chugging rock and textured proggy moodiness.

—paul carrubba

Sound Waves

Chris Isaak

…And You Will Know Us By The Trail of Dead

The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians raised $312,000 toward affordable health care for local artists during HAAM Benefit Day in October, up 33 percent from last year’s event. The bash featured more than 250 bands and many businesses pledged five percent of their profits to the cause. —S. WEBSTER

chris isaak photo by scott newton. terrany johnson photo courtesy team kinetic.

talk

up front with dale dudley

that Silly Blue tree HOLIDAY MEMORIES OF MY BIG BROTHER BY dale dudleY

I

n the early ’70s, my brother donnie decided he was going to “flock” our family christmas tree. he took apart the vacuum cleaner and rigged it to blow fake snow that he made from scratch onto the tree. he had read the instructions in some diy magazine, but he accidentally added in too much food coloring—which turned the tree bright blue. donald dudley was born on Pearl harbor day, dec. 7. it’s ironic that he was born on the anniversary of a war because his life seemed to be a constant battle with the world. where i always walked a straight line, donnie was the rebel who would run in a zigzag. he was unpredictable in both his sense of humor and his decision-making. on top of all that, he was the smartest person in our family. decades before the internet and its instant information, my brother was always concocting some contraption or chemical compound. i never knew if his stunts came from reading or just picking things up from other delinquents. i remember going with him to the drugstore to buy sulfur and saltpeter because he wanted to make homemade gunpowder. i was 7 or 8 at the time, and i remember he blew a hole in the sidewalk in front of our house with a bang that today would bring

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homeland security swooping down. one halloween, the local radio station was replaying the audio play The War of the Worlds. my brother rushed over to my grandmother’s house, telling mema that we were under attack from another world. she listened and fell for every bit of it. in a panic, she picked up the phone to call my mother, only to find a dead line. don had disconnected the phone line outside the house for added effect. he never went small. five and a half years older, he called me his “little bother” and didn’t want me around when he was with his friends. he would pick on me in front of his buddies—he could have a mean streak—but he always protected me. once our older sisters moved out of the house, our parents’ marriage deteriorated. something was eating at our dad; it could have been his own abusive childhood or my mother’s plunge into alcoholism, but whatever it was, it was unpredictable and my old man could be very violent. one day, daddy saw me playing with his spring-loaded tape measure and gave me a clear warning that i would be whipped if i broke it. sure enough, i unscrewed the cover just to see how it worked and it sprung apart. my brother furiously worked all day at getting it back together, but to no avail. i was terrified and crying as my father’s work truck pulled up to the house. donnie pushed me back into our room and met my dad at the door and took the blame. i can still hear that belt hitting the back of his legs. monahans, texas, wasn’t known for danger, but one summer afternoon a gang of older boys cornered my brother and me on our bikes, which they were out to steal. a switchblade came out. don screamed at me to ride away. i did and rushed home. Just as my mother picked up the phone to call the police, my brother showed up scratched and bruised but still with his bicycle. dad was transferred, and we left don behind to finish out his senior year. his newfound freedom got him into trouble. he began running with guys who would later be dead or in prison. he got on the radar of the small town cops. he knew he was on the wrong path and joined the air force, only to be busted for drugs. everyone who loved him was certain he was destined for prison.

Donnie in high school

photos courtesy daLe dudLey.

talk

talk

dale dudley

continued from page 46

Then, out of nowhere, he did a 180 as he approached his 30s. He got married, and he and his wife worked several jobs and fought and scratched their way to get him through college. He graduated with honors and was accepted and then aced dental school. He moved to East Texas and set up a thriving practice. To this day, I’ve never seen anyone turn their life around like he did. He had three beautiful children, bought a ranch and was headed off into the happily ever after.

In 1995, while visiting, I was riding with Don in his truck, and we were teasing each other.

We were laughing when suddenly the right tire hit the curb.

“Dude, stop messing around, you’ll ruin your tires,” I said. “I didn’t mean to. My vision has been screwy lately; I think I have a brain tumor,” he replied.

I shot back with, “Shut up, you idiot. I’m way past your dumb practical jokes.”

Donnie’s final battle stretched out for two long years. Like our childhood and his personal demons, it looked like he would beat this, too. But surgery crippled his body. He wasn’t able to go back to his practice. He couldn’t fish or play with his young kids.

He called me up on what would be his last Christmas. We talked about his family and the gifts they had opened and somehow the conversation came back to that flocked blue Christmas tree.

We both were belly laughing at how silly it looked. The laughter died down and there was a pause.

Finally, Donnie said, “Hey, you know, I want to apologize for some things …” I interrupted him, “You’ve got nothing to apologize for, big brother.” There was a pause, and he said, “Well, you know I love you.”

talk

character

N

othing brightens up Dexter Williams quite like Christmas. And for the past decade, the marketing manager, 23, has celebrated the holiday by stringing together the Hill Country Christmas Lights drive-thru light display. His annual spectacular, which he sets up on five acres at his family’s house in Johnson City, has become such a popular attraction the Travel Channel featured it. This season, Williams spent $5,000 on new lights, bringing the total to more than 600,000 sparklers in all. See them for yourself through Jan. 1.

DEXTER WILLIAMS

Is High Strung

So, you’re a big Christmas fan?

I really am. I used to be embarrassed by that fact, but now it kind of defines me. It used to be a year-round thing, but I try to chill out now. It has its place: from late summer until Christmas time.

By Sam Su m p te r P h oto by S e an B r ec ht

Any problems ever come up?

The biggest disaster is when rain wreaks havoc on the electricity. For some reason, those two just don’t go well together. Also, there’s livestock near the display.

Last year, cows chewed on the lights. I was out there every single day having to replace lights.

Speaking of electricity, how much is your bill? Now that the display is primarily LED, it runs around $600 total. It used to be more than $1,100.

photocredit

Any memorable moments?

Last year, I worked with a guy who created a “Will you marry me?” light-up sign. He proposed to his girlfriend. I was more nervous that that sign wasn’t going to turn on. Like, I could ruin somebody’s whole life this year.

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How much time do you spend on this? Several hundreds of hours. It’s a never-ending job. In the movie How the Grinch Stole Christmas, there’s a scene where she shoots a Christmas-light cannon. Why don’t we have those invented yet? It would make my life so much easier.

SCENE

fĂŞtes and benefits

Mix &

3

Mingle

1

BY MAD E LI N E H OLLE R N

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B LACK & WH I TE B ALL Police Chief Art Acevedo emceed the 30th annual Black & White Ball, presented by Accenture. The black-tie affair featured dinner, cocktails, a live auction, a cupcake bar and music. The gala benefited the Texas Advocacy Project, a nonprofit that offers free legal services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

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Liana Mauro and Rachael Whitehead Matt Wallace and Sherman Burrows Cynde Jones and Stephanie McKenzie Shannon Wallen, Allison Leal, Toni Kurincic and Elisa Childress Amelia Whitman and Sally Pretorius Amanda and Karl Schulte, Kelly Anz and Dwight and Sue Bostic Andrea Martin and Brad Smith Louise and Dusty Rhodes

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AUST I N F I L M FE ST I VA L Notable actors and filmmakers, including James Franco, Julia Stiles, Billy Bob Thornton and Robert Rodriguez, made appearances during this annual weeklong festival.

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James Franco Rebecca Rodriguez with brother Robert Stefania Bellini and Lara Shah Alissa Minshull and Jack Gilmore Julia Stiles, America Ferrera and Erinn Hayes Chris Carter and Robert Patrick Lucas and Jackie Griffin, Sandra and Ian Spalding Jennifer Carpenter Billy Bob Thornton

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PHOTOS BY: BLACK & WHITE BALL, ROBERT RODRIGUEZ, STEFANIA BELLINI AND LUCAS GRIFFIN, JON SHAPLEY; JAMES FRANCO, CORY RIVADEMAR; BILLY BOB THORNTON, ARNOLD WELLS. JULIA STILES, CHRIS CARTER AND JENNIFER CARPENTER PHOTOS COURTESY AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL.

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fêtes and benefits

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1 Laura and John Loudamy 2 Darrell Windham, Kevin Williamson and Jack Nokes 3 Dude Sweet Chocolate samples 4 Colleen Cole and Ashley Woodson

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Nancy Friedel and Michelle Trudo La Dolce Vita’s bustling crowd Clark’s Oyster Bar appetizers Larry McGuire and Libby Tilley

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AUSTI N CI TY LI M I TS M USI C F ESTI VAL Fans from near and far flocked to Zilker Park for three jam-packed days of music, art, shopping and more at the 11th annual installment of this popular festival.

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Anthony Kiedis Lance Herbstrong band members Esperanza Spalding Allie and Gabby Byers Florence Welch Gary Clark Jr. Neil Young The Wheeler Brothers Jordan Hall and Amal Safdar

PHOTOS BY: LA DOLCE VITA, BILL PEARY; AUSTIN CITY LIMITS MUSIC FESTIVAL, JENN HAIR; ALLIE AND GABBY BYERS, CRISTINA FACUNDO.

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LA D O LC E V I TA Guests got a taste of the area’s best restaurants and wineries at this spirited event, which benefited education programs and The Art School at the Austin Museum of Art–Arthouse.

style

eLie tAhAri ALeXANdrA LeAther coAt ($575), GUANti GiGLio FioreNtiNo LAMBSKiN LeAther GLoVeS With rABBit triM ($215), eUGeNiA KiM BLAcK eQUeStriAN cAp ($215) ANd ALeXiS BittAr StArBUrSt rhiNeStoNe eArriNGS ($245) At NeiMAN MArcUS.

DEC E MB E R 2012

your fashion, fitness and beauty compass

for even more fashion, go to austinmonthly.com

City

Chic

to give your ensemble urban appeal, Just add leather. page 74

photoGrAph BY JoNAthAN ZiZZo

December 2012

austinmonthly.com 59

style

tktktktk trends

GET

HeR lOOK Under

Cover P H OTOS BY JAC K OPATR ANY ST YLE D BY C R I STI NA FAC U N DO

A chilly day of holiday shopping downtown calls for an ultra-warm statement coat.

Channel the mod attire of 1960s icon Twiggy with a bellshaped wool jacket that falls mid-thigh. To offset the geometric shape of the coat and keep the look modern, wear it with a snug pair of boots.

After all, they were made for walking. —madeline hollern earrings kendra scott star stud earrings in blue goldstone ($55) at Kendra Scott | skirt darling Juliet skirt ($85) at Dress Shop

stella mccartney Wool knee coat ($1,925) at By George

rebecca minkoff burgundy flatter draWstring ($395) at Maya Star

MODEL Cristina Pesek of the Campbell Agency

kendra scott Jana bracelet in purple ($80) at Kendra Scott

stuart WeitZman spats black calf boots ($695) at Julian Gold

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photocredit

shot on location congress Avenue

style

spa

Jenn Hair Associate Art Director

Tried and

Clinique Repairwear Uplifting Firming Cream ($59.50) at Saks Fifth Avenue

True

We r aided our beauty closet and put seven NEW products to the test. see which items maDe the gr ade.

To be honest, I’m not sure I’ve noticed a difference at all with this firming skin cream. But it is a good moisturizer for my dry skin (especially in the winter months), and it has SPF but doesn’t feel oily.

Cory Rivademar

Photo Director

LE MÉTIER DE BEAUTÉ CHEM60 Pro-Peel and Glow10ai Mask Set ($265) at Neiman Marcus

I immediately saw a difference.

My skin was a lot plumper and smoother. It moisturized my face and gave me a glow that lasted all day.

Kimya Kavehkar

Editorial Assistant

Debora Licón

Ad Production Manager Dr. Brandt Dark Spots No More Serum ConcentrÉe ($55) at Sephora

It’s been very effective at lightening dark spots. And I like that it’s unscented. A lot of times products that lighten your skin have a burnt scent.

This product claims to be a “mini face-lift in a bottle”—which I can’t really attest to since I’m 22.

But I will say that one small pump of the serum kept my face moisturized all day without feeling greasy.

Madeline Hollern

Senior Editor VenEffect AntiAging Lip Treatment ($85) at Neiman Marcus

My lips always get so chapped in the winter, but this creamy lip treatment made them noticeably soft and supple. It’s pricey, but effective!

Erin Quinn Editor-in-Chief

Clarisonic Aria Sonic Skin Cleansing System ($199) at Sephora

Sarah Thurmond

You don’t know clean skin until you try this sonic brush. After just a few uses, my skin was smoother, softer and clearer than it’s ever been. I can’t go back to just regular washing.

Senior Editor

Clarins Super Restorative Total Eye Concentrate ($82) at Dillard’s

I like that it isn’t too greasy, and it smoothes lines without having that skin-tightening effect that a lot of new age-defying products have. Best of all: A little goes a long way.

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photocredit PHOTOS BY: CLINIQUE, DR. BRANDT, LA PRAIRIE, VENEFFECT AND CLARINS BOTTLES, JACK OPATRANY; HEADSHOTS, CORY RIVADEMAR. PHotoS COURTESY: CLARISONIC, CLARISONIC; LE MÉTIER de beautÉ, LE MÉTIER de beautÉ.

La Prairie Extrait of Skin Caviar Firming Complex ($150) at Nordstrom

style

tktktktk for men

GET

His lOOK Auld lang

style

P H OTOS BY JAC K OPATR ANY ST YLE D BY C R I STI NA FAC U N DO

When it comes to dapper New Year’s Eve attire, don’t drop the ball. Upgrade your basic black tux to a tailored velvet jacket in a jewel-toned hue like emerald or plum. To complete the look, pepper in a playful accessory like a bowtie or thick-rimmed specs.

Remember: The gold party hat is optional, but the dancing shoes are not. —m. hollern

black rimmed glasses ($15) at New Bohemia

duchamp spotted boWtie ($125) at Keepers

shirt naked & famous button doWn ($118) at Service Menswear | belt ermenegildo Zegna leather belt ($225) at Keepers | pants billy reid pants of campbell peak suit ($1,695 for set) at Billy reid MODEL Steve Murray of Wilhelmina Brown

dries van noten green velvet Jacket ($945) at By George

shot on location Swift’s Attic 315 congress Ave.

photocredit

cole haan black colton chukka boot ($228) at Service Menswear

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style

favorite things

1

Heather Campbell-Green

2

celeBrITY STYle BloGGer

1 EMERSON RYDER JEWELRY. Emerson Ryder’s gorgeous pieces are wearable by day or night.

2 PROENZA SCHOULER PS1 BAG. It adds a pop of color to every outfit.

3 MIKE & CHRIS LEATHER JACKET. I think everyone needs a butter-soft leather jacket in their closet. I have had friends swear they are going to kidnap this jacket—it’s that good.

4 CHANEL DOUBLE PERFECTION NATURAL MATTE POWDER MAKEUP.

As a busy mom of two, this is the perfect “goto” makeup to make it seem like I spent more time on my makeup than I actually did.

5 TEDDY BEAR. My loyal and sweet 2-year-old cockapoo. Anyone who thinks diamonds are a girl’s best friend hasn’t met my dog!

6 AG ADRIANO GOLDSCHMIED JEANS. I am kind of a jeans-aholic. I love AG’s ultra-soft denim and figure-flattering fit.

7 STUART WEITZMAN “BACKSTAGE” BOOTS. Stuart Weitzman shoes are always super comfortable, and I can wear them all day.

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W

hile working as an extra on shows such as friends, Heather CampbellGreen often wondered where to find the apparel worn by the actors.

Her love of style and entertainment came together in 2005, when she launched her website, Celebrity Style Guide. The site keeps a list of looks from popular TV shows and tells readers how and where they can get their favorite stars’ clothes and accessories. “I have been invited to such great sets as the o.c., charmed, desperate housewives, reba, ghost Whisperer and cougar town to cover their fashion,” the Austin transplant says. Here are a few of her must-haves. —kimya kavehkar

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photoS BY corY riVAdeMAr. doG photo coUrteSY heAther cAMpBeLL-GreeN.

5

who, what, wear

{ SP lur G e o r SAve }

{D eSIGNer To WATch }

bling in the new year with a gold sequined jacket

Heavy Metal

SAVE

$56

h&M Gold Sequin Jacket at hm.com

SPLURGE

$396

Project D london Dakota Fitted Gold Sequin Jacket at mywardrobe.com

In the best cases, a passion turns into a profession.

Margot Wolf is one of the lucky ones. After becoming enamored by the craft of metalsmithing six years ago, Wolf left her fashion job in Los Angeles and returned to her native Texas to launch a jewelry career. For her eponymous brand, she uses recycled metals to cast nature-inspired pieces from quirky specimens like sage branches and scorpion skeletons as well as geometric-patterned statement rings, earrings and necklaces. Her newest line of reversible rings features precious stones such as diamonds and sapphires set in sterling silver. Like the rest of Wolf’s pieces, they’re worth howling about. Margot Wolf jewelry is available at By George. For more information, visit margotwolf.com.

Sidewalk Talk What clothing or accessory item tops your holiday wish list?

andrEa SChuTZ

PETEr PETrov

Lori virdurE

Professor

boutique Store manager

I would ask for a pair of Frye boots. They are good year-round in Austin for any occasion.

I love oakley sunglasses.

I already have three pairs, but you can never have enough of them.

A céline handbag. It’s a more affordable option to the Birkin bag, and it has a classic tote shape.

attorney

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December 2012

—andrea kurth

hannah WESLEy

amanda PiCKLESimEr

Fur combat boots. I’ve been looking for them for a long time, and I can’t find them anywhere!

leather riding boots. I’m from the Midwest, so we love the boots.

Fashion Consultant

Front of house, aCL Live

SideWALK tALK photoS BY JoN ShApLeY. photoS coUrteSY: proJect d JAcKet, MYWArdroBe.coM; h&M JAcKet, hM.coM; MArGot WoLF, MArGot WoLF.

style

style

who, what, wear

{ TA K e F Ive}

Collars and bibs

1

Add glamour to your ensemble with an embellished neckpiece

1 black and silver embellished bib ($45) at Sola

2

2 buyers remorse black embellished collar ($99) at Gallery D

{STYle FI le }

3

Spirit Fitness Training owner JOANNE BLACKERBY talks workout trends

3 blue elephant sequin ivory collar ($49) at Blue elephant 4 bonnie strauss embellished bib ($129) at The Garden room

1) What’s going on in the

fitness industry? The industry is moving back to functional fitness, where you train in a way that’s fun and follows your body’s natural range of motion.

4

5 black embellished collar ($58) at Dress Shop

2) Tell us about ViPR

5

(pronounced “viper,” pictured).

ViPR is a training tool that integrates the entire body. What you can accomplish with ViPR, you can’t accomplish with a barbell because of its design. The movements mimic daily life.

Stylish gents, rejoice. The shortage of great men’s boutiques in town has been ameliorated with the opening of Billy Reid, a tailored brand known for its Southerninspired, high-quality garb for men as well as women. The regional influence of designer William “Billy” Reid shines through in his timeless styles made with rich fabrics and luxe details. Like the other branches across the country, the Austin location is exquisitely decorated with a mix of rustic and antique furnishings that create a homey, warm feeling. As you’re browsing the boutique for the perfect tweed coat, leather riding boots or alligator bifold wallet, you’ll delight in the Southern comfort. 1122 W. sixth st., 354-1884, billyreid.com —lara grant

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3) I hear Tabata training is big right now, too. How does it work? Tabata is a very basic

timed pattern with 20 seconds of work and 10 seconds of break.

For example: jumping jacks, rest; pushups, rest; alternating forward lunges, rest; seated tricep dips, rest. You repeat those four twice, and that’s one Tabata. photo BY JoN ShApLeY.

Male Call

tAKe FiVe photoS BY JoN ShApLeY. BiLLY reid photo coUrteSY BiLLY reid.

{NoW o PeN}

5) Why is it so trendy? It’s fun

in groups. You can have people go against each other to see who can do the most rounds. I always say that fitness is no fun unless you have someone to play with.

style

who, what, wear

{e ve nts}

{ N at u ral Selecti o n}

Botanical Boost

The Month

in style

Perhaps more than heat and traffic, Austinites like to complain about allergies. After nearly a decade in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries, Joe Mahan collaborated with San Antonio–based Dr. Rudy Zarate to create Bloom Herbal Organics, an all-natural line that blends herbs into a liquid form to combat allergies and other ailments. “I came to the conclusion that there had to be a more natural solution for the relief of my own allergy and sinus problems,” Mahan says. Each of Bloom’s five concoctions come in a bottle with a dropper and can be added to water, tea or other beverages. With ingredients such as dandelion root, elderflower and milk thistle seed, the earthy blends also alleviate sinus pressure, respiratory issues and even hangovers. Better keep a bottle handy for New Year’s Day. Bloom Herbal Organics tinctures are $24.50 each and available at bloomherbalorganics.com. —M. Hollern

JULIAN GOLD (various) Escada trunk show (Dec. 11-12); Temple St. Clair trunk show (Dec. 13-14); Carolina Herrera trunk show (Dec. 13-14); Coomi trunk show (Dec. 19-20). 1214 W. Sixth St., 473-2493, juliangold.com BLUE GENIE ART BAZAAR

(Through Dec. 24) Discover thousands of handmade treasures from local artisans at this annual holiday bazaar. The Marchesa Hall and Theatre, 6226 Middle Fiskville Road, bluegenieartbazaar.com DYANNE BELLE TRUNK SHOW (Dec. 6) Check out the

chunky cocktail rings, sparkling earrings and bold necklaces in designer Deb Schechter’s latest collection. W Austin Hotel, 200 Lavaca St., 694-9136, rskjewelry.com

{royal to uch }

A:

Q:

I’m wearing faux lashes on New Year’s Eve. Any tips?

Nothing is more alluring than a great set of false eyelashes. But the application process can be intimidating. Follow these four steps to get it right.

1) First, buy a full strip of lashes and black adhesive, which comes out clear but

dries black. That way you already have the top black liner just from applying the lashes. Skip the brands with pre-affixed glue; they don’t hold as well.

2) Begin with clean, makeup-less eyes. Remove the lash strips from the package and wrap them around your finger to create flexibility.

3) Apply glue to the base of the eyelash strip with a pair of tweezers. Don’t use fingers and never apply glue directly to eyelids. Let the glue settle in by waiting 30 seconds.

4) Lightly apply the lashes with fingers from the outside corners of your eye toward the inside, as close as possible to the natural lash line. Use tweezers to press them in place and let dry for two minutes. To camouflage the strip, use either a black liquid top liner or dark shadow at the lash line. Apply mascara to blend the faux set in with your natural lashes. With lashes this gorgeous, you’re sure to snag a kiss at midnight.

For more style advice, beauty tips and product reviews, check out King’s blog, thestyleking.net.

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PHOTOS BY: BLOOM HERBAL ORGANICS, JOHN PESINA; ron king, flashgun productions.

Celebrity stylist Ron King answers your style questions.

JINGLE BELL ROCKS (Dec. 6) Enjoy treats and a 20 percent store discount at this festive fete co-hosted by Austin Tidbits. The first 50 guests receive gift bags. Y & I Clothing Boutique, 1113 S. Congress Ave., 462-0775, shopyandi.com 2ND STREET HOLIDAY WINDOW WALK (Dec. 8-Jan. 2)

View the elaborate holiday window decorations created by theatrical design students from local universities. As celebrity judges pick their favorites on Dec. 15, stroll the street filled with carolers while enjoying special in-store events. Various locations, 2ndstreetdistrict.com NYC IN ATX: STYLE (Dec. 20) Discover the latest big city trends at this fashionable affair while meeting New York style blogger Jonathan Valdez of Orange Juice and Biscuits.

Wanderlust Boutique, 1601 Koenig Lane, 419-7005, wanderlustaustin.com

concrete

JUNGLE Traverse the city in ultrasleek leather pieces PHOTOGRAPHY Jonathan Zizzo STYLING Cristina Facundo

Ashanti Maxwell of NY Vixen MAKEUP Texas Dela Rosa STYLIST’S ASSISTANT Sara Facundo MODEL Angélique Chandy of Wilhelmina Brown

HAIR

December 2012

austinmonthly.com 75

PREV I O U S SP R EA D Sisii grey leather jacket ($1,101) at Kick Pleat; Billy Reid black stretch leather leggings ($995) at Billy Reid OP P O SI T E PAGE Bailey 44 Extra Credit top ($158), Alice + Olivia by Stacey Bendet black leather peplum dress ($495), Jimmy Choo leopard print pony pumps ($875), Rebecca Minkoff white Beau clutch ($330), Kenneth Jay Lane burgundy rhinestone flower clip-on earrings ($225) at Saks Fifth Avenue; Elizabeth and James black sunglasses ($185) at Julian Gold T hI S PAGE Elizabeth and James luxe leather sweater ($367) at Girl Next Door and Alice + Olivia navy Tam leather boxpleat skirt ($396) at Saks Fifth Avenue

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O P P O SI T E PAG E Valentino black over-the-knee bow boots ($1,395) at Neiman Marcus; tights, stylist’s own T hI S PAGE Yigal Azrouel white bone dress ($1,095) at Julian Gold; Rare Trends leather coat ($495) and Finders Keepers white leather and rose gold belt ($69) at Etcetera, Etc.; Marc by Marc Jacobs black multi purse ($528) at Luxe Apothetique; Iosselliani chain bracelet ($455) at Girl Next Door

December 2012

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Good Things Brewin´ T here’s a reason the craf t brewin g scen e in Austin is so buz z-wort hy: T he beer our city ’s brewers are pumpin g out is down -r i ght ta st y.

Meet the makers an d fin d out which bars an d bre w pu bs have the best beer selection s in town .

By Lyn n e Marg olis an d Charlotte Moore Photog raphy by Nicole Mlakar

Craft beer is a booming business in the capital city and in the Lone Star State as a whole. In 2011 alone, Texas’ craft beer scene contributed more than $608 million to the state economy, according to a recent study commissioned by the Texas Craft Brewers Guild. And in Austin, 11 breweries have been founded since 2010, with a total of 19 breweries and brewpubs now making lagers, ales, ports and more for the masses. We meet the people behind the brews, and take a look at all the great beer-centric bars and restaurants in town. Plus, beer newbies can get the lowdown on brew types and the importance of drinking the right beers from the right glassware. Study up on the following pages, and you’ll be a suds expert in no time.

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BREWERIES

Thirsty Planet Sitting in the forklift in his brewery warehouse, Brian Smittle seems right at home in the midst of making an intoxicating pumpkin batch for the start of the fall season. He started brewing beer more than 20 years ago after spending time at the pub in the basement of his college in England. “I fell in love with British beer and the culture,” he says.

And, since 1991, Smittle’s been brewing. His latest brewery, Thirsty Planet, which opened in summer 2010 in far Southwest Austin, delivers three constants: Yellow Armadillo, a light, tangy American-style wheat beer; Thirsty Goat Amber, a caramel-y, sweet beer with a rich body; and the bold and bitter Buckethead IPA. Thirsty Planet also creates lots of seasonal brews, including the recent Franklin Smoked Porter, a brew that has a nice, smoky finish because 25 percent of the grains were actually smoked in Franklin Barbecue pits. Try these out during one of Thirsty Planet’s free Saturday tours. You’ve got plenty of time because this brewery is here to stay. “It’s been a great ride,” says Smittle. “You get to meet interesting people and brew beer. We’re here for the long haul.” 11160 Circle Drive, 579-0679, thirstyplanet.net Hops & Grain

This new brewing company celebrated its one-year anniversary Oct. 7, and the brewers marked the occasion with family, friends, a 1-mile run and beer. Lots of beer.

Owner Josh Hare started brewing beer about eight years ago in Boulder, Colo., and fell in love. Now, in a multiplex shop in East Austin, he brews two mainstay beers: Pale Dog pale ale and Alt-eration, a German-style malt beer that won a gold medal at the 2012 World Beer Cup. Hops & Grain also creates special brews, including BitterrrRED Ale, which has notes of sweet malt, chocolate and herbal hops, and Bourbon Barrel Aged Alt, for which they alter Alt-eration by transferring it into Maker’s Mark bourbon barrels giving it a bourbon, chocolate, vanilla and toffee finish. “We’ve got two separate brewing systems,” Hare explains. “With one we do our year-round beers, 1,000 gallons per batch, and our other system we call the greenhouse beers.” Those are made

in a 90-gallon system, which is about a 10th of the size of the company’s big brew house and allows Hare and crew to try out all sorts of new beer combinations.

To check out the brewery for yourself, stop by on Fridays and Saturdays, when it is open to the public. 507 Calles St., 537-9756, hopsandgrain.com I n d e pe n d e n ce B r e w i n g Co.

America gained her independence from the Brits long ago. So, Independence Brewing Co. in Southeast Austin has every right to brew radically hopped-up versions of classic European styles of beer. These brews include Bootlegger Brown Ale, a take on a classic English brown ale; Independence Pale Ale and Stash IPA, both aggressive beers with plentiful hops; and even seasonal beers using Belgian yeast. In operation since October 2004, it’s one of the oldest breweries in Austin. “Austin brew pubs in the late ’90s were the first wave; that’s

$608 Million

Thirsty Planet’s owner-brewer Brian Smittle (left) and part owner/head of sales Mike Haiges

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bottle cap photo BY cory rivademar

The amount Texas craft beer contributed to the state economy in 2011, according to The texas craft brewers guild

when Rob and I got our feet wet,” says Amy Cartwright, who owns Independence with her husband, Rob, and Giorgio Favia. “Now, I guess we’re considered one of the older guys.” Independence distributes to local bars and restaurants by bottle and draft, as well as grocery and convenience stores. Its beers are also in spots in the Hill Country, San Antonio and Houston, and the brewery is about to expand to a system four times what it is now. In January, Independence took home a Good Food Award for its Convict Hill Stout, an oatmeal stout that has a rich roasted barley flavor. Cheers to that. 3913 Todd Lane, 707-0099, independencebrewing.com

Be e r Ty pe s

Au st i n B e e rwo r ks

A mere four months after it opened in May 2011, Austin Beerworks, which only makes canned beer, won a silver medal at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival for its Peacemaker Extra Pale Ale, a light, flavorful beer ideal for easy drinking on hot summer days. Its ales and lagers have names like Fire Eagle, an American IPA that’s hoppy and balanced; Black Thunder, a German-style Schwarz that tastes dark, dry and clean and the German-style Pils, Pearl Snap.

The brewery typically has about six beers in its seasonal beer rotation, including its popular Sputnik, a Russian Imperial coffee-oatmeal stout that sold out in 10 days to local draft breweries and was tapped out completely a few days after that. Beyond the beer, one of Austin Beerworks’ most exciting features is a big, bright-red silo out back that can hold tens of thousands of pounds of malt. “Eventually, we’re going to put a big beer drop on it, our company logo,” says part-owner Adam DeBower. 3009 Industrial Terrace, 821-2494, austinbeerworks.com

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A l e & Lager Ale and lager refer to two broad categories of beer. In fact, it’s the type of yeast that is used to ferment the sweet wort into beer.

Ale yeast ferments at a warmer temperature (about 68 degrees) than lager yeast (about 48 degrees). Consequently, ale yeast makes additional flavors, such as fruity esters and spicy phenolics, that the “cleaner” fermenting lager yeast do not. Yeast flavor is a larger flavor component in ales than in lagers, where malt and hops dominate.

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R o gn e s s B r e w i n g Co mpa n y

A dean of Austin’s, and Texas’, craft-brewing movement, Real Ale Brewing Company recently celebrated its 16th birthday of brewing in Blanco. That’s where brewmaster Erik Ogershok and director of brewing operations Tim Schwartz oversee production of more than 40,000 barrels a year of the brewery’s award-winning best-seller, Fireman’s #4. The Lost Gold IPA and Devil’s Backbone, a Belgian tripel, are neck-and-neck as its next most-popular brews among the eight now in production yearround. Schwartz, also president of the Texas Craft Brewers Guild, started as a home brewer, got hired part time at the former Bitter End Bistro & Brewery and stayed. (Grad school, he decided, wasn’t important after all.) Real Ale owner Brad Farbstein finally lured him away eight years ago. “Our philosophy is to try to convert more Texans into craft beer drinkers,” says Schwartz, “and give them good beer.” 231 San Saba Court, Blanco, (830) 8332534, realalebrewing.com

With funds raised via Kickstarter, Rogness Brewing co-founders Forrest and Diane Rogness fired up their Pflugerville brew vats in January and served their first beer in March. But Forrest has been home-brewing since 1990, and now his Beardy Guard, Rattler, Gigantophis and other brews sell as fast as he ferments them. “As much beer as we can make, it’s not enough. You can never make enough beer,” he says. But it’s a happy conundrum for the couple and their three staff brewers, who hope to introduce a new brew each month. They’re concentrating on underrepresented or unique styles, like

Twisted X Brewing Company Nate Seale, head brewer and production manager at (512) Brewing Company

(512) Brewing Company Breaking from the bottled beer bit, (512) Brewing Company in Southwest Austin is tapping into draft beer with dogged determination. Celebrating a little more than four years in business, the brewery has concocted its special anniversary seasonal (512) Four, an English strong ale. But, the “core four,” as they call them, are Wit, Pale Ale, an IPA and its signature selection, the Pecan Porter. Owner Kevin Brand says he wants to build (512)’s reputation as a draft-only brewer that focuses on organic beer. “With the amount of grain I’m going through here, it’s a great organic opportunity,” he says. “Our base malt is 100 percent organic, which means our beers end up being about 80 percent organic, at least.” You’ll find (512) beers in local restaurants including Olivia and Salty Sow, but the brewery also distributes throughout Austin and in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio as well as other nearby towns. “I’d like to continue to grow as big as I can,” Brand says. “Draft only and in Texas.” 407 Radam Lane, 707-2337, 512brewing.com 90 austinmonthly.com

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Twisted X co-founders Jim Sampson and Shane Bordeau (“No x; we gave the x to Twisted X!” he says) still have software sales jobs, but once they move from their Cedar Park pilot brewery to the 10,000-square-foot facility they’re constructing in Dripping Springs, it’s bye-bye corporate world. With distinctive Tex-Mex brews flavored with jalapeños from San Antonio and prickly pears hand-picked on The Salt Lick’s grounds, they hope to take over the Mexicanstyle lager market now dominated by imports. “The type of beer we brew is the type we like to drink,” says Bordeau. “We’ve grown up in this Tex-Mex culture, and our goal as a company is to celebrate that. We just want to help feed the fire.” Fuego, their jalapeño pilsner; Siesta, a prickly pear lager, and the Chupahopra IPA, along with three lagers, are doing just that. 3200 W. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park, 850-6722, texmexbeer.com

Diane’s popular Yogi chai-spiced amber.

2400 Patterson Industrial Drive, Pflugerville, 670-2537, rognessbrewing.com C i r cle B r e w i n g Co.

Circle Brewing’s Jud Mulherin and Ben Sabel grew up together in Nashville, Tenn., and talked about becoming business partners. But it wasn’t until they landed in Southern California after college, working as an aircraft mechanic and talent agent, respectively, that they brewed their brewery plan. Research led them to Austin. “We apparently came to the right place,” Mulherin says. “A lot of people had the same idea.” What

BREWERIES

Re al Ale Br e wi ng Co mpa n y

sets their beer apart is adherence to Germany’s centuries-old Reinheitsgebot (purity law), which dictates using only four ingredients: water, malt, hops and yeast. Sabel says they chose the name Circle Brewing to embody their philosophy of simplicity through design and ingredients “to create the best product we can imagine.” Currently, they produce three annuals, including Blur, a citrusy Hefeweizen, and one seasonal, Smokin’ Beech, a traditional Bamberg-style German Rauchbier filled with a nut-like flavor caused by smoking the malt grain with beechwood. 2340 W. Braker Lane, 814-7599, circlebrewing.com

Jester King craft brewery “Out there.” “On the fringe.” Those are a couple of phrases Jester King partner-owner Ron Extract uses to describe this farmhouse brewery.

Nestled behind the lush brush off Fitzhugh Road in far Southwest Austin, Jester King is a true beer connoisseur’s lair. Fairly young, at only about two years old, the brewery produces six mainstays with courtly names like Le Petit Prince, a flavorful farmhouse table beer; Noble King, a hoppy farmhouse ale pilsner malt and Wytchmaker, which is a earthy, spicy and dry IPA. “We offer lots of limited-release beers,” says Extract. “But, while we are experimental, we’re cautious. We won’t release a beer if we’re not happy with the way it turned out.” They were happy with limited releases like Boxer’s Revenge, a full-flavored, Champagne-like farmhouse ale, and their “unfiltered, unpasteurized and naturally conditioned” sour barrel-aged stout called Funk Metal. Further setting Jester King apart from other brewers, it has a part-time artist on hand to craft its impressive brew-inspired labels.

13005 Fitzhugh Road, 537-5100, jesterkingbrewery.com Michael Steffing (left) and Ron Extract, co-owners and brewers at Jester King

Be e r Ty pe s

Po rt er These dark brown to black ales have very little roasty flavor and moderate hop bitterness. They can be medium to full bodied, with low to moderate malt sweetness.

