Austin Beerjoints, Bars and Honky Tonks plus more

Cypress Grill near MoPac and William Cannon Drive in Far South Austin

2009-10-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

Well here I am again, just when you figured that I either croaked or said to hell with trying to maintain this blog any further. The truth is I never go anywhere anymore unless someone wants to drive me around and today someone did, so I figured what the heck. I've been to this joint a few times before today and can honestly say I've never had a bad meal there, this trip was no different. Besides having lots of parking and being conveniently located, for me, I had a coupon good for one free entree with purchase of a second one, so my food was gratis. They might have given it to me for free anyway, if they knew I was a world famous blogger but I didn't want to embarrass them by pointing out their ignorance. I had a BM to start with and that sounds pretty nasty until you realise I'm talking about a Bloody Mary. It came with a pickled okra and three green olives on a plastic sword and tasted pretty damn good for $3.25. When the meal arrived I ordered a 16 oz. Mojito that set me back the same amount. It too was excellent. I took a bunch of crummy pictures because I'm out of practice, and I had waited until I had a pretty good jag on, but a few turned out sweet and the rest still tell a story. The video is just slightly better, so give it a view too, if you feel like it.

Destee Nation Roadtrip Rolls into Austin Texas

2009-06-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

Before I go any farther, here is the link: http://www.desteenation.com/roadtrip O.K. here's the story: about two weeks ago I was contacted through this blog by a woman in Seattle who works for a company that seeks out, and gets signed licensing agreements from, local iconic landmarks for the purpose of printing and selling T-Shirts world wide. She said their Scout would be in Austin soon and she hoped I could turn her on to the real places and help them avoid the posers. I gave her some suggestions and then she asked me if I would be willing to meet with the Scout at the watering hole of my choice. I said sure, tell him to meet me next Wednesday around five at Deep Eddy Cabaret and I heard nothing more until I showed up with the Men's Club in tow. The first guy I saw, and one of a very few patrons, was Gabe himself. We went our separate ways a few hours later when the place was really crowded. It took a little while to figure out what was happening until they announced Happy One Hour with five dollar full size pitchers of beer. Jackpot, or should I say Bingo! Update: I'm a daytime guy, so I didn't know the Happy Hour Rules but now I do. Monday Tuesday and Wednesday from 7-8pm it is half priced everything. I didn't check to see if the bar cleared out after 8 but for some reason I doubt it.

Polvo's on South First Street in Old South Austin Texas

2009-06-06T10:25:00.000-07:00

I've only been to Polvo's a few times in my life but considering there are many places in Austin that I have never been to, that is actually a recommendation of sorts. The food here is pretty good and I usually go where my friends want to go because picky is not a word I would use to describe myself. They have lots of seating, a decent amount of parking space and they are located close to downtown so they do a good bit of business. For the purpose of this blog I'm more concerned with the drinks than I am with the food and I had two margaritas that tasted and looked very dissimilar from each other, but they both went down OK. A few minutes later the waiter told me that the bartender was new and forgot to add water to the tequila and margarita mix when I ordered a second drink. It tasted a little bittersweet and stout but I probably would not have noticed if he hadn't said anything. That is, for the first 30 minutes then I noticed big time when my jaw started flapping and even I realized I was getting a bit rowdy. I'm glad I wasn't driving because that second one put me over the limit, without any question in my mind. Accidents happen, but it sucks when they happen in cars. Luckily there was no crash, until I got dropped off at home and hit the couch.

The Parlor in Hyde Park near UT off of Guadalupe in Austin, Texas

2009-04-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

I remember going here with the Men's Club, and a couple of female honorary members, but for some reason it never made it to my blog. I'm sure the reason was a good one, like I was too lazy to be bothered, but I did post a video on YouTube. Well, here it is, in all of it's splendid glory, from about eight months back. Parking is mostly streetish, the pizza is better than average and the beer is cold. It's not cheap though, especially when a half dozen sots all get glug, glug, glugging at the same time. The pinball machine took me back to bygone days and the clientele and employees seemed friendly enough but that one guy was giving me the evil eye, big time. They have an outdoor patio and it's much larger than their North Loop location. It's like the smallest pizza chain in the world.

Maudie's Cafe on South Lamar Boulevard near Alamo Drafthouse

2009-04-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

Maudie's is well known for their Tex Mex in Austin and this is only one of several locations around town. It was originally built as a Pizza Hut and operated as such at least through the early 80's if my memory is correct. I know that because I used to occasionally take my son here for the pizza buffet, and a beer or two for dad, when he was about five years old. He's crowding 30 now. Anyway, it's much better as a Mexican Restaurant and Cantina then it ever was as a cheap pizza joint. The margaritas were very tasty on this visit but I was too busy taking pictures and video to pay much attention to how they were made. They passed the "I'll have another" test with ease, and in my particular case they passed it twice. The place itself is comprised of an indoor eating area with a small bar that seats six or seven and an indoor/outdoor second seating area. They also have a skinny deck with a cool view of downtown and the neon signs and rooftops of the strip shopping center next door where Thundercloud Subs and the Alamo Drafthouse are located. I didn't eat here on this visit, except for the chips and salsa they forced on me, but I have eaten here in the past, as well as some of their other locations and I've always been satisfied. This is perhaps Maudie's funkiest location in town and one that I have a real fondness for.

Matt's El Rancho on South Lamar Boulevard in Austin

2009-03-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

Matt's has been in business since 1952, a year before I was born. When I first moved to Austin in 1981 I ate at Matt's down on Caesar Chavez in front of where the Four Seasons Hotel is now. A year or two later he built a much larger restaurant on South Lamar Boulevard across the street from where the Sonic Burger now stands. I think they have some of the better true Tex-Mex in Austin and lots of people seem to agree. They have daily Lunch Specials that are currently under six dollars. A couple of House Margaritas, I like them with salt but only for the first one, and you can get away for under $20 including tip. Or, you can drink water and do it for $10. Drink water, in a mexican cantina, yeah sure. I need my frickin' vitamin C man. It's a cool place to get a drink and stand around looking at all of the framed mementos on the walls, or the hallway of garden ornaments, or watching the cooks in the kitchen through a plate glass window. I don't know how the cooks feel about it but I think it is better than the Food Network. The parking lot rivals that of a smaller mall and they are open at 11 a.m everyday but Tuesday. It's weird, Home slice Pizza is closed on Tuesdays too. Must be the slowest day of the week. I like it and their sign is the same one that used to be down on 1st Street, I think.

Nutty Brown Cafe and Amphitheater - About Halfway between Austin and Dripping Springs, Texas

2009-03-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

While my barhopping pace has slowed to a crawl it hasn't totally ceased. It soon became obvious to me, and anyone following my blog, that my original plan of documenting 365 beer joints in a year was over ambitious, to say the least. Still, once the bug bit I was pretty much hooked and I haven't abandoned my long term goal of eventually reaching that magic number. I just need more time, maybe an additional year or three. Therefore I will no longer manipulate the posting dates to appear consecutive and all future entries will reflect the actual date that I post it, which could get embarrassing. Please accept my apology for any inconvenience that may arise from my slackerness. This is Austin after all. O.k. on with the show. I have been to the Nutty Brown Cafe a total of four times since they opened. It's not that I don't like the music, the venue or the drinks (except for a terrible Bloody Mary that I had one Saturday morning that was made with Clamato Juice) it's just that there are so many good watering holes in the city that it takes a special event to drag my butt half way to Dripping Springs. Every time I drive out to the Nutty Brown I think that I must have passed it somehow. Then five miles later, there it is. Their food is decent and I especially like the ambiance of the huge outdoor seating area. They have plenty of parking, even when it gets crowded, and the place holds lots and lots of people. They have a big old Parrot out there who jabbers constantly and the largest outdoor stage in the area, at least until the Backyard eventually relocates and opens again. It's worth a stop if you are ever headed out 290W or returning from that direction. Just tell them Wisegeorge sent you and they will look at you like you have two heads. Here's the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQFwq7QC3PU

Juan in a Million at 2300 East Caesar Chavez Street (East 1st) in East Austin

2008-05-19T10:17:00.000-07:00

Who wants to be a Millonair? Yeah, me too. Too bad there is only Juan in a Million who succeed in the restaurant business to this extent. This place qualifies big time due to its namesake and constantly vigilant owner Juan Meza. If you can get past the front counter without a greeting and handshake watch out because Juan will find you before you leave his restaurant. Juan loves people and life making for an excellent attitude that he tries to spread to others. It works, believe me. I like this joint, although it can get mighty crowded on a Saturday morning. It is located East of I-35 on East Caesar Chavez (formerly 1st Street) in Austin Texas, just a short drive from Downtown. It might be a mile or so from the interstate, probably less. You can't miss it and they have a pretty good sized parking lot in the back. The food is cheap, plentiful and most importantly, good. They serve beer, Bloody Mary's and Margaritas. I recommend all three and they can be had at bargain basement prices compared to the rest of the rest of the near downtown areas. East Austin has finally caught on and it's about damn time.

