Judging the Proverbial Book by its Cover

I know a woman who will almost automatically veer away from a restaurant if it’s not draped in white linens with oak and mahogany trim and fitted with thick, plush leather chairs. Oh and lots of glass and chrome is nice too. She is not alone among river city diners.

The only problem with that type of rigid, non-processed judgement is that you can miss some great little joints around Austin.

When I was a professor at UT there was a place on North Lamar called Hector’s Taco Flats. It was an absolute dump but the food was simple and sensational. I even taught a grad class there occasionally and we all loved it.

There have been many places like Hector’s over the years. El Patio on Guadalupe will win no prizes for ambiance but the nachos and enchiladas are amazing. Same for Austin Pizza Garden on 290 near Oak Hill. Driving by it my friend would turn up her nose in absolute disdain. It looks, well, odd from the outside. But there are some neat pizza flavors within. Another restaurant that looks less than appealing from the outside is Rio, a little Brazilian gold mine on Pleasant Valley near East 5th that cranks out some very tasty dishes.

It’s got tiny little tables and wobbly chairs but the Yucca Fritters and the Chicken Stroganoff are amazing. Yet another less-than-appealing location is Casa Columbia on East 7th. But the food inside is (the Arepas come to mind and the Arroz Con Pollo) quite delightful. Down the street Joe’s Bakery doesn’t look like much inside or out but they have the best Huevos Rancheras in Austin.

Out near Dripping Springs on 290 is a little joint called Canyon Grill Ice House. A snazzy Trudy’s just opened down the street which is brand new and accommodating. Canyon Grill, on the other hand, well it looks kinda country and somewhat worn down. But the food, either Chinese or American is spot on. Best cheeseburger for miles. And the Potstickers along with the Chicken Fried Chicken is the bomb. Beats Trudy’s by a long shot, in my opinion.

So don’t let the look of a restaurant or lack of it fool you, especially in and around Austin!