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BREWERIES

3

Number of Austin beers that took home awards at the 2012 Great American Beer Festival, including a gold medal for Bottle Rocket from Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que and two silvers for Real Ale Brewing Co.’s Fireman’s #4 and

B e er Ty p es

So uth Austin Brewin g Co. St ou t There are sweet and dry stouts, which are black ales with pronounced roastiness and hop bitterness. Roastiness is the distinguishing characteristic and comes from the use of roasted barley instead of roasted malt. That roastiness can be perceived as coffee-like or chocolate-like, though, originally, these beers never contained coffee or chocolate. These days, some breweries use those ingredients as a novelty.

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South Austin Brewing Co.’s Jordan Weeks has 15 years of professional brewing experience, but he finally gave up his tech-writing job in the spring to devote himself to making strong Belgians, influenced by Austin’s late beer patriarch, Pierre Celis. “Do one thing right is our philosophy,” Weeks says. They make two brews: the rich, citric Saison d’Austin and the light, fruity Golden Ale. The 10,000-squarefoot brewery also has a 6,700-squarefoot stage and event space, and the minute Weeks and event director Chris Oglesby started hosting “Groovy Sunday” concerts and events, they created

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a South Austin hot spot. “I like to think the coolest thing about Austin is South Austin,” Weeks says. “And a lot of that has to do with music and arts. So that is what the brewery’s really about.” 415 E. Saint Elmo Road, Unit 1D, 968-8297, southaustinbrewery.com Ade lbe rt ’ s Br e we ry

Drew Arnold, marketing and events director at Adelbert’s Brewery, likes to talk about the “lightbulb effect” that happens when casual beer drinkers try some of the brewery’s hoppy, Belgian selections. “It’s like taking the red pill in The Matrix,” he says. “You can’t go back to drinking Keystone Light.” Adelbert’s,

founded by Scott Hovey and his wife, Ramona, is an homage to Hovey’s brother, George Adelbert “Del” Hovey, who died in 2000. Del was known for his adventurous life, and each beer name is in reference to a story Del loved to tell or a part of his character. The brewery strictly makes Belgian beers with three year-round styles and four seasonal styles. One of the three regulars, Scratchin’ Hippo, smells a little off-putting, but the French biere de garde style brew has a malty, caramel sweetness that pairs perfectly with heavy cuts of meat like at Franklin Barbecue, which serves this brewery’s beers. 2314 Rutland Drive, Ste. 100, 568-1462, adelbertsbeer.com

large beer bottle photo from thinkstock.

Live Oak Brewing Company Think of Live Oak Brewing Company in East Austin as the granddaddy of all the local breweries. Owned by Chip McElroy, it’s been brewing award-winning beers since April 1997. Some of its signature brews include winter seasonal Primus Weizenbock, a rich, dark, spicy and fruity German-style beer, and core beers like the HefeWeizen, a banana wheat that has notes of clove and vanilla; Pilz, which is golden, hoppy and clean and the Big Bark Amber Lager, a Vienna-style beer with a smooth, malty flavor.

McElroy has brewing some of the best batches of beer down to a science. “Brewers were some of the original biochemists,” he says. “What we do is biology, chemistry. And execution is everything. We execute these things better than anybody, we feel. Evidently, beer drinkers think the same thing.” As proof: The brewery took home the silver medal for its Weizenbock/ Weissbock brew at the 2012 World Beer Cup. 3301 E. Fifth St., 385-2299, liveoakbrewing.com

Live Oak head brewer Dusan Kwiatkowski

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Namaste Brewing at the Whip In

The Whip In started out in the 1980s as a convenience store and gas station on the edge of Travis Heights. But the Topiwala family’s mom-and-pop shop grew to a craft-beer collection that now boasts 72 taps plus bottles, including more than a dozen devoted to Austin and Texas brews. The beer offerings make ideal accompaniments for fresh Indian food and reputation-building performances by local musicians on two stages. It may be convenient, but no one would call the Whip In just a convenience store.

Especially now that it’s a full-fledged gastropub and brewery. Though Namaste Brewing is still in early development, brewmaster Kevin Sykes and general manager Dipak Topiwala are rotating several intriguing batch brews, each with colorful East-meets-West artwork. Among them are the Lakshmi Hefe, a gingerhopped wheat ale; Shakti Ale, a sour beer

Black Star Co-op Black Star Co-op is part restaurant, part brewery and all cosmopolitan North Central Austin pub. Nestled in the corner of a residential/business complex, the bright, colorful hot spot is also a member-owned co-op that offers “rational” staples like High Esteem, a slightly hoppy golden ale with wildflower honey; Double Dee, a malty amber ale; and its best seller, Vulcan, a hoppy rye IPA. Small batches of “irrational” seasonals include Epsilon, a whiskey barrel-aged, peated malt scotch ale, while other seasonals include beers with whimsical names like Old Sour Dewberry and Crotchety Dockhand. The brewpub, which opened in its current location in 2010, is known for experimenting with all sorts of ingredients in its beers, such as coffee, chile pepper and watermelon, under the chemistry- and math-inspired craftiness of head brewer Jeff Young. The staff also strives to create a comfortable space for customers. “That’s the idea of our co-op; we want to be very open and have everyone want to come here,” says pub team leader Ryan Geise. “We’re a relaxed, kid-friendly, community-oriented place.” 7020 Easy Wind Drive, 452-2337, blackstar.coop

with mango pulp and the Ganeshale, a whiskey-barrel–aged Belgian quadrupel made with hibiscus flowers. 1950 1-35 S., 442-5337, whipin.com Uncle Bi lly ’ s Br e w & Q u e

Few foods taste better with a cold beer than hot, tangy barbecue. To get your fill of both, head to Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que. Michael Waters, new brewmaster at the Barton Springs Road location, says he doesn’t expect to tamper with the popular brews created by predecessors Amos Lowe and Brian Peters, who recently struck out on their own. “We have the same philosophies on beer,” he says. “I’m planning on keeping up the production of hop-forward beers.”

They’ve got names such as Back 40 Blonde, Agave Wit (a Belgian made with agave nectar) and Hill Country Organic Amber. He also will continue the Brewer’s Choice offerings of unique brews—all designed to be enjoyed with Billy’s menu of slow-smoked barbecue meats and homestyle sides. Meanwhile, the beer served at Uncle Billy’s Lake Travis location is brewed separately. Spencer Tielkemeier, that site’s new brewmaster, just won a gold medal at the grand pooh-bah of beer gatherings, the Great American Beer Festival in Boulder, Colo. His Bottle Rocket lager, an unfiltered German style made in collaboration with Peters, won the hybrid category for kellerbier (translation: cellar beer). 1530 Barton Springs Road, 476-0100; 6550 Comanche Trail, 266-0111; unclebillys.com

F li x B r e w h o u s e

Taking the brilliant movie-food-beer trifecta one step further, Flix Brewhouse in Round Rock doesn’t just have 48 beers on tap, it also brews beer on-site.

The brewhouse sells eight to 10 craft beers that are brewed with a three-

No. 2

Li be rty Tave r n

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Texas’ ranking of beer consumption in the country, according to the Beer Institute

large beer photo from thinkstock.

Life, liberty and the pursuit of beer; that’s one of Liberty Tavern’s declarations.

Another is that if you visit the upscale sports bar at the Hilton Hotel downtown, you’ll be able to indulge in any of the 12 beers—10 of which are local—that are on tap. And, Liberty Tavern freely welcomes and serves those special batch, limitedrelease beers local brewers are constantly conjuring up. Possibly because local connoisseurs are thirsty to try them. One recent customer favorite was a Live Oak Brewing Co./Hops & Grain greenhouse collaborative experimental beer that sold out quickly. General Manager Michael Creely remembers thinking, “That won’t be around long. I’m going to run out of that beer tonight.” 500 E. Fourth St., 4934901, libertytavernaustin.com

barrel system, including the top-selling Luna Rosa Wit, a pink-colored, citrusy brew; Satellite, a hoppy red Belgian beer and Dew Drop, a Belgian pale ale. Brewmaster Justin Rizza says response to the theater’s house brews has been positive. “We are pleased to

say that our own housemade beers are extremely popular and make up more than 50 percent of all draught beer poured at Flix,” he says. Along with the brews, moviegoers can indulge in freshmade pizzas, Black Angus burgers and decadent desserts. Beats popcorn and the sofa any day. 2200 I-35 S., Round Rock, 244-3549, flixbrewhouse.com

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Wo r k h o r s e B a r

After a long day at school or work or just bummin’ around town, take a load off at Workhorse Bar. A good many of its 50 taps are local from brewers like Austin Beerworks, Independence and one of owner Brent Broyles’ favorite local brewers, Jester King. While white collars aren’t turned down, the workaday crew fits right in here. “Our bar has lots of natural wood and concrete surfaces,” says Broyles. “It’s a very mellow feel, very blue collar, but also very inviting with good prices.” Enjoy your brew with the signature white wings, which are wrapped in bacon, stuffed with jalapeños and soaked in wing sauce. 100 E. North Loop Blvd., 323-5700, workhorsebar.com

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Pi l s n er Pilsners are a type of pale lager. The brew was created due to a brilliant convergence in Pilsen, Bohemia (now the Czech Republic), in 1842 of an improved malt that was uniformly light in color and made from the world’s best malting barley, lager yeast from Bavaria, delicately fine hops from nearby Zatec and Pilsen’s soft water. The result is a crisp, clean, bitter beer.

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BREWPUBS, restaurants & bars

North by Northwest This brewpub’s neon-ringed grain silo glows like a beacon, luring suds lovers to this spot created by veteran Austin brewer Davis Tucker to evoke the rustic, craft beer–enhanced Pacific Northwest. A warm stone hearth counteracts the industrial look of stainless steel tanks where grains and yeast catalyze into creations from brewmaster Don Thompson and head brewer Kevin Roark. Executive Chef George Powell oversees the menu, a mix of pub fare and eclectic offerings such as smoked salmon pizza.

But we especially love concepts like celebrating Nigel Tufnel Day with that character’s iconic film, This Is Spinal Tap!, a Spinal Tap cover band and the ceremonial tapping of a cask beer called Spinal Hop, of course. The brewery’s year-round beers include the popular Pyjingo Pale Ale; Blackjack, a Jack Daniel’s whiskey barrel-aged twist on the Okanagan Black Ale and the charmingly named Barley Legal Blonde Ale. 10010 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., 467-6969, nxnwbrew.com

B a n ge r ’s Sau sage H o u s e

large beer image from thinkstock.

& B e e r Ga r d e n

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Hopfields Still learning the ins and outs of craft beer?

The staff at Hopfields is more than happy to be your tutor. “Our job is to make sure the customer knows about our beers; they shouldn’t have to guess what a beer is like,” says owner Bay Anthon. Brew Dog Bitch Please and Fox Barrel Pear Cider are just two of the eye-catching beers of the 42 on tap, but some of the favorites come from local breweries, such as Thirsty Planet, Austin Beerworks and Independence. If you’re looking to find beers not often spotted in Texas, Hopfields recently revamped its beer exchange, which allows members to rate, then submit and score rare brews. Along with the large assortment of beers, the gastropub also offers French fare, such as steak frites and ratatouille. Ooh la la. 3110 Guadalupe St., 5370467, hopfieldsaustin.com

There’s so much beer flowing at this American-style beer garden, it requires two addresses. Banger’s offers 101 choices of beer, and half of those are brewed locally. As part of Austin’s popular Rainey Street area, the restaurant and beer garden has fast become a destination joint with plenty of inside and outside seating (complete with a dog park) and hot, hearty food, including 20 kinds of sausages to choose from.

“We’re taking our cues from European beer gardens, but dropping a lot of the pretention,” says owner Ben Siegel. The bar’s best-selling local beer? Live Oak’s HefeWeizen. 79 & 81 Rainey St., 3861656, bangersaustin.com D r i n k .W e ll .

Michael and Jessica Sanders left highpowered New York careers to follow their American pub fantasy; exactly two years later, in February of this year, the petite Drink.Well. opened. It’s got only eight taps (plus bottles and cans), but four are reserved for Texas beers. They change frequently, but the blackboard is always up to date. On a recent visit, it listed (512) Brewing Company’s spicy Wit and Live Oak Brewing Company’s HefeWeizen, which currently ranks No. 1 on Beer Advocate’s list of top Southwestern beers. Drink.Well. holds a maximum of 55 people, includ-

ing those standing around cleverly suspended wheel-hub tables, but the understated vibe—and great food and cocktails—makes it feel just right. “For a while, people forgot that drinking is fun,” Michael says. “We want you to have fun, with the best products possible.” Those would include their ravedabout charred Brussels sprouts and Jessica’s homemade Twinkies, which change flavors weekly. 207 E. 53rd St., 614-6683, drinkwellaustin.com Th e B r e w Exch a n ge

The Brew Exchange’s commodity is beer—and lots of it. And, to prove that point, the bar has concocted an ingenious pricing scheme with its more than 100 beers on tap: the more popular the beer, the pricier it is (not including mass produced bores…er…beers like Bud Light and Lone Star). The least popular beers are cheaper. And, many of the beers in play are local craft beers, including IPAs, lagers and ciders. The point is to entice the customer to try out as many new beers as possible. Sounds like a risk worth taking. 706 W. Sixth St., 366-5727, brewexchangeaustin.com

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D o g & D u ck P u b

The Dog & Duck Pub is the kind of place where longtime Austinites go to retreat from artifice and vertical sprawl, displaced United Kingdom natives seek seriously good British pub grub and beer lovers find adventure. It’s got authentic age: A fireplace mantel came from the Texas Legislature, both the tin ceiling and sloping wooden floor are original and the rather worn huntingmotif brocade covering the banquette cushions features unicorns (for some reason). Co-owner Jeff McKillop isn’t sure how old the former house is or how long the mummy and other dusty-butcharming artifacts have hung around (the pub is 22, but he’s co-owned it for five years), but they’re as important as the 60-plus beer offerings, including the 42 on tap, such as Chimay’s White Tripel, Harp Lager and (512)’s Pecan Porter. But the most important things, he says, are the people; the customers and staff really are like family. “Everybody knows the names of the bartenders,” he says. “I’m constantly shaking hands with people all night long.” 406 W. 17th St., 479-0598, dogandduckpub.com

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W h eat b eer Wheat beer is any beer made with wheat (usually malted) instead of barley malt.

Wheat contains more protein than barley and therefore produces cloudier beers, which are normally left unfiltered. The predominant flavors in Europeanstyle wheat beers ironically come not from the wheat but from the yeast used to ferment them. American-style wheat beers are usually cloudy cousins of hoppy American-style ales.

All beer info provided by Chip McElroy, Live Oak Brewing Co.

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D r a f t P i ck

Draft Pick is the No. 1 pick for true Austin sports fans who love to sip craft beer while watching the game on the big screen. The big screen. “We have the biggest screen in Austin,” says owner Mourad Belkacem. “It’s 16-by9 feet, high definition.” All 32 beers are local, like Live Oak’s Pilsner and Roggenbier, Thirsty Planet’s Buckethead IPA and Independences’ Convict Hill Oatmeal Stout. Plus, the seasonal beers change every month. It’s an American grill so there are the typical sports-bar dishes, including burnt-orange wings and stadium nachos, but the beer and that TV are the bar’s main draws.

1620 E. Riverside Drive, 444-7425, draftpickaustin.com

BREWPUBS, restaurants & bars

GLASS ACT Some craf t beer aficion ados swear g lassware has as much to do w i t h bre w e n j oy me n t as the con ten ts themselves. Fin d out which shapes affect t he a mou n t of a i r reachin g the beer , bubble behavior , temperature an d ot he r factors .

Information provided by Erin Fox, Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

St e ins Though steins are still popular at Oktoberfest celebrations, they’re more for effect these days than their original purpose (when lidded): keeping plague-carrying flies out of medieval drinkers’ brews.

Snift e r s High-alcohol beer, including Belgian ales, barley wines and India pale ales, should be served in snifters. The wide bowl and tighter opening allows the drinker to swish the beer’s aromas around in the bowl, just like cognac, while preventing them from escaping completely.

Pilsne r Classic pilsner glasses have a small stem and open and flare out just a bit. Wheat beer glasses, often mistaken for Pilsners, are built with narrow bottoms as well, and tuck in a bit before flaring outward. The tuck helps maintain the fluffy head that wheat beers are known for.

Pint g lass The thick-walled pint glass, measuring 16 ounces in the United States, is recommended for mild and brown ales, porters and stouts.

G o b l et s Heavier Belgian beers and other sipping brews should be served in goblets, which are widemouthed for big sips.

T ul ip gl ass Strong Belgian ales are likely to be served in tulip-shaped glasses that enhance and release their aromas while maintaining a fluffy head.

Draught House Pub & Brewery This staple needs little-to-no introduction.

It’s the Draught House, and it’s been serving beer-loving locals and visitors for 44 years.

It’s usually overflowing with some of Austin’s signature sets: college students, hipsters, thirsty tourists who were directed to the local institution and Austin-born-and-beered regulars. The brewpub serves food, but with upward of 70 beers on tap and a truly authentic pub feel, it is arguably the quintessential spot to gather with friends and swill to your heart’s content. About 40 to 50 percent of the beers are local, including the Draught House’s own dynamic selection of four or five beers brewed on-site, including its smokey and refreshing Saison Smoke, and the Hop Gold, a floral and malty blonde ale. 4112 Medical Parkway, 452-6258, draughthouse.com

E a sy T i ge r

T h e Gin ger Man

The most inspired pairing at Easy Tiger is the concept itself: the yeasty synergy of bread and brew.

The bakery entices from street level; the brewpub and Waller Creek–side beer garden beckon from below. Chef Andrew Curren, who also oversees 24 Diner, created an inventive menu of charcuterie offerings (including veggie sausage), sides and sandwiches, all house-made. And 30 American craft brews on tap, from Real Ale and Ommegang to Brooklyn Post Road Pumpkin Ale, make fine accompaniments. But the pièce de résistance is a contraption called Randall the Enamel Animal, an “organoleptic hop transducer module.” One of only a few in Texas, it draws Delaware’s Dogfish Head beer through hops and spices to infuse fresh flavor into it, says bartender James Hallmark. Once you taste the Randalled version, you’ll be spoiled for life.

709 E. Sixth St., 614-4972, easytigeraustin.com

A pair of leaning tipplers resembling Tweedledee and Tweedledum adorn the Ginger Man’s exterior wall, but the message is not “drunkards welcome.”

It’s more like “come on in and indulge—just a bit.” With 81 tap selections, including Spaten Optimator, Kona Pipeline Porter, Pyramid Apricot and Thirsty Planet’s Thirsty Goat Amber, plus two hand-pump taps for casked beers and about 60 bottles, the Ginger Man is the kind of place where real aficionados hang out. “People come in and they try to stump the bartenders,” says general manager Anders Dowd. “Everybody’s an expert.”

They also come for the beer garden, where members of R.E.M. might be spotted onstage (or near it) during South by Southwest, and the living room­­–like interior. “Ambiance is a big part of it,” Dowd says. “It’s pretty laid back. We’re not a sports bar. We do have one TV. But it’s a place to

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go meet friends and chat.” 301 Lavaca St., 4738801, aus.gingermanpub.com Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

Though the atmosphere is a blend of British brewpub and German biergarten, the Flying Saucer carries beer lovers around the world via a copper-penny– lined wall of 72 taps and 150 or so bottled varieties.

Mini-skirted “beer goddesses” (“Women did the first brewing,” says key manager Erin Fox) and the house beer guru guide neophytes through the dizzying options, while beer flights let you try five at a time. Fox’s favorite is the richly colored Saison Dupont, a Belgian beer, but barley wines, brown ales and even glutenfree beers populate the menu—and complement the pub grub. The Flying Saucer’s goal is to expand customers’ palates, says Fox, but trivia nights, dart games and similar attractions keep it fun. 815 W. 47th St., 454-8200, beerknurd.com/stores/austin

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P ANEL

(Clockwise from top left)

Amy S imm on s Amy’s Ice Creams owner 28 years in Austin E ddie Wils on Threadgill’s owner; former owner of the Armadillo World Headquarters 64 years in Austin Qu ita C u lp e pp e r KVUE news anchor 30 years in Austin Jam e s Mo o dy Transmission Entertainment founder; Fun Fun Fun Fest partner; Guerilla Suit partner; Mohawk owner 11 years in Austin S h an non S e dw ick Esther’s Follies co-founder; former owner of Liberty Lunch 44 years in Austin **This panel discussion has been edited and condensed to fit the space allotted.

An esteemed panel of in-the-know locals who have lived here between 11 and 64 years addresses that very question Moderated by Erin Quinn / Phot os by John Pesina / illustrations by Jesse Kuhn When Forbes magazine put out a list of America’s Coolest Cities in July, it was safe to assume that everyone in town figured we’d come close to the top of the list—if not take the top spot. Austin ranks No. 1 in just about every other “best of ” list, from No. 1 Best Big City for Jobs (also according to Forbes) to No. 1 Best City for Dating (yahoo.com). But not only did we rank No. 19 on the America’s Coolest Cities list, but Houston scored the top spot, while Dallas, Fort Worth

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and even San Antonio beat us. What? That’s right. Needless to say, people were surprised. But that got us thinking: With the popularity and massive growth the city has experienced in the last few years, plus traffic and the rising cost of living, could it be possible that the bubble has burst and Austin is losing its cool? On Oct. 22, we put together a panel of five prominent Austinites to discuss the topic in the Governor’s Boardroom at The Driskill Hotel. Find out their verdict.

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SEDWICK: There’s a

SEDWICK: The stories of the

group called East Side Conservancy that’s working to help get money to older homeowners to help them with their [property taxes], which is a good thing.

neighborhoods. To be able to be there so they pass on their way of life.

CULPEPPER: They need it.

SIMMONS: Well, for some of them it’s just too late. You know we keep redeveloping areas…

SEDWICK: Like Rainey

Street.

SIMMONS: Exactly. It’s a community, and I just feel like we’re destroying it.

SEDWICK: Well, some of

You’ve all lived here a long time. Does the fast growth and increased cost of living worry you?

Simmons: Personally, as irritat-

ed as I am with traffic and with newcomers coming in—which we all have our positions on—I still think this is an incredible city and the entrepreneurship here is phenomenal.

WILSON: Well, that’s the East Austin thing now, because for years and years and years, not all of us knew that geography was the key to being able to take silly risks with ideas that didn’t need a whole lot of capital.

MOODY: The best ideas are

always associated with cheap rent. That’s been my experience.

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SIMMONS: I think the best

example, for me, is the people who work at Amy’s.

They can still afford to live here. And some of them are young and still living with their families, but probably around 60 percent of them are on their own. And they’re scooping Amy’s ice cream and they can afford to live and be central enough to get to the locations. I’m not sure exactly how they do it, but that’s my big concern—if we’re pricing the people that I want to live around out of residing here.

CULEPPER: A lot of people who have been in Austin for a while, like those on the East Side, they are worried.

The older people who have lived there for 30, 40 years, four generations in the same house, they’re getting priced out.

December 2012

the areas are maybe going to be good.

I’m involved right now in trying to get a couple of old warehouses on East Fourth Street that remind me of Liberty Lunch. They used to be called Texaco Depot, and they were just two funky places that the first trains came in at. It’s just an older, artsy spot. Capital Metro owns that entire area, and it’s going to build but they’re also taking bids.

We’ve been trying to woo them to just do the depot as one little bid rather than make it into the whole 11 acres. But I know that they have plans to try to make it into affordable housing and different levels of different houses and parking garages.

SIMMONS: But it doesn’t speak

to the people that really live there. I really want the ethnic communities and the relationships between families…

austin’s landscape is also changing, an example being the broken spoke surrounded by mixeduse buildings. How does that make you feel when you drive by?

Simmons: At least it’s still there. wilson: True, but I know that [Broken Spoke owner] James White has been having a lot of problems with parking now, with all the construction. sedwick: With changes like

that, you just have to hope that the new will be as good as the old.

What do you all think about the CapMetro train?

“as irritated as I am with traffic and with newcomers coming in—which we all have our positions on—I still think this is an incredible city and the entrepreneurship here is phenomenal.”

­— Amy S i mmon s

that come in on the rail from Leander, so I’ve got to love it for that. But it doesn’t really alleviate any traffic.

MOODY: Right. And with the traffic on MoPac and I-35, we all have to be in full support of some sort of alternative means of transportation.

WILSON: I’ve had customers SIMMONS: But you have to point to a model that’s working.

And I haven’t heard it.

foot in the door. It gets people curious about what could be; people talk about it all the time. It shows effort. Its not our dream situation, but at least I think, you know, a lot of people who live here made their way here from somewhere else. And they have appreciation for the subway system in London and New York and Europe, and, obviously, it is way easier to get around in those cities. I hope we will be able to pull off something like that.

MOODY: Usually the kinds

of people who get out of helicopters are uptight folks who don’t deal with Threadgill’s.

WILSON: We’re a blue-collar place. The only helicopter experiences I’ve ever had were with green camo.

SIMMONS: It’ll be fun, it’ll be a party; we’ll just have to wait and see. I’m worried about the airport. moody: I agree. And I don’t

The next big event is Formula 1. is the city ready for it?

SEDWICK: I have no idea. I can’t

tell whether it’s going to be a bunch of people having fun or the biggest mess ever.

WILSON: I’ve got the slightest trepidation about it. I found out day before yesterday that the parking garage above the bar across from Threadgill’s on Barton Springs is going to be a helipad during F1. I can imagine glasses on the table at the restaurant just shaking!

think we’ve ever dealt with that crowd in this town—the Monte Carlo, Miami, Champagne crowd. We’re a Lone Star crowd! The thing that will be interesting is if they embrace the fact that this is their funky F1. If they want to come and get premier platinum services, we don’t have them—we’ve just barely got the Four Seasons up. culpepper: Well, we’ve got The

W, we’ve got the Four Seasons. But I think a lot of it is just going to be the different parties that they’re having. I think some of the parties are going to appeal to the Monte Carlo crowd, while the other parties are going to appeal to, you know, us.

do you think Austin is still the Live Music Capital of the World? wilson: I think we need to change it to Austin is the Center of the Musical Universe! When people started calling us that, there were no recording facilities and that was a real huge deal. It had to be live music because they couldn’t record anything.

Now people are cutting albums on their cell phone. moody: It was a venue-based deal, and that has changed dramatically in the terms of numbers, but I think the

MOODY: I think Europe is the only place we can point to in terms of that.

“a lot of people who have been in Austin for a while, like those on the east side, they are worried. The older people who have lived there for 30, 40 years ... they’re getting priced out.”

— Qui ta C u l p e ppe r

SIMMONS: But then, let’s now articulate what is it about it that made it work. I know we’re trying—I’m probably speaking ignorantly about it—but it’s not going to pay for itself. It has to accomplish what your goals are, moving X number of people where they need to go. And if you put a dollar figure on the number of people that ride in from Leander, it’s ridiculous.

MOODY: What I do like about

that one train is that it’s a

“People aren’t moving to Dallas and Houston because they’re “cool.” They’re moving there because they just went bankrupt.”

— E d d i e W i l son

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What does everyone think about Austin city limits music festival going to two weekends? culpepper: I know a

lot of people who leave during ACL. They don’t want to bother with traffic; they don’t want to be bothered by all the people; they just don’t want to be bothered. sedwick: Well, it’s not

a good time for anything that’s a longstanding thing like Esther’s Follies. We don’t do as well those weekends. But it’s just a part of being where you live. And I would say that ACL has grown slowly throughout the years.

It’s not jumping ahead of itself; it let itself get filled up. culpepper: It’s a great

spirit is still there. We can still probably claim it. No way to argue it because there are no facts as to why we claimed it.

sedwick: To me, the great

culpepper: We can still argue it! There has to be some credence behind it because, hey, we’re known as the Live Music Capital of the World.

thing about Austin, again, it’s just the accepting of everything. There’s good music in almost every genre across the board, so if you’re happy with country music then you can find something here. If you like indie rock, you can find some fabulous people here.

[Editor’s note: According to the Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau, the capital city has 250 live music venues, which is more per capita than any other city. ACVB trademarked the title Live Music Capital of the World in 1991.]

wilson: Austin Jazz Workshop plays for every elementary school in the city every year. Those are some of the best musicians in the world. But if it gets big, it gets really hard to maintain, too.

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festival, don’t get me wrong. The acts are amazing, the vibe out there is fantastic. There are just some people that are like, “Nope, it’s a little too crazy for me now. I’ll just watch the streaming video.” moody: Coachella pioneered that idea. They are different, but if a business wants to seek the end of its demand and they want to bring in the jobs and money, I think it’s hard for a city to say “no.” wilson: I would love for them to have a place of their own to do it and make even more money. I go to Zilker and walk every morning, and so, for three weeks now [since

moody: I’m not saying yes or no, I’m just saying in general, it’s a little odd. And I think that throws people off.

the park has been closed] I’ve been without it. moody: Also, South by Southwest Interactive didn’t really mess with our city three years ago or five years ago, for sure. And it’s now two weekends, essentially. And Interactive got so much bigger than the Music part, we had a damn giant Doritos vending machine installed last year that Snoop Dogg played in. So, the twoweekend thing is happening, and I don’t know if it was better. I don’t like the giant Doritos vending machine in downtown Austin. I think that’s starting to jump the shark. But, for businesses down there, it was nice for us to know it was coming.

We could plan and rent our space, and it gave us our piggy bank money to make it through the lame summer.

And it appears it’s going to be bigger next year. And bigger’s not always better, but the music venue model was pretty scary before because if we didn’t have that piggy bank money, we wouldn’t be here. So I give someone credit for that all the time, because it really does help.

“ACL has grown slowly throughout the years. It’s not jumping ahead of itself; it let itself get filled up.”

— S h an non S e dw i ck

some folks say we don’t have a great art scene in this town.

Thoughts? moody: I think that’s why

locals get it and others don’t, because we don’t have a lot of great galleries. People compare what other cities have to what we don’t have—we just don’t have facilities. But our art is embedded in everything.

wilson: I miss my youth. And the Skyline Club. simmons: I miss Las Manitas

thing I’d like to see is for the music nerds and the tech nerds to get together. They need to try and build a new industry.

What do y’all miss about “old” Austin?

and what Barton Springs Pool used to be. Now, it’s too hard to go there, with the huge line of cars always waiting.

sedwick: I’d have to say the

moody: I miss Lovejoys, Emo’s on

Armadillo. Because definitely that was just a wonderful place, and I remember one of the last weeks I was crawling around on the floor dressed like an armadillo. It was a great performance for me!

The place had a fabulous spirit, and it just got squandered and lost. And so that’s what I miss. There are places like it now, though, like The White Horse.

Sixth Street and Leslie. South Austin just isn’t the same without him. He was just such a fixture for the neighborhood.

And what does Austin still need?

So, Austin is the least cool city in Texas, according to Forbes. What’s the final consensus?

Sedwick: We need to figure out

CULPEPPER: Consider the source.

moody: There’s a picture of

CULPEPPER: We need a break from all the growth, and a better traffic system.

WILSON: People aren’t moving to Dallas and Houston because they’re “cool.” They’re moving there because they just went bankrupt.

Moody: I think we need to create

simmons: Pssst, don’t tell any-

an infrastructure for recording music; helping folks publish it and manage it. I guess one

one Austin is cool! We don’t want more people here— thank you, Forbes!

The White Horse that has been circulating among my friends. In it, there are two motorcycles, a bike and a donkey parked in front of the bar. That’s Austin.

how people can continue to afford to live here.

simmons: We also need to cre-

ate the infrastructure for the arts to be financially successful. And people need to vote.

The low voting rate in such a progressive city is just sad.

culpepper: I agree. Art is every-

where here. simmons: And all these little local theaters—there’s just something for everyone. moody: The East Austin Studio

“I don’t like the giant Doritos vending machine in downtown Austin.

I think that’s starting to jump the shark.”

—ja m e s M oody

Tour is one of the coolest things that we do. But it’s only available once a year, so out-of-towners may not get to see it. But it’s that kind of stuff I think we appreciate when we live here.

Now, I will say we are not great at public art. Our public art is not the best—it’s just weird. culpepper: You don’t like our big bat statue out there [on South Congress Avenue and Riverside Drive]?

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horSeShoe lounGe 2034 S. LamaR BLvd.

The Horseshoe Lounge’s classic yellow-and-green sign features a horseshoe symbol and pairs nicely with the blue sky. A beloved South Austin dive bar since 1965, it has a laid-back, unpretentious vibe, with pool tables, shuffleboard, dominoes and a rockin’ jukebox.

artifacts

As our city continues to evolve, these retro-inspired signs and murals remind us of Austin’s original cool, funky vibe PhotogRaPhY BY mattheW mahoN / teXt BY madeLiNe hoLLeRN

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Walker Tire Company 6926 N. Lamar Blvd.

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q 801 Red River St.

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q might be considered an Austin staple, but the venue got its roots in West Texas. C. B. Stubblefield opened the barbecue joint in Lubbock in 1968, and it hosted musicians such as Johnny Cash, B. B. King, Willie Nelson and Stevie Ray Vaughan. When the original location shut down in 1985, Stubblefield relocated to Austin.

Stubb’s reemerged in the capital city in 1986, moving to its current location in 1996. Its red-andwhite sign points Red River Street revelers toward the action.

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This wheel, tire and auto repair company has been around since 1934, but Walker Tire Company adopted its slogan “If It’s in Stock, We’ve Got It!” in the late 1970s.

The tongue-in-cheek phrase has received its fair share of national attention, from mentions in National Lampoon and Smithsonian magazines to a nod on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

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St. Elmo Motel 4367 S. Congress Ave.

A relic from the now-defunct St. Elmo Motel, this landmark sign once stood in front of the motel’s single-room duplex units and attached carports. Though the motel’s office and lodging areas have been demolished, the colorful sign, which reads ST-ELMO-TEL, remains on the corner of South Congress Avenue and East St. Elmo Road.

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Top Notch 7525 Burnet Road

United Way for Greater Austin

The tall, vintage-inspired sign of Top Notch touts charcoal hamburgers and curb service.

Opened in 1971, this greasy spoon is perhaps best known for being featured in Richard Linklater’s 1993 cult classic film Dazed and Confused.

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2000 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Though the artwork has a retro look, graphic design agency Creative Suitcase painted the “You’re My Butter Half” image on the side of the United Way for Greater Austin building in the spring of 2012. Senior art director John Rockwell came up with the slogan and design, drawing inspiration from working at a Wisconsin dairy in his youth.

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Threadgill’s 301 W. Riverside Drive

More Home Slice 1421 S. Congress Ave.

Shepard Fairey of design group Obey Giant created this breathtaking South Congress mural in 2009. A notable contemporary graphic designer and illustrator, Fairey also created the iconic HOPE campaign poster in support of then-Sen. Barack Obama’s bid for the presidency in 2008.

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The music notes that dance across Threadgill’s rainbow-colored sign pay homage to its musical significance since the 1930s. In fact, Janis Joplin got her start performing at its original North Austin location. The South location of the bar-restaurant, which opened in 1996 next door to the former Armadillo World Headquarters, has a theme that celebrates the history of the Armadillo with memorabilia from its 1970s heyday.

These days, the venue is known for its Southern cuisine, live music and spirited gospel brunches every Sunday.

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travel dec e mB e r 2012

amazing places to go, near and far

Cool

runnings WHETHER YOU SEEK A ROMANTIC GETAWAY OR A FUN-FILLED SOJOURN WITH THE KIDS, SKI RESORTS OFFER CHILLS AND THRILLS. PAGE 118

PHOTO fROm THINKSTOCK.

For more hit-the-road ideas, go to austinmonthly.com

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travel

near

Happy Trails Choose your own adventure at a posh ski resort

By B ecc a H e n s le y

D

uring summer’s scorching heat, I daydream incessantly about snow.

As the weather gets cooler, I unpack the family’s skiwear and muse about this year’s vertical adventures. Will it be a chaotic, memory-making family romp on the slopes? Or a grand romantic getaway, colored as much by amenities—balconies, hot tubs, couple’s spa treatments—as steep chutes and lift rides?

Whether you’re looking for family fun or romance, these luxurious ski resorts provide adrenaline-pumping excitement.

Best For Families Moonlight Basin, in Montana’s Rocky Mountains With more than 1,900 acres of immaculate groomers, screeching steeps and tree glades, Moonlight Basin has plenty of appeal all its own. Add in Big Sky Ski Resort next door, and boarders can take advantage of 27 lifts in excess of 5,000 acres of varied terrain, 220 tracks, pristine snow and mountain-top panoramic views of nearby Yellowstone National Park and three states. Within such immensity, riders

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and skiers often find themselves taking the mountain alone, making first tracks even late in the day and finding most lifts to be line-free.

An unpretentious yet elegant resort, Moonlight Basin goes out of its way to make skiing affordable for a familial mob. Reasonably priced adult tickets can be bought in bulk ($260 for a five pack), and kids under 5 ski for free. An abundance of ski-in, ski-out accommodations mean family members can forgo alternative transport and actually hit the slopes from their front door. We love Cowboy Heaven Cabins for its rustic feel, spacious size, location by the Iron Horse chairlift and fully equipped kitchen.

