Ciola’s Transitions into Dominick’s Italian-American Restaurant
Longtime favorite Ciola’s came under the new ownership of Dave Staab in July 2010, and has now transitioned into “Dominick’s.” Their new website touts, “Our name has since changed, but our high standard of service, quality cuisine and wine selection, and respect for tradition have remained the same.” We’ll keep you posted on more updates […]
Rob Judges Reuben Throwdown at Manny’s Uptown Kitchen
There’s nothing quite like the taste of a great Reuben sandwich, and I recently got to taste several in the “Reuben Throwdown” for various charities at Manny’s Uptown Kitchen at Gateway Plaza. I sampled entries from the NeWorlDeli on Guadalupe, Fricano’s Deli on Speedway, The Garden Spot Café, and Manny’s Uptown Kitchen. The essence of […]
Sandra Bullock Graces Bess on New Year’s Eve
For all the Sandy Bullock fans who head to Bess on 6th St. hoping for a glimpse of Austin’s uber star only to leave disappointed should have gone on New Year’s Eve. Sandy was there with fellow actor and ostensible new beau Ryan Reynolds. Sandy, according to breathless reports on ET, wad dressed as a […]
First Dinner at Vince Young Steakhouse Very Encouraging
We had dinner at Vince Young Steakhouse on Saturday night. It was our first full meal at the recently opened restaurant at 3rd and San Jacinto. The place was almost full and it seats a goodly number of diners. The dinner was quite good. I had the Charcuterie Platter that featured Duck Prosciutto, House Made […]
Snacks with Jeff Trigger at “2nd”
I first met Jeff Trigger when as the new manager of the Driskill Hotel, he had the good sense to bring chef David Bull to Austin. Well, now Trigger runs the La Corsha Hospitality group and he and Bull have reunited at the two restaurants in the new Austonian high-rise: “Congress” and the more casual […]
Joe Avila Passes
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Joe’s Bakery at the passing of Joe Avila this Sunday. He was a larger-than-life kind of guy with a huge heart. He loved his family and his restaurant on E. 7th St. He was kind in ways that didn’t capture a lot of attention: but when […]
New Menu Items at The Grille at Rough Hollow
A new menu will be rolling out at The Grille at Rough Hollow, and this weekend we’ll be giving you a sneak peek at two of our tasty additions! Tuna Poke (Po-kay) This appetizer has been in high demand, and we’ve decided to give it a go. Ahi tuna tartare prepared with sweet chili, red […]
Quatro Gatti Gathering Fans at 908 Congress
I’m haring more and more about this little Italian restaurant at 908 Congress. There is some real authenticity here and the dishes are done with a lot of care and presented quite impressively. At least that’s what I’m hearing from readers. We’re dining there his weekend and I’ll let you know. In the meantime, call […]
Winners from the Gypsy Picnic Trailer Cook Off
Aside from the fact that it was cold as hell when we began judging at 9am this past Saturday morning at Auditorium Shores, the task of rating the food from over 30 of Austin’s food trailers was a pleasant one. The judges were sequestered in a tent at the east side of festival and C3 […]
Cannoli Joe’s Posts Changes in Operating Hours
A lot of restaurants just kind of chug along on Mondays and Tuesdays. Most would like to close on those days and focus on the Wednesday-Sunday market. But many feel they have to stay open, if only for appearances. Cannoli Joe’s on Highway 290 S. has announced they will be closed to the public on […]
Brian O’Neill Lands as New GM at Chez Zee
Another Belmont alumnus, Brian O’Neill has landed as the new GM at Chez Zee. After a stint at Max’s Wine Dive, Brian is where he belongs. A great restaurant pro, he will be a huge asset to owner Sharon Watkins as they take the iconic Chez Zee into a new era.
Ben Nathan Reconnects with Matt Luckie
I’ve always been a fan of Chef Ben Nathan’s work. I think he had a hell of a run at the Belmont working under highly stressful conditions. He’s now back with original Belmont owner Matt Luckie at the new Lavaca Street Grill. This is one that I’m looking forward to. I hope he brings back […]
CK Chin and George Thomas Depart Imperia
When Imperia at 4th and Colorado debuted a few years back with its ultra chic “vibe dining” concept, the idea was to clone the wildly successful Tao in Las Vegas. I doubted whether Austin was ready for the Vegas idea of uber cool dining and partying but the restaurant itself certainly became one of my […]
Fire at Jezebel Causes an Estimated $200,000 in Damages
Parind Vora is not winning any awards for luck lately. His fine-dining restaurant on Congress, Jezebel, suffered over $200,000 in fire damage late last night. This is the same restaurant that has been the target for the wrath of the anti foie gras crowd for the past several years. And while the fire department has […]
Austin Restaurant Community Mourns Passing of Ray LeMay
Ray LeMay was a large and colorful man who loved life and lived it to the fullest. The charismatic former owner of Ray’s Steakhouse passed away this week at the age of 59. And he will be missed. His restaurant was a haven for great food (best Chicken Fried Chicken ever) and wine but most […]
