“The Switch” to Open at Belterra Center
Just heard from grill master supreme Bill Dumas that bbq fav Stiles Switch has hooked up with chef Todd Duplechan of Lenoir to create some new dishes at their upcoming concept, The Switch, at Belterra Center near Dripping Springs. I’m very buzzed about this development – can’t wait to try it!
Finally, Austin Java Opens on 290W near Dripping Springs
It’s been at least a year since the word went out that an Austin Java was opening near Dripping Springs. But for what seemed like an eternity, the external structure and the sign were all that one could see. And then finally, it all came together on February 1. And voila, all my AJ favs […]
Looking For Something Exceptionally Tasty? Here are Some Ideas!
Sap’s Fine Thai Cuisine Sap’s Fine Thai Cuisine has chicken that hits the mark. The Thai Chicken Wings appetizer blows me away! From the very first first bite, this dish just oozes a subtle, spicy and irresistible flavor. You can also find this at the Koenig and Burnet location. Sap literally invented this when he […]
Mother’s Day Dining Suggestions
There’s a commonality among many of the restaurants suggested here: they are warm and hospitable, and the food is GREAT! Happy Mother’s Day to all of our foodie moms. The Oasis on Lake Travis The Oasis is always a great choice for honoring your mom on Mother’s Day. Check out their mothers day specials above. […]
A Must-Try Dish: The Sizzling Honey Pepper Steak at Chinatown
Here’s a piece of advice for those who crave sweet and savory creativity: try the Sizzling Honey Pepper Steak at Chinatown. I can’t stay away from this dish. The server arrives with a scalding hot serving platter bearing Ronald Cheng’s famous sweet and savory amalgam: the Sizzling Honey Pepper Steak. The ingredients are poured onto […]
Listen to the latest Dining Out Austin Podcast
Rob and Don Pryor have returned the Dining Out Austin Podcast to 590jlbj.com The first guest is David Bober, Owner of Jobell Café & Bistro in Wimberley. To listen, click below: Dining Out Austin Podcast April 2018: Jobell Café & Bistro
Chinatown North on Greystone to Reopen
Talk about bad luck: while Chinatown’s Ronald Cheng was in Beijing recently, a truck ran into the gas line at the Chinatown Greystone location. But pending a final inspection, the popular restaurant should be open either this weekend or shortly after. Now that is good luck for all Austin foodies!
Dishes Worth Rediscovering
The dish above is the Chicken Schnitzel at Homespun Kitchen and Bar In Dripping Springs. It was and still is a favorite, but its presence on the menu has been inconsistent (the reason for which I can find no ready answers). If you’re craving a terrific and savory dish, next time you go to this […]
Behind the EurAsia Sushi Bar & Seafood TV shoot
We do a lot at Dining Out with With Rob Balon, but there’s much more we do that restaurants may not be aware of. Lately we’ve been drawing on my background in TV and film to create TV spots for newer restaurants. I’ve stayed behind the camera for a change and focused on writing, producing, […]
Rob Makes First Visit to Hops & Thyme
There’s something reassuring about walking into a new restaurant where you know the chef, the head waiter, and their work. And everything just feels right. Such was the case with the new Hops & Thyme Beer Garden and Brasserie in Lakeway. After sampling a killer bratwurst sandwich with caramelized onions and desserts made by the […]
The Absolutely Stunning Fries at Hyde Park Bar & Grille
There has been a long running argument for years over who has the best fries in Austin, but after lunch this past week I simply have to weigh in on the side of owner Bick Brown and his crew at Hyde Park Bar & Grille. Their fries have great taste and skin with a killer […]
A New Look at P.F. Chang’s on Jollyville Rd.
I generally try to focus my reviews on restaurants I would recommend that you try, but a return visit to P.F. Chang’s on Jollyville Rd. (where they originally opened some years ago) prompted a somewhat different reaction. As it always has been, the place was crowded, even for a late Saturday afternoon. The service was […]
Rob’s Suggestions for Easter Brunch
April is usually lovely in Austin, especially on Easter Sunday. So here are some of our suggestions on where to bring your family for brunch. The Oasis – A perennial favorite, The Oasis on Lake Travis is known for its stunning views and exceptional dining. Their Easter brunch is always a great choice. […]
SXSW 2018 Dining Suggestions
Looking for the best places to eat around Austin during SXSW? Here are a few that you’ll not want to miss! Hoover’s Cooking on Manor – Very close to downtown on the East Side. Micklethwait Craft Meats – East side location and top ten BBQ! Red Ash Italia – Best Italian food downtown […]
Hops and Thyme Opens in Lakeway
Hops and Thyme has opened in Lakeway and this brasserie-styled spot helmed by chef Nathan Pearlman looks enticing. We’ll have a report for you soon! Hops & Thyme 2125 Lohmans Crossing Rd, Ste. 400 Lakeway, TX 78734 (512) 710-1011 www.hopsandthyme.com