But the coup de gras is the private on-deck hot tub, where parents can relax in warm bubbles and watch their kiddos S-turn down the mountain (starts at $285 a night, includes resort amenities). Even cheaper, the Stillwater Condos on the mountain are a bargain, starting at $160 per night. Moonlight Basin also provides

a plethora of wintertime activities, from dogsledding to snowshoeing.

Getting There Fly to Bozeman, Mont., via Denver for an easy day of travel.

Other Family-Fun Options Four Seasons Vail has welcome amenities for kids, such as a cotton-candy maker, popcorn poppers and mini-tents pitched in the guestrooms. Another great spot is Steamboat, which has kids- and grandkids-ski-free programs, a multifaceted kid’s adventure club and a resort website formulated just for children.

Best For Romance Telluride, in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains Best known for its vertical drop and pulsenumbing expert runs, Telluride also offers vastly diverse terrain options for skiers and boarders of every level. Its longest

PHOTOS COURTESY: CABIN and mountain, TURNER PR; resort, four seasons resort vail.

Clockwise from left: Cowboy Heaven Cabins; Moonlight Basin mountain; Four Seasons Resort Vail

travel

near

continued from page 118

run, Galloping Goose, undulates downhill for 4.6 miles. With 125 trails, 2,000 ski-able acres and 309 inches of average annual snowfall, Telluride is a winter paradise.

This real mountain town turned snazzy resort exudes a certain sexy hipness that’s perfect for rekindling a romance. For instant bonding, cavort together on some of the prodigious steeps and deeps, such as Buzz’s Glade or Bushwacker. But to truly rev up your heart rates in unison, take a heliskiing adventure. To make it easy, Hotel Telluride offers a package that whisks couples to Silverton Mountain via helicopter for heli runs amid more than 22,000 acres of ski-permit terrain in the San Juan Wilderness area. Not for the faint of heart, this package also includes two spa treatments and limitless, languorous cuddling by a crackling fire, with bubbly in hand and hot tub beckoning ($2,699 for two nights for two people).

Do try to leave the room occasionally to enjoy Telluride’s apres ski culture—both in the historic downtown and at the chic mountain village. Dine at the top of Gold Hill at Alpino Vino, an Italian trattoria with a multitiered deck that evokes the Dolomites. Reserve a table in the evening and travel to the restaurant by snow coach on a pathway lit by the stars.

Getting There Two airports service Telluride Resort: Montrose and Telluride. From Austin, connect to either via a national hub.

Other Romantic Ski Options The coziness and glamour inherent in the ski world makes it a titillating outing for couples in love. Some favorite romantic ski hotels are Montage at Deer Valley and Little Nell in Aspen. To set the mood, request an in-room hot tub and fireplace. Sign up for sleigh rides.

Ask the concierge to sprinkle your bed with rose petals or bring Champagne, and always seek out a couple’s spa treatment or two.

travel

far

The Rum Diary Savor the libations and laid-back vibe of Puerto Rico’s capital city By Jennifer Segelke

“I

s that your cat?” I ask a woman sitting on a bench in a colorful plaza in Old San Juan. She peers down at the feline curled up in her lap, then up at her husband and laughs.

“No. I just sat down for a moment, and it jumped up here,” she says. She pets the cat and I snap a quick photo, wishing that the furry creature had selected me to befriend. As I stroll down the cobbled adoquine streets, noticing the dozens of cats lounging on top of cars and in doorways, I can feel the spirit of San Juan buzzing all around me.

Old San Juan, the 465-year-old original city center, was initially conceived to be a military stronghold.

Insider Tips: Since it is a U.S. territory, you don’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico.

To fully immerse yourself in the holiday culture, take part in a parranda, Puerto Rico’s rowdy holiday celebration.

Drink coquito, the island’s

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Bookended by two imposing fortresses, Castillo San Felipe del Morro (known as El Morro) and Castillo de San Cristóbal, the neighborhood is now a charming commercial and residential neighborhood filled with more than 400 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings, pristinely restored and painted in an array of colors, from yellow to hot pink to teal.

Exploring the neighborhood, I weave in and out of boutiques and galleries, venture into cathedrals and peek into restaurants. My wandering leads me to Barrachina, the birthplace of the original piña colada, where I taste the establishment’s famous cocktail. When in Puerto Rico, do as the Puerto Ricans do: drink rum. After my libation, I follow a popular coconut-flavored man carting boxes version of egg nog, celebrate of plantains into a Nochebuena (here, Christmas Eve is bigger than Christmas hole-in-the-wall Day) and be sure to eat 12 restaurant. I order grapes in the 12 seconds before Puerto Rico’s midnight on New Year’s Eve for signature dish, good luck in the year ahead.

December 2012

mofongo, made with fried, mashed plantains and a savory pork stew.

Following a day of sightseeing and indulgent eating, I head back to the San Juan Marriott, ideally situated on the sands of Condado Beach, for some R&R: relaxation and rum, this time in the form of a tasty dragon berry mojito.

After a rejuvenating massage, a dip in the Caribbean and a dinner of Puerto Rican tapas at Bar Gitano, I’m seated at a blackjack table at the Stellaris Casino inside the Marriott, where a riotous table of card sharks watch me lose—and then win back—the $50 I’ve allowed myself to gamble.

Always a hot travel destination, the end-of-the-year holiday season is an idyllic time to visit San Juan. The celebration commences as early as mid-November and culminates on Jan. 6 for El Dia de los Tres Reyes Magos, Three Kings Day. Be sure to attend a music-filled misa de aguinaldo, or sunrise mass. Whether it’s the city’s rich history, the authentic fare or the exuberance of its people, the flavor of San Juan runs deep.

PHOTOS BY: PIÑA COLADA, MICHAEL HERNANDEZ; PARRaNDA, JENNIFER SEGELKE. FORTRESS PHOTO FROM THINKSTOCK.

Clockwise from left: El Morro fortress; the original piña colada at Barrachina; a parranda

events DEC E MB E R 2012

cultural happenings to mark on your calendar

C O M E DY

C.K. in the City

TOP PICKS FOR THE MONTH (DEC. 13-14)

LOUIS C.K. BRINGS LAUGHS AND CYNICISM TO ACL LIVE

ART

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After a year of renovation and change, the LBJ PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY reopens to the public on Dec. 22.

ART

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photos by: lbJ presidential library, charles bogel; music, autumn dewilde. photos courtesy: louis c.k., acl liVe; art, Zucker public relations; dance, ballet austin; Family, Frank erwin center; FestiVals, austin trail oF lights; Film, paramount theatre; literary, bookpeople; theater, bass concert hall.

The nationally touring MUMMIES OF THE WORLD exhibit makes an exclusive stop in San Antonio.

DA NCE

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This year marks the 50th anniversary of Ballet Austin producing THE NUTCRACKER during the holidays.

FA M I LY

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Bring the kids to the Frank Erwin Center to see DISNEY LIVE! MICKEY’S MUSIC FESTIVAL on Dec. 23.

F E S T I VA L S

For even more must-dos, go to austinmonthly.com

L

ouis C.K. exemplifies the phrase “you are your own worst enemy.”

The 45-year-old comedian, born Louis Szekely (the C.K. is a take on the Hungarian pronunciation of his name), has a self-deprecating and highly cynical style that makes up the bulk of his stand-up act, which ranges in topics from his poor health, to his lackadaisical parenting skills, to his inability to get the younger women that he always wants to chase.

It’s also the basis for his Emmy-winning FX show Louie, which he writes, directs and stars in. With so much cynicism, it’s no wonder the road to stardom wasn’t easy for C.K. After writing for shows like Late Night with conan o’Brien, the Late Show with David Letterman and The chris Rock Show in the ’90s, he got his own sitcom on HBO, 2006’s Lucky Louie. It was canceled after one season. He bounced back, though, with appearances on TV shows like Parks and Recreation and in movies including The Invention of Lying.

Then Louie came along, and the rest, as they say, is history. A comedian’s comedian, C.K. was determined to make tickets for this tour affordable for his fans. Instead of going through a middleman, he avoided service fees and hidden charges by selling the tickets to his shows directly through his website. For the lucky people who got tickets to his ACL Live shows (all four sold out quickly), you’re in for a treat. acL Live at the Moody Theater, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd., 225-7999, buy.louisck.net —TaLLY MccoRMack

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After a two-year hiatus, the 47-yearold tradition TRAIL OF LIGHTS makes its triumphant return to Zilker Park.

L I T E R A RY

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Novelist and essayist ZADIE SMITH comes to BookPeople to discuss and sign her new book on Dec. 15.

FILM

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The Emmy-winning actress shares stories about her work during AN EVENING WITH GLENN CLOSE .

M USIC

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Los Angeles indie band the SILVERSUN PICKUPS bring their latest set to Emo’s East on Dec. 16.

T H E AT E R

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Tony-Award winning Broadway show BILLY ELLIOT comes to Bass Concert Hall through Dec. 16.

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events

listings

Things to Do and See FILM ON FIFTH (Ongoing) Austin’s

first and only permanent movie poster gallery features original film posters from 1930s classics to present-day hits, including crowd-pleasers like The Seven Year Itch and Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Come by to view or purchase your favorite movie’s poster for a cool art piece and collectible. ART on 5th, 1501 W. Fifth St., 481-1111, filmon5th.com

HOUSE (Ongoing) In this exhibit, the Museum of Natural & Artificial Ephemerata sets out to “explore dwellings of all kinds” by linking household commodities ranging from the natural to the artificial.

Museum of Natural & Artificial Ephemerata, 1808 Singleton Ave., 320-0566, mnae.org WEST END GALLERIES FIRST THURSDAY (Ongoing) Go gallery hop-

The Big Reveal

A

ping at six different West Side art venues on the first Thursday of each month. The galleries, including Art on 5th and Wally Workman Gallery, are within walking distance of each other and near plenty of parking. Various locations, artaustin.org

(Dec. 22)

fter more than a year, the LBJ Presidential Library’s facelift is finally complete. Coinciding with what would have been Lady Bird Johnson’s 100th birthday is the unveiling of the massive interior redesign and addition of new exhibits to three floors of the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library. It’s the library’s first renovation since 1984 and, in addition to the physical changes, comes with a chic update to the official logo and website. There’s also now a downloadable app that works as a handheld tour guide, interactive Vietnam War and legislation exhibits, social media tools for interaction throughout the exhibit tour so museumgoers can share comments in real-time and four theaters where films about President Johnson’s legacy and family can now be shown. “President Johnson insisted that the library present an unvarnished look at his presidency along with the triumphs and turmoil of the times. Now it is our opportunity to present this story using 21st century technology,” Mark K. Updegrove, LBJ Library Director, has said about the revamped exhibits. To kick off the grand reopening, the museum will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring store discounts, live music, food and drinks. The library is also hosting The State Dinner on Dec. 1, a formal gala celebrating the redesign with the library decked out in ’60s style and flair. It’s sure to transport partygoers back to President Johnson’s time in office amid its new 21st century surroundings. LBJ Presidential Library, 2313 Red River St., 721-0200, lbjlibrary.org —T. McCormack

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COLLECTION SELECTIONS: DELUXE (Through Dec. 2) Built in 1916,

Laguna Gloria’s Tuscan-style villa served as the Austin Museum of Art’s original home and once was an opulent venue for social events. Playing off of that notion, this exhibit features photographs, installations and paintings concentrating on perspectives and themes of luxury and excess. AMOAArthouse, Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th St., 458-8191, amoa-arthouse.org

NEW WORKS: APRIL WOOD

(Through Dec. 2) Metalsmith April Wood is fascinated by the tools different societies use to eat. In her first solo exhibition in Texas, the Maryland-based artist uses copper, silver, bronze, steel and animal parts to explore a new dimension in the relationship between food and the body. AMOA-Arthouse, Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th St., 4588191, amoa-arthouse.org HECHO FARM (Through Dec. 8)

Artist Cruz Ortiz, whose artwork has been shown in the famous Los Angeles County Museum of Art, lets his alter ego, Spaztek, express himself through unique sculptures, drawings, collages, hand-pulled screen-printed posters, multimedia text works and even a radio station. Visual Arts Center at the University of Texas, 2300 Trinity St., 4711108, utvac.org

BASKETBALL: POWER IN PLAY (Through Dec. 9) Featuring

photographs from the Harry Ransom Center’s New York Journal-American collection, this exhibit depicts several variations of basketball, from wheelchair basketball to the Harlem Globetrotters to the professional sport it is today. This exhibit is one of many showing on the UT campus that celebrates the hard-court game that first took shape in a Massachusetts YMCA. Harry Ransom Center, 300 W. 21st St., 4718944, hrc.utexas.edu ROI JAMES (Through Dec. 10) Conceptual artist Roi James showcases his unique paintings and refined technique in this solo exhibition at Lytle Pressley Contemporary. His diverse landscapes and transcendent abstracts show his dedication to the craft and creative expression. Lytle Pressley Contemporary, 1214 W. Sixth St., 917-6369, lytlepressley.com DROUGHT ART (Through Dec. 29) Art on the Way, the “new urban museum,” presents its fourth public art installation, “Drought Art” by Cindy Debold and Mark Ansier. Made out of recycled goods, shiny metal and cedar trees, the sculptures reflect sunlight, creating a dazzling, colorful display that transforms the devastation of the Central Texas drought into beautiful art. The French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St., 472-8180, artontheway.com ATTAINABLE EXCELLENCE (Through Dec. 30) Local artist Andy Coolquitt uses objects found in the vicinity of his home or studio to create his works. In this exhibit, he recombines 60 sculptures and tableaux made between 2006 and 2011 into a site-specific installation that reflects on the condition of the gallery as a place for people and art. AMOA-Arthouse, The Jones Center, 700 Congress Ave., 453-5312, amoa-arthouse.org HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT (Through

Dec. 30) Artist Nick Cave (not to be confused with the Australian musician) creates quirky works of art called “soundsuits” made out of found materials, such as rugs, hair, twigs and buttons, and inspired by African ceremonial costumes. Videos of performers in the soundsuits will accompany the selection of pieces. AMOAArthouse, The Jones Center, 700 Congress Ave., 453-5312, amoa-arthouse.org

PASSAGE (Through Dec. 30) Born the son of an Air Force navigator, Paul Villinski fell in love with the mechanics of flight at an early age.

Villinski’s 33-foot wingspan glider,

photo by charles bogel.

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created from recycled and repurposed items in New York City, is featured in this exhibit. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 471-7324, blantonmuseum.org

was British satirist William Hogarth. This exhibition presents some of his most important prints and provides a glimpse of the city during the first half of the century. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 471-7324, blantonmuseum.org

Dec. 8. Austin Art Space, 7739 Northcross Drive, Ste. Q, 771-2868, austinartspace.com

to the archives of Norman Bel Geddes, the Harry Ransom Center celebrates the life and career of the innovative designer, futurist and urban planner through a never-before-exhibited collection of drawings, models, photographs and films. Bel Geddes is best known for his model of a futuristic 1960s American city that was displayed at the General Motors “Highways and Horizons” exhibit during the 1939-40 New York World’s Fair. Curator Donald Albrecht of the Museum of the City of New York organized the exhibition. Harry Ransom Center, 300 W. 21st St., 4718944, hrc.utexas.edu

THE RULES OF BASKETBALL (Through Jan. 13) Paul Pfeiffer is a contemporary artist who specializes in sculptural video installations exploring the phenomena of mass spectacles, such as professional sporting events, concerts and horror films. This collection explores basketball and includes photographs and several video works that show players as performers with choreographed movements created through video manipulation. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 471-7324, blantonmuseum.org

FEMMES FOR SIMS (Dec. 1) Show your love for Austin’s musical community at this event benefiting women artists. Hosted by the SIMS Foundation, which aims to provide mental health services to local musicians, the evening takes the theme “Night of the Chanteuse” and features performances

by Pamela Hart, Jazz Mills of Cowboy and Indian and Girl in a Coma’s Nina Diaz. Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W. 18th St., 472-5436, simsfoundation.org

LEAH HANEY (Through Jan. 5) Leah Haney’s

TRUE FALSETTO (Through Jan. 17) Lauren Kelley’s

animated works pair plastic dolls with claymation to create illogical and silly narratives. Making its Texas debut, True Falsetto addresses topics like youth, race and place in society through a humorous and intelligent perspective. Women and Their Work, 1710 Lavaca St., 477-1064, womenandtheirwork.org

HOLIDAY SWING (Dec. 1) Swing into the holiday season at “The Night Before the Morning After” fundraising party for Project Transitions, an organization that provides care for Central Texans living with HIV and AIDS. There will be a silent auction, swing-dance lessons and music from Sentimental Journey Orchestra and The Studebakers. The Red Oak Ballroom at Norris Center, 2525 W. Anderson Lane, 454-8646, projecttransitions.org

I HAVE SEEN THE FUTURE (Through Jan. 6) Home

multimedia exhibition at the Tiny Park Gallery includes abstract paintings, drawings and videos that explore interior and exterior architecture. The pieces’ frenzied energy and strict geometry combine in such a way to form works of modern beauty with an edgy sensibility. Tiny Park Gallery, 1101 Navasota St., tinyparkgallery.com

THE SHAPES (Through Jan. 12) This solo show by Los Angeles–based artist Francesca Gabbiani, her fourth at the Lora Reynolds Gallery, explores themes such as utopianism, idealism, escapism and perfectionism. The exhibit includes the artist’s drawings of spheres and tree houses that are made on her signature rice paper and mylar. Lora Reynolds Gallery, 360 Nueces St., Ste. 50, 215-4965, lorareynolds.com DRAWING ZEN (Through Jan. 13) Native New Zea-

lander Max Gimblett, who splits his time between New York City and Auckland and once lived in Austin during the early ’70s, is a practicing Rinzai-Zen Buddhist whose brush-and-ink drawings are inspired by his spiritual beliefs. His abstract artwork serves as both a meditation and a sense of balance for him to achieve spiritual insight. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 471-7324, blantonmuseum.org

INTO THE SACRED CITY (Through Jan. 13) This

exclusive exhibition comes from the collection of scholar and American adventurer Theos Bernard, who was among the first Westerners to gain permission to enter the legendary city of Lhasa, Tibet, to study its culture and beliefs. The presentation features three rare thangkas and five ritual scroll paintings of fierce and sublime Buddhist deities, which are called mandalas. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 471-7324, blantonmuseum.org

PORTRAITS DURING THE REIGN OF GEORGE III

(Through Jan. 13) From the Blanton’s permanent collection, this exhibit features portraits during King George III’s reign over England from 1760-1820. The exhibit also contains works from celebrated artists during his time, including Joshua Reynolds, Thomas Gainsborough and Thomas Lawrence. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 4717324, blantonmuseum.org PROCEED WITH CAUTION (Through Jan. 13) In

the 18th century, London was teeming with political and social satire, as well as financial downfall and corruption. There to witness this historic period

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December 2012

MUMMIES OF THE WORLD (Through Jan. 27) The immense collection of 150 specimens and objects makes Mummies of the World the largest exhibition of real human and animal mummies ever assembled.

The collection presents rare mummies and artifacts that span centuries and are from different continents across the globe, including South America, Europe and Asia. This is the only Texas stop on its exclusive seven-city U.S. tour. The Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway, San Antonio, (210) 357-1900, wittemuseum.org RESTORATION AND REVELATION: CONSERVING THE SUIDA-MANNING COLLECTION (Through

May 5) Antonio Carneo’s 17th century canvas “The Death of Rachel” is the centerpiece of this exhibit that examines the role of art conservation and the science behind preservation, specifically of The Blanton’s own Suida-Manning collection. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 471-7324, blantonmuseum.org

ANGIE RENFRO (Dec. 1-22) The paintings of Angie

Renfro utilize industrial subject matter such as ships, weeds and factories to convey longing and the sense of being alone. Though her subject matter is austere, her work has a graceful and powerful point of view. Wally Workman Gallery, 1202 W. Sixth St., 4727428, wallyworkmangallery.com

FEMME (Dec. 1-22) This contemporary art exhibit

features works from eleven female artists, each displaying their own style and perspectives, for a truly unique collection. Artists include Texas dwellers Ash Almonte, Robin Cheers, Linda Dumont, A.C. Lindner, Court Lurie, Jill Pankey, Olga Porter and Maxine Price. The exhibit will also include an opening reception on Dec. 1 with several of the show’s artists present. Russell Collection Fine Art Gallery, 1137 W. Sixth St., 478-4440, russell-collection.com

12 BUY 12 SHOW (Dec. 7-Jan. 12) This eighth annual juried art show is a National Arts Program exhibit that showcases artwork handpicked by city employees and their families. Put on by Austin Art Space and the Austin Visual Arts Association, the gallery is open to the public. The Walnut Creek Elementary Soaring Eagles choir performs at the opening reception on

BENEFITS

RAGS TO WAGS (Dec. 1) Join the Austin

Humane Society for its largest fundraising event of the year while also celebrating the society’s 60th year as a no-kill animal shelter. The event includes a live and silent auction and a dinner reception with all of the proceeds benefiting our furry friends. Four Seasons Hotel, 98 San Jacinto Blvd., 646-7387, austinhumanesociety.org

DANCING WITH THE STARS (Dec. 2)

Attend a unique evening of entertainment and support the Center for Child Protection’s efforts to advocate for victims of child abuse, neglect and violence in Austin. Local celebrities are paired with professional dancers to compete for bragging rights and the trophy. Some of this year’s celebrity dancers include AISD Superintendent Meria Carstarphen, and Andra Liemandt, drummer for The Cover Girls. Hilton Downtown, 500 E. Fourth St., 472-1164, centerforchildprotection.org

HOLIDAY PARTY (Dec. 9) Big Brothers Big

Sisters hosts its annual holiday party, inviting more than 600 local program participants to indulge in the spirit of the season. Attendees will enjoy food together and a toy drive ensures every mentored child will take home a gift. Holiday Inn Town Lake, 20 N. I-35, 472-5437, bigmentoring.org

CASES FOR CHRISTMAS (Dec. 8) Project Care Case invites guests to donate pillows, blankets, teddy bears and other basic items for Austin-area orphans in exchange for admission into the party. Attendees enjoy treats from many local restaurants, and the first 25 guests will receive swag bags full of great surprises. Wanderlust Boutique, 1601 W. Koenig Lane, 419-7005, wanderlustaustin.com

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KEEP AUSTIN BEAUTIFUL BENEFIT NIGHT

(Dec. 9) Join fellow Austinites for sushi rolls and rice bowls to raise funds for Keep Austin Beautiful.

A portion of the evening’s proceeds go to cleaning, beautifying and protecting the Austin environment.

Roll On Sushi Diner, 5350 Burnet Road, Ste. 2, 3910617, keepaustinbeautiful.org THE HOLIDAY HAAM JAM ALBUM CD RELEASE PARTY (Dec. 12) The second annual Holiday HAAM

Jam Benefit Album, which features holiday songs by Guy Forsyth, White Ghost Shivers, Asleep at the Wheel and other local musicians, is celebrated at this party. Album sales benefit the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians. Antone’s Night Club, 213 W. Fifth St., 322-5177, haamjam.com

COMEDY AUSTIN SECRETS (Ongoing) The month of December means the return of the popular show “Austin Secrets” the first and third Saturday of the month. The show, which teeters between comedy and drama, is inspired by the web project Post Secret, where people anonymously submit their deepest, darkest secrets to be viewed by the world.

Audience members and the show’s own actors submit their confessions on postcards and then they are read aloud. The Hideout Theatre, 617 Congress Ave., 443-3688, hideouttheatre.com ESTHER’S FOLLIES (Ongoing) Join this Sixth Street institution every Thursday through Saturday night for witty comedy focusing on current events, political satire, pop-culture news and more. Esther’s Follies, 525 E. Sixth St., 320-0553, esthersfollies.com THE FREE FRINGE (Ongoing) Come to The Hideout Theatre to watch improvisation performers take the stage and act out the impossible every Thursday night at 10 p.m. for absolutely free. With each week being dramatically different from the next, you won’t know what to expect. The Hideout Theatre, 617 Congress Ave., 443-3688, hideouttheatre.com GNAP! (Ongoing) Join Gnap! Theater Projects on Friday and Saturday nights for comedy theater that pushes the boundaries of improvisation, sketch and performance art. The group has been performing this critically acclaimed show since 2001. Salvage Vanguard Theater, 2803 Manor Road, 474-7886, gnaptheater.org THE LATE SlOT (Ongoing) This quick-witted performance isn’t for the faint of heart, as comics deliver their most outrageous and offensive jokes.

Performances are every Friday at 11:30 p.m. and tickets are $5. The Velveeta Room, 521 E. Sixth St., 469-9116, thevelveetaroom.com THE SPECTACLE (Ongoing) For more than six years, Parallelogramophonograph (PGraph) has improvised full-length plays. The group has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland and won the 2009 B. Iden Payne Award for Outstanding Achievement in Improvisational Theatre.

The Hideout Theatre, 617 Congress Ave., 443-3688, hideouttheatre.com THINNING THE HERD (Ongoing) Join The Insti-

tution Theater every other Sunday in its effort to promote a healthier lifestyle with this weight

loss–themed improv show. Comedians compete against each other both onstage and on the scale to see who will win the sought-after “Golden Refrigerator,” an award for the actor who has shed the most pounds. The Institution Theater, 3708 Woodbury Drive, 895-9580, theinstitutiontheater.com WEIRD! TRUE HOLLYWOOD TALES

(Ongoing) Every fourth Thursday of the month, stand-up comedian Lashonda Lester hosts and curates this fascinating series featuring the biographies of celebrities who’ve met an untimely or mysterious death.

Salvage Vanguard Theater, 2803 Manor Road, 474-7886, weirdtruetales.com NICK THUNE (Through Dec. 1) Comedian and actor Nick Thune’s musically accompanied routine (he strums a guitar while delivering his jokes) has earned him appearances on Conan, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Cap City Comedy Club, 8120 Research Blvd., Ste. 100, 467-2333, capcitycomedy.com JOE ROGAN (Dec. 1) Best known as the host of NBC’s reality game show Fear Factor and for playing Joe the electrician on the sitcom NewsRadio, Joe Rogan is also a topnotch comic, having released five albums, including 2010’s Talking Monkeys in Space.

When he’s not touring the country doing stand-up, he’s a Tae Kwon Do champion and does commentating for Ultimate Fighting Championship. He most recently played himself in the Kevin James film Here Comes the Boom. ACL Live at the Moody Theater, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd., 225-7999, acl-live.com JAMIE KILSTEIN (Dec. 2) Jamie Kilstein,

co-host of political Internet radio show Citizen Radio, is known for his liberal, outspoken nature, often lauding veganism and atheism on his radio show and in his stand-up sets. Kilstein has made appearances on Conan and the defunct programs Countdown with Keith Olbermann and CNN’s The Joy Behar Show, to name a few. His smart, politically driven jokes will be sure to offend a few people but deliver laughs to all. The New Movement Theater, 616 Lavaca St., 788-2669, newmovementtheater.com

LEANNE MORGAN (Dec. 5-8) Before Leanne Morgan became a comedian, she was a stay-at-home mother of three who sold jewelry at parties on the side. Her Southern charm and skills as a storyteller helped her become a successful comic, leading to appearances at the Las Vegas Comedy Festival, on The View and as a finalist in Nick at Nite’s Funniest Mom competition. Cap City Comedy Club, 8120 Research Blvd., Ste. 100, 467-2333, capcitycomedy.com MIKE EPPS (Dec. 7) Comedian and actor

Mike Epps got his start in the 2000 film Next Friday, written and directed by Ice Cube. He gained popularity for his role as Black Doug in The Hangover and with the 2009 release of his comedy/hip-hop album Funny Bidness: Da Album. Epps is currently performing around

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the country for his I’m Still Standing tour.

The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., 472-5470, austintheatre.org MARIA BAMFORD (Dec. 11-12) Maria

Bamford is known for her soft, almost childlike voice, but when she’s doing stand-up, her act is anything but sweet and innocent. The brash comic has appeared on countless latenight talk shows and is recognized as the first female comic to have two half-hour Comedy Central Presents specials. Her album Unwanted Thoughts Syndrome was named one of the best comedy albums of the decade by the AV Club. Cap City Comedy Club, 8120 Research Blvd., Ste.100, 467-2333, capcitycomedy.com

JOHN MULANEY (Dec. 13-15) Thirty-

year-old comedian and Chicago native John Mulaney has been inciting laughs from behind the camera as a writer for Saturday Night Live. He’s proven to be just as funny with the attention directly on him with appearances on several “Weekend Update” sketches and as a regular contributor to VH1’s Best Week Ever. Be sure not to miss one of

comedy’s rising stars when he appears at Cap City. Cap City Comedy Club, 8120 Research Blvd., Ste. 100, 4672333, capcitycomedy.com SINBAD (Dec. 14) Sinbad became one of the most popular pop culture figures in the ’90s with a string of hit movies including First Kid, Jingle All the Way and Good Burger. He began his comedy career more than 30 years ago after beating out fellow comedian Dennis Miller in a round on Star Search. Most recently he has appeared on Celebrity Apprentice, Are We There Yet? and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.

Catch the comedic legend when he comes to town for one night only. One World Theatre, 7701 Bee Caves Road, 330-9500, oneworldtheatre.org MARIO DIGIORGIO (Dec. 19-22) Austin-based comedian Mario DiGiorgio brings his observational humor and quick wit to his four-night stint at Cap City. The New Jersey native was a finalist in HBO’s Aspen Open Call for stand-up, and most recently wrote the tonguein-cheek advice book The Cynic’s Guide to a Rich and Full Life. He’s performed at

the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal and was featured on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend. Cap City Comedy Club, 8120 Research Blvd., Ste. 100, 467-2333, capcitycomedy.com

to perfect some sultry belly-dancing moves. Corazon Latino Dance Studio, 500 W. William Cannon Drive, Ste. 400, 416-8800, luciladance.com

MATT BEARDEN (Dec. 27-29 & 31)

Learn hip-shaking and hair-flipping moves from the Bollywood screen in this high-energy workout at the Bollywood Shake dance studio. Register ahead for beginner-friendly classes on Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday evenings. Bollywood Shake, 10700 Anderson Mill Road, Ste. 208, 677-4253, bollywoodshake.com

Matt Bearden, 2002 winner of the Funniest Person in Austin contest, has been in comedy since 1990 and is the curator of the sketch and improv show Punch! at Cap City. He has appeared on TV shows like Austin Stories and Comedy Central’s Premium Blend and has opened up for Dave Chappelle. Celebrate the end of the year with some laughs when Bearden takes over Cap City for four nights. Cap City Comedy Club, 8120 Research Blvd., Ste. 100, 467-2333, capcitycomedy.com

DANCE BACK TO DANCE! (Ongoing) Every Saturday at noon, Lucila’s belly dance classes focus on techniques, transitions and movement. Instruction includes warming up, posture, hand and arm movement, and steps

BOLLYWOOD WORKOUT (Ongoing)

ESQUINA TANGO (Ongoing) Learn to dance salsa, tango, samba and many more Latin dances with this nonprofit cultural organization. Just drop in whenever you can; no experience or preregistration is necessary to get schooled on some hot new steps.

Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales St., 524-2772, esquinatangoaustin.com SATURDAY DANCES (Ongoing) Stop by for a 30-minute lesson followed by hours of gliding across the dance floor at Austin Uptown Dance. No partner

Fifty Years Strong

(Dec. 8-23)

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December 2012

photo courtesy ballet austin.

I

n the 50-year anniversary of Ballet Austin’s production of The Nutcracker, thousands have escaped to a winter wonderland and gotten lost in the beauty of the dancing and the magic of the story. For the past 12 years, Ballet Austin’s Artistic Director Stephen Mills has overseen the production and inspired dances that complement Tchaikovsky’s legendary score performed by the Austin Symphony Orchestra.

With a history spanning 53 years, Ballet Austin is the 15th biggest classical ballet company in the country and has the largest collective training facility associated with a professional ballet company in the United States. Ballet Austin’s Nutcracker is the longest-running production in Texas and has become an integral part of the community with an estimated 25,000 people attending Ballet Austin’s performances each year, making it the most attended live dance performance in Central Texas. The ballet, which originally premiered in Russia in December 1892, tells the story of young Clara’s holiday adventure through a dreamlike world of fairies, toy soldiers, an army of mice and a nutcracker prince.

This Christmas spectacle is filled with tradition, enchanting characters and mesmerizing sets that make for a magical experience. You’ll have to pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming. The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, 476-9151, balletaustin.org —ASHLEY CEDENO

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is necessary to attend. Austin Uptown Dance, 8868 Research Blvd., Ste. 706, 989-3939, austinballroomdancers.org

entertainment. The Dance Institute of Austin, 6612 Sitio Del Rio Blvd., 327-2869, austinscd.org

SUNDAY DANCE PRACTICE

AUSTIN CHILDREN’S NUTCRACKER

(Ongoing) Join the members of Dance International for dance sessions every Sunday afternoon at the Hills Health Club. With a relaxed and friendly environment, this is the perfect opportunity to test your ballroom dancing skills and your Latin moves.

Hills Health Club, 4615 Bee Caves Road, 970-1343, dancein.org

(Dec. 7-9 & 14-16) Experience this Christmas classic with the Austin City Ballet, a nonprofit organization that specializes in performances by children for children. Come see some of the city’s most talented dancers from ages 8 to 18 perform this timeless story of a young girl and her nutcracker prince. The Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Road, 4965937, austincityballet.org

AN (EXTRA) ORDINARY LIFe

(Through Dec. 1) Modern dance choreographer Kathy Dunn Hamrick debuts her newest piece along with work by guest choreographer Jose Luis Bustamante, formerly of the local studio Sharir + Bustamante Danceworks.

Salvage Vanguard Theatre, 2803 Manor Road, 934-1082, kdhdance.com FALL FOR DANCE (Through Dec. 1) This show features a compilation of fascinating and entertaining works by renowned choreographers in the award-winning ensemble Dance Repertory Theatre. Just one of the show’s standout performances includes Promenade by Robert Battle, in which dancers are coupled off for a show that explores the association between formality and primitivism. McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Drive, 4712787, texasperformingarts.org APRIL FOOLS (Through Dec. 2) Tapestry Dance Company is performing an encore presentation of its cabaret April Fools. The piece won Best Choreography at the 2012 Austin Critics Table Awards with talented artistic director Acia Gray at the helm.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see this award-winning cabaret hit the stage for a second time. The Long Center for Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, 457-5100, tapestry.org BETWEEN HEAVEN AND hades

(Through Dec. 2) This performance by the Ballet East Dance Company explores themes of temptation and transcendence and features choreography by BEDC alum Juan P. Flores, as well as original work by Austin choreographers Melissa Villarreal, Eric Midgley, Dixon Mena and Hailley Schwartz. The Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Road, 385-2838, balleteast.org ST. ANDREW’S BALL (Dec. 1) Cel-

ebrate the 36th annual St. Andrew’s Ball with The Austin Scottish Country Dance Society. Enjoy a wine and cheese reception before taking part in traditional Scottish country dancing. SCDS musicians John Taylor and Lyle Ramshaw provide the live

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OF MICE AND MUSIC (Dec. 7-16)

Enjoy a new twist on an old favorite.

This jazz version of The Nutcracker is a critically acclaimed annual holiday show featuring a tap-dance spin on the Christmas classic. Tapestry’s best and brightest take center stage with live musical entertainment provided by funk-jazz band Blue J. George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center, Boyd Vance Theater, 1165 Angelina St., 474-9846, tapestry.org

MAMI BORICUA (Dec. 9) This dance performance is based on the true story of the Puerto Rican women that helped contribute to union efforts for the improvement of wages and working conditions for New York City garment workers in the late 1950s.

This production is in collaboration with Rupert Reyes, artistic director of Teatro Vivo, and historic researcher Zulmarie Alverio. Texas School for the Deaf, 1102 S. Congress Ave., 251-8122, prfdance.org SALTIMBANCO (Dec. 12-16) Cirque du Soleil’s longest-running show, Saltimbanco, opened in 1992. Since then, Saltimbanco has toured 45 countries and more that 220 cities, and it is ending the U.S. run of the show in Austin. Catch the last performances and get your fill of amazing costumes, acrobatics, lighting, magic and music that is both entertaining and awe-inspiring. Cedar Park Center, 2100 Avenue of the Stars, Cedar Park, 600-5000, cedarparkcenter.com

EXPOS/TOURS Austin aDVENTURES OVERTURES SIGHTSEEING (Ongoing) Explore the

culture, local art, shopping areas and urban scene on this 90-minute tour through the city. Featured areas include the Capitol, the historical streets of downtown, the University of Texas campus and the older landscape of East Austin. Tours are held daily every few hours. Tickets can be purchased online.

