New Chef at Soleil
27 Jan
(map) Recently, Chef David Sanchez, formerly with Apatite Cafe (read about Apatite here) was lured to Soleil on Lake Travis to transform the menu. He’s proceeding to do just that, serving up big dishes like short ribs, duck breast, and lamb shanks. It’s fun to watch and enjoy the view as well as some of the smaller items, like the gaufrettes (potato chips), above. And things don’t get much smaller than the amuse-bouche, below, a tiny triumph of triple-creme Brie, pecans and apples in a cracker “spoon.”
Twisted Calamari, strips of fried calamari steak, are crispy outside, tender within. Served with three sauces: tomato, tartar and a less-traditional soy.
The Beau Burger is not a mere half-pound, but 10 ounces of seared grass-fed beef sporting Soleil’s signature grill rub, black-peppercorn cheddar and applewood bacon. Delish!
This “Wine Taster Plate” is loaded with artisanal cheeses, smoked meats (that’s duck breast in front), a variety of olives, nuts and dried fruits.
The White Pie is baked in the pizza oven and topped with gorgonzola, raisins and arugula, then drizzled with agave nectar. It’s a nice contrast of salty and sweet.
Even with a not-so-spectacular sunset, the view is always amazing.
Blue Genie Oasis
In: Stuff
26 Jan
(map) The famously cool Blue Genie Art Bazaar makes its way out West! And it is definitely way out – 40 local artists showcase their wares upstairs at the new Oasis Texas complex (Blue Genie’s on the second floor, next to Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que). The whimsical inventory is heavy on gift ideas, ranging from See More »
Green-Chile Burger at Sandeez
In: Eating
25 Jan
(map) Okay, so it’s not the prettiest burger. But it is pretty tasty! Sandeez Hamburger Hut has been around since dinosaurs roamed the earth. Lately they’re tossing some new dishes into the old-school mix, like this hefty burger loaded with authentic Hatch green chiles. That bright-yellow stuff looks like mustard, but it’s their nuclear-toned cheese. Incidentally, there’s been some debate on the Sandy’s vs. Sandeez name, but it looks like the new sign settles that.
Texas Histerical Committee
In: Stuff
24 Jan
Who says historians don’t have a sense of humor? Spotted on a (not very) old house near Lake Travis.
Happy New Year!
23 Jan
Today marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year. According to the zodiac, 2012 is the Year of the Dragon. Celebrate by going to Pao’s Mandarin House and ordering off the secret Chinese menu (story here). Don’t worry, you’ve got plenty of time – the celebration lasts for 15 days!
New Brunch at Cafe Blue
20 Jan
(map) Cap’n Crunch French toast! That’s just the tip of the iceberg of creativity in Cafe Blue’s fun new brunch. Served 9 am to 3 pm both Saturday and Sunday, the menu lists a raft of whimsical dishes like the Devil’s Cove Burrito and Starnes Island omelet. Above, the Cap’n Crunch French toast features thick slices of bread dipped in See More »
Keija Parssinen at the Lake Travis Library
In: Stuff
18 Jan
(map) Tomorrow, author Keija (pronounced Kay-a) Parssinen will be at the Lake Travis Community Library to discuss her new debut novel, The Ruins of Us. Parssinen grew up in Saudi Arabia, then moved to Lakeway as a junior high student. Her award-winning novel, set in oil-rich Saudi Arabia, is “a timely story about the universality of family and the injustices we endure for love.” At 7 pm.
Hey Cupcake! just launched their special Valentine’s Day cupcake. The Luvcake is a delectable confection of chocolate cake covered with fresh strawberry and cream-cheese frosting. A delicious way to show that special someone (or yourself!) how you feel. Available now through Valentine’s.
Farm-to-Table Wednesdays at Josey’s
In: Eating
16 Jan
(map) Here’s a fresh idea: Visit the local farmer’s market, then whip up a fabulous meal showcasing the best seasonal, organic ingredients. Every Wednesday, Josey’s in the Lakeway Resort and Spa does just that, serving up a three-course meal for just $25. The week’s new menu appears on See More »
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