Chuy's in South Austin Texas off of William Cannon Drive

2008-05-18T07:02:00.000-07:00

I remember when there was only one Chuy's in the world and its patron saint was Elvis. My what a difference twenty five years makes. These days friggin' Chuy's are all over Austin, Houston and god knows where else. The amazing thing is they each do a great business and serve consistently good food. Every location is a little different but they all follow the same basic theme, shiny car parts, gaudy paint colors and the ever present spirit of the King. Check out the early part of the Happy Hour for cheap drinks and free grub in the bar. It's great while it lasts and it doesn't last long. To get there take MoPac South (Loop 1) and exit at William Cannon Drive. Cross William Cannon and stay on the feeder a little ways and it will appear on the right.

BJ's Brewhouse in Sunset Valley near Austin

2008-05-17T06:39:00.000-07:00

A chain restaurant built with masonite printed to look like brick. They have decent beer and food with lots of parking. It's close to where I live, relatively inexpensive and my buddy claimed it was the best cheeseburger he has ever eaten. Of course that could be due to the two Mexican Martinis and the fact that I was paying. It beats the hell out of Applebee's on the other side of the highway but I'll probably reverse my opinion if I ever get around to adding them to my list of beerjoints, bars and watering holes.

Boomerz in Oak Hill Texas on the Austin City Limit fringes

2008-05-16T09:13:00.000-07:00

Boomerz has been there in Oak Hill for a long time. I ignored it for at least a decade before I started stopping in very sporadically, but the first time told me it was a cool and very spacious place. About half of the area is devoted to pool and an air hockey table but there is lots of seating, a decent sized dance floor and stage plus a bar designed to seat about thirty patrons. The service has been quick and friendly every time I have ever been in there and this time the lady tending bar looked at me and said: I had that same T shirt in Black and White. I said really, from Tommy's Drum Shop? She said yeah and I had made a new friend. They have a large parking lot that is shared with some other business but most of them close early. This used to be any easy place to get to, all I had to say was take 290/71 towards Oak Hill. Now there are raised highways and the old highway is now an access road, so get on the access road as you leave Austin and say to hell with the super highway until just before the point where it ends and becomes 290/71 regular again. That's where you'll find Boomerz in the Oak City Shopping Center about a half a mile before 290 and William Cannon Drive. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MN1sCW2ZD0w

Hole In The Wall on Guadalupe in Austin

2008-05-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

The Hole in the Wall, on the Drag, across from the University of Texas in Austin has been my favorite dive bar in Austin for over twenty five years. I would have said twenty seven years but they closed down for a year or so a good while back. I have seen Rosie Flores and Emmy Lou Harris share the stage in there. I saw Doug Sahm with Jesse Guitar Taylor backing him up, may they rest in peace. They weren't booked to play, they just dropped in and joined the band onstage. I was once in the men's room, taking a leak, when a blind guy with a red tipped white cane came in and locked the door. He offered me a line of cocaine, which I politely refused, then he unlocked the door so I could leave and locked it again as soon as I left. It's the thought that counts. I have hours of sub par video tape of a band called the Nortons that I made in there over a period of many years. Someday I'm going to convert it to DVD. Yeah, someday when I'm not so lazy. About the only major changes to this place have been the removal of a severely smoke stained, scuzzy drop ceiling and worn out astro turf flooring plus the addition of a second bar in the back room. They have shuffleboard and pool tables plus lots of cool memorabilia behind the bar and the tip jar has survived three different owners and at least ten years. They just got some new solid bar stools and they seem to fit my butt better than the old ones did, so you know I'll be going back again soon. Heck, I'd be going back again soon even if they didn't have any bar stools. It's just that kind of place.

Poodie's Hilltop Roadhouse on Hwy 71 in Spicewood. RIP man, we'll all miss you until it is our time.

2008-05-14T06:41:00.000-07:00

Poodie's is a country bar just a short trip from the city. It's out there near where Willie lives. It's very much a redneck hippie sort of joint that has live music most nights and they serve food. When I asked the guy behind the bar a the Hole in the Wall if Brooks Brannon was still tending bar he told me yeah: "at Poodie's." I remember Poodie coming into the Hole during Happy Hour on several different occasions. Everybody seemed to know him and I felt that way myself by the third time I sat at the bar with him. It used to be that you could pull into Poodie's parking lot from the top of the hill right before the bar. Now you have to go down the hill a little bit past the bar, make a hard right and go back up the hill on a skinny little driveway. At least there is a string of globe lights down by the road to catch your eye. Of course, in the daytime that's not a problem just be sure to brake in time. Doing a U turn on 71W could end up being mighty tricky if you miss it. It's on the right just past a store that sells Texas themed yard ornaments and metal tables, chairs and pottery from Mexico. If you've never been to Poodie's go check out the stuff at that store then drive down the hill and have cold one while playing some pool or shuffleboard. I don't do reviews but I don't mind saying that I have liked this place just fine, every time I have dropped in. Watch the video and click on their website for more details.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXpzbG6iMYo http://www.poodies.info/

Detour in Oak Hill near Austin at William Cannon and 290/71

2008-05-13T09:14:00.000-07:00

The location of this bar used to be the front checkout area for Walgreen's Drug Store. Goodwill took over the rest of the space. There is a liquor store within steps and you can drop off your dry cleaning and laundry at the cheap laundry place. There's a Subway and a Coffeeshop in the same Shopping Center at the corner of William Cannon Drive and Hwy 290/71, before you reach the Y in the road in Oak Hill, Texas.The parking lot is plenty big and sometimes you would think the bar is really crowded when it is actually the Goodwill Store that is full of customers. I like this place because it has a big oval bar that goes all the way around, they have a good selection of decent beers, I had a Newcastle Ale, and they make free popcorn for anyone who wants it, as much as you want, serve yourself. From my house it is halfway to The Natural Gardener where John Dromgroole has a magnificent garden disguised as a garden store. My wife sends me over there often for Mulch and Dirt. The way I look at it is, one hand washes the other and now a trip to the Natural Garden means a detour into Detour's on the way home. I once was in there when a Budweiser guy came in and gave everybody a free weird Dry test beer, and a ball cap. I put the hat on and drank the beer. It's the last time I had a Bud, now that I think of it. http://youtube.com/watch?v=atxU45GdDU0

Sago at the Triangle on North Lamar near Guadalupe in Austin

2008-05-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

I wanted to show my wife the new bar called Flying Saucer that is in the Triangle, a sort of self contained residential and shopping village in the heart of Austin. Since we were already there it seemed like a good time for lunch and so we decided to check out Sago, featuring Modern Mexican Cuisine. At first I didn't recognize the significance of the name but before long the Sago Palm trees on the patio caught my attention and it all made sense. The parking is hit and miss at the Triangle but they do have a parking garage if surface parking is overly troublesome. On this particular day it wasn't too problematic and only took one circle around the lot before someone pulled out and we grabbed the spot. Sago is clean, sleek, open and modern. It's also very new but quite comfortable. The dress code in Austin is pretty much non-existent outside of some of the pretension that downtown generates, and T-shirts were pretty common. The food was reasonably priced as were the drinks. The service was quick and friendly and the chips and salsa were some of the best I have ever had, anywhere. The nasty looking picture of my greasy fingers and blackened shrimp still makes my mouth water three weeks later. Mmmm cholesterol. You could see the kitchen from the main dining area but there were several spaces that provided more privacy if that is what suits you. Considering how many different Mexican Restaurants there are in Austin it says a lot that I wouldn't hesitate to return here whenever I'm in the neighborhood. Of course, being just a few short strides from The Flying Saucer doesn't hurt either. http://youtube.com/watch?v=1-v3jP4vzhg