Austin Visitors Center, 209 E. Sixth St., 659-9478, austinovertures.com

December 2012

THE AUSTIN BREW BUS (Ongoing)

Get to know some of Austin’s finest microbreweries while sampling a variety of their delicious craft beers on this fun and educational tour. If traveling with a big group of strangers makes you uneasy, private tours for just you and your buds are available. Austin Brew Bus, 701 Trinity St., (281) 912-3041, austinbrewbus.com

AUSTIN EATS FOOD TOURS

(Ongoing) For a sampling of the epicurean goodness this city has to offer, Austin Eats Food Tours has a smorgasbord of themed tours. Past food excursions have included BBQ, South Congress, Downtown and Upscale Happy Hour. There are also Bicycle Food tours. Prices range from $39 to $89. Austin Eats Food Tours, 963-4545, austineatsfoodtours.com

SAXET TRADE SHOW (Dec. 15-16)

For more than 20 years the Saxet Trade Show has been the go-to place for Central Texas outsdoorsmen and hunters. Peruse a wide selection of firearms, ammunition, knives, hunting and equipment, sporting gear and much more. Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker Lane, (361) 289-2256, saxetshows.com

FAMILY children’s story time (Ongoing) On the first and third Tuesdays of the month, youngsters gather for story time and activities relating to the theme of the day’s storybook. Readings occur on the cozy front porch of this historic home, and snacks and blankets are encouraged. The French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St., 472-8180, frenchlegationmuseum.org

AUSTIN GHOST TOURS (Ongoing) Austin Ghost Tours has just what you need to get your paranormal fix. Take a spooky stroll through the Warehouse District or the Old Pecan Street District, stopping at historical landmarks like the Driskill Hotel along the way. Tours begin around 8 p.m. on the porch of Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill. Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill, 303 Red River St., 853-9826, austinghosttours.com

CUB CLUB (Ongoing) Every Saturday morning, bring your children to participate in a fun program exclusively for ages up to 3. Children and parents can explore exhibits and participate in activities that include Little Explorers Lab, Storytime and Sing-Along.

Dads get in free. Austin Children’s Museum, 201 Colorado St., 472-2499, austinkids.org

HISTORIC WALKING TOURS

DINOSAUR PARK (Ongoing)

(Ongoing) These free tours are just right for history buffs. If you’re more into discovering the intermingling of old and new, check out the Pecan Street District tour. But if Victorian society is your cup of tea, visit the homes on the Bremond Block Historic District tour. Call for reservations.

Austin Visitor Center, 209 E. Sixth St., 478-0098, austintexas.org/visit UT TOWER TOURS (Ongoing) Take

You don’t need to be a paleontologist to enjoy this unique outdoor museum.

Dinosaur Park features realistic life-size replicas of numerous prehistoric creatures like the Stegosaurus, Brachiosaurus and, of course, Tyrannosaurus Rex. Aside from taking a tour along the trail, kids can enjoy a “Dino Dig” to uncover hidden fossils. Dinosaur Park, 893 Union Chapel Road, Cedar Creek, 321-6262, thedinopark.com

in a 360-degree view of Austin atop the architectural symbol of the University of Texas. Find out if the Perry-Castaneda Library is really shaped like Texas or simply enjoy the Hill Country scenery.

Tours are seasonal and advanced reservations are recommended. The University of Texas Tower, 2247 Guadalupe St., 475-6633, utexas.edu/tower

DISCOVERY TIME (Ongoing) Every

HOLIDAY HOME TOUR (Dec. 8-9) The Georgetown Heritage Society’s annual Holiday Home Tour is back this year with some exciting changes. Not only can you enjoy beautiful homes dressed up in holiday style, but you can also join other revelers for a pancake breakfast in your festive pajamas on Dec. 8. The first annual, family-friendly “Pajamas and Pancakes” holiday breakfast includes a photo opportunity with some of Santa’s elves, story time and holiday crafts. Various locations, 869-8597, georgetownheritagesociety.com

THE FLYING THEATER MACHINE

day at noon and 2 p.m., the museum offers experiments and crafts relating to different science topics like gravity and engineering. It’s a great opportunity for kids to discover their inner genius and to get creative. Austin Children’s Museum, 201 Colorado St., 472-2499, austinkids.org (Ongoing) Most Sunday afternoons, comedians from The Flying Theater Machine entertain with stories, music, juggling and interactive fun. Kids are encouraged to flex their acting skills by participating in the improvisational show. The Hideout Theatre, 617 Congress Ave., 971-3311, flyingtheatermachine.com

HEY LOLLIES (Ongoing) Every third

Sunday of the month, Laura Freeman and the Hey Lollies crew invite children to come sing and dance in an

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environment where silliness is encouraged. There will be brunch served at 10 a.m., and the puppet and live music performance starts at 10:30 a.m. Cherrywood Coffeehouse, 1400 E. 38 1/2th St., 538-1991, heylollyproductions.com KIDS’ CLUB (Ongoing) Alamo Draft-

house goes especially kid-friendly with free screenings of family-favorite films on the last Saturday of the month.

Check online for shows and showtimes and get to the theater early as admittance is on a first-come, first-served basis. Various Alamo Drafthouse locations, 476-1320, drafthouse.com

KIDS IMPROV (Ongoing) The Hide-

out Theatre offers weekly classes for kids and teens that would like to have fun experimenting with improvisational comedy. The classes offer a relaxed, upbeat environment to work with others, helping children and teenagers learn the art of improv, storytelling and performing on stage.

The Hideout Theatre, 617 Congress Ave., 476-0473, hideouttheatre.com

A

(DEC. 16-23 )

fter two years in the dark, the Trail of Lights is being switched back on. The annual festive holiday display was shut down because of budget issues, but RunTex Carrozza Foundation, Forefront Austin and H-E-B partnered together to bring the event back. An Austin tradition since 1965, when it was called “Yule Fest” (the name was changed in 1992), the Trail of Lights started out as a gift to Austinites from the Parks and Recreation Department. As the years passed, though, the cost of the event rose to more than $1 million. Through fundraising efforts and a public-private partnership, this year’s festival is set to recreate the grandeur of earlier years. Holiday revelers are once again able to walk through the one and a quarter miles of light displays and see performers while sipping on warm apple cider and hot chocolate and indulging in delicious bites provided by local food trailers. Each night of the weeklong event will have a different theme, such as heritage night, school spirit night and military appreciation night. And, as in other years, there will be a Trail of Lights 5K on Dec. 15. For the first time, sponsor H-E-B is hosting Santa, as he hands out a free book to every child who attends as part of the youth literacy initiative. When government, organizations and citizens band together to revive a lost institution, you know the holiday spirit is alive and well in the capital city. Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road, austintrailoflights.org —SHEYNa WEBSTER

CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG (Dec. 11)

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to the 1800s at this Victorian-style Christmas. The festivities include a visit from Father Christmas, wearing a reproduction of a suit made by 19th century German immigrants, and caroling led by professional singers. On display will be a collection of Victorian decorations donated to the museum from local artist Barbara Adams.

There will also be a craft center for children to create their own Victorianstyle knick-knacks. Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St., 478-2335, nchmuseum.org GINGERBREAD WONDERLAND

(Dec. 3-Jan.3) Grab the family and

endog is family-run and family-friendly entertainment featuring several talented pooches that can do everything from juggling to unicycling with the encouragement of their trainers. Check it out for yourself at this holiday-themed event that includes impressive tricks and the adorable “Dance of the Sugar Plum Puppies.” The Vortex Theater, 2307 Manor Road, 478-5282, vortexrep.org HOLIDAY FAMILY DAYS: WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN (Dec. 28-29) Take the

whole family to The Blanton Museum of Art and learn about the science of art conservation and preservation. There will be tours through the museum, games and hands-on activities to gain an appreciation of art. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 471-7324, blantonmuseum.org

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS

GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU

NOEL AT THE NEILL-COCHRAN HOUSE: A TEXAS VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS (Dec. 2) Take a trip back

CIRCUS CHICKENDOG’S THE MUTTCRACKER (Dec. 27-Jan. 5) Circus Chick-

Fridays and Saturdays, the living history park Pioneer Farms allows visitors to accompany Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey through Christmases past.

The interactive recreation of scenes from the 1843 Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol is acted out at the farm’s historic sites. Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Drive, 837-1215, pioneerfarms.org

dren ages 5-12 can learn the Brazilian-African fusion of music, dance and martial arts from instructor Erick Salazar at this event held every Saturday. Allow your children to develop the discipline, coordination and rhythm offered by this unique skill.

Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St., 9743772, maccaustin.org

(Dec. 2) The Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia presents its adaptation of the classic children’s book Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney and illustrator Anita Jeram. The heartwarming tale follows son and father Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare as they share their love for one another.

The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., 472-5470, austintheatre.org

hits in various genres, from pop and swing to country and hip-hop. Mickey and Minnie will be joined by pals Donald and Goofy along with characters from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and Toy Story for an upbeat and fun jam session. Frank Erwin Center, 1701 Red River St., 471-7744, uterwincenter.com

EBENEZER’S JOURNEY: A DICKENS’ CHRISTMAS STORY (Dec. 7-15) On

(Dec. 9) The Austin Chamber Music Center presents this live performance of the soundtrack to A Charlie Brown Christmas, composed by jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi. Classics like “Linus and Lucy” and “The Christmas Song” will be played by Artistic Director Michelle Schumann on piano with accompaniment by bassist Utah Hamrick and drummer David Sierra.

Antone’s, 213 W. Fifth St., 454-0026, austinchambermusic.org

YOUTH CAPOEIRA (Ongoing) Chil-

Light Up the Night

head to the Four Seasons Hotel to view an elaborate Gingerbread Village that features classic Austin sites like The Salt Lick, Broken Spoke, Continental Club and the Cathedral of Junk, all made out of delicious gingerbread. They’ll be on display until Jan. 3, but be sure to attend the three open houses taking place Dec. 3-5 for families to view the creative structures while sipping on apple cider or sparkling wine. Four Seasons Hotel, 98 San Jacinto Blvd., 478-4500, fourseasons.com

FEStIVaLS/ MarKEtS FIRST THURSDAY (Ongoing) On the first

Thursday of the month, South Congress shops stay open until 10 p.m. or later, giving visitors a chance to find special sales, receive free merchandise and experience a quintessential part of Austin after dark. South Congress Avenue between Barton Springs Road and Elizabeth Street, firstthursday.info

Get into the holiday spirit with a fun sing-along led by the Austin Symphony Orchestra, its chorus and featured members of the Austin Youth Orchestra as they sing “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and other holiday tunes. There will be appearances by special guests Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, the Grinch and Santa Claus. Admission is free, but tickets will be distributed on a first-come, firstserved basis. Riverbend Centre, 4214 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., 327-9416, riverbendcentre.com

BLUE GENIE ART BAZAAR (Through Dec.

24) This bazaar, open seven days a week, is a holiday shopping extravaganza. The one-stop shop for all Christmas gifts features more than 130 vendors and artists selling paintings, clothing, accessories, ceramics and much more. The Marchesa Hall and Theatre, 6226 Middle Fiskville Road, 444-6655, bluegenieartbazaar.com

HILL COUNTRY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS DRIVE THRU LIGHT DISPLAY (Through

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT (Dec. 11) Enjoy

a family-friendly movie at the Twin Oaks Branch of the Austin Public Library. This month, the library is showing Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted, which follows New York zoo animals misplaced in Madagascar pretending to be in a traveling circus as they try to get back to New York. Austin Public Library–Twin Oaks Branch, 1800 S. Fifth St., 974-9980, library.austintexas.gov DISNEY LIVE! MICKEY’S MUSIC FESTIVAL (Dec. 23) Join more than 25

of your favorite Disney characters for a rocking show that remixes popular

photo courtesy austin trail oF lights.

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Jan. 1) Located one mile north of Johnson City, this drive-through light spectacle features more than 500,000 lights and has been featured on the Travel Channel, The New York Times and news stations around the state. Parts of the ornate decorations are animated to festive music played on the display’s very own radio station. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, it is sure to be the biggest and brightest yet. For more about the man behind the lights, turn to page 50. 1685 N. Hwy. 281, 955-1706, hillcountrychristmaslights.com

GERMAN-TEXAN HERITAGE SOCIETY CHRISTMAS MARKET (Dec. 1) This market

boasts unique products for your gift giving

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needs this holiday season, including nutcrackers, hand-embroidered linens, handcrafted wood items and delicious German-style treats and drinks. German Free School, 507 E. 10th St., 482-0927, germantexans.org HOLIDAY SING-ALONG AND DOWNTOWN STROLL (Dec. 3) Start

your holidays off right as Downtown Austin Alliance and KUT 90.5 FM present this annual stroll and sing-along.

After spreading your holiday cheer through song, head to Congress Avenue, where there will be art and cultural activities and live music. Don’t miss the Capitol Christmas tree’s new LED light system—the lights and music have a festive synchronized display at the top and bottom of each hour. The Capital, South Congress Avenue entrance, 469-0476, downtownaustinholidays.com

ZILKER TREE LIGHTING (Dec. 2)

Zilker Park is home to one of the most impressive Christmas tree displays in the city. This annual tree-lighting ceremony has entertainment, food, novelties and live music to get guests into the holiday spirit. The Christmas “tree,” a display of lights attached to a moonlight tower, stands at 155 feet tall, is composed of 39 streamers and lit with 3,039 multicolored lights that are sure to amaze

viewers. Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road, 974-6700, austintexas.gov CHERRYWOOD ART FAIR (Dec. 8-9)

For Christmas shopping, the Cherrywood Art Fair is a 10-year tradition for gift-givers looking to purchase local, handcrafted items. Timed perfectly with the holiday season, the free event features live music, a court of yummy food trucks as well as games and activities for the kids. Maplewood Elementary, East 38 1/2 Street and Maplewood Avenue, cherrywoodartfair.org

LUMINATIONS (Dec. 8-9) Enjoy the Wildflower Center’s beautiful gardens as they are lit up with 5,000 lights and 3,000 luminarias. Fun activities for the whole family include crafts for children and musical performances as well as photo opportunities with Frosty the Snowman. Admission is free with two canned food products, which are donated to the Capital Area Food Bank. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave., 232-0100, wildflower.org ROSE OF TEXAS FAIRE (Dec. 9) The

first Rose of Texas Faire is hosted by the Marble Falls Uptown Theatre and benefits two local charities: The Highland Lakes Family Crisis Center and Hill

Country Children’s Advocacy Center.

The talented Texas Guitar Women will showcase their skills as well as other Texan performers, including Brennen Leigh, Teri Joyce, Ruby Dee and more.

Marble Falls Uptown Theatre, 218 Main St., Marble Falls, (830) 693-9996, roseoftexas.eventbrite.com ARMADILLO CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

(Dec. 12-24) In its 37th season, this shopping extravanganza offers the best when it comes to handcrafted items, from affordable wares to more high-end pieces, fashioned by local artists. Attendees can enjoy live music and drinks at a full bar while browsing. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road, 447-1605, armadillobazaar.com

FILM BLUE STARLITE URBAN DRIVE-IN

(Ongoing) If you’re looking to get the kids out of the house or find a perfect date-night locale, Blue Starlite Urban Drive-In is playing classics like Edward Scissorhands, Christmas Vacation, Nightmare Before Christmas and Die Hard throughout December. The blastfrom-the-past theater has concessions from the ’50s to the ’80s and vintage

speaker boxes for your car. Austin Studios, 1901 E. 51st St., 494-1681, bluestarlitedrivein.com

Tarantino classic, Pulp Fiction, on Dec. 6.

Both screenings will be accompanied by a special feature documenting Tarantino’s career with exclusive interviews. Don’t miss out on this opportunity. Various locations, fathomevents.com

MASTER PANCAKE THEATER

(Ongoing) Join comedians John Erler and Joe Parsons, along with other local personalities at this award-winning and uniquely Austin comedy series, where the performers mock a variety of films and TV specials. Past shows have included Twilight and Spider-Man. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, various locations, 476-1320, drafthouse.com

AN EVENING WITH GLENN CLOSE

(Dec. 6) By effortlessly creating authentic characters on stage and screen, Glenn Close has cemented herself as a Hollywood heavyweight. The award-winning and critically acclaimed actress, best known for her roles in films such as Dangerous Liaisons and Fatal Attraction, will be sharing stories from her career and excerpts from her work. The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., 4725470, austintheatre.org

IN CONVERSATION: BEN MANKIEwicz (Dec. 1) Spend an evening with radio-television personality and journalist Ben Mankiewicz.

The weekend daytime host of Turner Classic Movies and Huffington Post film critic will be sharing personal stories from his impressive career as the co-host on the nationally syndicated series At the Movies, as well as other personal accounts. The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., 472-5470, austintheatre.org

MAKE WATCH LOVE AUSTIN PARTY

(Dec. 8) Calling all musicians, actors and video gamers: The Austin Film Society’s annual bash for filmmakers and AFS members is extending an invitation to other Austin creative professionals this year. The society is celebrating the extension of its media production facility with the addition of the National Guard Building, which will house Studio 7 as well as 50,000 square feet of office space for media professionals.

Join AFS for cocktails, networking and the celebration of its exciting expansion. Austin Studios, 1901 E. 51st St., 322-0145, austinfilm.org

TARANTINO XX (Dec. 4 & 6) To

celebrate the 20th anniversary of the cult hit Reservoir Dogs, Fathom Events is hosting a viewing of the film nationwide on Dec. 4 followed by another

One for the Books

RADIO UNNAMEABLE (Dec. 12) Austin

Film Society presents a screening of Radio Unnameable; a film about renowned DJ Bob Fass, whose free-form program of the same name was featured on WBAI in New York City. Fass’s gentle, thought-provoking and politically engaging style as well as excerpts from Fass’s personal archive of audio recordings—including interviews— will be featured in the documentary that celebrates the prominent career of one of radio’s unsung heroes. Alamo Drafthouse– South Lamar, 1120 S. Lamar Blvd., 322-0145, austinfilm.org

(DEC.15)

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NOCHE DE PELICULA/ MOVIE NIGHT

(Dec. 21) This month, Esquina Tango is screening the Argentina drama, El Último Elvis, or The Last Elvis, by Armando Bo. Divorced singer and Elvis impersonator Carlos Gutierrez lives his life as if he were the actual King. Watch the drama of his life unfold on screen in this tale of obsession and delusion. Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales St., 524-2772, esquinatangoaustin.com

LITERARY/ EDUCATIONAL photo courtesy bookpeople.

t’s been seven years since best-selling British novelist Zadie Smith has released a work of fiction, so her latest book, NW, will no doubt excite her fans. Known for her storytelling prowess and willingness to take on difficult subjects such as race, imperialism and infidelity, Smith’s previous works include her first, and perhaps most-revered novel, White Teeth. Published in 2000, the book won several awards, including being listed on TIME magazine’s “100 Best English-Language Novels From 1923-2005.” It was alsom made into a TV miniseries in the UK. Her subsequent novels On Beauty and The Autograph Man were also hits; On Beauty was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2005 and won the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2006. In her new book, Smith explores the part of the city where she grew up.

The plot follows the lives of four Londoners from the impoverished northwest section of the city, and shows how a mysterious stranger dramatically changes their lives. Aside from her books, Smith has contributed many essays to The New Yorker and The Guardian. In 2010, she joined the staff at New York University to teach in the school’s Creative Writing Program as a tenured professor. Hear Smith read from NW and snag a signed copy for yourself. Who knows? You may have to wait another seven years to see her. BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd., 472-5050, bookpeople.com —LARA GRANT

AUSTIN POETRY SLAM (Ongoing) Chime

in or jump into the fun of this original event that features poetry performances every Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. 29th Street Ballroom at Spider House, 2906 Fruth St., 480-9562, austinslam.com

HOLIDAY BOOK DRIVE (Ongoing) All

month long you can donate children’s books

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to Barnes and Noble to benefit Dell Children’s Hospital. Give the gift of literacy and brighten the day of a child who will be able to enjoy the books at the hospital’s Half Pint Library. At the library, patients and their siblings are able to read the donated copies and can take books home for themselves. Barnes & Noble– Arboretum, 10000 Research Blvd., 418-8985, bn.com LUNCHTIME LIT (Ongoing) Take a break from your

workday and join the O. Henry Museum’s docent emeritus, J.C. Elkins, as he reads selections from the great American writer. O. Henry Museum, 409 E. Fifth St., 472-1903, ohenrymuseum.org

POETRY WORKSHOP (Ongoing) Whether you’re into the clever wordplay of Shakespearean sonnets or the passionately invigorating craftsmanship of Wordsworth, channel your inner poet at this workshop on the third Thursday of every month. Barnes & Noble– Arboretum, 10000 Research Blvd., 418-8985, bn.com RHYTHMS WITH GIDI (Ongoing) Find your own unique rhythm in this beginner African drum class that combines traditional drumming techniques and percussion styles every Saturday. George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 1165 Angelina St., 974-4926, austintexas.gov SHARE YOUR STORIES (Ongoing) Read your short

stories, poems or any other written works to an audience on the third Friday of every month. Shared works are not critiqued, making this evening a relaxing way to simply listen to what others have to say.

Austin Public Library–Twin Oaks Branch, 1800 S. Fifth St., 974-9980, library.austintexas.gov

MYSTERY BOOK CLUB (Through Dec. 5) Share

your thrill for chills at the Austin Public Library’s monthly meet-up of mystery enthusiasts on the first Wednesday of the month. Austin Public Library– Spicewood Springs Branch, 8637 Spicewood Springs Road, 974-3800, library.austintexas.gov

LANGUAGE CLASSES (Through Dec. 18) Drop in and

brush up your conversational skills in Spanish, French, Portuguese or Italian while socializing with new friends.

Freestyle Language Center, The Khabele School, 801 Rio Grande St., 296-9558, freestylelanguagecenter.com THE WINDSOR PLAYERS (Through Dec. 18) Look-

ing to perfect your craft or just have a little fun?

These monthly play readings are the perfect opportunity to experience theater without the pressures of a big stage or large audience. Each month, members choose which play to read for the next month. Austin Public Library–Windsor Park Branch, 5833 Westminster Drive, 974-9840, library.austintexas.gov

KAREN BERG (Dec. 2) Co-founder of the The Kabbalah Centre in Los Angeles, Karen Berg has been spreading the teachings of Kabbalah for more than four decades. The best-selling author of God Wears Lipstick and Simple Light has a new book out, To Be Continued: Reincarnation and the Purpose of Our Lives, in which she explains the principles of reincarnation and the soul’s journey through multiple physical incarnations. BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd., 4725050, bookpeople.com TODD-MICHAEL ST. PIERRE (Dec. 5) Join Cajun and Creole foodie and New Orleans native ToddMichael St. Pierre as he talks about his new cookbook, Taste of Tremé: Creole, Cajun, and Soul Food from

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New Orleans’ Famous Neighborhood of Jazz. Get a look at the Tremé neighborhood, the true birthplace of New Orleans jazz culture and border to the French Quarter, and explore recipes for such bayouinspired dishes as crawfish and corn beignets, muffuletta salad and Creole tomato shrimp jambalaya.

Barnes & Noble–Arboretum, 10000 Research Blvd., 418-8985, bn.com PERSPECTIVES GALLERY TALK ON RESTORATION AND REVELATION (Dec. 6) This month’s

Perspectives speaker series will be led by Francesca Consagra, The Blanton’s new senior curator of Prints and Drawings and European Paintings. She will discuss Restoration and Revelation, an exhibition about conserving the Suida-Manning Collection. The focal point of the display is 17th century artist Antonio Carneo’s painting The Death of Rachel. The Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 471-7324, blantonmuseum.org

TYLER FLORENCE (Dec. 11) Celebrity chef and Food Network star Tyler Florence will be at BookPeople to speak about his most recent book, Tyler Florence Fresh.

Host of Tyler’s Ultimate and The Great Food Truck Race, Florence is also the author of six cookbooks. Tyler Florence Fresh focuses on building innovative and delicious dishes using easy-to-find, fresh ingredients. BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd., 472-5050, bookpeople.com JESSE GRIFFITHS (Dec. 14) Jesse Griffiths, chef and

co-owner of Austin butcher shop Dai Due, will be speaking about his new book, Afield: A Chef’s Guide to Preparing and Cooking Wild Game and Fish. The book, more of a manual for the new hunting-cooking movement, encourages cooking food that you hunt yourself and contains information on traditional methods of hunting, butchering and preparing fish and wild game through 85 delicious recipes. BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd., 472-5050, bookpeople.com

MUSIC CRISTINA PATO (Dec. 1) Dubbed by the BBC as “the

Galician bagpipe diva,” Cristina Pato returns to Bass Concert Hall with the Migrations Band. A master of the bagpipes and piano, Pato’s music blends Latin, jazz and pop influences. Whether performing solo or as a member of Yo Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble, Pato puts on an exceptional show. Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive, 477-6060, texasperformingarts.org

DETHKLOK (Dec. 1) This melodic death metal band plays a virtual band on the Adult Swim animated series Metalocalypse. Fronted by Brendon Small, co-creator of the popular series, the band is made up of renowned drummer Gene Hoglan, bassist Bryan Beller and guitarist Mike Keneally and released its latest album, Dethalbum III, in October. Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, 801 Red River St., 480-8341, stubbsaustin.com JOSEPH WILLIAMS II (Dec. 1) Winner of 13 international guitar competitions and a member of the celebrated Texas Guitar Quartet, Joseph Williams II performs some of his latest work at the Heritage House. Come experience the art of an acclaimed performer, composer and educator. Heritage House, 5001 McGregor Lane, Dripping Springs, 894-4933, austinclassicalguitar.org SUFJAN STEVENS (Dec. 1) Sufjan Stevens is stopping at Emo’s during his month-long tour titled “The

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Sufjan Stevens Christmas Sing-A-Long Seasonal Affective Disorder Yuletide Disaster Pageant On Ice.” The show features music from his new box set of Christmas-related songs, Silver & Gold: Songs for Christmas, Vols. 6-10. Join Stevens and Sheila Saputo, the comedic alter ego of singer Rosie Thomas, for an undoubtedly fun and interesting holiday event. Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 800-4628, emosaustin.com TALIB KWELI (Dec. 1) Alternative hip-hop artist and rapper Talib Kweli is known for his witty rhymes and oftpolitical lyrics. In addition to collaborating with big names like Kanye West and Mos Def, the rapper has been making a name for himself in the industry since the ’90s, and he has amassed a loyal following. His latest album, Prisoner of Conscious, was released in November.

Mohawk, 912 Red River St., (888) 5127469, mohawkaustin.com LYDIA (Dec. 2) This Arizona-based

indie-rock duo has been writing and performing music since the seventh grade.

After several band member changes, the group took a hiatus in 2010 but came back in October 2011 with the new record Paint it Golden. The band is striking out on its own this winter after touring with fellow indie band The Maine this summer. Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, 801 Red River St., 480-8341, stubbsaustin.com

MUSIC FOR AUSTIN, BY AUSTIN

(Dec. 2) The Austin Civic Orchestra teams up with the Austin Symphonic

Band to perform a masterpiece of classical music. The show features Anton Nel on piano, Peter Bay as the guest conductor, Craig Morris on trumpet and Stephanie Lange on vocals. The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, 2002261, austincivicorchestra.org

Barnes’ failed relationship with a woman from Montreal, the group has released a prolific 11 albums since their debut in 1997, and its latest effort, Paralytic Stalks, was released in February. Mohawk, 912 Red River St., (888) 512-7469, mohawkaustin.com

DUNCAN SHEIK (Dec. 4) Composer

Folk-rock band The Mountain Goats have performed on The Colbert Report and at the Austin City Limits Music Festival in 2010, and now the band’s bringing a more intimate performance to Emo’s East. The Durham, N.C., band’s 14th studio album, Transcendental Youth, hit shelves in October, so expect some new tracks as well as some old ’90s hits. Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 800-4628, emosaustin.com

and singer Duncan Sheik is most noted for his ’96 single “Barely Breathing,” which remained on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 55 weeks. Of his other accomplishments, he has two Tony Awards for composing the popular Broadway musical Spring Awakening. Sheik brings his unique talent and synth-pop on stage alongside opening acts Alpha Rev and Courrier. The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., 472-5470, austintheatre.org

MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO (Dec. 4)

Having appeared alongside musical forces like The Rolling Stones, Madonna and Alanis Morrissette, Meshell Ndegeocello celebrates the release of her 2012 album Pour Une Ame Souveraine on her fall tour. Her 12th album represents her gratitude for other pioneering women and the strides they’ve made in the industry.

One World Theatre, 7701 Bee Caves Road, 330-9500, oneworldtheatre.org OF MONTREAL (Dec. 4) Psychedelic, electronic and a mesh of many other genres best describes the sound of Athens, Ga., band Of Montreal.

Named after lead singer Kevin

THE MOUNTAIN GOATS (Dec. 5)

CONSPIRARE CHRISTMAS (Dec. 6-10) Conspirare’s Company of Voices puts on its signature traveling winter concert that intertwines song and poetry for a musical spectacle. Led by artistic director Craig Hella Johnson, the show’s featured artists include Kathlene Ritch and Charles Wesley Evans. Various locations, 476-5775, conspirare.org ODD FUTURE (Dec. 7) Odd Future (short for Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All) is a 10-member rap collective from Los Angeles that has attracted fans with their crazy antics and noholds-barred lyrics. Of its more famous members are Tyler the Creator, who won Best New Artist at the MTV Video Music Awards in 2011, and Frank Ocean

Pickup Line

who released his popular album Channel Orange in July. Odd Future collectively released its first album The OF Tape Vol. 2 in March. Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 800-4628, emosaustin.com KEVIN FOWLER (Dec. 8) Texas

country veteran Kevin Fowler has released six studio albums and charted four singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. His latest single, “Here’s To Me and You,” from his 2011 release Chippin’ Away, peaked at No. 1 on the Texas Music Chart. The Austin-based singer performs at famed country music venue Gruene Hall this month. Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road, New Braunfels, (830) 621-5077, gruenehall.com

TEXAS MASTER CHORALE (Dec. 8) The mixed-chorale ensemble of 100 singers led by artistic director Brad Bouley performs various tunes to kick off your holiday season. Festival Concert Hall, 248 Jaster Road, Round Top, (979) 249-3129, texasmasterchorale.org BLOC PARTY (Dec. 12) Indie rock band

Bloc Party counts The Smiths, The Cure and Joy Division as some of its musical influences. The British band has garnered a lot of nominations and won “Best Indie Rock Album” at the 2006 PLUG Independent Music Awards. The band’s fourth album, aptly named Four, was released in August. Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 800-4628, emosaustin.com

ELI YOUNG BAND (Dec. 13) Eli Young Band will be taking the stage at Emo’s

(DEC.16)

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December 2012

photo by autumn dewilde.

T

en years since forming, melodic alternative rock band Silversun Pickups finally gets its due. Founded in 2002, the band came out of Los Angeles’s thriving indie scene in Silver Lake, a starting point for other indie greats, including Rilo Kiley. Popular success came in 2009, when songs “Lazy Eye,” “The Royal We” and “Panic Switch” all cracked the top five on the Billboard U.S. Alternative Chart.

That led to a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. On the heels of that triumph, the Pickups contributed to the Bob Dylan tribute album, Chimes of Freedom, with a cover of “Not Dark Yet.” For their newest album, Neck of the Woods, which was released in May and reached No. 1 on the iTunes Top 100 albums chart, front man Brian Aubert drew inspiration from dark films such as The Shining and Let The Right One In, making Neck of the Woods a moodier effort. After touring with top acts like the Foo Fighters and Manchester Orchestra earlier in their career, the Pickups are headlining their own show. Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 800-4628, emosaustin.com — Sheyna Webster

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East to perform tracks from its latest album Life At Best, including the hit single “Even If It Breaks Your Heart.” The band, which first formed in Denton while members were attending the University of North Texas, won the 2012 Academy of Country Music award for Song of the Year, and was also nominated for Vocal Group of the Year and Single Record of the Year. Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 800-4628, emosaustin.com THE MASTERSONS (Dec. 14) Husband and wife indie-rock duo The Mastersons spent years apart in separate bands before finding each other and creating their debut 2012 album, Birds Fly South. The native Texans are a couple of multitalented instrumentalists who play most string instruments, including the violin and mandolin. Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, 801 Red River St., 480-8341, stubbsaustin.com NOEL (Dec. 14-16) Explore Christmas traditions that

originated in Spain, Italy, France, Germany and the British Isles in this traveling concert that creates a musical postcard of holiday backgrounds by the Texas Early Music Project, a nonprofit music ensemble. Various locations, 377-6961, early-music.org

BRYAN ADAMS (Dec. 15) Bryan Adams performs

a stripped-down version of his music in his solo and acoustic Bare Bones tour. Nominated for 15 Grammy Awards and three Academy Awards, Bryan Adams lives up to his legacy as one of the most successful Canadian musicians ever. His compilation album Icon was released in 2010. ACL Live at the Moody Theater, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd., 225-7999, acl-live.com

ROBERT CRAY (Dec. 15) With five Grammys under his belt, blues singer and guitarist Robert Cray has opened for stars like Eric Clapton and has been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame. Cray released his first studio album since 2009, Nothin’ But Love, in August. In a review of his latest album, The New Yorker compared his musical chops to blues greats Albert Collins and Otis Redding. One World Theatre, 7701 Bee Caves Road, 330-9500, oneworldtheatre.org MARINA AND THE DIAMONDS (Dec. 18) Welsh

electro-pop star Marina Diamandis (aka Marina and The Diamonds) had her first burst of fame in her home country when she climbed to No. 2 on the BBC Sound of 2010 poll list. Now, after her April Electra Heart album release, she’s ready to show Austin that her music is as interesting as her colorful, wild stage outfits. Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 800-4628, emosaustin.com

THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER (Dec. 19) This jazz

vocal group, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, has 12 Grammys and two of the bestselling holiday albums of all time. The Manhattan Transfer brings a night of holiday classics and tracks off its records including its most recent album, The Chick Corea Songbook, which was released in 2009.

Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive, 4776060, texasperformingarts.org

HOLIDAY ROAST (Dec. 20-22) Celebrate the

holidays the right way, with a little bit of soul and a rousing musical performance from a couple of Austinbased artists. Singers and multi-instrumentalists Guy Forsyth and Carolyn Wonderland will perform their interpretations of holiday classics and other songs.

The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, 457-5100, thelongcenter.org

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December 2012

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA (Dec. 20) TransSiberian Orchestra brings the live debut of its multiplatinum rock opera The Lost Christmas Eve to Cedar Park Center. The opera fuses together classical, folk, rock and R&B to tell the tale of people from many different places being connected to each other on Christmas Eve in New York City. The performance also features brand new songs from TSO’s October EP, Dreams of Fireflies (On a Christmas Night). Cedar Park Center, 2100 Avenue of the Stars, Cedar Park, 600-5000, cedarparkcenter.com ON A WINTER’S EVE (Dec. 22) Chorus Austin will perform traditional holiday songs with a full orchestra and featured soloists. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to bringing great choral works like this one to the Central Texas area. Northwest Hills United Methodist Church, 7050 Village Center Drive, 719-3300, chorusaustin.org TOADIES (Dec. 28) Rock band Toadies have been

jamming together since 1989, save for a brief hiatus in the early 2000s. The Fort Worth–based group has had success, particularly with its most well-known hit “Possum Kingdom.” The band has five studio albums; its most recent one, Play.Rock.Music., was released in July and features its signature alternative rock, postgrunge style. ACL Live at the Moody Theater, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd., 225-7999, acl-live.com

ALEJANDRO ESCOVEDO (Dec. 29) After 35 years as a musician and two decades as a solo artist, Austinite Alejandro Escovedo knows what it takes to put on a great show. Don’t miss this distinguished performer, knighted “in his own genre” by Rolling Stone, on the Moody Theater stage this month. ACL Live at the Moody Theater, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd, 2257999, acl-live.com ROGER CREAGER (Dec. 29) Award-winning Texas country singer-songwriter Roger Creager and his band will be performing his latest single “Crazy Again” and other hits off of his 2012 album, Surrender, which was ranked the No.1 best-selling album of the week in Texas by Lone Star Music magazine the first week of its release. Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road, New Braunfels, (830) 606-1281, gruenehall.com WILLIE NELSON (Dec. 30-31) Ring in the New Year

with Willie Nelson as the legendary performer plays a two-night stint to welcome 2013. Local radio personality and writer Andy Langer will host, and Father Time is set to make an appearance. ACL Live at the Moody Theater, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd, 225-7999, acl-live.com

BLACK JOE LEWIS & THE HONEYBEARS (Dec. 31)

Headlining the New Year’s Eve Gala at Emo’s East will be Austin blues rock band Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears. This event will also include performances from the Kashmere Stage Band. The KSB was an elite student band at Kashmere High School in Houston during the 1960s and 1970s. Thirty original members reunited in 2008 to pay tribute to their music teacher, Conrad Johnson, whose story was told in the 2011 documentary Thunder Soul. Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 693-3667, emosaustin.com

GRUPO FANTASMA (Dec. 31) Latino orchestral

experience and Austin band Grupo Fantasma’s self-produced album El Existential will be performed along with other songs. The band has previously taken its act to famous festivals such as Bonnaroo and the Montreal Jazz Festival, and now you can see the band live and in its own element. The

events

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Beauty Ballroom, 2015 E. Riverside Drive, 445-7499, thebeautyballroom.com

NATURE

Skyforce (Dec. 22). Cedar Park Center, 2100 Avenue of the Stars, Cedar Park, 600-5000, austintoros.com LADIES NIGHT ROCK CLIMBING (Ongoing) Every

CAVE TOURS (Ongoing) Lace up your walking

shoes and head out for a fun-filled and educational adventure at the Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown. Enjoy the standard Adventure Tour at just longer than an hour, or opt for extended Explorer or Wild Cave tours. Inner Space Cavern, 4200 S. I-35, Georgetown, 931-2283, myinnerspacecavern.com

HORNSBY BEND MONTHLY BIRD COUNT

(Ongoing) Get your eyes and ears ready when Travis Audubon Society volunteers lead a free bird-counting trip on the second Saturday of every month. The two sessions begin promptly at 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Natureloving diehards and ornithological newbies are welcome to attend. Be sure to check out the Austin Christmas Bird Count taking place Dec. 15. Hornsby Bend, 2210 S. FM 973, 300-2473, travisaudubon.org MARY MOORE SEARIGHT PARK OFF-LEASH NATURE TRAIL PROJECT (Ongoing) On the first

Saturday of every month, volunteers help with transplanting seedlings of tree species into open areas and installing solar power irrigation systems. Mary Moore Searight Park, 907 Slaughter Lane, 974-6797, keepaustinbeautiful.org

Monday and Wednesday evening, Austin Rock Gym holds free clinics for women with memberships or day passes. Learn strength and endurance, flexibility training and counteracting gravity before going on a climb specifically geared toward women. Austin Rock Gym, various locations, 416-9299, austinrockgym.com

ST. EDWARD’S ATHLETICS (Ongoing) Support

the Hilltoppers this season as the men and women’s basketball teams and the women’s volleyball team take on opponents at home this season. Various locations, 448-8448, stedwards.edu/athletics

SUNDAY YOGA (Ongoing) Join Community Yoga

as they collaborate with a different local studio the first Sunday of every month to bring you a fun, breezy yoga session taught by various instructors.

