Arturo's Bakery and Cafe: Austin

Arturo's Bakery and Cafe is one of those little tucked away gems in Austin.  They serve what I would coin Eccentric South-Central-Mexican Fusion Food.  They are open for Breakfast and Lunch.

When you step into Arturo's, be prepared because you will be arm and arm with the next Joe.  The menu is above the counter on multiple chalk boards.  It's a little overwhelming at first.  On this day, my counterpart ordered a Chicken Salad while I went for Chicken Quesadillas.  In short, it was super yummy.  Just look at the photos below!

Chicken Salad

Chicken Quesadillas

Arturo's Bakery & Cafe
314 W 17th Street
Austin, Texas 78701
512/469-0380

B&J's Pizza: Corpus Christi

Tonight, I decided to try B&J Pizza since it came so highly recommended.  I decided to go to the original location located in an older strip shopping center.  When I walked into the no frills place, I thought I had walked into an Austin pizzeria where every one had dreads, and Metallica was blaring from the radio.

I decided to get my pizza to go- just a plain thin crust cheese and a house salad with vinaigrette.  While waiting, I enjoyed a nice small pitcher of tea.  The aromas of the place were killing me- I was hoping I would be able to make it back to the room. 

The pizza was a thin crust with ample tomato sauce and plenty of cheese.  The crust was light and airy.  Overall, the pizza was really good.  The side salad was huge with lots of lettuce, tomatoes, green and black olives, and green peppers.  My only complaint is the bacon bits were more like bacos- gross.

Overall, I like B&J Pizza.  They have an amazing beer selection ranging from local to international, and you can join the beer club where you can win prizes for drinking.  If in Corpus Christi, B&J Pizza is a good place to grab a pizza pie.

B&J Pizza

6335 S Padre Island Dr

Corpus Christi, TX 78412

361/992-6671

www.bandjspizza.com

Andy's Country Kitchen: Corpus Christi

On this raining Sunday morning, I decided to try out Andy’s Country Kitchen.  Reading up on it, it has a sweet history spanning over 50 years.  The restaurant is known for their motorized train that runs above the diner counter not to mention their famous muffins that they serve.

It is packed this morning, so I take my place at the counter below the train.  I’m amazed at the fast pace of this diner- churning orders out without hesitation and with pure ease.  The famous muffins arrive- they look like blueberry with streusel on top.  They are warm, and in a matter of minutes, they disappear.

Today, I decide on the French Toast on recommendation of my waiter.  Two pieces of plain white bread dipped in an egg wash arrive with powder sugar gracing it.  A side of thick sliced bacon accompanied the lack luster French toast.  The bacon was sweet, and it could have used more cooking and a paper towel to wipe off some of the grease- I didn’t care for it.  Although the appearance missed the mark, the French Toast was quite tasty, and it took me back to the days when my mom used to make it for me.

Overall, Andy’s Country Kitchen is a nice local place.  The food is pretty good, but not the best.  It is a place where you can sit next to the locals and strike up a conversation.  The coffee is constantly flowing and you never have to worry about an empty cup.  If you want comfort food with a smile, then this is the place to be.

Andy’s Kitchen

5802 S Staples

Corpus Christi, TX  78413

361/993-0251

www.andyskitchen.com

Walton's Fancy and Staple: Austin

Have you ever been to one of those places where you walk in and feel at home?  Walton’s is one of those places.  It is the sister restaurant to Bess Bistro.  Walton’s has a Parisian air about- whether it is the quaint bistro tables, the fresh flowers from the in house florist, or the fresh baked breads and croissants- not to mention the cupcakes, cookies, and other tasty morsels.

I have been to Walton’s a few times.  This morning, I tried a moist blueberry muffin with a streusel top.  It was quite good and filled with some of the freshest and biggest blueberries that I have ever seen.  My counter part tried the white cheddar ham croissant, and said, “It was out of this world.”

In addition, I got a strawberry Danish, a chocolate chunk cookie, and a carrot cupcake.  Everything has not disappointed.  On previous visits, I have tried the Tiramisu Cupcake that was quite moist and surprising with an Italian Cream center.  The cinnamon bun is to die for.  It is pure bliss with just enough sugar- definitely worth a try. 

Walton’s is open for breakfast and lunch.  Their lunch menu consists of salads, soups, and sandwiches.  Thursday and Friday nights they are open until 8.  Walton’s has created a loyal follower.  Definitely stop on by, I promise you will want to linger.