Romeo's on Barton Springs Road in Austin

2008-05-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

I guess I should have made this clear earlier but the dates of my blog posts have nothing to do with when I actually went to a bar. The dates on my videos are slightly more accurate, only because I usually post them soon after taking them. Romeo's is cool. I ate there once with my wife and don't remember it being anything at all like it is. The ambiance is dark red and black and shiny. It made me want to drink a five dollar bottle of high potency micro brewed beer so I did, and it was good, but they only charged me three dollars because it was happy hour. Now, the moral of that story was: go during happy hour. The guys and gals at the bar were what I would call Austin inside people, I'm kinda one of them myself. The people outside were the type who love cell phones, blue tooth ear pieces, lap top computers and dirty martinis. They will send a dirty martini back if it isn't dirty enough and the bartender will make it so damn dirty you'll gag drinking it, but they'll drink it and act like it is just what they wanted. Who knows, maybe it was. This would be my number one destination for a cheap date if I wasn't too old to find one. I could bring my wife and her buddies but it would be anything but cheap, happy hour or not. Romeo's for some drinky winkies, The Green Mesquite for some meat and beans then it's home for some of that good old hanky mixed with an equal amount of panky. That's the way it used to work anyway. Hahaha, check it out. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfmjZlP40ME

Angel's Icehouse on Hwy 71 in Spicewood Texas near Austin

2008-05-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

This is an Austin Area Hill Country Bar out on 71W about eight miles past 620 and the Arboretum at Bee Caves. It is on a hilltop on the left, just look for the towering red sign that says Angel's. It is an open air Ice House with a full bar and lots of seating inside and out. I would guess they can handle three to four hundred people, or more, at once. There is a great breeze out there in the wide open, and it is a bit of a country bar, but it is no further than driving from South Austin to Round Rock, only without the traffic. They have wi fi, hand formed burgers, cold beer, a plasma screen TV and lots of room. The waitress was friendly and is the only person I have ever heard, beside myself, call my wife baby. They never do that in Austin. I'm lucky to get a sweetie here and that's only after a big tip. Hahaha. It's a fun place and the menu is decidedly bar food but who cares? Splurge on the calories contained within deep fried battered macaroni and cheese triangles. They go great with the mini corn dogs. Check out their website for live music listings and precise directions. Just remember, it is about a mile or so before you get to Poodie's Hilltop Roadhouse, if you know where that is, and it is on the left. You can see the sign from a long way off, so don't overshoot the drive. But if you do, go check out Poodie's and stop here on the way back. If you overshoot Poodie's too, you're wasted, just go home. http://www.angelsicehouse.com/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2P24lEE7-s

Texas Land and Cattle Company I-35 at Clayton Lane in Austin

2008-05-09T06:38:00.000-07:00

I've fallen woefully behind on my 365 day quest and I can make all kinds of excuses and rationalizations as to why, but my brother nailed it most truthfully when he admonished me for getting bored and being lazy. I'm sad to say that he knows me as well as I know myself and therefore I have no rebuttal to his painfully blunt assessment of the situation. So how can I remedy the unfortunate condition of being a slacking slug? I can't, but I can throw him a bone every day or two and it will look as if I am getting my act together. I'm not, of course, but appearances are everthing. So here goes: Texas Land and Cattle Company has two things that all of the men in my family crave constantly, beer and meat. Now, I could stop writing right here if they were my only readers. To continue would provide needlessly superfluous information to Tom and Sam but Ray is one of those intellectual types, who reads, so I'll go on. This joint was a lot cooler, albeit messier, when they had that big barrel full of free peanuts by the front door. I'd just rip them open and throw the shells on the floor, so did everyone else, and we liked it that way. My guess is either peanuts went up or someone slipped on a shell and busted their ass, so the peanuts are no more. It's still a pretty cool place that looks like Ben, Hoss and Little Joe might have lived there once upon a time, at least for an episode or two, and they have a full bar and a large parking lot. The food was o.k. but medium rare isn't the same thing as rare and the cook didn't know that. He also thought medium well was the same as well. They are not and it could easily be chalked up as a slightly off night even though they weren't that busy. I've gone before and I'll go again but I feel like if they are going to serve meat almost raw I shouldn't have to ask for some horseradish, they should just bring it to me as a show of empathy. However, the lobster was great and the tortilla soup made me do a little hat dance and say oo la la. So, watch the video and see what I mean. Even though I don't know what I mean. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gF7IWIOfM-E

Garrison Park Harbor at the Corner of South First and Stassney where Ginos Italian Grill used to be in South Austin

2008-05-08T15:08:00.000-07:00

You may have read about the bullshit with calling this bar South by South First. Ignore it, it is over and they are finally, finally open for business. I almost cried in January when I realized Gino's Italian Grill was gone forever. I blogged about my sadness back then and made a video from good music that I recorded in the dark, last year. Gino's never did get hip to stage lighting. I have a feeling it will be a different story with the Garrrison Park Harbor over looking the Sea of Asphalta. They've done a good job transforming this place and are about twice as large inside and a half again outside where they have sculpted a shaded and comfortable atmosphere with a water feature and plenty of seating. Just think of the relaxing sounds of a beachfront marina and you are there, but you don't have to drive very far to get back home if you live where I do. I could probably walk and I hope they excel. I want to be their favorite customer but how can I compete with all of you out there who will become their favorite customers before I get a chance? I am a sporadic customer at best. Poor Gino's would still be there if I had just dropped in twice as often. I know it, and it breaks my heart. If the Garrison Park Harbor has good food, they cannot fail. Good food guys, focus on good Seafood, Steaks and Music. South Austin needs it badly, and no other place I know of has as large of a parking lot. Do not worry about parking, it is the Garrison Park Harbor on the Sea of Asphalta at South by South First in Austin, Texas. Note: The actual date I visited the Garrison Park Harbor was Sunday June 1st. They opened for business the Thursday prior, stop in and make a new friend. If they have good Seafood and Steaks plus decent Happy Hour Specials they should thrive. The music takes care of itself in this town. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RNpdvhZ7Lw

Nomad on Corona off Cameron Road in Austin

2008-05-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

Nomad is a newcomer to the bar scene in Austin, or at least my bar scene. It's within stumbling distance to the Carousel Lounge and located behind the Conoco Gas Station on Cameron Rd. It's in a little strip Shopping Center of the nondescript nature that is similar to anywhere in America. That certainly doesn't describe Nomad, however. This is the friendly neighborhood bar of my youth, only way classier. I wouldn't mind having some of the furniture and art work for my home and the patio furniture would look good in my backyard. Now, don't go getting any ideas of robbing the joint and trying to pin it on me because I'm just fantasizing. If I want to make it a reality I'll have to go buy my own, and I would but I probably won't. Great review so far, huh? The patio has plenty of shade but shade means little once the mercury tops ninety degrees. So, if you plan on hanging out during the heat of the day just be ready to sweat. It's not a crime or anything to be ashamed of and I do it all the time, often profusely. On the day I went they had a Texas Music DJ, the only one that I am aware of in the world. There are probably a bunch of other ones, but I don't know them. Google Nomad for more coherent reviews and check out the DJ's MySpace. It's a really good one.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qQuZr7oWm8 http://www.myspace.com/globetwo

The Parlor on North Loop in Austin (53rd and Avenue F)

2008-05-06T07:44:00.000-07:00

If you are a regular reader of my blog, and I know there are a few, it has become painfully obvious that I have lost my muse. I haven't even been hitting beerjoints lately let alone making videos, taking pictures or blogging about my exploits and adventures. My mind has been wrapped around retirement and the pros and cons that go with it. But, enough of the personal bullshit and on with the show. The Parlor is a beerjoint, pizzeria and loud as hell head banging music venue. It's also pretty small, think large hallway and you have just about nailed it. That is not a derogatory assessment however because they seem to make good use of the space that they do have and on a busy night you get to rub up against other bodies without getting your face slapped. The pizza is decent too, not the best I've ever had but way up there on the sliding scale. Parking is limited and the location is obscure if you are not familiar with the territory. Still, I feel the effort is worthwhile if you want to absorb some atmosphere that is truly unique to Austin. Check out the pictures, watch the video and then go see for yourself. Now, if you are a Mr. Gatti's or Domino's person you will want to avoid this place at all costs. Of course, I'm trusting that my readers have more class than that, or most of them anyway. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7wtgei-ogw http://www.myspace.com/theparlor Click their myspace link. It's an excellent page with their music schedule.