This month, The Little Yoga House hosts a class directed toward tweens and teens. The classes are free, but donations are welcome. The Little Yoga House, 1211 Parkway, 861-5639, community-yoga.org

TEXAS STATE ATHLETICS (Ongoing) The Bobcats

finish up their football season, and the men and women’s basketball teams continue theirs this month. Various locations, San Marcos, 245-2272, txstatebobcats.com

SUSTAINABLE FOOD CENTER FARMERS’ MARKET-ZERO WASTE INITIATIVE (Ongoing) Help the

TEXAS STARS HOCKEY (Ongoing) Watch Austin’s

city become zero-waste by assisting market customers with recycling, compost and landfill material. The initiative takes place every Saturday of the month, so head on out and spread the word. SFC Farmers’ Market, Fourth and Guadalupe streets, 797-1195, keepaustinbeautiful.org

minor league hockey team, the Texas Stars, melt ice in green and gold against the Houston Aeros (Dec. 7), the Peoria Rivermen (Dec. 8), the San Antonio Rampage (Dec. 19), the Oklahoma City Barons (Dec. 27) and the Charlotte Checkers (Dec. 29).

Cedar Park Center, 2100 Avenue of the Stars, 6005000, texasstarshockey.com

TRAVIS COUNTY RIVER MONITORING TRIP

UT MEN’S BASKETBALL (Ongoing) Watch the

(Ongoing) Spend the first Saturday of each month with Travis County River Monitoring Trip expert bird watcher Claude Morris as he leads a boat tour to survey birds and vegetation along the river. You need a boat to participate, which can be rented from Cook’s Canoes in Webberville. The group leaves from the Center for Environmental Research at 8 a.m. Center for Environmental Research, 2210 S. FM 973, 972-1960, travisaudubon.org DISCOVER THE LOST PINES HIKE (Dec. 15) Head

Longhorns tear up the court against UT Arlington (Dec. 1), Texas State (Dec. 15), North Carolina (Dec. 19) and Rice (Dec. 29). Frank Erwin Center, 1701 Red River St., 471-7744, texassports.com

UT WOMEN’S BASKETBALL (Ongoing) Root for the

Lady Longhorns as they face competitors LouisianaMonroe (Dec. 11), Tennessee (Dec. 16) and Cornell (Dec. 20). Frank Erwin Center, 1701 Red River St., 4717744, texassports.com

to Bastrop State Park to join a master naturalist for an hour walk through the park beginning at 10 a.m.

Participants learn the history of the park as they explore the vegetation and animals that make the park unique.

Bastrop State Park, 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop, 321-2101, tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/bastrop

VINYASA YOGA (Ongoing) Movement and breath

STAR PARTY (Dec. 15) Enjoy a night filled with stargazing at Westcave Preserve, a dark sky location in the Austin area. Come out with your family and friends, and take a look at the stars through a high-quality telescope. Westcave Preserve, 24814 Hamilton Pool Road, Round Mountain, (830) 825-3442, westcave.org

YOGA AT THE UMLAUF (Ongoing) The Umlauf

SPORTS/FITNESS

Sculpture Garden and Museum offers $10 yoga classes for members and $15 for non-members on Wednesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. The exquisite setting is the perfect place to exercise and meditate. The Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum, 605 Robert E. Lee Road, 445-5582, umlaufsculpture.org

REINDEER RUN (Dec. 2) Participate in a 5K family-

AUSTIN TOROS (Ongoing) Cheer on Austin’s NBA

Development League team as they take on the Idaho Stampede (Dec. 1-2), the Texas Legends (Dec. 18 & 30), the Reno Bighorns (Dec. 21) and the Sioux Falls

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are what this exercise is all about. Focusing on specific motions gives control and strength and eventually establishes peace of mind. Classes are every Friday and Sunday. Vortex Theatre, 2307 Manor Road, 478-5282, vortexrep.org

December 2012

fun run through Round Rock’s Rock ’N Lights Holiday Light Tour featuring thousands of lights all through Old Settlers’ Park. Kids of all ages are welcome, and T-shirts are given to participants with paid registration. Enjoy Christmas decor and music

listings

a young woman punished for committing adultery in the 17th century. The play deals with sin, guilt and judgment as Prynne displays the scarlet “A” across her chest. UT Performing Arts Center–B.Iden Payne Theater, 200 E. 23rd St., 477-6060, texasperformingarts.org YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU

(Through Dec. 8) This comedic play follows the eccentric Sycamores, a family that appears mad. The 1937 Pulitzer Prize–winning drama by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart shows that being unconventional isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The Vortex Theater, 2307 Manor Road, 478-5282, vortexrep.org A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Through

Tiny Dancer

G

Dec. 15) Based on Phil Grecian’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel, this play chronicles the transformation of grumpy Ebenezer Scrooge as he receives spooky visits from the ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet to come. Sam Bass Community Theatre, 600 Lee St., Round Rock, 300-9254, sambasstheatre.org

(Through Dec. 16)

rab your dancing shoes because the traveling Broadway musical Billy Elliot is coming to town. For those unfamiliar with the story, it goes something like this: A boy growing up in a small English mining town discovers his talent for ballet in a community that favors boxing. Facing the uncertainty of his family’s future during rampant mining strikes as well as the ridicule and doubts of his father, young Billy rises against all odds to prove to his family, the town and the entire ballet world that he has what it takes to become a famous dancer.

The film version, which came out in 2000, was nominated for three Academy Awards and won three BAFTA Awards, including Best British Film. The musical, which features a score compsed by international pop sensation Elton John, has proven to be just as successful, winning 10 Tony Awards in 2009 and being exalted by The New York Post as “the best show you’ll ever see.” The touring show boasts a cast of more than 45 performers and an impressive creative team comprised of the film’s director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee Hall. Bass Concert Hall, 2300 Robert Dedman Drive, 477-6060, austin.broadway.com —ANDREA KURTH

while running or walking your way through this new holiday tradition.

Old Settlers’ Park, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock, 218-5400, roundrocktexas.gov LIGHTS OF LOVE 5K (Dec. 7) Join

Ronald McDonald and Santa Claus as you make your way to the finish line to benefit the Ronald McDonald House, which aids families with critically ill or injured children. The run will include decorative lights, music

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and hot chocolate to warm up runners after the race. Family members and pets are encouraged to come out for the cause. Mueller Hangar, 4550 Mueller Blvd., 472-9844, rmhc-austin.org

theater THE SCARLET LETTER (Through Dec.

7) Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic 1850 novel tells the story of Hester Prynne,

December 2012

DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW

(Through Dec. 15) Four days before Christmas, a flock of wacky guests arrive at the Snowflake Inn of Tinsel, Texas. A series of hilarious events ensue as Trina, the overwhelmed innkeeper, tries to survive the hectic holiday guests. Gaslight Baker Theatre, 216 S. Main St., Lockhart, 376-5653, gaslightbakertheatre.org VODKA, F***ING AND TELEVISION

(Through Dec. 15) This comedy, written by Russian playwright Maksym Kurochkin, centers on the challenges faced by a struggling writer. In a dark twist, the hero’s three worst habits become personified and he must grapple with each vice and its place in his life. Hyde Park Theatre, 511 W. 43rd St., 479-7529, hydeparktheatre.com DAVID SEDARIS’ THE SANTALAND DIARIES (Through Dec. 23) The

SantaLand Diaries is comedian and writer David Sedaris’ humorous essayturned-play about his experience working as a Christmas elf at Macy’s department store. ZACH Theatre– Whisenhunt Stage, 1510 Toomey Road, 476-0541, zachtheatre.org IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO SHOW (Through Dec. 23) This

rendition of the classic Frank Capra Christmas movie starring Jimmy Stewart is sure to remind you what the holiday season is really about.

Join Penfold Theatre Company as they perform a live radio broadcast of It’s a Wonderful Life. Rice’s Crossing Store at the Old Settlers Association, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock, 850-4849, penfoldtheatre.org

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS (Through Dec. 23) Play-

wright Joe DiPietro’s endearing comedy depicts Italian-American life through the eyes of New York City executive Nick Cristano, who travels to Hoboken, N.J., every weekend in order to visit his loving but overbearing grandparents.

City Theatre, 3823 Airport Blvd., 5242870, citytheatreaustin.org WHITE CHRISTMAS (Dec. 5-30)

Although snow in Central Texas is rare, it’s sure to be a White Christmas in Austin as ZACH Theatre presents a theatrical adaptation of the 1954 holiday film. Sisters Betty and Judy sing and dance their way into the hearts of two retired WWII soldiers to save a jeopardized Vermont inn. ZACH Theatre–Topfer Theatre, 1510 Toomey Road, 476-0541, zachtheatre.org

CUENTO NAVIDEÑO (Dec. 6-16)

Inspired by Charles Dickens’ classic novel, Rupert Reyes, Teatro Vivo’s artistic director, wrote and directed this modern, bilingual take on A Christmas Carol. Set in an urban Latino community, greedy business woman Evangelina Cruz is visited by a ghost and travels through time to help her regain the lost connections with her family. The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, 4575100, thelongcenter.org

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, THE MUSICAL (Dec. 7-30) This endearing

tale will reignite your belief in Santa, as a white-bearded man claiming to be Kris Kringle warms hearts and spreads love through a cold and callous New York City. Georgetown Palace Theater, 810 South Austin Ave., Georgetown, 8697469, georgetownpalace.com nine lives (Dec. 14) The Moth, a

New York–based nonprofit organization that focuses on storytelling presents a theatrical experience that confronts the theme “Nine Lives.” The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., 472-5470, austintheatre.org Compiled by Ashley Cedeno, Lara Grant, Andrea Kurth, Tally Mccormack, sheyna webster

Due to cancellations and changes to events, please check with venues for updates. To submit an event, please send pertinent information to events@ austinmonthly.com six to eight weeks in advance of the month it’s scheduled to take place. Promote your event by adding it to our interactive calendar at AustinMonthly.com.

photo courtesy bass concert hall.

events

dining DeC e MB e r 2012

the inside scoop on our city’s food scene

Sea

Escape SATISFY A FRESH SEAFOOD CR AVING AT CLARK’S OYSTER BAR, WHERE DISHES INCLUDE THIS TASTY WOOD-GRILLED SHRIMP TOAST. PAGE 152

photo by Jenn hair

For more tasty eats and drinks, go to austinmonthly.com

December 2012

austinmonthly.com 151

dining

beyond the menu

NOW

OPEN

Landlubbers Rejoice Clark’S OySter Bar GetS SeaFOOd riGHt

By Lyn n e MargoLi s

“T

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December 2012

Clockwise from left: almond paste cake with cherry preserves; oysters; crab cake

now have a worthy crab cake in Austin, one that’s filled with fat lumps of blue crab and little else—and thankfully, broiled, not breaded and fried. You might ask for lemon instead of hollandaise, but it’s a minor concern. Try a glass of French Riefle Cremant bubbly for a light accompaniment. It’ll go well with the

Basque cake, a not-as-sweet-as-it-sounds almond paste cake with cherry preserves and cream cheese ice cream.

“People have high expectations for us now,” says McGuire. It’s true; with each new venture, McGuire and Moorman have not only raised the bar for Austin, they’ve raised it for themselves.

Seafood | McGuire Moorman The FacTs Upscale yet relaxed | Hospitality | Oysters, $2.25-$3 each; cold bar, $14-$90; caviar & roe, $30-$170; Cuisine

PRiCes

OWneRs AmbiAnCe

specialties, $9-$29 (market price for daily catch); sides, $6-$10; desserts, $3-$8 HOuRs Mon-Fri, 11:30 a.m. to late; Sat-Sun, 11 a.m. to late | COntACt infO 1200 W. Sixth St., 297-2525, clarksoysterbar.com

GREAT DAILY DRINK SPECIALS

ALL OF YOUR TRUDY’S FAVORITES AND DAILY OFFERINGS FROM SOUTH CONGRESS CAFE photos by Jenn hair.

he more we open places, the better we are at it,” says Larry McGuire, the Austin-born wunderkind who helped jumpstart the city’s restaurant scene with Lambert’s, Perla’s and Elizabeth St. Café.

With Clark’s Oyster Bar, McGuire and business partner Thomas Moorman Jr. have just about hit perfection. In this petite West Sixth Street space, they’ve merged classic and adventurous seafood offerings with fine service and a simple decor that exudes both elegance and comfort. Launching off Perla’s yachtclubby theme, Clark’s features nautical flag accents and a yellow-striped awning sheltering outdoor diners. Each plate bears a small anchor.

A colorful, tranquil aquascape separates the narrow dining area from the bustling front area, where diners sit at counters fronting the oyster bar, the beverage bar and the line cooks, or at an island amid a floor of small hexagonal tiles, just like floors in far older oyster bars. It’s mostly original, according to McGuire.

From those vantage points, they can watch the staff move with intricately choreographed efficiency as they create customized martinis, grate fresh horseradish for oysters (and the bloody Caesar cocktail, a Clamato-enhanced bloody mary) or spoon tiny eggs—at $30 to $170 an ounce—from what is likely the city’s first caviar and roe menu.

Sustainably sourced, of course.

In addition to scrumptious cold-water oysters and fresh sashimi from the cold bar, Clark’s serves Perla’s popular lobster roll. But the wood-grilled shrimp toast is destined to be equally popular; you can taste the smoke in its meaty chunks and thick, crunchy sourdough slathered with zesty harissa aioli. As for the crab cake, let’s just say “Finally!” Yep, we

(512) 301-4300 | 13059 Four Star Blvd (5 mins east of Dripping Springs on Hwy 290W) | trudysfourstar.com

tasty tidbits

{Din ne r Co nv e r sati o n }

{Ha ppy M eal}

Musashino

Team Player

For eight years in a row, Santa Rita Tex-Mex Cantina has been selling its wildly popular pork and chicken tamales during the holidays (this year they’re available Dec. 10-24). So we asked owner Eddie Bernal, who also owns 34th Street Cafe and Blue Star Cafeteria and co-owns Gusto, to name his favorite restaurant in town. His choice? Musashino. “It’s in the neighborhood and is one of my favorite cuisines,” he says.

Paul Qui may be the face of East Side King, but his business partner Moto Utsunomiya is just as instrumental in the good eats.

The two work together in perfect harmony at the popular Asian-fusion trailer’s three locations. Currently, they have two new locations in the works: one at The Hole in the Wall and another on South Lamar.

Here’s how they do it.

How do you and Paul play off of each other’s strengths?

Some people say we are totally opposite, and I think so, too, in some ways. He’s super ADD and moves fast, and I’m laid back and don’t talk much at work, but that’s why I think it works well.

How do you guys balance refined food with what the masses want?

Paul brings all the technique from culinary school, where he learned a French

way of cooking, and I know a lot more about Japanese homecooking–style, so it’s mixed. Somehow people like it.

Do you get overwhelmed from all of these projects?

I’m stressed, but Paul and I think the same way. I want more and he wants more. This is pretty much our first business, and we did it from scratch and I want to see more than money from this. We have to support ourselves too, but I want

in the news

With all this praise, how do you keep yourself from becoming complacent?

We get a lot of good feedback, but we still have a lot of negative feedback, too. Look at Yelp! I don’t like to see negative feedback, and Paul doesn’t like it either. We want to satisfy the customers all the time, so until all the customers are satisfied, we’re not satisfied.

—Kimya Kavehkar

drink

34 Special roll: “It’s fresh, spicy and has a great combination of fish.”

Sapporo and Tsingtao: “I like these unusual beers that are light and crisp. They are refreshing, clean and complement the spicy foods.”

entree

dessert

Shokado Bento: “This is always something different and unexpected since it’s a chef’s selection item.

And it’s great to share.”

Tempura ice cream: “It’s decadent and enough to share—a great dessert.”

Appetizer

The dish on restaurants, trailers and foodies that have the city buzzing

Family drama alert: LeAnn Mueller, sister of John, removed her brother as pitmaster at JMueller BBQ for alleged mismanagement.

John Lewis, formerly of Franklin Barbecue, is now pitmaster.

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to see East Side King be bigger.

Hillside Farmacy’s Executive Chef Sonya Coté was recently honored at Marie Claire’s 2012 Women on Top Awards, which highlight women under 40 who are reinventing their industries. Brava!

December 2012

Openings and closings to report: Houndstooth Coffee will begin serving its local coffee in the Frost Tower early next year. Meanwhile, East Side soul food eatery 11th Street Station has shuttered.

It’s back! Bryce Gilmore is reopening his former farm-to-table Odd Duck trailer concept as a brick-and-mortar eatery. The South Lamar Boulevard restaurant is slated to open next summer.

photos by: utsunomiya, christian remde; food, cory rivademar.

dining

DINING

tasty tidbits

{recipe}

Say Cheese

Makes 6-8 servings

Spice up your holiday feast with this cheesy cauliflower gratin from the Casserole Queens, Crystal Cook and Sandy Pollock.

Watch their show every Saturday on YouTube’s Hungry station for more recipes.

{foo d ie f ind }

L

ooking for a holiday party appetizer that’s more exciting than cheese and crackers? Jackie Letelier would like to introduce you to pâté. Born in Texas, Letelier moved to a family farm in Chile at 13 and quickly became accustomed to eating bread with pork pâté for breakfast. “It’s their version of bagels and cream cheese,” she says.

At 18, she started experimenting with making pâtés from family recipes, selling the spreads to friends and family. After attending culinary school in Austin and wine school in Chile, Latelier settled in the capital city in 2010 to launch Pâté Letelier, which features both vegetarian and meat-based pâtés.

The most popular spread is the Pâté Maison, a chicken liver pâté with lavender and honey that was a finalist at the 2012 Good Food Awards; the mushroom pâté, made with garlic, thyme and Hill Country port wine, is a popular vegetarian option. As for ingredients, everything is sourced from local farmers and ranchers. “It’s not that hard to do,” says Letelier. “Except getting duck; it’s hard to get in Texas due to the heat.”

Along with serving the vitamin-rich spread on bread or crackers, Letelier suggests trying it with sliced apples or veggies. Each pâté is $7; find them at five farmers’ markets, Fresh Plus Grocery and more; locals can order online at pateletelier.com. —ERIN QUINN

½ cup onion, minced ½ cup all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons chives, chopped 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Preheat oven to 400 F. Toss cauliflower with 4 tablespoons melted butter then place in a large, greased roasting pan. Season with salt and roast for 30 minutes. Remove pan from oven; set aside.

Reduce oven temp to 350 F. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add onion and saute about 5 minutes. Add garlic and saute for 1 minute. Add flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute.

Gradually add milk while whisking. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low; stir frequently until it thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove pan from heat; add 2 cups of Gruyere and parsley. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Add cauliflower and stir to coat.

Pour mixture into a 9 x 13 baking dish.

Melt remaining butter. In a mixing bowl, combine butter and breadcrumbs. Add chives and remaining cheese, stir. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the gratin. Brown in oven for 15 minutes.

{ T h e “ in” ingr ed ienT }

Name Check

F

rom its spelling to its pronunciation, yuca is a longtime victim of mistaken identity. The starchy root vegetable (pronounced YOO-ca) is often confused with yucca, a decorative plant with spiky green leaves that grows in arid climates.

While yucca does have edible parts, it doesn’t compare in deliciousness to yuca, which is common in Latin American cuisine. At La Condesa, yuca is sliced, fried and served with tomato jam and crema dipping sauces. Uchi features yuca chips, yellowtail, Asian pear, Marcona almonds and garlic brittle as part of tasting menu dish machi cure. And Garrido’s uses yuca root as the base for oyster tostadas topped with cabbage, pico de gallo and honey habanero aioli. —K. KavehKar

156 austinmonthly.com

December 2012

pÂtÉ photo by Jon shapLey. casseroLe photo courtesy youtube.com/hunGry. yuca photo from thinKstocK.

SPREAD THE WORD

2 cauliflower heads, cut into florets 2 garlic cloves, minced 3 ½ cups gruyere cheese, grated 3 cups whole milk 2⁄3 cup breadcrumbs 8 tablespoons unsalted butter

dining

restaurants

Where to Eat American 1886 Cafe & bakery In the historic

Driskill Hotel, 1886 was long known as “Austin’s socializing parlor.” Breakfast is a treat, with Texan twists on old standbys. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 604 Brazos St., 391-7066 $$ ¢ N ˚ P

24 Diner This upscale diner offers

comfort food for foodies, mixing American basics turned up a few notches.

The chicken and waffles and deviled eggs are just a few of the all-star lineup dishes at this spot, housed in the former Waterloo Ice House building. Open daily, 24 hours. 600 N. Lamar Blvd., 472-5400 $$ è = ˚ P

219 West With its “American tapas”

and entrees such as chicken-fried ahi tuna and blackened rib eye Pontchartrain, this hip lounge puts a tipsy spin on American fusion cuisine. Dinner Mon-Sun; Sunday brunch. 612 W. Sixth St., 474-2194 $$ ¢ N _

AUSTIN CAKE BALL KITCHEN & BAR

After shopping until you drop at The Domain, stop by this modern,

Restaurants in Austin Monthly's Dining Guide are selected and reviewed by the editorial team.

bistro-inspired restaurant for a good meal. The menu features creative cocktails and entrees like the Cake Ball cobb salad and gnocchi of the day, as well as those addictive signature cake balls. Lunch and dinner daily. 3401 Esperanza Crossing, Ste. 104, 215-3633 $$ è ¢ N ˚ Barley Swine This gastropub offers

an eclectic, ever-changing selection of locally sourced dishes. Thanks to Chef Bryce Gilmore’s use of small plates, it’s easy and affordable to try a wide array of seasonal items, such as sweetbreads, fried Brussels sprouts or grilled pork belly. Dinner Mon-Sat. 2024 S. Lamar Blvd., 394-8150 $$ è = BESS BISTRO ON PECAN This cozy

space owned by Sandra Bullock features cuisine best described as classic French meets the Old South. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner Mon-Sun; brunch Sun. 500 W. Sixth St., 477-BESS (2377) $$ ` ¢ N P

BLUE BAKER This restaurant puts

hard work and dedication in everything it produces. Case in point: Its breads are made in-house with a three-day

artisan baking process. After ordering from the large menu of sandwiches, pizzas, soups, salads and more, save room for dessert—in the form of one of the eatery’s famous cookies. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 10000 Research Blvd., 346-2583 $ è N Blue Star Cafeteria This Rosedale eatery from Chef Eddie Bernal offers modern comfort food. Try the coconut and cornflake chicken tenderloins or smoked trout salad. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat; brunch Sat-Sun. 4800 Burnet Road, Ste. C-300, 454-STAR (7827) $$ è = ˚

dinner Tue-Sat. AT&T Executive Education Conference Center, 1900 University Ave., 404-3655 $$$ ` ¢ ˚ CHEZ ZEE AMERICAN BISTRO

Live piano music, local artwork, a lush courtyard and dishes like crème brûlée French toast make this the place for brunch (reservations suggested).

Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 5406 Balcones Drive, 454-2666 $$ è ` ¢ N ˚ _ P Congress Enjoy a seven-course

tasting menu or a three-course prix fixe

BRAISE The owners of now-closed Bossa

Nova are behind Braise, an upscale eatery with classics like French onion soup and osso buco. Try full- or half-plate entrees such as duck breast and jumbo shrimp surf and turf or spiced Jamaican jerk pork shoulder. Dinner Mon-Sat. 2121 E. Sixth St., 478-8700 $$ è P THE CARILLON Chef Josh Watkins

creates superb entrees like pan-seared Hawaiian snapper and olive oil– poached prime beef tenderloin at this gem on UT’s campus. Breakfast daily;

Key To Symbols new or updated entry $ most entrees under $10 $$ most entrees $10 to $25 $$$ most entrees over $25 è free parking ` valet ¢ full bar = beer and/or wine only N outdoor dining ˚ reservations accepted _ live music P late-night dining

★

Spill The Beans

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December 2012

photo by jenn hair.

E

ast Austin is even cooler and more caffeinated now that Vintage Heart Coffee has set up shop. Open since May, it has already gained quite the latte-loving following. The stylish setx ting could have something to do with it: Patrons enjoy iced drinks served in mason jars in a relaxed, homey space that includes a record player, cloth napkins and a wall accented with sheet music.

The shop also makes a point to support local businesses; friendly baristas serve cappuccinos and Americanos made with beans from local roaster Third Coast Coffee Roasting Company. Meanwhile, the scrumptious scones and muffins are fresh from Russell’s Bakery, delectable quiches are provided by Bitesize Gourmet and treats like vegan lemon-sugar donuts and chocolate brownies come from Red Rabbit Cooperative Bakery. Plus, the chai and all syrups, including vanilla, cinnamon, mocha and lavender, are made in-house, giving the drinks an extra special homemade taste.

Started by 26-year-old Texas A&M graduate Mallory Alison, the shop has “been a dream for many, many years,” she says, adding, “I wanted to create a space that allowed for someone to cozy in and get comfortable.” Pass us a latte, please. 1405 E. Seventh St., 524-0583, vintageheartcoffee.com ­­—LARA GRANT

dining

restaurants

menu of fine American fare at Chef David Bull’s downtown venue. Opt for the anything-but-traditional beer tartare or get adventurous with the salt and pepper foie gras . Dinner Tue-Sat. 200 Congress Ave., 827-2760 $$$ ` ¢ ˚ Contigo Dine on fresh, seasonal bar food under the stars at this ranch-inspired hot spot. Start with the crispy green beans with sambol aioli, then try the rabbit and dumplings. Finish your meal with the sinful chocolate cake with orange cream.

Dinner daily; Sunday brunch. 2027 Anchor Lane, 614-2260 $$ è ¢ N P CREEK ROAD CAfé This Dripping

more adventurous eaters. It offers gourmet dishes like pan-fried cow’s tongue with horseradish yogurt and Neiman Ranch braised pork belly.

There are options for vegetarians, too.

Dinner Tue-Sat. 306 E. 53rd St., 459-1010 $$ è = FRANK This hot dog lounge features

weenies and cocktails to please the zaniest of gourmands. Offerings like the Jackalope—antelope and rabbit sausage with huckleberry compote and Sriracha aioli—are perfectly weird.

Lunch and dinner daily. 407 Colorado St., 494-6916 $ ¢ ˚ P

Springs spot offers salad, burgers and seafood, including its most popular dish: Trautwein sautéed shrimp with cheddar and sausage grits. It makes for a great pit stop while on a scenic day drive. Lunch and dinner daily. 301 W. Hwy. 290, Dripping Springs, 858-9459 $$ è = ˚

GALAXY CAFE This locally owned

★ DOCK & ROLL DINER East Coast-

Is there such a thing as too many fine dining restaurants on the shores of Lake Travis? Never! This table-with-aview spot offers stand-out fish dishes like the ginger snapper. Lunch and dinner daily. 103 Yacht Club Cove, Lakeway, 261-3444 $$ ` ¢ N ˚

ers don’t have the lock on delicious lobster rolls. Get amazing ones at this South Austin food trailer, which features a variety of classic and one-of-a-kind lobster rolls, including The Maine Event, a gourmet roll filled with fresh lobster meat served cold with mayo, Old Bay lemon butter and chopped chives. Lunch Tue-Sun; dinner Thur-Sat. 1503 S. First St., 657-8415 $ è = N

Draft pick Comfort food with Texas

flair is the name of the game at this sports-themed eatery in the AMLI South development. Try the juicy burger with onion rings battered in Lone Star beer.

Lunch and dinner daily. 1620 E. Riverside Drive, Ste. 1618, 444-7425 $ è ¢ N _ P

Eastside Cafe This eatery is known

for garden-fresh, health-conscious dishes and creative vegetable specials.

Think home cooking with flair. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 2113 E. Manor Road, 476-5858 $$ è = ˚

EIGHTEENTH OVER AUSTIN

If picture-perfect vistas from 18 floors above downtown aren’t enough, the delectable Texas cuisine will be. Try the chef’s special, a daily creation with fresh fish or game meats. Breakfast and dinner daily. 500 I-35 N. (in the Hilton Garden Inn), 480-8181 $$ ` ¢ ˚ FORE This Lakeway restaurant serves

up American comfort food with an upscale twist in an ultra-stylish setting.

Try the truffled mac ‘n’ cheese, Monte Cristo sandwich or root beer baby back ribs­, and you’ll feel like you got a hole in one. Lunch and dinner daily; Sunday brunch. 900 Ranch Road 620 S., 263-3673 $$ è ¢ N ˚ P

FOREIGN & DOMESTIC This North Loop restaurant is making Austinites

160 austinmonthly.com

eatery prides itself on gourmet dishes at reasonable prices. Don’t miss the turkey meatloaf or the fish wrap. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The Triangle, Clarksville, South Austin $ è = N

The Grille at Rough Hollow

HADDINGTONS With rustic decor and a menu full of hearty pub fare, including mini duck meatloaf, rack of lamb and deviled eggs, this lively restaurant has a definite country-tavern vibe. Dinner daily; weekend brunch. 601 W. Sixth St., 992-0204 $$ ` ¢ N ˚ Hyde Park Bar & Grill There’s plenty of goodies on the menu here, but just try the fries and Hyde Park sauce once, and you’ll be back for more. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 4206 Duval St., 458-3168; 4521 West Gate Blvd., 899-2700 $$ è ¢ P J. BLACK’S Feel Good Kitchen & Lounge This lounge offers tasty

alternatives to quotidian pub cuisine. If the shrimp ceviche and fresh Gorgonzola and apple salad don’t excite you, the artisan pizzas or açai sangria will.

Dinner and happy hour daily. 710-B W. Sixth St., 433-6954 $$ ` ¢ N ˚ P Jack Allen’s Kitchen Foodies

flock to this farm-to-table restaurant from Chef Jack Gilmore. Sample the housemade pimento cheese with flatbread crackers and the New York strip steak with a whiskey demiglace.

Lunch and dinner daily. 7720 Hwy. 71 W., 852-8558; 2500 Hoppe Trail, Round Rock, 215-0372 $$ è ` ¢ N ˚

Jasper’s Described as “gourmet back-

yard cuisine,” the food at Jasper’s is simple but elegant. Try the fire-roasted Black Angus filet with garlic potatoes.

Dinner Mon-Sat; brunch Sat-Sun.

December 2012

11506 Century Oaks Terrace, Ste. 128, 834-4111 $$ è ` ¢ N ˚ Judges’ Hill Restaurant

A historic setting complements this exceptional dining experience from a four-star chef. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect traditional ingredients and bold flavors. Breakfast and dinner daily. 1900 Rio Grande St., 495-1857 $$ è ¢ N ˚ The League Kitchen & Tavern

A 1920s, Boardwalk Empire–recalling motif sets the stage for this “reinvented” American restaurant, whose kitchen is helmed by Chef Devan Gernert, formerly of Nobu in Dallas.

Guests sip cucumber lavender sours and nibble meatloaf bites topped with tangy chipotle ketchup. Main dishes include slow-braised Shiner Bock beef short ribs on garlic gnocchi, as well as an extensive burger menu. Lunch and dinner daily. 1310 RR 620 S., 263-3279 $$ ¢ Lucy’s Fried Chicken It’s no surprise that fried chicken is the star of the show at this restaurant from Olivia Chef James Holmes. But the wood-fire grilled Gulf oysters, deep-fried deviled eggs and mashed sweet potatoes with a Mexican Coke infusion are equally delicious. Lunch and dinner daily. 2218 College Ave., 297-2423 $$ è ¢ N P Man Bites Dog Hot dog lovers flock to this eatery for filling eats that remind them of childhood lunches past. Try the classic Chicago dog, known as the Abe Froman, which is a beef hot dog covered in yellow mustard, diced onions, sweet pickle relish, tomatoes, sport peppers, celery salt and a pickle spear. Lunch and dinner daily. 5222 Burnet Road, 614-1330 $ è = N MAX’S WINE DIVE This downtown

spot isn’t afraid to serve fried chicken with Champagne. It’s full of upscale down-home food, like the Kobe beef burger with triple cream Brie. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 207 San Jacinto Blvd., 904-0111 $$ ` = N ˚ P

MOONSHINE PATIO BAR & GRILL

Moonshine features delicious comfort food like broiled rainbow trout, stuffed with cornbread and drizzled with chile sage butter. Finish it off with yummy apple pie. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat; brunch and dinner Sun. 303 Red River St., 236-9599 $$ ` ¢ N ˚ MYPLACE For the sports fan who

doesn’t want fried pickles and UT paraphernalia on every wall. The former home of Bellagio, it still serves the same pasta and pizza as well as new menu items like wings and burgers. Dinner daily; lunch Wed-Sun. 6507 Jester Blvd., 346-8228 $$ è ¢ N

The OLD PECAN ST. CAFe

This historic cafe’s on-site bakery produces an assortment of heavenly desserts, among them the restaurant’s famous pecan pie. Weekend brunch highlights include eggs Florentine and smoked salmon frittata. Breakfast daily; lunch Mon-Thu; brunch MonSun; dinner Mon-Sat. 504-B Trinity St., 478-2491 $$ è ` ¢ N ˚ PARKSIDE A modern American menu with raw bar offerings that change seasonally, this wonderful downtown restaurant manages to be relaxed but upscale. Start off with petite grilled cheese with smoked onion or crispy sweet breads, and for an entree, grilled Texas quail. Dinner daily. 301 E. Sixth St., 474-9898 $$ è ` ¢ N ˚ P Roaring Fork This is an easygoing

place that mixes classic cuisine and Old West aesthetics. Open-flame grilling and wood-oven roasting contribute to the taste. Don’t miss any of the fish dishes. Lunch and dinner daily; Sunday brunch. 701 Congress Ave., 583-0000; 10850 Stonelake Blvd., 342-2700 $$ ` ¢

THE RANGE This sophisticated North Austin sports bar and eatery blends golf with great grub. Customers will find six screens on which to play virtual golf, as well as an extensive menu that ranges from salads, sandwiches and pizza to steaks and seafood. Not to be missed are the fried chicken sliders that are topped with tomato jam, Gruyere and prosciutto on a brie and sage biscuit. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sun; brunch Saturday and Sunday. 10910 Domain Drive, Ste. 120, 381-CLUB $$ è ¢ N _ P RUSSELL’S BISTRO The acclaimed

local bakery brings you this full-menu eatery in Jefferson Square. Try the filet mignon with herbed potatoes and grilled vegetables. The coconut cake is to die for. Lunch daily; dinner Mon-Sat; brunch Sat-Sun. 1601 W. 38th St., Ste. 1, 467-7877 $$ è = N ˚

SALTY SOW Indulge in all things pork

at this trendy spot in East Austin. If the homey ambiance and clever, countrykitsch decor don’t win you over, the modern farmhouse cooking will. Be sure to sample the candied pork belly with collard greens, duck-fat frites and crispy Brussels sprout leaves with golden raisins and pecorino cheese. Dinner daily.

1917 Manor Road, 391-2337 $$ è ¢ N ˚

SNACK BAR A small joint that offers just what the name promises, with options for gluten-, lactose- and soyintolerant patrons. Menu items range from vegetable snacks to Antonelli’s cheeseburgers. The patio offers prime SoCo people watching. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1224 S. Congress Ave., 445-2626 $ = N

SNAP KITCHEN Looking to jump start your get-healthy routine? Or perhaps you just want a low-calorie meal. Either way, head to the two locations of this fresh takeout eatery, which specializes in light, flavorful items. For breakfast there’s everything from cold-pressed juices to egg dishes, the salads are filling and tasty (try the Greek with shrimp) and lunch and dinner entrees include bison quinoa and turkey meatloaf. Top off your meal with a raw coconut macaroon or gluten-free brownie. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 4616 Triangle Ave., 459-9000; 1014 W. Sixth St., 479-5959 $$ SOBANI RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR

Helmed by Michelin-trained Chef John Garboric, this reasonably priced American eatery offers haute cuisine in a casual setting. In addition to its adventurous takes on grilled cheese and salad (including a spicy shrimp and melon concoction), Sobani offers smoked salmon, curried mussels, braised veal scallopini and an extensive wine list.