Walton’s Fancy and Staple

609 East 6^th Street

Austin, Texas 78701

512/542-3380

http://www.waltonsfancyandstaple.com/

Trifecta on 3rd: Austin

Trifecta on 3^rd is fairly new to the Downtown Austin scene.  Walking distance from our hotel, my work counterpart took me here because they have a Pizza Happy Hour where 12-inch pizzas are only $3 until 8 pm.  The restaurant is small and quaint with a nice selection of beers, wines, and bourbon.  It has a young, hip, professional crowd

I have been to Trifecta a few times.  In the past, I have tried the Margarhita Pizza (their spelling) as well as the Vegetarian Pizza (with corn and spinach- I’m moving outside of my pizza box).  The first time that we went, the crust was soggy and limp- not good for super thin crust pizza.  Overall, the pizzas tasted good, but it could have been better.  On a recent visit (shown below), the Margarhita pizza  crust was super thin and crispy with a balsamic reduction sprinkled across it that was addicting.

Overall, I like Trifecta on 3rd.  They pour large glasses of wine, so be careful.  The food is pretty good, and you can’t beat a $3 12-inch pizza.  Word to the wise: Be careful on trivia night to not scream out the answer because these patrons are very serious, not to mention, competitive about their trivia.

Trifecta on 3rd

360 Nueces #30

Austin, TX 78701

512/320-9909

www.trifectaaustin.com

Shockley Market: Corpus Christi

Tonight, I tried Shockley Market in Corpus Christi.  Based on the reviews, it seems like it will be a winner.  From the looks of their website, I can't wait.  Comfort food and Julia Child's classics in a small quaint, cozy, neighborhood setting best describes Shockley Market.  On this night, I am getting take out, so I decided to not take photos because that would not do the food justice.

Fresh fruits and vegetables grace the glass cases while the interior is light and fresh!  Service is prompt and courteous.  I order the Meatloaf with a House Salad, Asparagus, and Macaroni and Cheese.  All I know is that was the longest drive back to the hotel, and the three mini-half moon rolls did not make it- talk about warm buttery love!

The next thing to disappear was the macaroni and cheese.  All white cheeses graced this side, and I bet some blue did too.  Oh my goodness, it was good.  The side of asparagus was just OK- a little over cooked, but it tasted like it had been dipped into butter/wine reduction- yummy!  The side salad was a nice mixture of field greens, diced cucumbers, radishes, and pink grapefruit.  It was lightly tossed in a delicate sweet vinaigrette- very good.  It would have been good with the bread, but that was long gone.

Finally, the meatloaf... It was an individual loaf instead of slices of meat loaf covered with a tangy tomato sauce- almost with a light BBQ taste.  The meatloaf was filled with celery and bell peppers.  Overall, it was a little dense, but it was pretty good. 

In the end, I really liked Shockley Market.  I can't wait to go back.  In fact, locals have tried to keep this place of goodness a secret, and I understand why.  It just rocks!

Shockley Market
3815 S Alameda
Corpus Christi, TX 78411

(361) 851-2525
www.shockleymarket.com

Hester's Cafe: Corpus Christi

Every once in awhile you find a place, and it just feels like home.  In Corpus, that place is Hester's Cafe.  Park on the backside and next to the Blue Frog Emporium, enter Corpus Christi's coolest, funky little cafe.  I have come for breakfast on another dreary morning, but once inside Hester's, it is pure sunshine.  The atmosphere is bright and cheery.  The staff is super nice and patient.  The place is packed like a local neighborhood joint.

When you don't eat eggs, breakfast is sometimes a challenge.  Today, I order the Blueberry Belgian Waffles with fresh roasted coffee poured into a really large coffee mug just like at home.

These waffles ROCK!  They were so yummy.  Served with fresh fruit, these super light, fluffy, and filled with FRESH blueberries made this little girl very happy.  My only complaint is that a place Hester's should have REAL whipped butter not little packets from Land of Lakes!  But, I will let them slide since I have found a great new place!

If you have a chance, make sure you go to Hester's Cafe.  The food is yummy.  The coffee is large.  And, it will put a smile on your face!  I could have hung out all day here- it's just one of those kind of places!  Don't miss it!

Hester's Cafe
361/885-0558
1710 S Alameda St
Corpus Christi, TX 78404
www.hesterscafe.com

Drunkn' Noodlez: Corpus Christi

Tonight, I just happen to run across Drunkn' Noodlez as I was exploring Corpus Christi.  I had already read about this place, and I wanted to try it based on the reviews and of course, its name.  Located in a strip shopping center next to Schlotzsky's and I love Cheesecake, entry into Drunkn' Noodlez seems like you have stepped into another place and time.

For starters, I try their Spring Wraps.  These wraps, instead of rolls, are huge and a meal in itself.  They are filled with chicken, shrimp, fresh veggies, herbs, and noodles.  They come with a great spicy Red Chile sauce with peanuts, but it isn't the traditional peanut sauce.  Awesome- this is definitely a must! 

For my main meal, I order Pahd Thai.  I like that they offer to spice it up.  Of course, I do, so I go with 3 peppers: Adventuresome! 