Cuatros in West Austin on 24th near UT and Lamar

2008-05-05T17:23:00.000-07:00

I liked this place mainly because it was a new place in an area that is ever changing and expanding in Austin. They have remodeled and transformed Bongo's into a Eat and Drink Haven although I don't recommend you do either, too much. A Coffee Shop should soon follow in the Historical Building that housed the first two black newspapers in Austin in the Wheatsville Neighborhood. Long live Austin History and check out the additional parking gained by obtaining the building next door. At least stop by during a slow period and get a beer. Tell them I sent you. I met one of the managers when I stopped in here and he seemed like a very decent guy. I wish there were more very decent guys and gals in the world because I'm one of them and we are few, although I know many. http://youtube.com/watch?v=EiWB2DhZCgA

Pluckers on South Lamar by Pep Boys in Austin

2008-05-04T16:14:00.000-07:00

I think I hate wings. I grew up in the Buffalo area so I ate about a million of them in my lifetime and now I hate them. Luckily Pluckers sells other stuff as well. I like beer and margaritas and I like grilled chicken and salad and good service. Maybe I got lucky or maybe it was the way my son was flirting with the waitress but we had great service. On this particular occasion it was 50 cent wing night. Just twenty years ago I ate 50 wings on 10 cent wing night in West Batavia, New York. Man, how times have changed. This place used to be the location of the Black Eyed Pea and I ate there once. If I had eaten there fifty times The Black Eyed Pea would probably still be there. I know I won't eat at Pluckers fifty times in my life but I might have if I had started sooner and there is a good chance that at least one of my kids still will. Mmmmm Chicken Skin. Happy hour seemed very reasonable on drinks and so I had a couple. You would have too. Check it out at least once.

El Greco Greek Taverna off Guadalupe across from Wheatsville Co-op in Austin

2008-05-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

This whole block on one side of Guadalupe is brand new and the corner that is across the street from the Wheatsville Co-op Grocery Store houses a Manga Pizza that I will visit later and then El Greco Greek Taverna right next door. Now, I don't know anything about the Greek language but I thought it was a pretty safe bet that Taverna means beer and I was right. They had beer and wine plus a full menu that looked pretty good to me. If they have parking I didn't find it but it is so close to UT that most of their business is probably walk in, still I had no problem parking on the street nearby. It's clean, classy and brand new right now. If they are still there in ten years it won't be as clean and classy but it will prove that they sell good food and know how to run a business. Only time will tell but I'm impressed at the moment and I wish them good luck. I'm going to check out the grub myself pretty soon. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84PbqCLwA6g

Changos on Guadalupe near Wheatsville Co-op in Austin

2008-05-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

Chango's is a Mexican Restaurant where you walk up and order at the counter. They have a big bin of iced beer right there so I am including them as a place to buy a beer for on site consumption in the Austin, Texas area. That's what I did and then I made a short video and took a bunch of pictures as well. They have a parking lot, right in front of the business, and plenty of indoor/outdoor seating. They are located within walking distance of the University of Texas and they're right next door to Wheatsville Co-op, the hippie grocery store. Since I didn't have any food I can't comment but they did have large crates of fresh vegetables in view, so that's a plus. My friend Leon tipped me to the fact that they sell beer because I get frustrated when I stop at a place on a hunch and I'm wrong. It makes me look bad to go in and say do you serve beer only to turn around and walk out when they say no. That's how I found out Schlotzky's on South Lamar no longer sells beer. They said they stopped three years ago. I guess I don't go in there very often, do I?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJXD_XiiE8Q

Brick Oven Pizza on Red River in Downtown Austin

2008-05-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

This Brick Oven Pizza was the first of its kind that I am aware of in Austin. They have been making Brick Oven Pizza and serving Italian food across the street from Waterloo Park in Austin Texas for well over twenty five years. There are several other locations in Austin now but this is the only one I have ever been to and I've been here many times over the years. They have enough parking most of the time and meters line the park side of the street for a half a mile. They have a full bar and lots of customers on a Saturday night. People would come in in groups of fifteen to twenty and leave the same way. A whole woman's soccer team came in while I watched in amazement. The ovens are amazing to look at and they serve pitchers of beer. Now for the bad news. The pizza was ordered with pepperoni onions and jalapeno peppers. What I got was a pepperoni pizza where they thew the onions on for the last 15 seconds and forgot about the Jalapenos altogether. I didn't really care, I never do but the diners with me said: look these onions are raw and couldn't believe that they gave us a little cup of cold canned Jalapeno slices like you get for free at Taco Cabana. It was just a small slip up on a very busy night but it soured two people from wanted to come back. My personal feeling is that I would rather have the cold raw ingredients than to have had the cook leave the pizza in too long and burn the crust. I'm sure I'll go back again because, as I've said before, most of the time I don't care. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8RhxCA9g80

Bakehouse Restaurant on Manchaca near Stassney in Austin

2008-04-30T12:41:00.000-07:00

This was a favorite of mine when the choices for food were few and far between in South Austin. As far as I know they still serve good food there and I need to go back and get some sometime soon. On this day all I wanted was a beer and the requisites for the blog. I got them and then I was gone. The bar is small but can hold about a dozen people or so, the restaurant is much bigger and they have comfy booths inside or tables and chairs in the front room that used to be more like a patio, plus they have picnic tables on a deck outside that wasn't there until fairly recently. The parking lot is a pretty good size and you can do your laundry next door at the washateria, while you eat lunch or dinner, if you so please. It is within short walking distance of the Austin Community College South Campus so I'm guessing they get some good crowds at times. On this particular afternoon between lunch and dinner things were pretty quiet but that's the way I like it when I'm just trying to show a place to buy a beer for on site consumption. It's located on the right near the library just before you get to Stassney Lane on Manchaca while driving South. It's very near Crockett High School and ACC. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6PUyG53I58 http://www.austinbakehouse.com/

Red House Lounge behind Stortini on Manor Road in East Austin

2008-04-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

I've wanted to check this place out since it was behind El Gringo before it became an Italian Restaurant called Stortini. Tey are owned by the same people who run El Chile Mexican Restaurant and El Chilito in that restaurant row section of Manor Road around Chicon that includes Mia Madre, Eastside Cafe, Hoover's Home Cooking, Vivo, Clementine and the aforementioned Stortini, about a half mile east of Interstate 35. Two of us had large Fireman's 4 beers while one member of our party drank water because she was getting a wee tipsy and hungry. We tried to order one of the half price pizzas available until 7 p.m. but by the time we received service it was five to seven and they said that special was over. It's a nice place with a fine a comfortable patio but the ever present doorman was a bit disconcerting, considering business was pretty slow. Also since one of the people in my party is an assistant manager and sometimes server at another successful area business, she was a bit put off by the aloof and uncaring attitude of our server. I'm pretty used to that treatment everywhere I go in Austin, so I barely even noticed, but I guess she could have pretended to be a little bit friendly. I kind of liked the place but since they don't open until 5:00, and I work right down the street and get off at 4:00, Vivo, Hoover's, or Clementine are more likely to get my Happy Hour business if I decide to stick around the area after work, which I occasionally do.

http://redhouselounge.com/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unlreEfaMZo

Kick Butt Coffee on Airport East of Highland Mall in Austin

2008-04-28T06:54:00.000-07:00

I found this place on the web a few weeks ago and after I visited here with some friends on a recent Saturday they had a big write up in The Austin American Statesman. Coincidence, certainly, but it shows I'm on the right track. I had two cohorts with me on that morning with one ordering coffee and the other two of us getting a beer. I thought the place was just fine and far out shined the places that I stopped at that were closed on a Saturday afternoon. What kind of nonsense is that? Saturday afternoon is prime beer drinking time and now those beerjoints will have to wait and see if I try again, I may not. This place is a little out of the way for a South Austin boy like myself but it fronts right onto Airport Blvd. not far past the bus station and before you get to Highland Mall while driving west. The parking is plentiful and the people are friendly. I took lots of pictures and made video while the owner of the place worked on his computer and never questioned my actions, I liked that. They have outdoor seating and free WiFi plus you can buy a set of foam rubber numchucks at the counter as well as foam throwing stars. Little kids can beat up on their Grandma's without hurting anyone or getting in trouble. Sounds good to me. http://www.kickbuttcoffee.com/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olzgbSwVqUw