Lunch Mon-Fri. Dinner Sat. 1700 N. 620, Ste. 110, Lakeway, 266-3900 $$ = è N ˚ Star Seeds Cafe If you’re looking for

something covered in gravy at 3 a.m. after a night on the town, try the Eye Opener biscuits-and-gravy dish. Another good one is the A-baum, two English muffins with sausage and eggs smothered in queso.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 3101 N. I-35, 478-7107 $ ` è = P

SWIFT’S ATTIC Enjoy whimsical dishes and

creative cocktails at this trendy haunt overlooking Congress Avenue. The restaurant serves inventive small plates of everything from duck wings, mussels and pork cheeks to Kennebec frites with housemade ketchup.

Wash your meal down with a Cuidado: Piso Mojado, which translates to “Caution: Wet Floor,” and is a tasty spin on a margarita.

Lunch on weekdays, dinner daily. 315 Congress Ave., 482-8842 $$ ¢ ˚ P

TenOak Bourbon and whiskey take center stage at this Warehouse District restaurant and lounge. The menu revolves around oak-aged liquor, from the Skinny Dip mussels steamed with bourbon, butter, garlic and fennel to the Drunkie Twinkie dessert, which is a battered and fried Twinkie served with Amy’s Mexican Vanilla ice cream.

Dinner daily; Saturday and Sunday brunch.

409 Colorado St., 472-2822 $$ ` ¢ N ˚ TEXAN CAFE This downtown Hutto cafe

serves up Southern comfort food just like mama used to make. Try staples like fried green tomatoes, chicken fried steak or a slice of one of the yummy homemade pies. Lunch Tue-Sun; dinner Tue-Sat. 207 East St., Hutto, 846-2885 $ è =

TRACE The W’s restaurant is commit-

ted to “conscious cuisine” that uses fresh ingredients that are locally sourced, natural and humane. Conclude your feast with the drunken doughnuts, bite-size delights served with a tequila chile fudge sauce,

dining

restaurants

bourbon dulce de leche and vodka whipped cream. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 200 Lavaca St., 542-3660 $$$ ` ¢ N _ ˚ URBAN Tucked away in The Westin

Austin at the Domain, this American grill offers upscale home-style cooking.

Comfort food favorites such as meatloaf and steaks are elevated to a new level with top-notch ingredients and creative presentation. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sun. 11301 Domain Drive, 490-1511 $$ è ` ¢ ˚

WATERLOO ICE HOUSE This casual

eatery has been an Austin mainstay since 1976 and, as a venue, has hosted dozens of now-famous musicians.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Eight Austin-area locations $ è ¢ N _

The Woodland At this SoCo

eatery, start with the Grace and Moxie (ruby red grapefruit, vodka, lime and mint) before digging into comfort foods such as meatloaf, chicken pot pie or a tasty salad. Dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 1716 S. Congress Ave., 441-6800 $$ ¢

ZED’S Offering hearty American staples, Zed’s is a casual-yet-sophisticated place to enjoy good food, cocktails and musical entertainment.

Situated by three acres of park and bike trails, its large outdoor deck provides plenty of opportunities for overlooking the area’s pond and local flora while you chow down. Lunch and dinner daily. 501 Canyon Ridge Drive, 339-9337 $$ è ¢ N ˚ _ P

Asian 888 Pan Asian Restaurant

“Triple 8” spans all of Southeast Asia to achieve its absurdly long menu, offering up spring rolls alongside Thai curry, but the kitchen specializes in Vietnamese food, especially pho. Lunch and dinner daily. 2400 E. Oltorf St., Ste. 1A, 448-4722 $ è = N ˚ P BARCHI SUSHI This sleek sushi bar

offers a variety of fresh Japanese cuisine, from classic rolls and rare sashimi to grilled offerings. Set in the bustling Warehouse District, the restaurant also offers a variety of sake, beer and wine. Try the Asian pear sake. Lunch and dinner daily. 206 Colorado St., 382-5557 $$ ¢ ˚ _ P

CHEN Z HOT POT + NOODLE BAR

Chen Z brings a welcome infusion of traditional, homemade Asian delicacies to the local dining scene. The menu boasts Austin’s first full hot-pot menu, which features a large variety of Hong Kong­–style starters and the delicious Pan-Asian noodles, which are made

162 austinmonthly.com

in-house. Lunch and dinner daily. 2700 Anderson Lane, 336-8888 $$ è = CHINATOWN One of the oldest Chi-

nese restaurants in Austin, Chinatown has perfected the art of Asian cuisine.

Sushi is served daily and dim sum on weekends. The fish entrees, such as the seafood clay pot and the cilantro shrimp, are excellent. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily. 3407 Greystone Drive, 343-9307; 107 W. Fifth St., 637-8888 $$ è ¢ ˚

CHO SUSHI This quaint Japanese fusion restaurant in Steiner Ranch offers sushi made with the freshest of fish and the crunchiest of tempura.

Splurge for the Kobe beef, seared on hot stones at your table, and housemade sangria. Lunch and dinner MonSat; dinner Sun. 4300 Quinlan Park Road, Ste. 105, 266-8700 $$ è = P DIN HO Chinese BBQ When a barbecue craving strikes, instead of making a beeline to the nearest brisket joint, try this North Austin spot, which offers a full Chinese menu complete with barbecue, all made with a variety of meats hanging on display. Lunch and dinner daily. 8557 Research Blvd., Ste. 116, 832-8788 $ è = DRAGON GATE In addition to a full sushi bar, Dragon Gate offers Japanese and Chinese cuisine such as tangy ginger beef and shrimp with crunchy honeyed walnuts. Lunch and dinner daily. 3801 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., 732-7278 $ è = ˚ Elizabeth St. Café The team

behind Perla’s and Lamberts has brought Vietnamese food to South First Street. Classic Vietnamese staples such as pho share the menu with French-inspired items such as crepes at this casual eatery set in a funky space.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1501 S. First St., 291-2881 $$ ¢ N

How Do You Roll? This sushi bar offers traditional and original rolls such as the Director’s Cut Roll (kari and unagi eel, tofu skin, avocado and wasabi mayo) as well as a design-your-own-roll menu. Choose from fresh fish, grilled chicken and beef, as well as HDYR’s signature wraps, veggies and sauces.

Anything goes. Three Austin-area locations, howdoyouroll.com $ è = N ˚ IMPERIA Imperia serves Modern Asian dishes like the Imperia Dragon rib and the Korean rib eye. The restaurant has a large lounge facing Colorado Street that segues into the “high-energy” bar area. The dining room has a more relaxing vibe. Dinner served daily. 310 Colorado St., 472-6770 $$ ` ¢ P JAVA NOODLES A range of rea-

sonably priced dishes—including

December 2012

vegetarian options, soups, salads and noodles—flavored with exotic spices and tropical ingredients are served by a friendly staff in this Indonesian restaurant. Lunch and dinner daily. 2400 E. Oltorf St., Ste. 14-15, 443-5282 $ è = ˚ Kenichi If you’re into the “see and

be seen” scene, you’ll love this swanky downtown eatery. And if you’re into great food, all the better. The yellowtail sushi, seared sea scallops or black cod will definitely make a Kenichi believer out of you. Dinner daily. 419 Colorado St., 320-8883 $$ ` ¢ ˚

KIM PHUNG A favorite among the

Vietnamese-American community, Kim Phung is known for its savory pho (noodle soup) at reasonable prices.

Order your bun “cha gio” to add a fried, chopped imperial roll topping to the fishsauced vermicelli and grilled meat (or tofu). Lunch and dinner daily. 7601 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 1, 451-2464 $ è =

KomÉ Sushi Kitchen Lovers of

sushi trailer Sushi-A-Go-Go have an intimate new restaurant off Airport Boulevard to get their fix. Chef Take Asazu, formerly of Uchi, and his wife, Kayo, have painstakingly crafted a menu that features unbeatable ramen noodle soup with pork, spinach, corn and a boiled egg, and knockout rolls like the Love For Sale, packed with veggies and mango. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 4917 Airport Blvd., 712-5700 $$ è = Koriente With its fresh ingredients and cozy space, Koriente feels intimate despite its location at the gateway to downtown’s entertainment district. It offers bubble teas and flowering teas that bloom while they steep. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 621 E. Seventh St., 275-0852 $ è = N LILY’S SANDWICH The French influ-

ence in Vietnamese cuisine is apparent in Lily’s flaky pastries, custards and French bread–accompanied spicy beef stews. But crusty French baguettes are also used for Lily’s banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches). Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 10901 N. Lamar Blvd., 973-9479 $ è

Madam Mam’s NOODLE & MORE

This restaurant prepares Thai food with serious gusto and full flavor. If you need a starting point on the extensive menu, try the Sen Lek Hang with pork or tofu (with rice stick noodles). The Panang beef curry is also a winner. Lunch and dinner daily. The Drag, Westgate (now called Sap’s), Anderson Lane, madammam.com $ è Maiko Maiko offers sushi and non-

sushi dishes alike. Creative entrees include yellow-tail hamachi sashimi with wasabi relish and garlic ponzu,

and pan-seared chicken breast in black pepper broth, chicken wonton and shittake mushrooms. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily. 311 W. Sixth St., 236-9888 $$ ` ¢ P MAMA FU’S ASIAN HOUSE

This fresh, wok-cooked pan-Asian cuisine has several influences, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese.

Don’t miss the spicy General Fu or seared ahi tuna steak. Lunch and dinner daily.

2nd Street District, The Triangle, Lakeline, Southpark Meadows $ è N = MIKADo ryotei Known for the

exquisite presentation of its dishes and high-quality service, Mikado serves only the finest sushi and North Japanese tapas. Try the popular Hottie Susan roll and Chorishi’s fire roll.

Lunch Mon-Sat; dinner daily. 9033 Research Blvd., 833-8188 $$ è = ˚

MIZU PRIME STEAK AND SUSHI

Mizu has not just fresh fish but fresh vegetables as well from its on-site micro garden. Live music, great happy hours and expansive views of the Texas Hill Country make this a great spot to spend an evening. Lunch Mon-Sun; dinner daily. 3001 RR 620 S., 263-2801 $$$ è ¢ N ˚ _ Musashino This sushi eatery can be hard to find if you don’t know that it occupies the space below Chinatown Restaurant. The decor is dark and welcoming, but the real draw here is the fresh fish. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sun. 3407 Greystone Drive, 795-8593 $ è ¢

SEA DRAGON One of Austin’s oldest Vietnamese and Chinese institutions serves up an expansive buffet as well as off-the-menu items, including the delicious sliced duck with leeks and ginger and black peppercorn squid.

Lunch and dinner daily. 8776 Research Blvd., Ste. B, 451-5051 $ è SEOUL RESTAURANT & DK’S SUSHI BAR

This family-owned establishment has been popular for years thanks to its wellexecuted Korean cuisine and fresh sushi bar offerings. For an Austin-weird experience, don’t miss Monday night karaoke. Lunch and dinner Mon-Fri; dinner Sat. 6400 S. First St., Ste. C, 326-5807 $$ è = ˚ SHANGHAI RESTAURANt This place offers what many consider the best dim sum in town. A small selection is available daily for lunch, but weekends at Shanghai are the real deal, with a multitude of noodle, stir-fry and seafood dishes. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sat. 6718 Middle Fiskville Road, 458-8088 $ è = ˚ Subsin’s authentic thai food

This South Austin eatery goes no-frills, all-flavor with its curries and noodle dishes.

Don’t let the unassuming exterior dissuade you from the delicious tom kha soup inside.

Lunch Mon-Sat, dinner daily. 5517 Manchaca Road, 462-1450 $ è SUNFLOWER RESTAURANT Nestled in

a Target shopping center, this Vietnamese kitchen serves home-run dishes you won’t find anywhere else, like tom rang muol, as well as an expansive array of traditional staples, such as shaken beef. Lunch and dinner Mon and Wed-Sun. 8557 Research Blvd., Ste. 146, 339-7860 $ è

PHO SAIGON NOODLE HOUSE

Enjoy the hip decor of Chinatown Center’s Pho Saigon while you wait for a bowl of hot noodles or Vietnamese iced coffee. Lunch and dinner daily. 10901 N. Lamar Blvd., 821-1022 $ è

Sushi Sake Delicious udon soup and piping-hot chicken yakitori might bring you in the first time, but the great sushi will keep you coming back. Lunch and dinner daily. 9503 Research Blvd., Ste. 500, 527-0888 $$ =

PIRANHA KILLER SUSHI The Marry Me Roll, with shrimp tempura, ginger cream, avocado, tuna and strawberry, will have even sushi agnostics pledging their undying love for this downtown place. Lunch and dinner daily. 207 San Jacinto Blvd., Ste. 202, 473-8775 $$ ` ¢ ˚

Sushi ZUSHI This all-things-Japanese chain from San Antonio will please any diner, whether he or she is down with raw or not. Sample delicious sushi rolls or comfort food like chicken katsu curry. And don’t miss the extensive sake menu. Lunch and dinner daily. 1611 W. Fifth St., 474-7000; 3221 Feathergrass Court, 834-8100 $$ ¢

ROLL ON SUSHI DINER If you’ve always wanted to try your chicken-fried steak or brisket in sushi form, your wish has come true. This easygoing restaurant prides itself on its experimental, no-limitations take on sushi, while also providing standard rolls like California and Philly for those with a more traditional taste.

Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 5350 Burnet Road, Ste. 2, 454-7655 $ è = Satay Owner Dr. Foo Swasdee is a

nationally recognized food scientist and restaurateur. The duck with red curry and the vast array of noodle dishes are favorites. Lunch and dinner daily. 3202 W. Anderson Lane, 467-6731 $$ è ¢ N ˚

Suzi’s China Grill Try Suzi’s tasty grilled shrimp with basil and lemongrass, or order the sesame chicken, which has just the right amount of kick. Check website, as hours vary by location. 7858 Shoal Creek Blvd., 302-4600; 1152 S. Lamar Blvd., 4418400 $$ è ¢ ˚ TC NOODLE HOUSE TC’s offers a mind-

boggling array of egg, rice and lo mein noodles cooked in a variety of Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. The menu features interesting appetizers including xiu mai and barbecue pork buns. Lunch and dinner daily. 10901 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. B-203, 873-8235 $ è = ˚

restaurants

TOMOdachi SUSHI An unassuming

Parmer Lane strip mall provides the unlikely location for one of Austin’s most stylish and delicious sushi joints.

The “Ex-Girlfriend” roll is a favorite, but you’ll keep coming back for the intimate ambiance. Lunch and dinner Mon-Fri; dinner Sat. 4101 W. Parmer Lane, Ste. E, $$ è = ˚

UCHI Chef Tyson Cole and his crew

have drawn national accolades for their artistic dishes, such as the maguro sashimi with goat cheese and the hot rock wagyu beef with ponzu sauce. It’s simply great food in a fabulous setting. Dinner daily. 801 S. Lamar Blvd., 916-4808 $$ ` è = N ˚

UCHIKO This second child of famed

Making Its Mark

U

nder the historic Browning Hangar in Mueller on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., families with strollers push through crowds, couples walk hand-in-hand while x tasting cheese and bleary-eyed late sleepers stop by for coffee and a pastry. The scene at the Mueller Farmers’ Market, which opened in early September, has been a hub of activity since its debut, bringing fresh, local goods to the developing Mueller area. Farmers’ market favorites, such as Johnson’s Backyard Garden and Pure Luck Dairy, sell seasonal, local produce, fresh cheeses and Texas Gulf seafood. There are also a wealth of bakeries, including Pie Society and Red Rabbit Cooperative Bakery, which makes an unforgettable vanillalavender donut. In addition to more than 40 vendors, there is live music, a food trailer park and face-painting, pony rides and story time for kids. Carla Jenkins, proprietor of the market, says that the location and the covering provided by the 1940s-built hangar is what makes this market stand out from the rest. The market can go on rain or shine, and the farmers and customers don’t have to spend their shopping experience dealing with the unpredictable elements. The Mueller community, which has seen a lot of growth and development in recent years, already counts the market as an important part of the community. “To have a successful market,” Jenkins says, “the people have to call it theirs.” 4550 Mueller Blvd., 363-5700, texasfarmersmarket.org —Kimya Kavehkar

T & S CHINESE seafood RESTAURANT If you’re ready for fresh fish,

order the tilapia, live from the tank.

The salt and pepper shrimp is a favorite among local chefs, who frequent this unassuming hideaway. Lunch and dinner daily. 10014 N. Lamar Blvd., 3398434 $ è = ˚ THAI FRESH This deli-style restaurant is not just a great place to eat, but a specialty market and a cooking school. Get one dish or sample a few

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with two- and three-item plates, all of which can be had for less than $13.

Lunch and dinner daily. 909 W. Mary St., Ste. B, 494-6436 $ è = Thai Passion You’ll find a mix of

elegant dishes at this establishment, including koong pla (grilled shrimp and onion with a lemongrass, lime and Thai pepper sauce) and the tom-yum soup. Lunch and dinner daily. 620 Congress Ave., Ste. 105, 472-1244; 9300 S. I-35, Ste. A-400, 382-0057 $ = ˚

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Chef Tyson Cole has the same hip zen atmosphere and fresh, expertly prepared dishes as Uchi. But Executive Chef Paul Qui offers new twists and turns that are convincing longtime Uchi fans to spread their love between the siblings. Dinner daily. 4200 N. Lamar Blvd., 916-4808 $$ è ` = ˚

Zen Japanese Food Fast Zen’s great service and delicious dishes will keep you coming back for more. The sushi is fast, affordable and ready to go.

Rice bowls are healthful and satisfying.

Lunch and dinner daily. Anderson Lane, South Congress, The Drag $ è

Bakeries/ Coffeehouses A TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL Owner Becky

Nichols has created a timeless comfortfood menu with modern twists, such as the fried green tomato, Swiss, cheddar and bacon panini. Try one of the daily blue-plate specials. Breakfast and lunch Mon-Sat. 3201 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 106, 328-7100 $ è

ATE.CAFE This family-owned Lakeway

bakery and cafe serves up pastries, sandwiches, soups and locally roasted coffee. The tapas menu includes mussels and clams in white wine garlic broth and marinated olives and roasted almonds. Breakfast and lunch Tue-Sun; dinner Thurs-Sat. 2127 Lohman’s Crossing, Ste. 310, 263-4933 $ è = N

Austin Java Yummy breakfast

fare, healthy options and a variety of brewed coffees and coffee drinks are the sellers here. For lunch, try the lean burger (which doesn’t taste so lean).

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Clarksville, Barton Springs, 2nd Street District $ è N

blue note bakery Need a custom

cake for any occasion? Blue Note Bakery offers an amazing array of delicious options. Choose your cake flavors,

fillings and icings. Just be sure to order far enough in advance to guarantee availability. Wed-Sat, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sun-Mon, by appt. 4201 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 101, 797-7367 $$$ è

and, of course, lots of coffee. Open 24 hours. 221 W. North Loop Blvd., 454-3762 $ è N P FLIPNOTICS Truly an Austin

original. Try the signature Migraine Buster (the coffee of the day with a hit of espresso). The cafe also serves up some of the finest locally made pastries, sandwiches and treats.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

1601 Barton Springs Road, 480-8646 $è = N_

CENOTE This East Austin spot raises the

standards for local coffee shops. Set in a historic 1887 house, the shop features locally made Cuvee coffee, individually brewed with a French press. To accompany the stellar lattes, there are breakfast items such as the pulled pork-and-egg sandwich and the grilled breakfast burrito, as well as sandwiches and snack plates for lunch and dinner. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1010 E. Cesar Chavez St., 524-1311 $ è = N P

GOURDOUGH’S Creativity is not an

issue for this food trailer dedicated to gourmet doughnuts. The Flying Pig, a doughnut with bacon and maple syrup icing, might be the best edible creation ever. Forget about the diet: There are 23 other combos, all with the option to add ice cream. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1503 S. First St., 707-1050 $ è P

★ COCO PALOMA DESSERTS Take your pick of cakes and fillings at this award-winning custom cake shop.

Known for Pastry Chef Paloma Efron’s amazing wedding cakes, the bakeshop also offers 8-inch cakes for any occasion in six different flavors, including lemon cake layered with lavender lemon curd, as well as seasonal specialty flavors. Call for an appointment. 6701 Burnet Road, Ste. A1, 419-1582 $$$ è

Holy Cacao This trailer offers up

delicious drinking chocolates, cake shakes and cake balls on sticks. Or try the s’more sandwich, which you can toast yourself right in the parking lot. Open daily. 1311 S. First St., 851-2253 $ è N

CUPPRIMO Another participant

in Austin’s cupcake renaissance, Cupprimo serves up the standards— vanilla, strawberry, double chocolate and black and white—as well as special creations every day of the week. Open Mon-Sat. 8650 Spicewood Springs Road, Ste. 105, 335-7746 $ è N

Jo’s Coffee The grilled cheese is

great, but the big draw is the great coffee and people-watching. Bring your dog for company. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1300 S. Congress Ave., 444-3800; 242 W. Second St., 469-9003 $ è = N

CUTIE PIE wagon The self-

proclaimed “Pie Queen of Austin” is peddling her critically acclaimed pies at this sweet storefront. The offerings change by the week and range from strawberry-raspberry to coconut cream, but the award-winning Betty Lou’s Buttermilk Pie—a must-try—is always on the menu. Open Tue-Sun. 1600 S. Congress, 589-7979 $ è

Juan Pelota Café Refuel after

Dolce Vita Gelato & Espresso Bar This charming spot offers gelato,

KICK BUTT COFFEE The Asian

a long bike ride or just stop in for coffee and gear-shopping at this cafe located inside Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop. It serves up everything from top-notch coffee, tea and smoothies to pastries, breakfast tacos, salads and more. Breakfast and lunch daily.

400 Nueces St., 473-0222 $

panini, desserts, liqueurs and other libations. The interior evokes the mood of an Italian cafe, and the patio is the perfect setting for an espresso. All-day dining.

4222 Duval St., 323-2686 $ è ¢ P Easy Tiger This dual-concept bakery and beer garden makes it easy to grab freshly made baked goods or sit back and enjoy a cold one on the inviting patio. With more than 30 craft beers, doughy pretzels and deliciously seasoned sausages, Easy Tiger has something for everyone. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 709 E. Sixth St., 614-4972 $ ¢ N P EPOCH In this coffee shop, you’ll find 100 laptops, a four-way chess table and hardly any available seats. Epoch serves pizza, pastries, sandwiches

photo courtesy mueller farmers’ market.

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decor, complete with nunchakus, illustrates the owners’ ties to martial arts. The shop serves coffee, wine, beer and liquor, and it has cozy booths, a giant TV and a Wii gaming system. Open daily. 5775 Airport Blvd., Ste. 725, 454-5425; 4600 $ è ¢ N _

LA BOÎTE Made from a shipping

container (“boîte” is French for “box”), this establishment stresses environmental sustainability along with great coffee. Try a croissant or brioche. Breakfast and lunch daily.

1700 S. Lamar Blvd., 850-6119; 1006 Congress Ave., 850-6119 $ è N

Michelle’s Patisserie This shop and bakery is known for its caramel chocolate cookies, triple chocolate cupcakes infused with a shot of

Nutella and delicious custom-made special occasion cakes. The dulce de leche and white chocolate raspberry are crowd favorites. Tue-Fri, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays by appt. 12233 RR 620 N., Ste. 114, 433-6860 $$ è MOZART’S The expansive deck overlooking Lake Austin is the perfect spot for an espresso and cheesecake alongside busy students, families and folks enjoying the view.

Open daily. 3825 Lake Austin Blvd., 477-2900 $ è ` N P NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

This committed confectionary specializes solely in the bundt cake (a ridged, doughnut-shaped treat molded by a pan of the same name then topped with a delicious cream cheese and butter frosting). For cravings big and small, the shop offers full-size party cakes, individual servings called “bundtlets” and dozencount boxes of mini “bundtinis,” all available in a variety of 10 flavors.

Open daily. 1335 E. Whitestone, Ste. S-170, Cedar Park, 986-7453 $$ è POLKADOTS This cupcakery has

just about every flavor imaginable.

Try the banana and Nutella or dirt cupcakes, or yummy cookies and cakes, all made from scratch. Open Mon-Sat. 2826 Rio Grande St., Ste. B, 476-3687 $ è

Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery

Super coffee drinks, baked goods and sandwiches are enjoyed by Hyde Park regulars, grad students, poets and passersby. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 411 E. 43rd St., 453-3399 $ è P RIO RITA Downtown’s brightly-

painted cantina offers both coffee and cocktails—or a mixture of both, like the Irish Latte. Try one of the sandwiches or baked items. Open daily. 1308 E. Sixth St., 524-0384 $ è ¢ N P

San Francisco Bakery & Café

Soups, cookies and sandwiches on fresh-baked breads like sourdough and Parmesan foccacia draw patrons to this tiny spot. Try the New England clam chowder. Breakfast and lunch Mon-Sat. 2900 W. Anderson Lane, Ste. L, 302-3420 $ è N spider house patio bar and cafÉ On the edge of UT, Spider

House is a sprawling coffee bar with a funky retro vibe. Sit inside one of the cozy rooms or on the beautifully lit patio and enjoy a sandwich, a beer or a specialty coffee drink. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 2908 Fruth St., 480-9562 $ è ¢ N _ P

SUGAR MAMA’S BAKESHOP

Let your nose lead you to this shop

December 2012

austinmonthly.com 165

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restaurants

filled with amazing cupcake combinations, plus cookies, cakes, pies and brownies—baked from scratch each morning. Open Tue-Sun. 1905 S. First St., Ste. A, 448-3727 $ è SWEETISH HILL CAFÉ & BAKERY

This place has been popular for 30-plus years for good reason: delicious bread, cakes, pastries and cookies and mouthwatering meals.

Breakfast and lunch Mon-Sun at Sixth Street location; Mon-Fri at San Jacinto location. 1120 W. Sixth St., 472-1347; 98 San Jacinto Blvd., Ste. 170, 472-2411 $ è N

the most discriminating tea connoisseur. Zhi also serves scones, croissants and baked goods. Open daily. 4607 Bolm Road, 539-0717 $ è

Barbecue the COUNTY LINE When you chow

down on the famous barbecue at The County Line, there’s certainly no better way to finish than with the blackberry cobbler. Lunch and dinner daily. 5204 FM 2222, 346-3664; 6500 Bee Caves Road, 327-1742 $ è ¢ N

TÈo The main draw for this Austin spot is the gelato—made from scratch daily using more than 180 recipes— but the amazing Italian chocolates, espresso, sandwiches and salads also add to the allure. Open daily. 1206 W. 38th St., 451-9555 $ è N P

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT A casual

Texas French Bread Sometimes a

Franklin Barbecue Early birds get

coffee, a flaky croissant and a nice place to sit are all you need to get through the day. Head in to relax, read or eat. Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Mon-Sat. 2900 Rio Grande St., 499-0544 $$ è

Thrice cafe By day, this is a mellow

place to sip a cup of coffee while nibbling on a bagel or breakfast taco. But by night, enjoy a beer or glass of wine while listening to live music on the weekends. Open daily. 909 W. Mary St., 444-9473 $ è = N _ TIFF’S TREATS Want a box of cookies

delivered to your doorstep, still warm from the oven and accompanied by a cold pint of Blue Bell ice cream? Order yours with chocolate chip, butterscotch, oatmeal raisin, sugar, peanut butter or a combination. Open daily.

Downtown, 473-2600; Research Blvd., 349-2200; Westlake, 519-3300 $ the Upper Crust Bakery

The sticky buns here are almost as good as Grandma’s—really. You won’t want to miss the great coffee, quiche and croissants, but leave some space for the marble cupcakes. Breakfast and lunch Mon-Sun. 4508 Burnet Road, 467-0102 $ è WALTON’S FANCY AND STAPLE

Coffee gurus and rushed lunch-and dinner-eaters will adore this gourmet bakery and café owned by Sandra Bullock. Taste one of 20 cheeses, or grab an Italian soda. Walton’s also offers fresh-cut flowers, gift baskets and catering. Breakfast and lunch daily.

609 W. Sixth St., 542-3380 $ = N _ ZHI TEA Offering more than 80 types of organic tea, including such exotic varieties as white pomegranate, green Moroccan mint and coconut chai black, Zhi Tea is guaranteed to satisfy

166 austinmonthly.com

barbecue joint perfect for families, Dickey’s offers smoked meats and sandwiches a la carte, as plates or in family packs. Catering and take-out are also available. Lunch and dinner daily. 5207 Brodie Lane, Ste. 115, 892-2283 $ è = N the brisket at this popular barbecue joint on the East Side. The food, including fall-off-the-bone ribs, juicy pulled pork, smoky sausage, traditional sides and that mouthwatering brisket, tends to sell out by 1 p.m., so arrive by or before the eatery opens at 11 a.m. to be safe. Lunch Tue-Sun. 900 E. 11th St.,653-1187 $ è N

Green Mesquite BBQ & more

This South Austin hangout makes great barbecue, sandwiches and sides. Order mesquite-smoked wings while you decide among the menu’s other smoked items. Lunch and dinner daily. 1400 Barton Springs Road, 479-0485; 9900 S. I-35, 282-7100 $ è = N _ Iron Works BBQ It doesn’t get

more Austin than Iron Works’ smoked meat dishes. The brisket and sausages at this busy Austin Convention Center neighbor are worth the wait. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 100 Red River St., 478-4855 $ è = N

LAMBERTS Two words: fancy barbecue. The menu includes housemade charcuterie made with local ingredients. The natural black Angus filet will leave you spellbound. Lunch MonSat; dinner and late-night bar menu daily; brunch Sun. 401 W. Second St., 494-1500 $$ ` ¢ ˚ _ P OPIE’S BARBECUE Great for parties and groups, Opie’s offers a hearty selection of barbecue cooked over mesquite.

After filling up on pork chops and brisket, be sure to save room for dessert. Lunch daily; dinner Wed-Sun. 9504 Hwy. 71 E., Spicewood, (830) 693-8660 $$ è ˚ Sam’s BBQ Head east to find some of

the best barbecue the late Stevie Ray Vaughan claimed he ever had. Once you have a big plate of the brisket or the pork ribs, you’ll know why. Lunch

December 2012

and dinner daily. 2000 E. 12th St., 478-0378 $ è N P Southside Market & BARBECUE

This eatery has made Elgin Hot Sausage for more than a century. It’s the seasoning, pepper and fresh ingredients that make them so very unique and tasty. Lunch and dinner daily. 1212 Hwy. 290 E., Elgin, 281-4650 $ è = Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Offering some

of the best live music and food in town, Stubb’s Bar-B-Q also features a bloody mary bar that ends all others and its famous sauce, which is available by the bottle. Lunch Mon-Sat; brunch Sun; dinner daily. 801 Red River St., 480-8341 $ è ¢

The Salt Lick Sit down at a wooden table and do yourself a favor—order family-style. Then you won’t miss the juicy ribs, sausage or the smoky brisket. Don’t forget the fruit cobbler.

Lunch and dinner daily. 18300 FM 1826, (512) 858-4959; 3350 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock, 386-1044; Austin-Bergstrom Airport $$ è N ˚ _ UNCLE BILLY’S BREW & QUE

Like the T-shirts say, at Uncle Billy’s, it’s all done with smoke and beers.

The menu offers moist chicken, pulled pork, plus plenty of tasty sides. And they brew their own beer. Lunch and dinner daily. 1530 Barton Springs Road, 476-0100; 6550 Comanche Trail, 266-0111 $ è ¢ N P _ VOODOO BBQ & GRILL Sample a different kind of barbecue at this New Orleans–founded chain, where meats are seasoned with a special dry rub and smoked over pecan or oak wood.

Besides the brisket, pork, chicken and other meaty dishes, other standouts include the corn pudding and gris gris greens. 2601 S. I-35, Ste. B100, Round Rock, 238-7000 $$ è ¢

Breakfast joints Another Broken Egg Cafe

Whether you’re craving eggs that are scrambled, hard-boiled or oozing on a burger, you’ll find something perfect at this breakfast spot near UT. Try the Bacado omelet, stuffed with bacon and avocado, and a bloody mary infused with horseradish, garlic and habañero.

Breakfast and lunch daily. 3016 Guadalupe St., 777-4482 $$ è ¢ N Austin Diner The pancakes, cin-

namon rolls and huevos rancheros are customer favorites, but be sure to come back for lunch and get the meatloaf.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon-Sat; breakfast and lunch on Sundays. 5408 Burnet Road, 467-9552 $ è =

The Bakehouse Variations on the

Dirty Martin’s kum-back Place

classic eggs Benedict (the Bakehouse has many) are good places to start, as are the smoked sausage links. You can’t go wrong. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 5404 Manchaca Road, 443-5167 $ è ¢ N

This tried-and-true burger joint has been immortalized on a Rusty Wier album cover.

It serves up tasty burgers ideally paired with a large helping of piping hot tater tots.

Lunch and dinner daily. 2808 Guadalupe St., 477-3173 $ è N

CISCO’S It’s not hard to figure out why

down under deli & eatery

this was LBJ’s favorite breakfast joint.

The service is quick and the frills are nonexistent. Breakfast and lunch daily.

1511 E. Sixth St., 478-2420 $ è =

The Omelettry When you’re in the Burnet Road area, swing by this cool old spot for breakfast fare, soups, sandwiches and, above all, rock-solid service. Breakfast and lunch daily. 4811 Burnet Road, 453-5062 $ è

Burgers/ Sandwiches Black Sheep Lodge This establish-

ment modestly proclaims to have the “No. 1 burger in South Austin between Kinney and Oxford.” Specificity aside, the statement is right; the burgers are the draw at this pub, which opened in 2009 but already feels like it’s been in the neighborhood for decades. Lunch and dinner daily. 2108 S. Lamar Blvd., 707-2744 $$ è ¢ N

BOOMERANG’S Meat pies, an

Australian favorite, are available at this friendly Down Under restaurant located near the UT campus. The Traditional, a pie filled with seasoned ground beef, is served with gravy.

Lunch and dinner daily. 3110 Guadalupe St., 380-0032 $ = N _

CASINO EL CAMINO This downtown

This Spicewood joint offers a taste of Australia, including Aussie meat pies and sausage rolls. Not in the mood to try something new?

Opt for one of the many pizzas, sandwiches or salads. Closed Mon. 21209 Hwy. 71 W., 264-8000 $ è = FOODHEADS Everything on the menu is

made fresh, from the baked bread all the way down to the homemade mustard. Try the spicy apple pork tenderloin sandwich, or build your own tasty creation. Open MonSat. 616 W. 34th St., 420-8400 $

HAT CREEK BURGER CO. Founder Drew

Gressett began serving never-frozen burgers, fresh-cut fries and Blue Bell milkshakes out of an Airstream trailer, which still caters large parties, before opening his permanent location on Burnet Road. Lunch daily; dinner Mon-Sat. 5902 Bee Caves Road,296-2151, 5400 Burnet Road, 452-2025 $ è N

HOG ISLAND DELI This sandwich shop

offers a slightly different take on dining. Come by and grab one of the fresh Philly cheese steaks. Lunch Mon-Sat. 1612 Lavaca St., 482-9090 $

HOPDODDY Be prepared to wait for these organic, all-natural and hormone-free burgers. You’ll love the classic burger with black Angus beef or the “Janis Joplin,” a hemp-seed veggie patty. Lunch and dinner daily. 1400 S. Congress Ave., 243-7505; 2438 W. Anderson Lane, 467-2337 $ è ¢

spot raises the bar by offering great burgers in a rock ‘n’ roll setting. Try the Amarillo Burger with roasted serranos, jalapeño Jack cheese and cilantro mayo. It puts other pub grub to shame. Lunch and dinner daily. 517 E. Sixth St., 469-9330 $ ¢ N P

Hut’s Hamburgers This unassum-

Dan’s Hamburgers The service is

LULU B’S Tucked under the cool shade of an old oak tree and conveniently located across the street from a Bird’s Barbershop and several hip boutiques, Lulu B’s is that perfect combination—delicious food at delicious prices. The Vietnamese sandwiches are worth writing home about. Open Tue-Sat. 2113 S. Lamar Blvd., 921-4828 $ è

great, and the burgers are very good here, but breakfast is not to be overlooked. Try the breakfast tacos, but be forewarned—their mass is not for the faint of heart. And don’t forget the hot sauce. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. North Lamar, 459-3239; Airport Blvd., 385-2262; Manchaca, 443-6131; Ben White Blvd., 448-3800 $ è

DELAWARE SUB SHOP With fresh-

baked bread and veggies cut daily, this East Coast–style shop has been pleasing customers since 1980. You can’t go wrong with the Philly cheesesteak.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Anderson Mill, 331-7344; Spicewood Springs, 345-3816; Central, 206-0200 $ è

ing burger joint has been around for several decades, and it’s still going strong.

