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Sunday, July 10, 2011

Pitchforks and Tablespoons



When people ask me about my favorite restaurants, Eastside Cafe is always on my short list. What I love about Eastside is that it is not like any other restaurant in Austin, yet it manages to feel authentically Austin. A visit to this charming vintage cottage on Manor Road is like spending time with an old friend. The individual rooms provide seating that feels cozy and personal, allowing for easy conversation. Now isn't that a welcome change?


It was 1988 when Dorsey Barger and Elaine Martin first opened their cafe, and it has been evolving over the years to become much more than just a restaurant. Shaded by a leafy 150 year old elm tree, the acre of land includes a thriving organic garden that provides fresh herbs and vegetables for many of their signature dishes. The owners have published several cookbooks, sharing recipes for customer favorites like Artichoke Manicotti, Huevos Rancheros, Wild Mushroom Crepes and homemade soups. Oh, I almost forgot to mention the mouth-watering cornbread muffins that arrive at your table. Personally, I would buy the cookbook for the cornbread recipe alone.


New dishes like salmon dumplings with mango relish are always popping up on the  menu.




Only steps away from the cafe is Pitchforks and Tablespoons, offering items both on and off the menu for take away. Or why not enjoy lunch al fresco under the trees at one of the picnic tables? Not only do they offer delicious food, wine and house salad dressings, but the shop is brimming with gifts for the gardener, and samples of the best chocolate chip cookies you will find anywhere. 


Seasonal fresh organic vegetables from garden to table-a vegetarian's delight






Before you leave, be sure to check out the chicken coop-a bountiful source of fresh yard eggs for the cafe.
        
Contact Info:
Eastside Cafe
2113 Manor Rd.
Reservations:  (512) 476.5858
Hours:  Mon thru Thurs 11:30am to 9:30pm
           Friday 11:30am to 10:00pm
           Weekends 10am to 10pm


Pitchforks and Tablespoons
(512) 494.1464







1 comment:

  1. Sounds like a go-to place. Are you allowed to include recipes? I'd sure like the mushroom crepes and corn bread muffins recipes.

    ReplyDelete