Third Base Sports Bar on W. 6th before Southbound MoPac in Austin

2008-04-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

I knew how to get here because I checked out their web page and because three people had already told me it was there. As you zoom towards MoPac going 80 miles an hour slow down to twenty and turn left onto the 5th Street turnaround then turn left into the parking garage, walk over to the elevator and take it down to the first floor. It's a cool place even if you don't like Sports Bars, but I do sometimes. They had Pool Tables, Shuffleboard, Video Games, a huge Bar and lots of flat screen T.V.'s. The drinks were reasonable, the food looked good and the parking was free. I liked the company I was keeping and it provided great video and lots of good pictures while having a jolly old time. It's all about pacing. Don't drive drunk. I'm not kidding. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6LBbt2r2JI http://www.thirdbaseaustin.com/

La Palapa at 290 W and Cameron Road in Austin

2008-04-26T17:32:00.000-07:00

La Palapa is very good in many regards but I wasn't here to review them I just wanted to make a video and take some pictures for my blog and I did that while having a lot of fun with two very interesting people who have been filling a void in my life with much success. It makes a hard job much easier and makes work fun. I can't keep up by myself most of the time. This place started out perfect and everyone had a positive attitude and my wife told me to be sure and look at their lights in the Cantina because that's what she wants for our backyard. So I did, and my only complaint is that the waiter totally ignored us after we scarfed down a basket of chips and two bowls of salsa and wanted more right away. I kept telling the people with me to walk over to the table where there were four people instead of three and ask them if they were done with their extra chips, since they got two bowls right off the bat, but they wouldn't do it. After the waiter came very close but kept his back to us while he waited on other people close by I realized he told me his name but I couldn't remember it, when suddenly Consuela showed up to bus our mess up to that point, and she seemed happy to oblige. We still tipped him good and will, no doubt go back, because this place is wild when they have Karaoke in la Cantina de la Palapa. Drive north on Cameron Rd. and turn right after the gas station on the corner. Lots of parking most of the time. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJlGUaaLSAY

Flipnotics at the Triangle on N.Lamar near Guadalupe in Austin

2008-04-25T17:41:00.000-07:00

Flipnotics was originally a counter culture piercings and tattoo type of person's coffeehouse when it opened on Barton Springs Road. It's pretty mainstream now mainly due to the fact that the counter culture has evolved into the culture so it isn't counter anymore. I like that location because it has a large patio outside and a little bit of room inside as well but the parking lot is tiny and there is nowhere else close by to park. Here at the Triangle there is a lot more parking spaces but they are all filled up from people going to the other places. I found a spot in the parking garage but most people just drove around in circles hoping, wishing and waiting. I kind of like this place even though it is nothing like the other location at all. There is no funkiness allowed at the Triangle, I think there is a no funk clause in the lease. Everything is clean and shiny and new but they still have the same good Austin Singer Songwriter type entertainment and a good selection of beer including my favorite, Fireman's4 Ale brewed in Blanco, Texas. I'm sure they are wifi and I don't know of many Coffee places in Austin that aren't these days. This is an internet town with a heavy addiction. Stop in and get a beer, or coffee, sometimes I even like juice and they have that too. Check out the photo mural in the back, it is pretty wild. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7uMqy3AkSI http://www.flipnotics.com/

NeWorlDeli on Guadalupe at 41st Street in Austin

2008-04-24T11:09:00.000-07:00

I read somewhere recently that this place now has a full bar and then I think I heard a commercial or a plug on Public Radio or something that said the same so I couldn't resist when I spotted it while on the way to somewhere else. I changed lanes quickly and immediately turned the corner while the guy behind me blew the horn and gave me the finger, I'm sure, for bad driving. I knew I could make it. I had been here exactly once before for Coffee and a Danish but now they are a full scale restaurant with reasonable prices and beer, so I had one. I like the look of this place and I'll probably go back for dinner sometime even though parking is tough in the area. It seems like every student has a car and there are a lot of them for every house in the area. Still, I managed so I imagine you could too. They might even have a parking lot themselves, in fact I think they do, but I didn't see one. In a nutshell this place was clean, visually appealing, comfortable and staffed by friendly and courteous people. It left me with the impression that it is someplace I should return to and their is no higher praise than that, as far as I'm concerned. It's on Guadalupe at 41st Street across from what is left of the Austin State Hospital, unless it is something else now. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bltELmpDu04 http://www.newworlddeli.com/

La Tazza Fresca on Guadalupe next to Groovy Lube in Austin

2008-04-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

This is a University of Texas area Coffeehouse that sells beer and wine along with a fair selection of food items. They cater to students and coffee drinkers seeking free wi fi. They are attached to an oil change place called Groovy Lube and both businesses share common restrooms so you might find an over caffeinated grad student washing hands next to a mechanic with dirty fingernails. It's sort of a modern twist on the redneck hippie bar lore of old. This was a very quiet place and the only person I heard say anything while I was there was the girl behind the counter that I was talking to. Everyone seemed wrapped up in study which isn't unusual the week before finals. I sure don't miss finals, not even a little. The parking lot for this place and the oil change place combined holds about a half dozen cars and street parking is at a real premium so I had to park a block away, facing the wrong direction, and blocking about six inches of somebody's driveway. I suspect most people walk here. I liked the paint job and interior decor and I wouldn't hesitate to stop back and drink some coffee sometime when I'm in a coffee mood. On this day I was in a beer mood and they were out of beer because the manager hadn't stopped by to restock the cooler yet. That should never happen. If I can manage to always have beer in my house surely a business that is paying for a beer and wine license can do likewise. I'll bet they have beer now though because I made my disappointment well known. I hate it when I break down and cry in public, it's so humiliating. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItEubB4v-0w

The Flying Saucer in the Triangle near Guadalupe off North Lamar Blvd. in Austin

2008-04-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

This is the newest of the beerjoints in Austin that have a hundred or so beers on tap. Only Gingerman comes close although Opal Divine's on South Congress has a pretty impressive selection as well. It's located in a new fancy pants shopping center with residential property up above. Kind of like living on the roof of Walmart only way more expensive. The parking is very limited for such a big space but there is a parking garage in the middle of the place and I found a spot so don't despair, just keep your eyes open and read the signs. I was impressed with the beer selection, first and foremost, but long legged young girls in short plaid Parochial School clothing didn't escape my notice either. Think Britny Spears, only good looking and not insane. You can get very affordable beer here on certain days at certain times or you can pay up to 18 bucks for what is essentially a fancy brand tall boy in a bottle. They have a big outdoor seating area and lots of room inside and they are near Mandola's Italian Restaurant, The Galaxy Cafe and Flipnotic's Coffeespace. Between this bar for beer, Mandola's for food and Flipnotics for live music, a guy stands a pretty good chance of getting lucky if his girlfriend doesn't catch him looking at the waitresses butts. Be discreet guys, be discreet. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgZMb3HFQE0

Warehouse Saloon and Billiards on the south side of Ben White between S. Congress and I-35 in Austin

2008-04-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

If you are thinking about bar hopping in South Austin without getting wasted or illegal think about this. I recommend driving South on First Street until you cross highway 290 (Ben White) in Austin. First cruise through the intersection and then turn right into the City Market Grocery Store Parking lot. Go to the back where the South 40 used to be, to what is now the Locker Room Sports Bar, and have a beer and play some pool. Then get back on South First and over to the right and turn right on what used to be Ben White but is now the Access Road to 290E and drive towards Congress until halfway where you should stop and check out Bender on the right. Take your time, relax, maybe eat some munchies and be sure to pee before you leave. That's good advice no matter where you are going because you never know when you might get stuck in traffic. Next, drive to Congress, turn left and check out Dee and Jim's about a half of a mile down the road on the left, across from apartment city. That will only be your third beer in about an hour and a half and you should be fine and still sober. Don't bother with a trip to the restroom this time because five minutes after you leave you will cross back across 290 and turn left on what used to be Ben White but is now the Access Road to 290E, again ,and about halfway to I-35 will be the Warehouse Saloon and Billiards on the right. Hang out and play some darts or pinball and nurse another beer if you feel like it or drink a soda. After an hour or so you can drive home knowing that you could pass a breathalyzer if you had to, but drive cautiously and you won't have to. Bar hopping the legal way. Four South Austin beerjoints in three hours without getting intoxicated. It can be done, you just have to practice restraint. The Warehouse is cool although it was only the second time I had ever gone there in twenty five years. They have big screen TVs, a great bar, many pool tables, an outside covered and screened deck, Foosball, many pinball and video games, darts and it is as dark as night in the daytime. There are no windows in the Warehouse but there is plenty of neon light from the beer signs to make up for it. I like that, plus they still have a big parking lot out front, which amazes me. Disclaimer: If you think you might have had too much to drink, then you surely did and you should call a cab. Your car will be fine in the parking lot over night so don't chance it. http://youtube.com/watch?v=BDfxTepKeD4

