October 2020
CURRENT PICKS
ATX FOOD CO | I’m in dire need of some clean food in my system to balance out football food. I recommend a stop (or a few) at the truck when you want to start your day on a high note. Grab some raw sea moss gel while you’re ordering. They aim to practice zero waste management, and have a reason behind each ingredient added. Closed on Tuesdays.
BAD LARRY BURGER CLUB | I have a feeling that Bad Larry is about to gain much more traction than expected. He’s a troll of sorts in the Austin food scene on social media, pop-up burger chute included. I haven’t tried it for myself, but I’d love to go with you if you’re interested enough to read this list. Follow him on Instagram to track him down.
BUFALINA | Get out of the house and snag a spot in either location’s parking lot. I’d recommend it for takeout any day of the week, but their service takes it up a notch.
CLARK’S OYSTER BAR, BRUNCH | Day-of reservations for the patio open up at 10 a.m. via phone. Request a seat on the patio—it’s better than the temporary parking lot tables. Be sure to give their A LA CARTE section a look. It’s underrated and in my opinion is the way to go with shared plates at the table.
FOODHEADS | The fish tacos are some of the best in town. Many of my favorite sandwiches of theirs include ingredients that are in season for the next month or so. It’s one of my go-to’s for lunch with a friend.
NUMERO28 | It’s a particular vibe that you wouldn’t expect to find in the middle of downtown. Grab a Peroni and a large Numero28 pizza, and a medium (or large) Margherita on the patio with a crew of four and you’re set. Website found here.
SWAY, WESTLAKE | Unfortunately, the South 1st location just shut down. I’d recommend this anyway, but pop into the Westlake location for a rooftop drink while it’s wear-what-you-want weather. Views of downtown are a bonus. Happy hour is currently 4-6, with half off all cocktails, wine, beer and sake.
TEXAS FRENCH BREAD | It seems to age well by the month. It never disappoints. I’ve said it before — be sure to sign up for the newsletter. They’re now serving brunch and dinner in the garden Thursday through Saturday. I appreciate the transparency of the owner, Murph, regarding efforts to pay his employees what they deserve and provide benefits. Reserve your spot here.
UCHIKO | My favorite restaurant in the world. It doesn’t get any better. Invite me whenever you go.
fried pickles with tzatziki added to the Lamerts menu this month
TIDBITS
GOOD APPLE FOODS | Delivered to your door, $30 per week for enough local produce for two people. It also pays for a box for someone who needs it. I’ve done it for a few weeks and love it. Use this code for $10 off: AzZcvBS7EKztDIC4. Find it here.
GUEST COLLECTIVE | Likely my favorite tidbit for this month, Guest Collective is a platform designed to keep spirits high in the restaurant industry during trying times. They recognize value in the voice of customers, and created the “love letter” platform for you to thank the hands that brought you your meal. Check out Uchiko’s location to read my first one. (In the “Love Letters” section, find the heart above any given restaurant on the map to read what’s written to them.)
ROLLING HUTS | My friend, Anna Katsios, pointed out this spot to me after she saw my September tidbit about Comedor’s architect. The huts are made for two, and look like a great spot for any of you who are up in the area already.
TORCHY’S QUESO @ WHOLE FOODS | Just like it sounds. As of mid-September, Torchy’s began distribution of its queso (without the toppings) through a range of grocers, including most Whole Foods locations in Austin. I’ll admit that it isn’t my favorite queso, but much of my circle raves over it, so you should too. Read more about distribution here.
WACO WINE SHOPPE | I order most of my wine from them these days. They distribute to quite a few (and some of the best) restaurants in Texas, and the only bottle I’ve ever disliked came from Southold Farm + Cellar, which I’ve learned sometimes takes a few days to open up before tasting like I think it should. They do local deliveries in Waco, as well as drives to Austin if you’d like to order from them.
Quotes I’ve reflected upon.
“If we stop treating talent like it’s synonymous with character, I think we’ll be a lot less disappointed in entertainers and some of our favorite people.” — Ayishat A. Akanbi
“Prohibitions are engines of corruption that split societies into official and criminal sectors. Laws work best when they are reasonably aligned with incentives.” — Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts, Jaron Lanier
“Self esteem = seeing yourself as a flawed person, and still holding yourself in high regard.” — Esther Perel