Places You Should Try in the Spicewood Area

Many Austinites don’t give the Spicewood area on Highway 71 the chance it deserves. There are some little gems out there that are worthy of consideration. Here are just a few of our favs with more on the way.

Angel’s Ice House

This little comfort food emporium on 71 dishes up pretty much things that aren’t good for you, but damn it, are they good! Take for example, the deep-fried macaroni and cheese. Yeah I know, it’s a very occasional indulgence for me, but when I do partake, we’re talking batten down the hatches, baby. Also terrific Queso and Fried Jalapeno spears along with a Mushroom and Bacon Swiss Burger. The gigantic Chile Burger is a treat along with cold beer, a great staff, live music, and of course Mary and Sara. Beautiful location as well. They’re coming up on their 11th anniversary, and it’s well deserved.

Briarcliff Bacon Bistro

I love this little joint at 108 Pace Bend. Former pro at Lakeside GC Chris Evans Abbs turned us on to it, and our first brunch, including a gigantic Bacon Bloody Mary, was indeed memorable. They love bacon here, and go through probably 100 pounds a month. But this place is about a lot more than bacon. The food is excellent and the drinks are stout. The four players in this heady brew are Chris Halpine and her husband Jeff Damgen, Robert Kinslow, and Rachel Coppedge, and they all have restaurant backgrounds. Closed on Mondays. I guess they need a day of rest. 🙂

Poodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse

Country music fans unite every week at this cozy Highway 71 homage to Poodie Locke, long-time road manager to Willie Nelson. I knew Poodie, and he was as real as you can want in a person. No pretense at all, just an aw-shucks demeanor and a great love of good grub. The famous Poodie Burger is as juicy and tasty as anything you’ll find in central Texas. It’s about a 25-napkin affair with green chiles, onions, and pepper jack cheese. And do try the Fried Mushrooms with Ranch dressing. So on any given night, you’ll find country music (we had the privilege of playing there one night when daughter Jennifer, the other half of The Balons was still in town) and stick to your ribs chow that just doesn’t quit. And somewhere Poodie is smiling.

It’s All Good BBQ

Another fairly new joint on Highway 71 just before Poodie’s. The four partners all met via a shared enthusiasm with BBQ competitions. The grill master is Frankie Hoch, who by day tunes up cars for Austin cops, but when that man gets a hold of a Beef Rib, baby watch out. Partner Dale is an electrical contractor… well, you get the idea. They are turning out BBQ far superior to the Schmidt Family Market up at the swanky Galleria, and I am addicted to Frankie’s Beef Ribs. He could give the legendary John Mueller a run. The moist brisket is excellent as well and the smoked chicken is as good as any around. Do yourselves a favor and pay these guys a visit: closed Monday and Tuesday.

Apis Restaurant and Apiary

This is the newest kid on the block that opened just in time for Valentine’s Day. Taylor Hall has a unique concept. He’s installed 20 beehives on the property (hence the Apiary name), and will use the fresh honey in the restaurant. He’s transforming existing buildings on the property (25326 Hwy. 71) into the main restaurant, as well as catering and bar facilities. The bees are not aggressive, so diners need not fear.

J5 Steakhouse

The J5 Steakhouse is the area’s fine dining spot. They open at 4pm, and are sort of across the street from Angel’s. I am a fan of the 14 oz. Ribeye at $19.95. Also very tasty is the 14oz NY Strip at $21.95. But often overlooked are the exceptionally prepared Flatbreads. My favorite is the P-Monsky with grilled chicken, caramalized onions, and Manchego cheese. The Green Chile Cheeseburger with green chiles and chipotle mayo is a piece of fine work, rivaling Jack Allen’s version.

The Little Country Diner

Also on 71, I would head to this place for breakfast and leave it at that. They have a $7.95 buffet that is entirely serviceable, and the folks are friendly. The rest of the days lineups are a bit too inconsistent for me to get solidly behind the offerings. One day prepared well, the next day burned to a crisp. But hey, breakfast is important, right? I supposed you could drive up to Marble Falls and stand in line at the Bluebonnet but well, give the Little Country Diner’s breakfast a try.

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