Bender on Ben White Boulevard between South First and Congress in Austin

2008-04-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

I was at this Shopping Center twenty years ago when this place was Serrano's Mexican Restaurant's South location and Ben White Boulevard was the most crowded east west thoroughfare in the city. Now you breeze through and can't get off of the superhighway when you see a place you want to go to so you need to know the proper way to get there. Ten years of highway building sent Serrano's over to Sunset Valley and then this place was Woody's for a while and I always meant to check it out when suddenly it was gone. Now it is called Bender and it looks like what I would want from a neighborhood bar, which is what it pretty much is. These are the people that run Barfly's on Airport Road and if they are ever open when I show up over there, I'll blog on them too. They also have a bar on Seventh Street called Mugshots and I need to drop by there someday soon as well. Anyway, enough of the history lesson. Oh yeah, the AAA South Office used to be in this Shopping Center too, but I digress, again. Bender is a big place with a full bar and lots of bar stools. It has a juke box, two pool tables, a Foosball table and some old pong looking game plus darts. They have a large outdoor area with two washer pits and plenty of seating and they open at three in the afternoon for happy hour. You can get bar food there too. You know, pub grub. Good tasting deep fried stuff that you just know has to be good for you because it tastes so good. It only makes sense, right? Drive south on First Street until you cross 290 then take a left on Ben White which is also the access road for 290E. Stay to the right and look for the sign, it's easy. When you leave cruise on down to Congress and take a left and Dee and Jim's is about a quarter of a mile down on the left. Or cross Congress on the access road and check out the Warehouse Saloon and Billiards between South Congress and I-35. Easy to get to and easy to get back home. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-KG9hZUg8E

Maria's Taco Xpress on South Lamar near Bluebonnet in Austin

2008-04-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

Maria's is a fairly new place that feels like it has been there for decades. It is located in South Austin on Lamar Boulevard near the intersection of Bluebonnet, the corner on which Walgreen's Drug Store is now located. Walgreen's new location is Maria's old location and it was much smaller. She had many years left on her lease of the property and Walgreen's had their heart set on running her off so they could build there. Maria is shrewd and smart and wasn't about to be bamboozled or bullied. In the end she had to leverage almost everything she had worked years to acquire in order to buy the property next door so that Walgreen's could build her a new restaurant, at their expense, on property she no longer leased but owned, at her expense. Everyone in South Austin applauded and now we have a bigger, better beerjoint in which to quaff brew or sip margaritas while munching a taco or two. I do the the margarita's on the rocks, with salt and I consider them one of the top five available in Austin. Maria's has a large parking lot in back and additional parking in front. They have seating for a hundred or more people and could easily handle a crowd several times that size. Depending on who is playing music there, they often do. I liked the old Maria's and have good memories but rain ruined a lot of peoples gigs over the years. That's not a problem at the new location with a huge covered patio. Rain or shine the show goes on, and South Austin is the better for it.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29sJNvizzjI http://www.tacoxpress.com/

Cactus Cafe in the Union Building on the West Mall of UT in Austin

2008-04-18T16:14:00.000-07:00

Don't you start me talking, I'll tell everything I know. I have many great memories of the Cactus Cafe spread out over years of sporadic visits. I've seen many fine musical acts there. Rosalie Sorrels, Loudon Wainwright, Laurie Lewis, Tim and Mollie O'Brien, John Gorka, Citizen Cope and many others. Plus I've taken many a coffee break there in the mornings and afternoons. The plaster detail on the ceilings is very cool in the straps that run vertically through the room. Guns, ropes, boots that's Texas, right? Plus Rattlesnakes, although I have never seen one in the wild. I have a soft spot for the University of Texas in general and the Cactus Cafe in particular. They used to be in competition with the Texas Tavern and the Bowling Alley Beer Concession but they are the last place left on campus that operates as a bar open to the public. I commend them and the excellent management they have maintained over the years. Parking in this area often requires quarters and a few trips around the block but it is worth parking farther away and walking. I bought two people a beer during happy hour and it was less than five dollars. I like that. Check out all of the great posters in the lobby. This place is a musical landmark.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F090EbY4skI

Bouldin Creek Coffeehouse on South First at Bouldin in Austin

2008-04-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

I've passed this place many times while knowing it as a Coffeehouse but never thought to check and see if it had beer. It does, lots of kinds and some good ones too. They serve a vegetarian menu and I was kind of surprised to see so many people there at 3:00 in the afternoon. I suspect it is a hangout and there is nothing I like better than a neighborhood hang out. I'm sure they are Wi Fi because there were lots of laptops all around and they have a screened porch in the back that should be attached to my house. There are lots of unique qualities about this place that makes it interesting plus a straight shot up Bouldin will put you on South Congress near Guero's Taco Bar. These are the counter culture people of today sitting side by side with old hippies, new techies and fine people of all sorts. I saw people parking in an empty lot down the street and I had no trouble parking at the curb on Bouldin but I suspect many patrons walk from the surrounding neighborhoods. I know I would if I lived nearby. It's close to Jovita's and Freddie's as well so you could do a mini bar hop while leaving your car in one place. I like having options.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ot4bdDGDfdc http://www.bouldincreek.com/

Rounders Pizza on West Sixth between Lamar and MoPac in Austin

2008-04-16T08:38:00.000-07:00

Rounders is practically in Downtown Austin but you have to be alert to get there. It is located on the stretch of West Sixth Street that runs from Lamar to MoPac (Loop 1) so there is always a lot of traffic and people drive like a bat out of hell. However, if you are aware of that drawback and stay in the left hand lane while keeping your eye out for the waving doorman you won't have any trouble. If you miss the driveway just forget about it and go someplace else because there is no street parking and it's one way. You could loop back around on Fifth Street and try again but I've done it and it is a major pain in the ass because everyone is going seventy miles an hour towards downtown on that street although the speed limit is 35. Rounders makes the top five list of my favorite Pizzas in Austin. They use little pepperoni slices and fresh onions and garlic, mmm mmm. Best of all they have their crust perfected to New York excellence. An 18" garlic, onion and pepperoni pizza cost twelve dollars so I had one there and took a second one home with me. I managed to get two pieces from the one I bought for myself, my niece and her boyfriend but I only got one piece from the one I brought home while the wolf was visiting his mother and I. He's a growing boy who needs lots of Pizza to keep his strength up and a glutton. The parking lot at Rounders in down a hill and behind the building but there is plenty. There is a deck in the front and several different seating areas inside. They even have a couple of cheesy video games if you've got kids and quarters. Yesterday my niece sent me an e-mail proclaiming that Rounders may well be the best Pizza she has had in Austin and we've talked about this before concerning a different place but she didn't agree with my pick for best at that time. Maybe she was right because I like Rounders too, a lot.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1F-AIh3kf8 http://www.rounderspizzeria.com/

El Rey (The King) for El Ray (My Bro.) in South Austin at Brodie Oaks Plaza

2008-04-15T18:34:00.000-07:00

This was the first stop on a fun time with a couple of my favorite people in the world. We went for a ride in the 360 Hill Country although that was never my intention. I wanted to make a video and do a blog for NXNW but I drove all the way out to 183 and 360 and then turned the wrong way. Lucky for El Rey, about a half hour later. O.k. I don't do ratings or reviews I just write about the place and move on but I've always liked El Rey and nothing has changed except the menu and the management. It's less beans and good tasting grease and more grilled zucchini and cilantro rice. But, they both taste good. No denying. The margaritas were cheap here but get a double because you will cloy of the sweetness quickly. Parking matters to me and they have a lot of it. On some Sunday, after a totally wasted Saturday Night, come in and order Menudo, it is the ultimate feel good drug that will make you sleep most of the rest of the day away and feel good about it. I don't lie. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoS7pJIL6zQ

