Memorial Day Weekend Dining Tips
The Memorial Day weekend is upon us. And with the temperatures soaring, our thoughts go to the lakes, water, food and libations. Of course, we are happy to help with recommendations regarding the latter two.
Lake Travis has an abundance of neat places on, near, and above the water. On the water we love the Gnarly Gar, a great little spot (formerly Shades) near Little Hurst Harbor that is perfect for getting some rays, checking out cool people, and eating some great lake food. Todd Hynes really gets sandwiches and his Cubano is legendary. The Burgers and fish dishes are great as well. You can also drive there by heading down 1431 towards Lago Vista.
Another terrific venue is Café Blue near Volente Beach. This overlooks the water, has a killer menu and an even better bar, and is in a gorgeous setting. You gotta try the Coconut Shrimp.
And if you are in need of a beautiful view and some stellar upscale cuisine, then venture to one of our Top 20 restaurants, the Grille at Rough Hollow overlooking the gorgeous Rough Hollow Yacht Club. The Shrimp and Grits is my favorite dish here and the burgers are always very popular.
Of course the legendary Oasis sits on its usual perch hundreds of feet above the lake off Comanche Trail. They ring a bell each night at sunset here and it’s easy to see why. The food is comfort-style Tex-Mex and American. I love the Fireballs and the Fish Tacos. They also serve a killer Fried Shrimp. You can easily wind up drinking and eating the afternoon or evening away here. Done it myself on many an occasion.
The Oasis has recently been joined by two new restaurants: Robert Del Grande’s Soleil and the popular Uncle Billy’s Brew and Cue (with legendary brewmeister Brian Peters).
Across Highway 620 from the Oasis and with a breathtaking view is the upscale yet very accommodating Steiner Ranch Steakhouse. I love this place. Fantastic steaks, wonderful She Crab Soup, and a bar scene that is crackling. Great music here as well.
And what’s not to love about the Iguana Grill? This overlooks an inlet of Lake Travis and dishes up some serious and virtually irresistible Tex-Mex.
It too is a great venue for local bands and lots of fun. (The Balons have played there on several occasions).