Whether you want your burger with bacon and cheese or jalapeños, you’ve come to the right place. Lunch and dinner daily. 807 W. Sixth St., 472-0693 $ è

THE JALOPY Specializing in rotisserie chicken that’s brined overnight, The Jalopy serves gourmet grub out of a semi truck caked in colorful artwork. Sandwiches take on new life, especially The Original, made with the chef’s onion marmalade and demiglace, and the Jelly Gibson, a unique spin on the old PB&J. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon-Fri. Breakfast and lunch on Saturday. 15th and San Antonio streets, 814-8557, $

dining

restaurants

MIGHTY FINE BURGERS and shakes The short menu at this eatery

features antibiotic- and hormone-free beef, fries cut fresh on the premises and hand-dipped milkshakes. The burgers are good, but the chopped chili cheese dog might be the most delicious choice. Lunch and dinner daily. North (Arborwalk), 524-2400; Brodie Lane, 735-2800; Round Rock, 381-3310,Cedar Park, 528-5421 $ è N Nau’s Enfield Drug Loyal custom-

ers fill this charming, old-fashioned soda fountain lunch counter tucked away in the back of a quaint drugstore in Clarksville. Breakfast tacos are always a good choice here, but it’s the hamburgers, malts and milkshakes that are completely out of this world. Breakfast and lunch daily. 1115 W. Lynn St., 476-3663 $ è

New World Deli New World Deli serves up arguably some of the best salads and sandwiches in Austin. The curried chicken salad is a unique twist on an old standby, and the meatball sub is sublime. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 4101 Guadalupe St., Ste. 100, 4517170 $ è = _ NOBLE PIG From the condiments to the

fresh-baked bread, all the ingredients in this restaurant’s delicious sandwiches

are made from scratch. Noble Pig’s house sandwich features spicy ham and pulled pork. Breakfast and lunch daily.

11815 620 N., Ste. 4, 382-6248 $ è N Opal Divine’s Opal Divine serves up good pub food such as brats and cabbage and cracked pepper fries (arguably the best anywhere in town). Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. Downtown, 477-3308; South Congress, 707-0237; Parmer Lane, 733-5353 $ è ¢ P P.TERRY’S Serving hormone-free, anti-

and fun since 1954. Stop by via boat or car for a beer, a burger, some live music and a great view. Lunch and dinner daily. Breakfast Sat. and Sun. 2905 Pearce Road, 394-7511 $ è ¢ N _ TAM DELI This button-cute cafe pairs a Vietnamese menu with French-style baked goods, including favorites like lemongrass beef banh mi and shrimp and yam fritters. Ask for the decadent custard-filled cream puff, which is so popular it often sells out by lunchtime.

Lunch and dinner Monday and WedSun. 8222 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. D33, 834-6458 $ è

biotic-free, vegetarian-fed Black Angus beef and French fries that have never seen the inside of a freezer, P.Terry’s burger stand is an Austin institution.

Try one of the burgers, and you’ll taste the freshness for yourself. Open daily.

South Lamar, 473-2217; North Lamar, 371-9975; William Cannon, 358-0380; South Congress, 462-4998; Lakeway, 263-9433; Westlake, 306-0779 $ è N

under a Southwestern spell. Though famous for its Philadelphian imports, Texadelphia also has delicious burgers, salads and sandwiches. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Seven Austinarea locations $ è = N

Sandy’s Hamburgers Have a

THANH NHI This hidden gem churns

meal outside on a picnic table and enjoy the best frozen vanilla custard in Texas. Lunch and dinner daily. 603 Barton Springs Road, 478-6322; 113 Ranch Road 620, 266-1524 $ è N Ski Shores Café This legendary Lake

Austin hangout has been serving up food

Texadelphia Philly cheesesteaks

out perfectly balanced banh mi sandwiches for undergrad–friendly prices.

Try the pork pate banh mi. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sun. 9200 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 104, 834-1736 $ è

THUNDERCLOUD SUBS This chain has been pleasing Austinites with

its healthy and hearty approach to the lunchtime staple since 1975. The California Club, made with turkey, avocado, bacon and cheese, is a popular choice. Open for lunch and dinner daily. Twenty-five Austin-area locations $ è N

and dinner daily. 2728 S. Congress Ave., 443-4252 $$ ¢ SHADES CAFE Pull up by car or boat at this lakeside restaurant with tasty islandinspired dishes. Relax by the water with a margarita and the grouper filet sandwich, which you can get blackened or fried, on a French roll topped with lettuce, tomatoes and remoulade sauce. Hours vary based on season. 16410 Stewart Road, 266-2268 $$ è ¢ N

TOP NOTCH In the ongoing search for the perfect burger, be sure to check out Top Notch, and be sure to order the onion rings. The retro atmosphere is another big attraction. Lunch and dinner daily. 7525 Burnet Road, 452-2181 è

European

Cajun/Creole

annies café & Bar This longtime catering establishment now serves up the full gamut of European-inspired cuisine. Don’t pass up the tarts and crème brûlée for dessert. Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Tue-Sat. 319 Congress Ave., 472-1884 $$ ¢ ` N ˚

EVANGELINE CAFÉ Have a craving for Cajun cuisine? Head to Evangeline for the award-winning po’ boys, gumbo and fried shrimp. Cap off your meal with a decadent pecan praline pistolette, as you’re transported straight to the French Quarter via the live music.

Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 8106 Brodie Lane, Ste. 110, 282-2586 $$ è = N _

EUROPEAN-BISTRO A wonderful choice for a romantic date, with entrees from sautéed duck liver to jaeger schnitzel. The black forest cake, Mozart cake and apple strudel make for great finishes. Dinner TueSun; lunch Fri-Sun. 111 E. Main St., Pflugerville, 835-1919 $$ è = ˚ _

Gumbo’s This establishment serves up Creole favorites in an elegant setting.

The gumbo is served dark and rich, and the blackened catfish is covered with rich crawfish étouffée. Lunch and dinner daily. Bee Cave, 263-2711; Round Rock, 671-7925 $$ ¢ ˚

FABI + ROSI Occupying a renovated home

in Tarrytown, Fabi + Rosi features a modern European menu with a predominantly French and German flair, although many of the meats, fowl, fish and vegetables are obtained from local farmers. The halibut, an excellent entree option, is pan-seared to perfection and finished with an artichoke puree. Dinner daily. 509 Hearn St., 236-0642 $$ è = N ˚

KATE’S SOUTHERN COMFORT Serv-

616 Candy Cane The holiday treat of your childhood just got a festive adult twist. The 616 Candy Cane from Ranch 616 is sure to liven up any Christmas bash or family gathering.

The drink 5 mint leaves 5 peppermint leaves 1 1/2 ounces vodka 1/2 ounce B&B liqueur 1/2 ounce half and half 5 tablespoon crushed candy cane Rim a glass mug with finely crushed peppermint and candy cane. Add the vodka, B&B, crushed candy cane, half and half, mint and peppermint into a shaker tin with a small scoop of ice. Give the tin several good shakes and strain into the mug filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a lush mint sprig and enjoy.

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December 2012

OLIVIA One of Bon Appetit’s best new restaurants of 2009, Olivia brings a touch of elegance to South Austin. The chef selects ingredients from various local farms, so expect delicious and fresh daily rotations.

Dinner Mon-Sun; brunch Sat-Sun. 2043 S. Lamar Blvd., 804-2700 $$$ è = ˚ N

Shoal Creek Saloon It may

be a while until you can get to New Orleans, but in the meantime, head to this lively spot with a creekside patio for authentic gumbo or fried crawfish.

Lunch and dinner daily. 909 N. Lamar Blvd., 474-0805 $ è ¢ N

Sasha’s gourmet russian MARKET Old World favorites like borscht,

dumplings, blintzes and pierogi make for a delightful meal. Be sure to shop at Sasha’s Russian grocery and browse through the great array of candies, cheeses, beverages and smoked fish. Lunch and dinner daily.

7817 Rockwood Lane, 459-1449 $ è

Caribbean Café Josie Chef Charles Mayes

serves American tropics–inspired cuisine using an array of seductive spices, fresh fish and tropical fruits. Seafood specialties are tops, made great by inventive, bright sauces that are both festive and elegant. Lunch Tue-Fri; dinner Tue-Sat. 1200-B W. Sixth St., 322-9226 $$ è = ˚ N

Habana You’ll feel like you are on vacation with these favorites from Cuba, Puerto Rico and other Caribbean locations. Try the ropa vieja (tender shredded beef), congris (rice and beans) and tres leches cake. Lunch

French/ Continental ARTISAN BISTRO This cozy day-to-night photo by cory rivademar.

pour

ing Louisiana-style fried pies with a twist, Kate’s offers decadent Cajun treats. Try the classic crawfish pie or the Natchitoches pie, which is spicy pork sausage and ground beef. Look for seasonal specialties like smoked duck gumbo.

Lunch and dinner daily. 1602 E. Sixth St., 573-5215 $ è

café features all the essentials of a French bistro: pastries, baguettes, caviar, crème brûlée and lots of wine. With everything from the classic French onion soup to sautéed lamb chop provençal, this dimly lit Lakeway eatery encourages relaxation and indulgence. Lunch Tue-Sat; dinner WedSat. 900 RR 620 S., Ste. C108, 263-8728 $$ è =

dining

restaurants

Food & Wine Events

daily. 1115 E. 11th St., 542-9542; 3663 Bee Caves Road, 306-1668 $ = N _ Chez Nous When it’s time to cel-

ebrate with your foodie friends, your short list should have Chez Nous at the top. You’ll find classic French cuisine, great table wines and a knowledgeable waitstaff. Lunch Tue-Fri; dinner TueSun. 510 Neches St., 473-2413 $$ ˚ =

THE Driskill Grill Expect superla-

tive “white linen” dining with class and grand elegance at this historical hangout. The downtown restaurant truly deserves accolades. The Driskill Grill is the perfect place to enjoy the most memorable of evenings with friends or that special someone. Dinner Tue-Sat. 604 Brazos St., 391-7162 $$$ ` ¢ ˚ _

chocolate bread pudding. Breakfast daily and lunch Mon-Fri; dinner WedSun. 8212 Barton Club Drive, 329-7923 $$$ è ¢ _

Tue-Sat. 12717 Shops Pkwy., Ste. 100, 358-4776 $$ è = south congress café

Among the many spots to dine on South Congress, this cafe is in a class of its own. The varied continental menu includes the 1600 filet mignon and sea bass with gnocchi.

Definitely try a mojito. Brunch and dinner daily. 1600 S. Congress Ave., 447-3905 $$ è ¢

Hopfields Put a little hops in your

step. This eclectically furnished gastropub features hard-to-find beers and 200-year-old French-style recipes that are both authentic and delicious.

The Pascal burger and Jambon Buerre sandwich are top notch. Lunch TueSat. Dinner Tue-Fri. 3110 Guadalupe St., 537-0467 $$ è ¢

Wink This innovative eatery prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients. The menu changes daily and is set up so as not to distinguish between appetizers and entrees.

Dinner Mon-Sat. 1014 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. E,482-8868 $$ è ¢ ˚

Hudson’s on the Bend

This Austin favorite is the place for the best in Hill Country fare and wild game.

Forks up to the rattlesnake cakes and all of the delicious meal-sized appetizers. Dinner daily. 3509 N. Ranch Road 620, 266-1369 $$$ è ¢ N ˚

Indian

EAST SIDE SHOW ROOM

DINNER DETECTIVE AUSTIN (Dec. 7, 9, 15, 22) Enjoy a four-

FLIP HAPPY CREPES Owners Nessa

course meal while watching a hilarious murder mystery show.

This interactive, improvised comedic event features performers interspersed throughout the crowd to keep you guessing on who is involved in the crime. Staged murder and mayhem occurs, clues are discovered and detectives try and piece it together. A prize package is awarded to the “top sleuth” who solves the mystery. Marriott Hotel Austin, 300 E. Fourth St., (800) 421-7305, thedinnerdetective.com

Higgins and Andrea Day Boykin, who beat out Bobby Flay when he challenged them on his Throwdown show, serve patrons with a variety of options from a small trailer off Barton Springs Road. Hours vary, check website for details. 400 Josephine St., 552-9034 $è N

PEDERNALES CELLARS BIRTHDAY BASH (Dec. 8) Take a trip

green pastureS This Victorian home has paired French dining with Southern hospitality for more than 65 years. After your meal, stroll the landscaped grounds and see the peacocks.

Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sun. 811 W. Live Oak St., 444-1888 $$$ è ¢ ˚ _

to Pedernales Cellars to celebrate its fourth birthday. Nosh on cake, listen to live music and enjoy the wines and the Hill Country views.

The winery will give a 10 percent discount to anyone who brings in nonperishable canned food for the Fredericksburg Food Bank. 2916 Upper Albert Road, Stonewall, (830) 644-2037, texaswinetrail.com

FEARLESS FEAST: CHRISTMAS (Dec. 23-24) Make cooking for the holidays easy with cooking classes at luxury bed and breakfast Gateway Guesthouse. This winter series is led by Chef Bess Giannakakis, who was recently featured on the Food Network, and allows participants to create feasts to take home. The Christmas class menu includes a standing rib beef roast and bourbon pecan pie. Call to reserve a spot. 1001 E. Riverside Drive, 326-2646, gatewayguest.com

BAGUETTE ET CHOCOLAt

Bringing the authentic taste of France to Austin, this bakery and pastry shop offers an array of crêpes, paninis, salads, artisan breads and fine pastries, including French favorites such as croque monsieur and éclair chocolat. Look no further for a taste of Paris, as the owner and chef was born and trained in Versailles. Breakfast

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and lunch Tue-Sun. 12101 FM 2244, 263-8388 $ è BLUE DAHLIA bistro This bistro offers organic bread, cheese, wine and produce. Sandwiches are served open-faced on large slate boards with accents such as dried cranberries or fig preserves. Vegetarian- and veganfriendly. Breakfast, lunch and dinner

December 2012

HENRI’S Offering 85 to 100 differ-

ent cheeses from around the world, including several local favorites, this French cheese shop also serves simple lunch selections and turns into a wine bar at night. Try the expertly assembled grilled cheese made with Netherland-imported parrano cheese, fresh basil, roasted tomatoes and caramelized onions perfectly nestled between two slices of buttery, toasted sourdough bread. Lunch daily; closed on Sundays. 2026 S. Lamar Blvd., 442-3373 $ è = N HILL COUNTRY DINING ROOM

Located in the Barton Creek Resort, this casual but elegant AAA Four Diamond–rated restaurant features a fusion of many cuisines. Don’t be afraid to try the favorite—white

JUSTINE’S This hidden gem has

transformed a quiet, industrial stretch of East Fifth into something straight from the French countryside. Choose between dishes like steak tartare, duck confit, escargots, potato leek soup and ratatouille. Dinner Wed-Mon. 4710 E. Fifth St., 385-2900 $$ è ¢ N ˚ P

BOMBAY GRILL Texans who claim to be able to handle the hottest, spiciest foods might encounter a challenge when sampling this establishment’s authentic North Indian cuisine. Lunch buffet daily; dinner buffet Fri-Sun; a la carte dinner daily. 3201 Bee Caves Road, 329-0234 $$ è = ˚

LA PATISSERIE Treat yourself to a

morning Italian-ground cup of joe, and feast on one of 12 flavors of macarons, including rose, lavender or pistachio.

If you’re still hungry, try an almond croissant. Open daily. 602 W. Annie St., 912-0033 $ è N ˚

Clay Pit CONTEMPORARY INDIAN CUISINE The lamb tikka

masala arrives at your table steamy, huge and delicious with a complement of fragrant basmati rice, and the khuroos-e-tursh has established itself as a house favorite. Lunch and dinner daily. 1601 Guadalupe St., 322-5131 $$ è ¢ ˚

LENOIR Take your taste buds on a

delectable ride at this cozy South First Street restaurant that serves French-inspired “hot weather food.”

Chef-Owner Todd Duplechan changes the prix-fixe menu at his whim, so you never know what you will get, though it will always surprise and delight. Dinner Tue-Sat. 1807 S. First St., 215-9778 $$$ è = ˚

INDIAN PALACE This hidden gem is a true mom-and-pop restaurant featuring a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. The chefs prepare dishes originating from northwestern India, including a great lunch and dinner buffet with more than 50 items. Lunch and dinner daily.

3616 Far West Blvd., Ste. 113, 241-1732 $$ è = ˚

PAGGI HOUSE Executive Chef Ben

Huselton offers seafood dishes (lobster, shrimp and salmon), a braised pork belly starter, seasonal entrees and mesquite-grilled steak. Dinner MonSat; brunch Sun. 200 Lee Barton Drive, 473-3700 $$$ ` ¢ N ˚

Madras Pavilion Specializing in Southern Indian vegetarian, this North Austin restaurant cooks incredibly vibrant and tasty foods.

Lunch and dinner daily. 9025 Research Blvd., Ste. 100, 719-5575 $è ˚

PÉCHÉ Austin’s first absinthe bar is

dedicated not only to the art of the cocktail but also to classic European cuisine. Taste pairings like a Manhattan and beef sliders with pommes frites and herb aioli. Dinner daily. 208 W. Fourth St., 494-4011 $$ ¢ P Plate by Dzintra This intimate space from former Next Food Network Star contestant Dzintra Dzenis offers up French-inspired cuisine that features local ingredients and glutenfree options. Lunch Wed-Sat, Dinner

photo from thinkstock.

HOLIDAY WINE TRAIL (through dec. 16) Get in the holiday spirit at this self-guided tour of 32 Hill Country wineries. Until Dec. 16, you can go as seldom or often as you like to sample each winery’s delectable reds and whites. In addition, you’ll get a grapevine wreath and a holiday ornament from every winery you visit. There will also be discounts on wines, so stock up for gifts (or yourself ). Various locations, (872) 216-9463, texaswinetrail.com

This vintage-inspired spot is a restaurant, bar and art gallery in one.

Start with a signature cocktail, like the Framboise Flip, made with organic farm eggs. For dinner, try the lamb and goat burger or the grilled quail flavored with ancho chile syrup. Dinner daily. 1100 E. Sixth St., 467-4280 $$ ¢ _ ˚ P

Sarovar This no-frills restaurant in a strip mall in North Austin is a local favorite. The daily buffet is a good bet if you want to try several different dishes. Lunch and dinner daily. 8440 Burnet Road, Ste. 100, 454-8636 $$ è ¢ ˚ P Swad Swad serves enormous portions of delicious vegetarian Indian

food, but it’s the samosas—among the best in town—that get the most attention. Lunch and dinner daily.

9515 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 156, 997-7923 $ è Taj Palace One of Austin’s oldest Indian restaurants, this is the place for saag paneer, tandoori chicken and other delicious Indian dishes. A glorious lunch buffet offers more than a dozen options for Austinites looking to graze in decadence. Lunch and dinner daily. 6700 Middle Fiskville Road, 452-9959 $ è ˚ TARKA INDIAN KITCHEN

Opened by the folks behind Clay Pit, Tarka offers the same delicious Indian cuisine but in a fast and casual setting. Give the tikka masala a try, and be sure to start with the samosa chaat. Lunch and dinner daily. Round Rock, 246-1922, W. Anderson Lane, 323-0955 $ è = N

Italian/Pizza 360 UNO TRATTORIA Uno

Trattoria is known for its fresh food and extensive wine list. View paintings by co-owner Sharabella Fini while splurging on the desserts imported from Milan. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 3801 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., Ste. G-100, 327-4448 $$ = è N

ANDIAMO RISTORANTE

This Italian eatery just a stone’s throw from The Domain is well known for its authentic cuisine. Lunch Mon-Fri, dinner Mon-Sat. 2521 Rutland Drive, 719-3377 $$ è = ˚ _ Asti Trattoria This cozy Hyde

Park restaurant serves straightforward Italian fare and elegant desserts and features a comprehensive wine list. Grilled and roasted meats are superbly prepared, as are the pizza and pasta selections. Pure flavors burst forth with no fuss or pretense.

Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner Mon-Sat. 408-C E. 43rd St., 451-1218 $$ è = ˚

THE BACKSPACE This is not your

average pizza joint. The Backspace serves pies piping hot from its 900-degree brick oven. Start with the Proscuitto-wrapped mozzarella sticks while you wait for your pizza to cook. And with desserts like hazelnut chocolate budino and ricotta cheesecake, you can’t end the night on a bad note. Dinner daily. 507 San Jacinto Blvd., 474-9899 $$ ˚ P

BOTTICELLI’S SOUTH CONGRESS

The Botticelli bread is one of the most popular items at this quaint Italian eatery, stuffed with Parmesan

December 2012

austinmonthly.com 171

dining

restaurants

and roasted bell peppers and either prosciutto, coppa, mortadella, salame and mozzarella or eggplant, zucchini, squash, cherry tomatoes and ricotta.

Dinner daily. 1321 S. Congress Ave., 9161315 $$ è ¢ N ˚ _

Italian dishes, such as minestrone soup and linguine and mussels in a white wine, butter and garlic sauce.

Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily; brunch Sunday. 4800 Burnet Road, 458-1100 $$ è = N ˚

BRICK OVEN RESTAURANT

Hill Country Pasta House

You can’t go wrong with the awardwinning pizza and pasta at this local Italian chain. Try the Tuscan truffle pizza for a special treat. The chicken rigatoni with chipotle pesto cream is yet another menu favorite. Lunch and dinner daily. Downtown, 477-7006; Research Blvd., 345-6181; Brodie Lane, 292-3939 $$ è = N ˚

Listen to music in a lovely pavilion overlooking the restaurant’s organic herb garden. The pasta is made fresh, and the brick-oven pizzas are delicious. Lunch Tue-Sun; dinner daily.

3519 N. Ranch Road 620, 266-9445 $$ è = N ˚ _

CANNOLI JOE’S This all-you-can-eat

restaurant is brought to you by the same folks behind barbecue favorite County Line. One fixed price gets you staples such as chicken Parmesan and Italian sausage and peppers. Dinner Wed-Sun; lunch Wed-Fri; brunch SatSun. 4715 290 W., 892-4444 $$ è ¢ N ˚

CARMELO’S RISTORANTE

Located in the historic Old Depot Hotel, this cozy Italian restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1981. Try a selection from the extensive, award-winning wine list. Lunch MonFri; dinner daily. 504 E. Fifth St., 477-7497 $$ ` ¢ N ˚ _ P Cipollina Considered one of Austin’s best restaurants for pizza and hot sandwiches, this cool cafe also serves an array of pasta items, roasted meats and salads. Lunch and dinner daily. 1213 West Lynn St., 4775211 $$ è = N Coal Vines This pizza and wine

bistro serves classic Italian dishes with carefully selected wines amid a throwback decor scheme of dim lighting, 1950s photographs and Sinatra tunes.

Try the baked eggplant with chargrilled tomatoes, smoked salmon tartar with goat cheese and avocado or any of the New York–style, coal-fired pizzas.

Lunch and dinner daily. 314 W. Second St., 473-2744 $$ = P

East Side Pies The chefs here are

perfectly happy making traditional pies in their small East Austin eatery.

But they’re not afraid to break a rule or two and create out-of-the-ordinary pizzas with hummus or sauerkraut or, perhaps, some smoked salmon. Lunch and dinner daily. 1401-B Rosewood Ave., 524-0933; 5312 Airport Blvd., Ste. G, 454-7437; 1809 Anderson Lane, 467-8900 $ è GUSTO Chef Julio-Cesar Florez brings

the atmosphere of a Tuscan villa to the streets of Austin at this cozy restaurant. Here you can indulge in authentic

172 austinmonthly.com

HOBOKEN PIE Hoboken masters the

Jersey-style pizza with minimalist sweet tomato sauce, a light layer of cheese and a thin crust. At first glance, the storefront, with a counter and three tables, seems simple, but it works.

Lunch and dinner daily. 718 Red River St., 477-4256 $ P

HOME SLICE PIZZA Three friends

opened Home Slice in 2005. Since then, this modest pizza shop has garnered a loyal group of followers. The Margherita pizza is a popular choice.

Lunch and dinner daily. 1415 S. Congress Ave., 444-PIES (7437) $$ è = N P

La Traviata Chef and owner Marion Gillcrist manages to put out some of the best Italian food in town.

Be sure to try the spaghetti carbonara with pancetta tucked into a little pasta nest at the top of a mound of buttery noodles. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner Mon-Sat. 314 Congress Ave., 479-8131 $$ ¢ ˚ MANGIERI’S PIZZA CAFÉ This Old World–style, family-owned cafe features traditional thin-crust pizza pies, strombolis, calzones and other Italian favorites. Lunch and dinner daily.

5900 W. Slaughter Lane, Ste. 460, 301-0063; 2133 Lohmans Crossing Road, 263-0188 $ è = N Milto’s mediterranean cafe

Owner Miltos Georgakopoulos suggests starting with a Greek salad, followed by tyropitas and Milto’s Mama’s Choice Gyros—spiced lamb and beef with crisp vegetables served on pita bread. Lunch and dinner daily. 2909 Guadalupe St., 476-1021 $ è = NOMAD This neighborhood bar north

of 51st Street surprises with its classy menu of paninis and Caprese skewers laden with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. Dinner daily. 1213 Corona Drive, 628-4288 $ è ¢ N

NORTH For starters, try the zucca

chips—zucchini rounds sliced paper thin, dusted with flour and sea salt, then flash-fried. But save room for the braised short rib with roasted root

December 2012

vegetables and white polenta. Lunch and dinner daily. 11506 Century Oaks Terrace, 339-4400 $$ è ¢ ˚ N

state of mind. Lunch and dinner daily.

12800 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. G-160, Bee Caves, 263-3473 $$ è ¢ N ˚

OLIVE & JUNE Sip on a glass of wine as you enjoy the warm, noisy ambiance that’s a signature of all the best Italian kitchens. From escarole salad to fennel-spiced pork meatballs, this restaurant serves up authentic dishes that will leave your taste buds invigorated. Dinner daily. 3411 Glenview Ave., 467-9898 $$$ ` ¢ N ˚

TRATTORIA LISINA Chef Damian Mandola, the proprietor of Mandola’s at The Triangle, opened Trattoria Lisina on a beautiful Hill Country vineyard. Try the bistecca Fiorentina, a 4-ounce grilled porterhouse steak served with grilled asparagus and roasted potatoes. Lunch Fri-Sun; dinner Tue-Sun. 13308 FM 150 W., Driftwood, 894-3111 $$ è = ˚

Rocco’s This festive eatery in Lake-

way has a busy bar that makes for great people-watching. If there’s room, grab a spot on the romantic veranda for dinner, and check out the colorful murals while you’re there. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily. 900 S. Ranch Road 620, 263-8204 $$ è ¢ N ˚

Rockin’ Tomato Pizza Inexpen-

sive pizza, video games, live bands and pool tables—this joint is basically a Happy Days episode.Lunch and dinner daily. 13729 Research Blvd., Ste. 690, 275-1777 $ è = _

SAGRA The restaurant’s kitchen uses

locally grown produce and mozzarella that’s handmade daily. Try the fried calamari or charcuterie plate appetizer and a small rustic pizza. Lunch Sun-Fri; dinner daily. 1610 San Antonio St., 535-5988 $$ è ¢ ˚ P

Siena This beautiful facility is available

for special events, meetings and parties.

Be sure to try different selections for the season menu. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily. 6203 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., Bldg. B, 349-7667 $$ è ¢ N ˚

SOLEIL Watch the sun set over

beautiful Lake Travis while dining on Italian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine rich with seafood. Start with the bruschetta, then make your way through fettuccine with gulf crab, shrimp and lobster. Yummy tiramisu provides a perfect ending. Lunch Fri-Sun; dinner Tue-Sun. 6550 Comanche Trail, 266-0600 $$ è ` ¢ ˚ N TAVERNA Head to Taverna for trendy

Italian cuisine and a front-row seat to the hustle and bustle of Second Street. Use the warm foccacia to soak up sauce from the balsamic risotto or one of the rotating chalkboard specials. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 258 W. Second St., 477-1001 $$ è ¢ N ˚

TONY C’S COAL-FIRED PIZZA

Inspired by the famous pies of the Big Apple, Tony C’s pizza is causing quite a stir here. The restaurant features an authentic hearthstone oven and boasts fresh ingredients and housemade sauces that will put you in a New York

★ TRENTO Executive Chefs Alex Kahn and Andreas Exarhos create delicious, traditional Italian dishes with just the right amount of modern and creative touches. Try the PEI mussels, sauteed in white wine and mint pesto and served with grilled ciabatta bread, or the gnocchi, with slowroasted pork, peas, oyster mushrooms and parmigiano. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily; Sunday brunch. 3600 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., Bldg. D, 3287555 $$ è ¢ N ˚ _ Vespaio Ristorante Pasta and pizzas are simple and delicious. A seasonal menu keeps things interesting, but the focus is always on the true flavors of the ingredients.

Dinner daily. 1610 S. Congress Ave., 441-6100 $$ è ¢ VIA 313 This Sixth Street trailer brings

the influence of Detroit to Austin with its “inside-out” square pizzas. For the uninitiated, Detroit pizza features the meat on the bottom, the sauce on top and crust that is semi-thick and fluffy like Focaccia bread. As a bonus, Via 313 stays open until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays—perfect for late-night pizza cravings. Dinner Tue-Sat. 1111 E. Sixth St., 939-1927 $$ N P

Mediterranean/ Tapas

gastronomy. Try the chorizo-stuffed medjool dates with bacon, blue cheese and sherry glaze. Lunch and dinner Mon-Fri; dinner Sat; brunch Sun. 2905 San Gabriel St., Ste. 200, 474-2905 $$ è ¢ N ˚ MAlaga Tapas & Bar

Some favorites include piquillos rellenos de queso (fire-roasted Spanish peppers stuffed with a yummy goat cheese mixture) and lomo a la plancha (seared beef tenderloin served with garlic aioli). Lunch and dinner daily. 440 W. Second St., 236-8020 $ ¢ N P TINO’S GREEK CAFE The menu at this counter cafe includes falafel, gyro wraps and feta salad, but the best deal at Tino’s is the makeyour-own plate. Some traditional dishes, such as kebobs, are served at dinner. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Research Blvd., 336-5999; Balcones Drive, 533-9292; Braker Lane, 343-9999; Brodie Lane, 233-4999; Great Hills Trail, 346-3636 $ è ZOË’S KITCHEN With more than 30 locations across the South, it was only a matter of time before Zoë Cassimus brought her fresh-fromthe-garden, Mediterranean-style cooking recipes derived from vegetables, chicken, fish, feta cheese and olive oil to Austin. Lunch and dinner daily. 10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 101, 372-9080 $ è = N

Mexican/Latin American Amaya’s Taco Village

This is quintessential Tex-Mex dining: cheap, hearty food served with a lot of cheese in a no-frills restaurant. If one of the 26 Mexican platters doesn’t strike your fancy, daily specials are available. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 5804 N. I-35, 458-2531 $ è =

Alborz Persian Cuisine

Smooth, rich hummus and an equally satisfying dish of Borani (roasted eggplant with garlic and spices) start you off right. Lunch and dinner daily. 3300 W. Anderson Lane, 420-2222 $è N ˚ CAFE MALTA Indulge in cuisine

inspired by Italy, France, Spain, Morocco and more at this Mediterranean bistro that serves dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Lunch and dinner daily; weekend brunch. 3421 W. William Cannon Drive, Ste. 127, 8539584 $$ è ¢ N ˚

Fino Fusing Spanish, Greek and

North African cuisines, Fino offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean

BUENOS AIRES CAFe Touted as one of the city’s best date-night restaurants, the intimate cafe serves up delicious Argentine fare. You’ll want to try the empanadas, but save room for the desserts. Breakfast and lunch Mon. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 13500 Galleria Circle, 441-9000; 1201 E. Sixth St., 382-1189 $$ è ¢ _ ˚ CANTINA LAREDO The outside patio here is the perfect spot for people-watching. Start with a premium margarita and move right on to the top shelf guacamole made right at your table. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sun. 201 W. Third St., 542-9670 $$ ` ¢ N ˚

Casa Colombia This hidden gem

on the East Side offers a unique South American environment filled with Colombian herbs and spices.

Start with some sweet plantains or picada Colombiana and then dig in to the pabellon, a traditional Venezuelan shredded beef dish. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sun. 1614 E. Seventh St., 495-9425 $ è = ˚

CASA GARCIAS You haven’t had fajitas until you’ve sampled the offerings from this local purveyor of Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican cuisine. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. William Cannon, 441-9504; South Lamar, 851-8684; Pflugerville, 989-2524; Round Rock, 218-8908 $è ¢ ˚ _ CHANGOS The sister restaurant to

Manuel’s, features burritos, tacos, salads and sides. Snack on some white-cheese queso while you wait for your entree. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 3023 Guadalupe St., 480-8226 $ è =

Chuy’s Try the Southwestern enchiladas smothered in green chile sauce or the Mexi-Cobb salad. Lunch and dinner daily. Barton Springs, 474-4452; North Lamar, 836-3218; Research Boulevard, 342-0011; William Cannon, 899-2489; Round Rock, 255-2211 $ è ¢ P CORAZON AT CASTLE HILL

Corazon gets back to Castle Hill’s origins as a contemporary interior Mexican-Southwestern eatery, with an emphasis on the exalted chile pepper. Try the poblano-pecan vinaigrette or the chicken mole negro enchiladas topped with grilled onions. Lunch and dinner MonFri; dinner Sat. 1101 W. Fifth St., 476-0728 $$ è ¢ ˚ CUATRO’S This West Campus

hangout is filling the student body with delicious specialty hamburgers and gourmet tacos, but you don’t have to be enrolled at UT to enjoy it.

Try the grilled portabella mushrooms and Cuatro’s “ubiquitous” sauce, wrapped snugly inside a corn tortilla.

Lunch and dinner daily. 1004 W. 24th St., 243-6361 $ è ¢ N ˚

Curra’s Grill Texans love

avocados and margaritas. Here at the “mother of all Mex” you can get both—mixed together. Everyone agrees that the guacamole is good, and you’ll love the brunches. Patio seating is available for sunny days.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

614 E. Oltorf St., 444-0012 $ è ¢ N

DOS BATOS Eschewing the notion

of Tex-Mex and traditional fare

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with its wood-fired tacos, the style of cooking at Dos Batos makes its food stand out in a sea of Mexican eateries. Its specialty, the pirata, features steak infused with that all-important mesquite flavor. Lunch and dinner daily. 2525 W. Anderson Lane, 452-0001 $ è = El Alma Café y Cantina

Relishing a recent revamp, this Mexican eatery delivers traditional, familystyle dishes in an artwork-adorned setting. Menu items include classic Mexican dishes with new delicious twists of flavor, including flan with a hint of coconut and lime. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 1025 Barton Springs Road, 609-8923 $ è ¢ N El Arroyo “The Ditch” is still a great

place for drinks and appetizers on the patio. You won’t be disappointed by the spinach con queso and a margarita.

Lunch and dinner daily; brunch SatSun. 1624 W. Fifth St., 474-1222; 7032 Wood Hollow, 345-8226 $ è ¢

El Azteca For honest, excellent

down-home Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, this East Austin treasure is on the short list. No matter what else you get, grab a tortilla and some salsa. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 2600 E. Seventh St., 477-4701 $ è ¢ N ˚

carte tacos. On the weekends, you can jive to the music of local cumbia bands while enjoying your meal. Breakfast and lunch Tue-Sun; dinner Tue-Sat. 600 E. Sixth St., 444-7770 $ è ¢ N _ EL ZUNZAL The banana-leaf-

wrapped tamales filled with cooked chicken, pork or sweet corn are some of the best in Austin. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 642 Calles St., 474-7749 $ è = _

ENCHILADAS Y MAS The North-

west Austin eatery serves generous enchiladas in a range of signature sauces, including sour cream, Spanish, bean, ranchero or green sauce.

Breakfast and lunch Tue-Sun; dinner Tue-Sat. 1911 W. Anderson Lane, (866) 841-0940 $ è ¢

Fonda San Miguel For more than

three decades, this has been the spot to savor the flavors of Mexico in a finedining setting. The romantic atmosphere is enhanced by artwork and the seductive aroma of mole and other delicacies. Dinner Mon-Sat; brunch Sun. 2330 W. North Loop, 459-4121 $$ è ` ¢ ˚ FRESA’S CHICKEN AL CARBON

Many Jeffrey’s alums came together to create this interior-influenced Mexican restaurant. Camarones a la plancha— grilled shrimp with tomatoes, onions and serranos—is an excellent choice.

Lunch and dinner daily; brunch SatSun. Manor Road, 457-9900 $$ è ¢ N

Searching for a fast, healthy takeout meal? Look no further than this fast-food Mexican joint that specializes in all-natural marinated chicken.