Sam's Town Point 2115 Allred Drive in South Austin

2008-04-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

This is my biggest find thus far on my 365 day quest to visit a different bar for each day of 2008 and it's a humdinger. Located in a residential neighborhood in far South Austin the property is divided between the city and the county, with the real estate where the parking lot is situated falling within the city limits and the bar itself being outside of the city. What that means is the no smoking ordinance doesn't apply, so feel free to smoke 'em if you've got 'em. The bar was once a private club but now it is open to the public and the owner told me that there used to be an automotive junkyard right across the street that is now long gone. It's a spacious honky tonk where every beer is served in a koozie and they have a large outdoor deck and seating area in the back as well as three sets of washer pits. Their web page calls this the "Friendliest Place in Texas" and judging from my own experience that description is spot on. They have live music several nights a week, pool tables and dart boards and they serve bar food for those who are interested. However on this day, as usual, all I wanted was a bottle of beer and some pictures and video. At some later date I plan to go back and partake of the amenities and I think you should too. Take Manchaca Road south to Slaughter Lane and turn right. Get in the left hand lane and turn onto Riddle Road across the street from the McDonald's then turn left when you get to Allred Drive and they will be halfway down the block on the right hand side. A true classic South Austin Beerjoint if I ever saw one and you can BYOB if you buy set up's. http://samstownpoint.com/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvRxKoUowrk

Lambert's Barbecue at Second Street and Guadalupe in Austin

2008-04-13T15:21:00.000-07:00

Lambert's is a relative newcomer to downtown and housed in one of the oldest buildings in Austin. It is located on the corner of Second Street and Guadalupe, across the street from the new City Hall, and it's a two story barbecue joint with a large full bar on each level. There are seating arrangements available for intimate dining as well as large groups plus they even have their own brand of draft beer. There is an outdoor patio in the rear and a large stage upstairs for live music that is featured on a regular basis. The furniture is contemporary and they have plenty of booths, my preference in most situations. Parking is available at City Hall, depending on the time or at parking meters on the street if you happen to have a pocketful of quarters. They are open for lunch and dinner but the bar doesn't serve drinks until 5 p.m. This was my first time in the place and I can honestly say I was impressed with the cleanliness and overall ambiance. It's a welcome addition in a new commercial district of downtown that is still developing. After dinner it's only a short walk to the scenic shores of Lady Bird Lake where you can burn off the brisket by taking a walk on the hike and bike trail. I personally would probably just go home and take a nap, but that's just me. Check it out, I think you will enjoy it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOt0mO2tjeM http://www.lambertsaustin.com/

Threadgill's World Headquarters near South Congress and Riverside in Austin

2008-04-12T15:39:00.000-07:00

I took a lot of pictures in this place and left knowing that I had missed some great stuff. Eddie Wilson has created a bona fide landmark in downtown Austin right across the street from the former location of the Armadillo World Headquarters. They have a parking lot that can handle a few dozen cars for locals and they are within walking distance of a thousand hotel rooms or more. The food is down home, the beer is cold and the ambiance is 1970's and 80's Austin, Texas. I love neon lighting so this place is like a picnic to me. There are lots of memory invoking pieces of memorabilia hanging all over the place and nobody gave me any grief over taking pictures. I was told that approximately eighty tour buses a month stop at this location with visitors from all over the world. I can believe it, the place is filled with the things that tourism is made of, history and hospitality plus good grub. They have live music on a regular basis during the evenings and a fairly large outdoor music viewing area and stage outside the front door. The back room has a stage as well, for smaller more intimate performances. I've had their food in the past and I have no complaints but I recommend everyone wander around aimlessly for at least fifteen minutes, before or after dinner, and soak up the ambiance. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E62cUyrvCxo http://www.threadgills.com/

Ego's Lounge near South Congress and Riverside in Austin

2008-04-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

There are many places to get a beer in the city of Austin but the number of pure dive bars is constantly dwindling. Ego's is a pure dive bar of the first class. They have a full bar, padded stools, live music, pool tables and a sense of funkiness that can only be described as endearing. It's a dark place in a location that a hundred thousand people pass by everyday but only a hundred or so ever stop in. Much of their business seems to come from nearby apartments and the office tower that looms overhead. It's the only parking garage bar that I have ever run across and I'm pretty sure they are a rare commodity. Parking is close but rather limited if you drive a land ship like I do. It's worth checking out if for no other reason than the novelty but there are plenty of others. I would consider this a Cocktail Lounge as far as classifications go with a broad age range in clientele. Some afternoons and nights business is slow but on others the house really gets rockin'. They have lots of different bands in the course of a week so be sure to check the listings in the Chronicle if you decide to go, or just drop in during Happy Hour on a hot sunny day and enjoy the cool darkness and a little drinky winky to calm your nerves. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAXgv74_xZA

Taco Cabana at Nueces and Martin Luther King Blvd. in Austin

2008-04-10T11:12:00.000-07:00

Taco Cabana is a chain restaurant with at least a half a dozen locations in Central and South Austin alone. The food is very reasonable and consistently good but the refried beans vary tremendously from one location to another. Avoid the bean and cheese tacos unless you don't mind potentially sour tasting beans. At some locations they are fabulous but at others I end up throwing away what I couldn't gag down. Other than that one menu item my only other complaint is that they have screwed up my drive thru orders almost as many times as they have gotten them right. Always check what you have in your bag before driving away. I've eaten more Taco Cabana in my life than any other Mexican or Fast Food Restaurant. They have free chopped onions, several salsas, cilantro and pico de gallo at the condiment bar and it is usually fresh. Parking is available most of the time and the Frozen Margaritas are actually pretty good and potent with a sixteen ouncer costing less than five bucks. Cervezas of multiple varieties are iced down at the front counter and the patios are spacious and shady during nice weather. This particular location is right near the university of Texas and gets a lot of walk in traffic during different times of the day. The food is actually pretty good on the whole and better than some Mexican Restaurants that charge much more. http://www.tacocabana.com/index.asp http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpbGzsn_kc4

Ranch 616 at Seventh 7th Street and Nueces in Central Austin

2008-04-09T16:19:00.000-07:00

I had dinner in here with my wife and friends during SXSW 2008, one night about a month ago, and I made a mental note to myself to come back and take pictures for my blog. As I was driving down the street today, I recalled that thought and stopped to see what hours they were open. Much to my surprise and delight the door was unlocked, the place was nearly empty, and the bartender was a friendly guy. This place is nice, the restaurant part is kind of high tone which means more money than normal pub grub, but it really is a restaurant with a bar and not just a bar with food, so I understand. The evening we went there the place was loaded with beautiful women and I assumed that was an anomaly, but the bartender assured me that is the norm rather than the exception. Gee, what a bummer, right? Wrong! I liked the mural of the Mexican Ranch Band on the wall and I'll bet they made a hell of a racket in their day. The statue of the Virgin Mary on the bar brought back memories of my youth as an altar boy at St. Mary's Catholic Church and made me feel a little bit guilty while I drank my beer. These days I'm more of a Bloody Mary guy than a Virgin Mary person but I appreciate eclectic themes. When coupled with the cowbells near the entrance and the gymnastic dolls hanging from the lights over the bar religious icons take on a new meaning and kind of help to balance out the overall picture. They are located one block north of the West Sixth Street area on Nueces in Central Austin. Drop in for a drink and some frog legs, you won't be disappointed. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3wp65NBFXk http://ranch616.ypguides.net/

Hyde Park Bar and Grill at Westgate and 290E in South Austin

2008-04-08T07:21:00.000-07:00

Hyde Park Bar and Grill has been an Austin Landmark since 1982 and a couple of years ago they decided to Branch out to South Austin. This location bears a few bones from a totally stripped Grandy's that had gone under and remained vacant for a couple of years before they transformed it into a totally slick and chic bar and eatery. The best part about doing this blog is that I get to see entire establishments. I had been in here before but all I saw was the area from the front door to the bar where I had lunch and drank beer. I never knew they had a patio, or an entrance on three sides, or booths behind a divider wall. I only knew they had good Macaroni and Cheese, Fireman's 4 on tap and a cool large bar. I went here for lunch again, recently, with my wife and a friend so I brought my camera. I figured never pass up a chance to add another beer joint to my bar blog and I knew this was a good one. After I had taken a few pictures and about 30 seconds of video my friend said: "People are going to get mad at you for taking their picture" and my wife chimed in: "Yeah, stop taking pictures. What doing that for?" I sat down and looked at them and asked them: "How do you think I got the pictures and video for the other 98 beer joints I have blogged about so far?" My friend who reads my blog and my wife who doesn't then said: "Oh, it's business then", or something very similar. I like this place much better now than after just my first visit. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pP9-HhGIXDI

Zax Pints and Plates near Riverside and South First in Austin Texas

2008-04-07T18:07:00.000-07:00

The first thought that came to mind when I pulled into the parking lot and got out of my car was: Wow, somebody has invested a bundle in this place. I remember when it was Charlie's Hamburgers and looked like a cool empty barn. Then it was a music venue but I can't remember the name because at that time in my life I was raising two kids on what would have been a poverty level income if I wasn't busting my ass painting apartments and offices at night until I dropped. I had some nights out, but I was too tired to enjoy them. Thank God those days are gone. Later it was Al Capone's Italian Restaurant and I always wanted to go there but I don't think I ever did. Same with Zax, today was my first time inside although they have been here for a number of years already. It is spacious and I love the bar area. Of course, I've said that before in my blogs. In fact I've never sat at a bar that I didn't like. Oh, except for that friggin' G &S Lounge rat hole that wouldn't let me take pictures or shoot video because they're hiding something, no doubt. However Zax Pints and Plates was very friendly, helpful and courteous plus they have two outside patios on which to enjoy the atmosphere and a parking lot. Best of all they are within walking distance to a hotel room and everything Downtown. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsfgyCLp5tQ http://www.zaxaustin.com/

Southside Flying Pizza on South Congress near Oltorf

2008-04-06T13:42:00.000-07:00

Order a pizza and wait without a beer? Torture. Order a pizza and wait with a beer? Heaven, plain and simple. This building housed fast Freddie's $5 Haircuts for a decade before becoming a Pizza Joint. I hope they succeed because I like this pizza reheated in my toaster oven better than any other I have ever had. I thought the crust was tough when it was fresh but magic happened after a couple of nights in the refrigerator. Drive through So Co but start slowing down after the Trophy Lounge. It will be on the right, right after the old porno theater that is now something else. They have a parking lot good for about ten cars, maybe? They have a small triangular outside deck and cool ambiance inside. My son told me about a positive pizza experience he had in this place that had a lot to do with someone else footing the bill, but I liked it even though I had to pay my own way. What else can I say? If you're hungry and headed home from Guero's (as I was) or the Continental Club (as I was not, on this particular day) then pick up a couple of pizzas and let half of each age in your refrigerator for a couple of days, if you have the willpower. Watch the video and you'll see what I mean. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVGBUIem_Yk http://www.southsideflyingpizza.com/

The Thirteenth Frame Bar in Westgate Lanes on William Cannon Drive in Austin

2008-04-05T09:43:00.000-07:00

Well, a beerjoint is a beerjoint is a beerjoint. That's what I always say. The come in various sizes and styles, some have a theme and others don't. This one does, and it is bowling. It is a comfortable bar with an attentive and intelligent bartender and they gave me free popcorn without having to ask for it. There are bars in Hotels, Motels, Restaurants, Pizza Joints, Shopping Malls, Shopping Centers, Sandwich Shops, Hot Dog Stands, Ballparks, Grocery Stores and Bowling Alleys. Expect anything from this bar blog because if a place has a beer license it's a bar no mater whether they call it an Icehouse, a Tavern, a Pool Hall, a Pub, a Club, a Saloon, a Honky Tonk, a Watering Hole, a Sports Bar, or Lounge. They are all alternative titles for Beerjoint. As far as beerjoints go, this is a good one. It's small but it's bigger than some of the places I have already been. So, whether you are in the mood to bowl or not I suggest you drop in for a cold one from time to time. If you live near this place then go here, if not then any bowling alley will do just fine. You don't have bowling without beer, it is un American. I hope Obama had a beer when he went bowling or all hell is gonna break loose at the Convention. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLDPQQ_Mik4

Aussie's VolleyBar Riverside Drive near Congress Avenue in Austin

2008-04-04T09:01:00.000-07:00

Aussie's is a fine place with a bar in the front and ample seating in the back. They have a covered patio and a world class volleyball pit. I went here once many years ago when I was on a similar quest, sans a camera, during a period of my life where I wanted to experience new places at every opportunity. I was riding my bicycle around downtown and the cheers and beers drew me in. Today it was just the need to fill some space on my blog that brought me here although the experience was no less pleasant. They have an interesting looking menu and although I didn't take pictures of it, the kitchen was a busy place even though it was a light afternoon for customers. On the weekends during the summer they get packed. They're located just around the corner at the South end of the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin. They are the first place on the right and across the street from Bennigan's. They are also right next door to Zax Pints and Plates and across the street from Threadgill's World Headquarters. I'll catch them later. Check out the pictures and view my too long YouTube video to take a vicarious tour of a Australian themed bar and grill deluxe.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdKgxiOIRuk http://www.aussiesbar.com/

Shady Grove on Barton Springs Road in Austin

2008-04-03T09:14:00.000-07:00

I'm not completely sure of the history of this restaurant but I think it was once a clubhouse, store or office for the Shady Grove Trailer Park when it was in its prime. As of this week the trailer park is officially gone and soon to be replaced by high dollar condominiums but Shady Grove, the restaurant and beer joint, lives on. They have a large outdoor seating area and plenty of tables and chairs inside as well. Live music is a summertime weekly event with free shows sponsored by a local radio station and the food is pretty good with healthy menu choices available for those who care. I particularly like the "Hippie Chick" vegetarian burger although I can't remember what it is composed of. Mostly I just come for the beer and ambiance. It's located just down the street from where they hold the Austin City Limits Festival in Zilker Park every year and they have a real parking lot that holds plenty of cars, a real rarity in many parts of Austin. They are part of what could be considered a restaurant row along with a half dozen or so other eating establishment within walking distance, but for my money they are one of the best. It's basically American fare with friendly and helpful waitstaff and the trees are huge which explains the Shady Grove moniker. It's a pecan grove and it's shady, makes sense doesn't it?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fe-0vNyVXUc http://www.theshadygrove.com/

Green Mesquite Barbecue at Barton Springs Road near South Lamar in Austin

2008-04-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

Man, this place has changed for the better while it hasn't really changed much at all. I'm sure the BBQ is excellent, as always, although I haven't been in there before today for a very long time, like twenty years. I'm ashamed, although I did go through a period about ten years ago (maybe fifteen) where I would drive over to Oak Hill and bring Green Mesquite Barbecue back home in a bag. I'm not afraid of meat. But, this is a beer blog and I don't care if they sell hot dogs and beer I consider that a beer joint. Any joint where you can get a beer is a beer joint. Webster's needs to update their definition so it agrees with me. It pretty much does now, anyway. O.K. parking is possible, they have about eight spots or so and the street to the right sometimes works out. The service is excellent and the people are friendly. The ambiance is meat and potato salad and beer and quit bitching, I like this joint. I'm sorry that you are a vegetarian sweetheart, just order the salad and put a sock in it while I stuff my pie hole with ribs. Is that to much to ask darlin'? Oh, and beer. Want another beer sweetie? Plus they have a very nice outdoor patio, and live music with regularity. http://www.greenmesquite.net/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QysRBVnWKE8

The Very Best Bar in Austin

2008-04-01T16:55:00.000-07:00

I used to go here often and you could not have dragged me a second time without a noose around my neck if they didn't have beer. But, they had beer and so I no longer dreaded the two hours I had to spend with mechanical singing bears and I grew to love Skeet ball. They served wine for the Mom's and soda for the dentist and the kids. It was deafening with shrieks of fun and laughter but I didn't give a damn because I was busy checking out the sideshow in the side room far from the noisy little shits, and they had beer. The other day I checked on line to be sure they still had beer and then I decided that this would make a hilarious April Fool's Day video and blog and tie in nicely with all the other stuff I have done. This location no longer serves beer. I was the April Fool and bought a small glass of warm ice tea for a dollar and a half and then tipped the cashier a dollar. I felt like I had too after I asked for a beer and they said they didn't sell it. Damn, I timed parenthood right. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0W5j74F1-oU