Try the No. 1 meal, which consists of a half or whole achiote- and citruscharcoal grilled chicken with all the fixin’s, including grilled onions, charro beans, rice, housemade corn tortillas, jalapeños and salsas. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 915 N. Lamar Blvd., 428-5077 $ è =

El Gallo This family-owned spot has been serving fajitas, migas and other Tex-Mex specialties to the hungry masses for more than 50 years. Pull up a chair on the patio and try the handrolled enchiladas, or swing by on the weekend to savor a margarita while listening to the mariachi band. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sun; breakfast SatSun. 2910 S. Congress Ave., 444-6696 $$ è ¢ N ˚ _

garrido’s This stylish spot with an Austin-casual vibe boasts traditional Mexican fare with a contemporary twist. Try the one-of-a-kind tacos stuffed with everything from lightly fried oysters topped with habanero aioli ($4) to coffee-marinated rib eye ($4.50). Lunch and dinner daily; brunch and dinner Sat-Sun. 360 Nueces St., 320-TACO (8226) $$ ` ¢ N ˚ _

EL NARANJO Husband-and-wife duo

Güero’s Taco Bar The deliciously

El Chile Café & Cantina

Iliana de la Vega and Ernesto Torrealba bring fresh, traditional Mexican cuisine to Rainey Street, with signature items such as chiles rellenos and a variety of moles. One of the permanent moles, the yellow Amarillo de Oaxaca, is served with your choice of meat as well as regional herbs and chiles. Dinner Tue-Sun. 85 Rainey St., 474-2776 $$ è ¢ N ˚

strong margaritas here are made with fresh lime juice and premium tequilas, and the migas are excellent—rich with cheese, peppers and fresh corn tortillas. The locals who flock here will tell you not to miss the al pastor tacos.

Breakfast Sat-Sun; lunch and dinner daily. 1412 S. Congress Ave., 447-7688 $è ¢ N_

EL SOL Y LA LUNA This Tex-Mex cafe

family eatery are dedicated to serving up all that is authentic and tasty about Mexico. Whether you’re craving

features friendly service and a bevy of add-on ingredients for its famous a la

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HECHO EN MEXICO The folks at this

December 2012

seafood, enchiladas or just a classic bowl of tortilla soup, Hecho en Mexico offers exactly what you need. Try some homemade tortillas or the Mole Blanco, which will be unlike anything you’ve feasted on before. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 6001 W. William Cannon Drive, 301-0060 $è ¢ N ˚_

LA CONDESA Set in the trendy 2nd

Hula Hut Hula Hut offers tasty

Las Palomas For time-tested

Street District, La Condesa serves up interior Mexican cuisine with a “street food” twist. If you’re looking for a good entree, try the pescado a la talla—fish of the day with salsa and pickled vegetables. Dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 400-A W. Second St., 499-0300 $$ ¢ ˚ N

Tex-Mex and a great lakeside view.

Sit at the bar and sip margaritas while noshing on coconut shrimp or mango cream cheese and poblano quesadillas. The Texas nachos with cheese, beans, jalapeños, pico de gallo and either chicken or beef are sure to delight. Lunch and dinner daily. 3825 Lake Austin Blvd., 476-4852 $ è ` ¢ N

Mexican food in Westlake, Las Palomas is the obvious choice. With some of the most flavorful mole poblano in town and an impressive array of seafood specials, this hidden gem is sure to leave you satisfied and coming back for more. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sat. 3201 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 122, 327-9889 $$ è ¢ _ ˚

IGUANA GRILL Enjoy dinner with a view at this upscale family eatery. Situated on Lake Travis, the must-have dish is the camarones a la plancha— grilled shrimp basted with a red chile barbecue sauce. The Golden Iguana margaritas are to die for. Lunch and dinner daily. 2900 Ranch Road 620, 266-8439 $$ è ¢ N ˚ _

LITTLE MEXICO This restaurant

Iron Cactus You can’t beat gua-

Manuel’s Manuel’s does interior

camole made tableside—an avocado in all its glory mixed in front of you.

If that isn’t enough to lure you, the award-winning Southwestern cuisine should be (try the ancho chile–rubbed pork tenderloin). Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sun. Downtown, 4729240; Stonelake Blvd., 794-8778; Hill Country Galleria, 263-7636 $$ ¢ N P

Jalisco’s This hidden gem is more

than capably filling the void of good Mexican eateries in South Austin. The spacious interior allows mariachi musicians and servers laden with the delicious cheese enchiladas and tacos al pastor to make their way to your table.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 6601 S. Congress Ave., 448-9111 $ è ¢ ˚ _

JUAN IN A MILLION Despite being

featured on the Travel Channel, this family-owned Austin staple stays true to its roots. Arrive early to meet owner Juan Meza and enjoy a robust selection of Mexican specialties, like the famously gigantic Don Juan taco.

Breakfast and lunch daily until 3 p.m.

2300 E. Cesar Chavez St., 472-3872 $è N ¢

Julio’s Café For more than 25

years, Austinites have been heading to this eatery in the heart of Hyde Park for its award-winning roasted chicken.

Sit on the patio and enjoy a house margarita with green enchiladas, vegetarian tacos or quite possibly the best soup in town. Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Mon-Sat. 4230 Duval St., 452-1040 $ è = N

is known for its tongue-burning, must-have-water salsa and authentic Mexican food. It’s also a good place to go for some mariachi music, a feature that won the restaurant a Best of Austin Award in 2006. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 2304 S. First St., 462-2188 $ è ¢ N _

Mexican food right. Be sure to sample the black bean sopes, the yellowfin tuna ceviche and enchiladas de mole, which was voted the best mole in Austin by Wine Spectator. Lunch Mon-Fri; brunch Sun; dinner daily. 310 Congress Ave., 472-7555; 10201 Jollyville Road, 345-1042 $$ ¢ ˚ _

MARIA’S Taco Xpress A cool sign

and funky atmosphere aren’t the only reasons to visit this South Austin institution. Counter service is fast on busy weekend mornings, so your steaming plate of huevos and cup of coffee are in your hands before you know it. Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Tue-Sat. 2529 S. Lamar Blvd., 444-0261 $ è N _ Matt’s El Rancho This festive Mexican restaurant has developed a loyal clientele in the past 60 years.

It’s a great spot to sip a martini and have a few tacos. Lunch and dinner daily; closed Tue. 2613 S. Lamar Blvd., 462-9333 $ è ¢ N _ Maudie’s café Bought by Joe Draker

in 1992 from Maudie Hamilton, this Tex-Mex restaurant has been an Austin favorite since 1954. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Downtown, 473-3740; South Lamar, 440-8088; North Lamar, 832-0900; Brodie Lane, 280-8700; Davenport Village, 306-8080; Hill Country, 263-1116 $ è ¢ N

Mellizoz tacos These gourmet creations are so much more than streetside taco-stand grub. You’ll fall for the

tempura-style fried avocado tacos with cotija cheese, fresh Roma tomatoes and chipotle sherry sauce. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1503 S. First St., 916-4996 $ è N _ mi Madre’s In a land of breakfast tacos, Mi Madre’s claims to have the best, and The Austin Chronicle agrees.

Along with the 19 varieties of breakfast tacos, the Torres family also serves a variety of enchiladas and salads.

Breakfast and lunch daily. 2201 Manor Road, 322-9721 $ è N ˚ PAPI TINO’S A sophisticated take

on the Mexican cantina, this houseturned-eatery on the hip East Side is the perfect place to go for alfresco dining. Try out an ever-changing special like the ceviche of the day and snack on reliable classics like fresh tortilla chips and guacamole washed down with a house margarita. Dinner Tue-Sat; Sunday brunch. 1306 E. Sixth St., 479-1306, $$ ¢ N ˚ _

PELONS The awesome patio shaded

by a beautiful old oak tree is just one reason to stop by this hot spot on Red River Street. A few others: the minitaco appetizer, top-notch cocktails like the tart guava margarita and decadent desserts, including sopapillas and vanilla borracha. Be sure to stop by the detached 508 bar and Zorro food trailer out back, too. 802 Red River St., 243-7874 $$ ¢ N P

Polvos The make-your-own enchi-

ladas are among the best in town, and the salsa bar is superb. Great menu items include the fish and shrimp selections, among others. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 2004 S. First St., 441-5446 $ è ¢ N

tenderloin kabobs). Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1816 S. Lamar Blvd., 326-4395 $ è N ¢ Serrano’s You don’t expand throughout the city without doing something right. The menu of TexMex standbys gets the basics—especially the enchiladas—so right that diners return with unwavering loyalty.

Lunch and dinner daily. Five Austinarea locations $ è ¢ TACODELI This taco joint has been winning Best Of awards since its start in 1999. Don’t miss the steak, potato and egg taco, filled with “Mexican mashed potatoes,” tender pieces of sirloin and fluffy scrambled eggs, or the famous array of salsas. Breakfast and lunch daily. 12001 Burnet Road, 339-1700; 4200 N. Lamar, 419-1900; 1500 Spyglass Drive, 732-0303 $ è N TACOS N TEQUILA Emphasizing freshness and simplicity, starting with the handmade tortillas and variety of salsas and glazes. The menu changes monthly to reflect seasonal products, which are for the most part locally obtained. Check out the extensive margarita list, featuring more than 100 premium tequilas, or get a flight of tequilas to warm you up. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sun. 507 Pressler St., 436-8226 $ è ¢ P TAKOBA Look no further for fresh, authentic Mexican food than Takoba, the full restaurant from the owners of hot spot El Tacorrido. Everything is made from scratch at Takoba, including its specialty: tacos de carnitas, made with slow-braised pork shoulder cooked on wood-burning fire pits.

Kick back, relax and enjoy tradition, best when washed down with a spicy michelada. Brunch Sat-Sun; lunch and dinner daily. 1411 E. Seventh St., 628-4466 $ è ¢ P

Rio’s Brazilian Café The flavor of Brazil has landed on Austin’s East Side. Using family recipes, the menu offers pastries, soups, tropical salads, sweet and spicy malagueta sauces and gluten-free cheese bread.

The handmade ricotta cheese and spinach-stuffed pastry is a vegetarian favorite. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Tue-Sun. 408 N. Pleasant Valley Road, 828-6617 $ è N ˚

does a brisk business for good reason.

There’s always a small line that moves quickly—a good sign that all the food is made fresh and served steaming hot.

Breakfast and lunch Mon-Sat. 5003 Airport Blvd., 453-9842 $ è N

Santa Rita TEX MEX Cantina

TAQUERIA ARANDAS Folks in the

This neighborhood spot boasts delicious cheese enchiladas smothered in suiza sauce and tender well-seasoned chicken fajitas. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch weekends. 5900 W. Slaughter Lane, 288-5100; 1206 W. 38th St., 419-RITA (7482) $ è ¢ N ˚ SaZóN This mom-and-pop shop serves

a delicious array of dishes. Be sure to try the choriqueso (melted Monterrey Jack cheese, homemade chorizo and pico de gallo) or the alambres de res (beef

Tamale House This local hot spot

know come here for quick, simple Mexican fare. The pastor taco, a corn tortilla filled with marinated pork, is best with a glass of horchata, a sweet rice milk with cinnamon, almonds and sugar. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. South First, 707-0887; Downtown, 480-8874; West Stassney, 448-4771; Rundberg Lane, 835-4369; Burnet, 452-9886 $ è ¢ TEXICAN CAFE This local restaurant

serves straight-up border cuisine: New

Mexican food done El Paso–style.

Patrons love the queso flameado with chorizo, the Enchiladas Diablo and the margaritas. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. Manchaca, 282-9094; Lakeline, 506-9900; Brodie Oaks, 707-1733 $ è ¢ N TORCHY’S TACOS This joint’s green

chile pork taco is acclaimed in nearly every local food publication, as are the fried avocado taco, The Democrat and the Dirty Sanchez. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. William Cannon, 514-0767; South First, 444-0300; South Austin Trailer Park, 366-0537; The Drag, 494-8226; Spicewood Springs, 291-7277 $ è N

tres amigos This Austin-owned establishment has been around for 30 years, probably due to the fresh ingredients and family-friendly atmosphere.

Build your own enchiladas and choose from seven sauces. Lunch and dinner daily. Westlake, 327-1776; Northeast, 926-4441; South, 292-1001 $$ è ¢ ˚ VIVO Vivo serves healthy Tex-Mex,

and its offerings are not as heavy as most of the cheese-covered Mexican fare you usually find. Try the chicken enchiladas with zesty green chicken sauce. Dinner daily; lunch Mon-Sat. 2015 Manor Road, 482-0300; 12233 RR620, Ste. 105, 331-4660 $$ è ¢ N P

WAHOO’S FISH TACO This taco-ria

pairs an Austin tradition with a Cali vibe. The surf shack puts a coastal spin on a Texas staple. Its tasty tacos use flavorful charbroiled fish fused with a combination of Mexican, Asian and Brazilian accents. Lunch and dinner daily. 509A Rio Grande St., 476-3474; 1722 South Congress Ave., 358-6600 $ è ¢ N

dish of Ethiopia, doesn’t disappoint.

Lunch and dinner Tue-Sun. 2808 N. I-35, 469-5966 $ è N = KARIBU This Ethiopian restaurant east of downtown serves traditional dishes such as alicha wot (lean chopped beef simmered in curry) and key mesir wot (red split lentils in a spicy sauce). Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 1209 E. Seventh St., 320-5454 $$ è ¢ ˚ _ P Phoenicia Bakery Besides being a wonderful international market, Phoenicia serves amazing lunches. Go for the falafel on pita with extra hummus. Open Mon-Sat. 2912 S. Lamar Blvd., 447-4444; 4701A Burnet Road, 323-6770 $ è

Seafood CATFISH PARLOUR Try the signature

catfish served with the house coleslaw and homemade hush puppies or one of the grilled dinners. You won’t leave hungry. Lunch and dinner daily. North, 258-1853; South, 443-1698; Georgetown, 931-2050 $ è ¢ = ˚

CHERRY CREEK CATFISH CO.

This institution specializes in South Austin hospitality and, of course, catfish with all the fixins’. While you’re waiting, try a basket of fried green tomatoes, okra or bloomin’ onions.

Lunch and dinner daily. 5712 Manchaca Road, 440-8810 $ è = N Eddie V’s prime seafood

ZOCALO CAFE Perfectly spiced

Eddie V’s has an extensive menu of fresh seafood options. In addition to its fish dishes, it has savory seafood soups as well as prime steaks for land lovers. Dinner daily. 301 E. Fifth St., 472-1860; 9400 Arboretum Blvd., 342-2642 $$$ ` ¢ ˚

ZuZu The eatery serves up healthful,

This restaurant has more than 30 varieties of fresh seafood delivered daily (the lump crab tower is unbelievable). Take advantage of the happy hour, featuring burgers and wings for as little as $1.95.

Lunch and dinner daily. 11600 Century Oaks Terrace, 836-0500 $$ ` ¢ N ˚

black beans make a great nest for the meal-sized tostada salad or the house Zocalo plate (chilaquiles), which contains what might be Austin’s best grilled chicken. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 1110 W. Lynn St., 472-TACO (8226) $ è = N

tasty Mexican food. A large part of the menu hails from Michoacan, a state in Central Mexico. Be sure to try the enchiladas red mole. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 5770 N. MoPac Expwy., Ste. 500, 467-9295 $ è = N

MIDDLE EASTERN AFRICAN ASTER’S ETHIOPIAN There are

traditional spicy beef and lamb stews here, but the doro wott, chicken pieces in a spicy berbere sauce, the national

McCormick & Schmick’s

PERLA’S Head to the East Coast with-

out leaving Austin by visiting this SoCo oyster paradise with a Cape Cod vibe.

Fresh oysters rotate daily, but if you’re looking for a standby, try the crispy snapper. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily; weekend brunch. 1400 S. Congress Ave., 291-7300 $$ è ¢ N ˚

Quality Seafood This unassuming spot is both a restaurant and a wholesale market, and the fish is delicious.

Visit the store and sample the famous gumbo, fried shrimp platters and oyster

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po’ boys. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 5621 Airport Blvd., 454-5827 $ è Sam’s Boat Settle into a seat on the

patio and enjoy a few cold beers, some fresh Gulf Coast seafood—crawfish, maybe some fried shrimp—or, if you’re not in the mood for seafood, a tasty burger. This is a great chilling-outwith-friends joint that attracts a fun crowd and serves up good food at reasonable prices. Lunch and dinner daily. 3908 Braker Lane, 502-0404 $$ è ¢ P N ˚ _

Truluck’s The Florida stone

crabs—imported from Truluck’s own fisheries—are served within 24 hours of being pulled out of the water.

Highlights include scallops, trout and miso-glazed sea bass. Dinner daily.

400 Colorado St., 482-9000; 10225 Research Blvd., Ste. 4000, 794-8300 $$$ ` ¢ ˚ _

Steakhouses

and BBQ, The Broken Spoke satisfies any Texan’s taste. Open Tue-Sat. 3201 S. Lamar Blvd., 442-6189 $ è ¢ _

FOGO DE CHAO Part of a chain of

its menu beyond the pub grub classics to include entrees with Mexican flair, all of which go nicely with a Mexican martini or two on the patio.

Dinner and lunch daily. 201 Brazos St., 473-3712 $ è ¢ N ˚ P

traditional Brazilian steakhouses, Fogo de Chao is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Start at the salad bar, loaded with, asparagus, cheeses, cured meats and more. Waiters bring a variety of meats and slice them at your table. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner Mon-Sun. 309 E. Third St., 472-0220 $$$ ` ¢ ˚ PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE With seven Houston area locations, Perry’s now offers Austinites prime steaks, chops and seafood. Be sure to give the bonein cowboy rib eye or the tablesidecarved Chateaubriand for two a try on your next visit. Dinner Mon-Sat, lunch Fri. 114 W. Seventh St., 474-6300 $$$ ` ¢ N ˚ _ Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Austin Land and Cattle Co.

This is the kind of restaurant outof-towners are dying to visit for that fabled Texas beef experience. A great big 22-ounce rib eye steak is a particularly Texan choice, especially when served with steak fries and slathered with a jalapeño bleu cheese sauce.

Dinner daily. 1205 N. Lamar Blvd., 472-1813 $$$ è ¢ ˚ BORDEAUX’S This classy steak and

seafood joint is the toast of downtown Kyle. Bordeaux’s serves delicious dishes with a touch of Cajun influence, like the duck foie gras mousse with sauternes wine and conganc.

Dinner Tue-Sat. 108 Center St., Kyle, (512) 268-3463 $$ è ¢ N ˚

Dart Bowl Steakhouse

Yes, it’s in a bowling alley, but it’s better than a lot of places you’ll eat at this year. The chicken-fried steaks and enchiladas are what you’d expect at these prices, but the homemade chili is really nice. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 5700 Grover Ave., 459-4181 $è ¢ ˚ ESTÂNCIA CHURRASCARIA

Begin with a salad bar packed with grilled vegetables, hearts of palm and lots more. Then hail down the waiter to slice cuts of steak, chicken, lamb and sausage right in front of you. Lunch and dinner daily. 10000 Research Blvd., Ste., 345-5600 $$$ è ¢ ˚ Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar For an elegant evening out,

Fleming’s is a great choice. It has a big steakhouse feel with a bit of everything, including an extensive wine list.

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Definitely give the bone-in rib eye a try.

Dinner daily. 320 E. Second St., 4571500; The Domain, 11600 Century Oaks Terr., 835-9463 $$$ ` ¢ ˚

The cuts from this longtime favorite come from corn-fed USDA Prime–graded beef. The meat is aged wet for 26 days, then cooked in a 1,800-degree oven. All steaks are served in sizzling butter on a 500-degree plate. Cocktails offer a nice complement. Dinner daily. 107 W. Sixth St., 477-7884 $$$ ` ¢ ˚

CEDAR DOOR This bar has expanded

Hoover’s This is the place for

chicken-fried steak, pork chops or meatloaf and side dishes (called “housemates”), such as the creamed jalapeño spinach and fried okra. Lunch and dinner daily; breakfast Sat-Sun. 2002 Manor Road, 479-5006; 13376 Research Blvd., 335-0300 $ è ¢ josey’s bar and grill Lakeway

Resort and Spa’s restaurant offers choice dining on the shores of Lake Travis. Start with the tortilla soup and finish with the grilled salmon. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 101 Lakeway Drive, 261-7323 $$ è ¢ N _ MESA Ranch This establishment

blends fine dining with a Texas ranch feel. Try the grilled poblano pepper stuffed with Mexican cheeses and shrimp or the signature chicken-fried elk. Dinner Mon-Sat. 8108 Mesa Drive, 853-9480 $$ è ¢ ˚ _

SULLIVAN’S Sinatra would have loved this Chicago-style steakhouse.

Try the Kansas City strip with a side of Sullivan’s horseradish mashed potatoes and the CEO Martini, garnished with blue cheese–stuffed olives. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily. 300 Colorado St., Ste. 200, 495-6504 $$$ ` ¢ ˚ _

RED’S PORCH This restaurant offers

III FORKS This award-winning restaurant does not disappoint. The rock-solid menu includes USDA Prime–grade steaks, young rack of lamb, fresh fish and cold-water lobster, along with tantalizing appetizers such as crab cake St. Francis and scallops in bacon. Dinner daily. 111 Lavaca St., 474-1776 $$$ è ` ¢ N ˚ P _

Shady Grove The leafy Barton Springs Road setting is laid-back and fun. Try a burger or the chicken-fried steak with green chile sauce, then head outside for live music in the summer.

Lunch and dinner daily. 1624 Barton Springs Road, 474-9991 $ è ¢ N _

TRIO Chef Grant Macdonald delivers seasonal, locally sourced delights such as akaushi steak, Gulf seafood and the best chicken dish in Austin. There are also incredible desserts and a topnotch wine list. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sun. 98 San Jacinto Blvd., 685-8300 $$$ ` ¢ N _

texas cooking THE BROKEN SPOKE With a menu

full of Lone Star flavors, this honky-tonk dance hall is the ideal place to grab an ice-cold brew and learn to two-step.

From chicken-fried steak to enchiladas

December 2012

an excellent view of the Greenbelt along with food and drinks inspired by Cajun and Tex-Mex flavors. Try the jalapeño poppers with roasted red peppers and cheddar cheese. Lunch and dinner daily.

Brunch Sat-Sun. 3508 S. Lamar Blvd., 440-7337 $ è ¢ N _ P

SWB This restaurant in the Hyatt

Regency Austin offers an upscale take on modern Southwestern food. Dishes like the Southwest mac and cheese with smoked ham, poblano chiles and Jack, asadero and cheddar cheeses will keep you coming back. 208 Barton Springs Road, 480-2035 $$ è ¢ ˚

Threadgill’s This spot where Janis

Joplin got her start is an Austin favorite for comfort food. Local musicians and friendly service are offered at both locations. Lunch and dinner daily. 6416 N. Lamar Blvd., 451-5440; 301 W. Riverside Drive, 472-9304 $ è ¢ N _

Z’Tejas Maybe it’s the smoky

chipotle-infused queso that keeps folks

coming back here. Or is it the cheese, chorizo and poblano-stuffed pork tenderloin? Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. Downtown, 478-5355; Arboretum, 346-3506; Parmer Lane, 388-7772 $$ è ` ¢ N ˚ _

Uniquely Austin 34th Street Café Eddie Bernal put 34th Street on the map when he opened this posh cafe, where Chef Jason Talent serves up delicious farmto-table cuisine. The Chinese hack salad and gourmet pizzas are house favorites. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 1005 W. 34th St., 371-3400 $$ è = Alamo DraftHouse Dinner and

a movie? The Alamo Drafthouse has both. First-run and classic films are served up with pizza, wings and sandwiches, as well as beer, cider, wine and many other beverages. Downtown, South Lamar, Anderson Lane; Research Blvd., Slaughter Lane, 476-1320 $ è = AMY’S ICE CREAMS Open since

1984, this Austin institution dishes up ice cream and fun for the whole family. The Mexican vanilla is by far the most famous flavor, but the dozens of others, which range from banana pudding and chipotle peanut butter to white coffee crunch, will have you licking your bowl clean—or eating every crumb of your cone. And don’t forget to add in a “crush’n,” such as cookies, candy or fruit. Thirteen Austin-area locations. $

BACON If bacon is tops in your book,

this could very well be considered heaven. The eatery serves up two types of bacon every day, a traditional smoked option as well as one with a special rub. Try the sweet corn fritters with bacon aioli or the chicken and waffles, served with thick slabs of bacon on the side. Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Mon-Sat. 900 W. 10th St., 322-9777 $$ N

BANGER’S SAUSAGE HOUSE & BEER GARDEN Choose from an array

of sausages, sides and more than 100 beers on tap at this lively beer garden on hopping Rainey Street. With communal seating, a huge patio and a dog park, your dining experience will be fun and delicious. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 79 & 81 Rainey St., 386-1656 $$ è = N _ P

DOC’S People-watch at these fun, col-

orful hangouts with individual themes.

Try the burgers or Tex-Mex dishes and choose among a wine, beer, mixed drink or margarita. Lunch and dinner daily. Motorworks, 1123 S. Congress Ave., 448-9181; Backyard, 5207 Brodie Lane, 892-5200 $ è ` ¢ N P

FLIX BREWHOUSE Grab dinner and a movie at this Round Rock establishment, which also functions as a working brewery. Signature brews include the Golden Ale, the Lupulus IPA and the 10 Day Scottish Ale. Pair one of them with the rich, Louisiana mac n’ cheese or slowroasted carne asada. 2200 I-35 S., Ste. B1, Round Rock, 244-3549 $$ è =

1920 S. Congress Ave., 445-0000; 2304 Lake Austin Blvd., 478-8645 $ è N P

FREDDIE’S PLACE This South Austin spot is great for a bite and a game of washers. Try the fish tacos or burgers. A side of hand-breaded onion rings or fries is a must. Lunch and dinner daily. 1703 S. First St., 445-9197 $ è ¢ N _ P

NUTTY BROWN CAFE and amphitheatre Catch some live

Hill’s CafE Grab the Willie Nelson booth or sit on the patio. Check out the live music and order the Nolan Ryan steak or a juicy cheeseburger. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sat. 4700 S. Congress Ave., 851-9300 $ è ¢ N _ Hoffbrau steakhouse

Aside from modern improvements such as credit cards and A/C, this place hasn’t changed much in seven decades. Steaks are cooked old-school style—in butter and lemon juice. Lunch and dinner TueSat. 613 W. Sixth St., 472-0822 $$ è N JUICEBOX & SOUP PEDDLER

A culinary marriage between local businesses JuiceLand and Soup Peddler, this small white storefront serves fresh fruit juices, smoothies and specialty blends, such as the Jalapiña, a mix of jalapeño, pineapple and lime. Open daily. 2801 S. Lamar Blvd., 444-7687 $ è N juiceland Health is the name of the

game at this popular juice hut with three locations in town. Try one of the fresh juices, smoothies or cleanses, and make it your own by adding something extra, like raw cacao or nut butter. Open daily. 1625 Barton Springs Road, 480-9501; 2307 Lake Austin Blvd., 628-0782; Burnet Road, 524-1129 $$ è N

KERBEY LANE cafe This Austin

favorite offers breakfast, lunch and dinner 24/7. Try the pancakes or Cobb salad.

South Lamar, 445-4451; Northwest, 2587757; The Drag, 477-5717; Central, 4511436; Southwest, 899-1500 $ = N _ P

LICK Scream for creatively flavored ice cream at this South Austin shop that uses fresh, seasonal ingredients that are as local as possible. Try cilantro-lime, caramel salt lick or roasted beet and fresh mint in your choice of homemade cone, waffle cone or bowl—you won’t be disappointed. 2032 S. Lamar Blvd., 363-5622 $ è Magnolia Cafe The cafe is always open and always serves great breakfast food. Try the p ancakes or Magnolia “Mud” queso. Open daily 24 hours.

Mighty Cone Mighty Cone began

when Hudson’s on the Bend started serving food at ACL Fest, and it quickly became a sought-after purveyor of wraps.

Lunch and dinner Tue-Sun. 1600 S. Congress Ave., 383-9609 $ è N

food plate filled with marinated collard greens and organic red and black beans.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1900 S. First St., 416-1601 $ è = N P

by location. 238 W. Second St., 4729463; 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Ste. 104, 339-9463 $$ N = è `

Casa de Luz Austin is blessed to have

Crowds flock to the Grove’s patio for pizza, pastas, salads and, of course, wine. Lunch and dinner daily. 6317 Bee Caves Road, 327-8822 $$ N = è `

The Grove wine bar & kitchen

this macrobiotic oasis, with its lush gardens and fresh fare, ranging from vegan soups to veggie sides. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1701-A Toomey Road, 476-2535 $ è

HOUSE WINE The vibe is casual and

laid-back at House Wine, just like the South Austin neighborhood it calls home. Along with its extensive selection of vino, it features live music, wine tastings, cheese plates, snacks and desserts. Open daily. 408 Josephine St., 322-5210 $$ è = N _ P

music and dancing on the huge patio at this legendary Hill Country spot.

Start with the spinach dip and then tackle the chicken-fried steak. Lunch and dinner daily. 12225 Hwy. 290 W., 301-4648 $$ è ¢ N _

CONSCIOUS CRAVINGS Try this chic

PATSY’S CAFÉ Try one of the sand-

serves up tasty organic vegan and raw food options such as Jackfruit BBQ, garbanzo “tuna” and Philly seitan sandwiches. Lunch and dinner WedSun. 2337 E. Cesar Chavez St. $ N

The lounge at aviary You’ll feel

Daily Juice cafe The tasty, all-natu-

MULBERRY This chic wine bar offers

wiches named after local notables from Kinky Friedman to Sandra Bullock. Stay for live music Thursdays to Saturdays.

Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 5001 E. Ben White Blvd., 444-2020 $ è ¢ N ˚ _

PHIL’S ICE HOUSE Thick, juicy burgers,

sweet potato fries and a laid-back vibe are what the two locations of this popular eatery are known for. Kids will love going for the super-fun playscapes, and adults will enjoy indulging in one of the many burger options, corn dogs, sandwiches and frito pie. Lunch and dinner daily.

5620 Burnet Road, 524-1212; 2901 S. Lamar Blvd., 707-8704 $ è = N

Ranch 616 Enjoy the fun, family setting at 616. The jalapeño-maize trout and grilled quail are toothsome. Lunch Mon-Fri; dinner daily. 616 Nueces St., 479-7616 $$ è ¢ _ Thistle Café Order the grilled Dijon

turkey cheese melt at the counter and sit in the dining room. Take-out and catering available. Breakfast and lunch Mon-Fri, lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 3801 Barton Skyway and MoPac, 275-9777; Chase Tower, 474-5222; Cielo Tower, 347-1000 $ è ¢ ˚

Trudy’s The Mexican eggs Benedict makes for a great brunch. Later on, try the stuffed avocado entreé. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The Drag, 477-2935; South, 326-9899; Burnet, 454-1474; Four Star, 301-4300 $ è ¢ P

Vegetarian BEETS CAFÉ Owner Sylvia Heisey

and her team offer vegan, gluten-free, organic, raw-food fare. Try the E.L.T. (eggplant, lettuce and tomato). Breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 1611 W. Fifth St., Ste. 165, 477-2338 $ è ˚

Bouldin Creek Café This South

Austin haunt is known for its delicious vegetarian and vegan options including vegan blueberry cornbread and a soul

vegetarian trailer’s spicy chickpea wrap or the barbecue seitan with rosemary baked fries. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. 1901 Rio Grande St., 782-0546 $ N

COUNTER CULTURE This eatery

ral smoothies and juices at this popular joint have a loyal following. The rawfoods eatery also features everything from soups, salads and sandwiches to tacos and Thai noodles. Open daily.

4500 Duval St., 380-9046 $$ è N

Leaf Salad Try the Margherita on

the Works—mozzarella, basil, tomatoes, olives and pine nuts atop leafy greens with honey-tangerine vinaigrette. Lunch Mon-Sat. 419 W. Second St., 474-5323 $ è = N Mother’s Café and Garden

Try the sautéed new potatoes or the giant pancakes. But it’s the salads at Mother’s that steal the show, especially when they’re served with yummy cashew-tamari dressing. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat-Sun. 4215 Duval St., 451-3994 $ è MR. NATURAL Tasty specials include

potato and soy chorizo tacos and tamales. Breakfast, lunch and dinner MonSat. 1901 E. Cesar Chavez St., 477-5228; 2414 S. Lamar Blvd., 916-9223 $ è N

Wine Bars 8212 Wine Bar & Grill Located at

the Barton Creek Resort and Spa, 8212 serves up salads, as well as entrees that change seasonally. 8212 Barton Club Drive, 329-4000 $$ è ¢ ˚

CORK & CO. This wine bar/shop has

a great selection plus fun events and classes. Mon-Fri, 3 p.m. to midnight; Sat, noon to midnight. 308 Congress Ave., 474-CORK (2675) $$ = ˚

CRÚ: A WINE BAR Choose from more than 300 wines and flights to go with the pan-seared sea scallops. Hours vary

at home at this small wine bar nestled into a home decor store. Dinner Tue-Sun. 2110 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. C, 916-4445 $$ è N =

a good selection of wines and a surprisingly extensive food menu. Dinner served daily. Brunch served Sat-Sun. 360 Nueces St., Ste. 20, 320-0297 $$ = N ˚

Opa! coffee & Wine bar The wine

list isn’t limited to Greece; Opa! also has varieties from Argentina and South Africa. 2050 S. Lamar Blvd., 326-8742 $ è = N P

SIMPLICITY WINE & eats Touting itself as “an Austin wine bar without the snotty attitude,” this Burnet spot promises great wine and food without the fuss. Simplicity offers a rotating selection of 60 to 80 bottles of wine and interesting, reasonably priced tapas, such as baked brie encroute or pork stuffed jalapeños. Dinner Tue-Sun. 4801 Burnet Road, 419-0200 $ è = _ uncorked This tasting room and wine bar is known for its great view of the downtown skyline and its Texas-sized list of handpicked wines from around the world. Cheese plates, steamed mussels and chili port glazed pork are also on the menu. Dinner Mon-Sat. 900 E. Seventh St., 524-2809 $$ è N = VINO VINO This wine bar specializes in European wines and delicious food.

Be sure to sample gourmet appetizers like the Wagyu beef slider and mussels and fries. Plus, paella is served Sunday nights. Dinner daily. 4119 Guadalupe St., 465-9282 $$ = è N _ Austin monthly Magazine (USPS 001-163) is published monthly for $14.95 per year by open sky media, inC., 1250 S. CAPITAL OF TEXAS HWY, BLDG 3-395, Austin, TX 78746-6393.

Periodicals Postage Paid Austin, TX and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Austin Monthly, 1250 S. CAPITAL OF TEXAS HWY, BLDG 3-395, Austin, TX 78746-6393

December 2012

austinmonthly.com 177

THINGS I’VE LEARNED

l iving in a ustin

Dunlap outside Lustre Pearl, 10 a.m., Oct. 19, 2012

living. It was not my dream to open a bar. It was about choosing a platform.

Restaurants and bars are what I know.

Choosing this area was blind naiveté and ignorance. I was looking for my ideal bar location when I found myself on Rainey Street. I could see the Four Seasons Residential Towers [from] the lot that is now Lustre Pearl. I thought, “That’s gotta mean something.” If I’d have known the backlash I was going to get, it might have been a different story. But I do love to gamble.

There are things that I can control and things that I can’t. The moment I let these things go and relax, things seem to start to move. It’s as though life is telling me to slow down.

Bridget Dunlap 4 YEARS IN AUSTIN | ENTREPRENEUR

SINCE MOVING TO AUSTIN IN 2008, BRIDGET DUNLAP HAS TURNED ONCESLEEPY RAINEY STREET INTO A VIBRANT BAR SCENE. ON THE BRINK OF OPENING THE LONG-AWAITED CONTAINER BAR AND EAST AUSTIN EATERY METTLE, SHE’S KEEPING HER TAB OPEN WITH THE CITY. BY AMY GAB R I E L

I always wanted to be here. I tried so many times to get out of Houston, and I always ended up back there. Houston was like living “inside the box.” Being raised in an upper-middle-class family, it’s inherent to accept that kind of life.

But I never could conform.

The best advice I ever got was from my Dad, who said, “I got mine, now you get yours.” The worst advice was from my mother: “Wear lipstick, be a lady and get yourself a good man to take care of you.”

I quit high school at 16 and went to Europe. I worked as a waitress in London,

178 austinmonthly.com

December 2012

picked grapes in Italy, danced in bars in Greece. To be so young and free and to get into the experience of every little thing, I would do it all over again.

The catalyst for everything I’ve accomplished was when I got pregnant with my son, Asher Skye. If I was going to have a child and choose to be a single mother, I was no longer going to live the life I was

When I have downtime I love to devour several books in one sitting, in bed with the phone off and no one around and preferably good dark chocolate. I can read about three in a 24-hour period of time.

I stick to my street when I go out.

I know the product, and I get good service. If I venture out, it is to Bar Congress. Sometimes my fiance and I go see music afterwards, or we go back to Rainey Street to cause a little havoc.

As for Container Bar, I love containers!

I think they’re pretty, and I thought it would be a cheap way to build something.

But it’s been a long road with so many obstacles. At times, I’ve wanted to quit.

But I don’t quit. I finish what I start.

I’ll stay here until I go somewhere like Italy to eat and drink everything in sight.

I’d also like my son to experience life in other countries. But I have more projects that I plan on doing. Ultimately, Austin will always be my home.

It was not my dream to open a bar.

It was about choosing a platform.

PHOTO BY JOHN PESINA