The Pahd Thai was good, but it wasn't the best that I have had.  It was filled with chicken, noodles, and vegetables, but I was still thinking about the Spring Wraps.  I think I could have gone up to 5 on the spicy level because I couldn't even taste the heat of 3.

Overall, I LOVE Drunkn' Noodlez.  This place has such a great vibe.  It's just a little funky.  Everyone is super friendly.  Service is great!  If you get a chance, definitely check it out.  I will return.

Drunkn' Noodlez
(361) 992-1400  
4214 S Alameda St
Corpus Christi, TX 78412



 

Silverado BBQ: Corpus Christi

Today, I wanted BBQ, and I wanted to try some place other than Rudy's.  Don't get me wrong, I like Rudy's, but I wanted to try something a little more local.  How can you not want to try a BBQ place on Weber Road- how appropriate?

I walk into Silverado BBQ for a chopped beef sandwich, and I sit down at the table with a 2 meat-2 side plate.  There was no way that I could get just a chopped beef sandwich after smelling the aromas of Silverado.  So, it's chicken- choice of meat, brisket- choice of lean or marbled, Cole slaw, AND  stewed okra-to honor my husband!

I jump into the stewed okra.  All I can say is that I could have eaten the whole vat of it.  It was awesome.  My mom used to make stewed okra like this.  Saute a little bacon and onions.  Add the okra and tomatoes.  Then, you add a little sour like vinegar and lot's pepper!  Wallah! 

The Cole slaw was pretty good- not too sweet with a little more sour to it.  The cabbage was actually diced instead, and overall, a nice refreshing side on this hot and humid day.  Now, the meats: smoked chicken breast and lean brisket.  The brisket was above average.  It wasn't the best that I had had, but it was good.  The meat was lean, mostly moist, but verging on a little dry, not real heavy on the smoke, and the rub wasn't overwhelming with salt either. 

The chicken was above average too.  The wing/chicken breast was moist, but verged on dry.  The seasoning on the skin was really good- like previously mentioned not too salty.  The meat did have a nice smokiness to it.  Now, the sauce....it verges on too sweet, but then it doesn't.  You can just taste the brown sugar in it, and possibly honey.  They may add a hint of liquid smoke too.  It is a complex sauce that will keep you guessing, and in the end, I really liked it.

Overall, I really liked Silverado BBQ, and I would return.  They have a vegetable of the day, so remember Friday's are stewed okra day!  How can you not like a place that has a sign on its front door: "The only smoke in this establishment is the smoke coming from around the counter!" 

Not to mention, Silverado is one of my all time favorite movies- heck, Payden, my dog in College was named from a character in the movie.  But, I digress.  If you are in Corpus Christi, check out Silverado BBQ.

Silverado BBQ
4522 Weber Rd
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
361/855-6464

Kiko's Mexican Food: Corpus Christi

On this dreary, rainy (yes, rainy) morning, I head to Kiko's Mexican Food for some breakfast tacos.  I am seated quickly, and within a few minutes, an elderly Hispanic lady comes to take my drink order.  I wait and wait and wait and wait for that coffee.  She must have been having a Senior Moment!

Upon her return, I order the usual: breakfast taco with potato, cheese, and bacon- No Eggs.  And, it was great!  I have got to figure out what kind of cheese they use- maybe Velveeta- it just tastes like queso.  The salsa reminded me of Cisco's in Austin, so i loved it.  The flour tortilla made fresh and on site rocked!  Overall, the taco was great.  I just wished that the waitress would have gotten my order right, and brought me that other taco that I had ordered.  Must have been another Senior Moment!

If you are in Corpus, I recommend Kiko's for their breakfast tacos.  I have no idea if anything else is good, but judging by the loyal local following, they must be doing something right.  Just prepare to be patient with the service because it isn't fast or accurate- but it's friendly.

Kiko's Mexican Food
5514 Everhart Rd
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
361/991-1211
www.kikosmexicanfood.com

Lolly Cakes: Corpus Christi

Tonight, I decided to skip dinner, and go straight to dessert at Lolly Cakes.  Their location is a task to find, but here's a hint: find Five Guys, and they are located behind it.  You walk in, and you are greeted with a glass case of cupcakes.  Lolly Cakes has a set menu of eleven different cupcakes.  They range from the The Rebel to Curious George. 

The first thing that catches my eye is that Lolly Cakes not only offers regular size cupcakes, but they offer mini-cupcakes too.  This is a great way to try all kinds.  Tonight, I try:

• Clay Boy: Chocolate Cupcake with Peanut Butter Chips and Peanut Buttercream Icing
• Heathcliff: Chocolate Heath Cupcake with Chocolate Frappuccino Fosting
• Cubbie Cake: Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
• J's Pineapple Express: Coconut Pineapple Cupcake with Pineapple Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting

Overall, I was very disappointed with Lolly Cakes.  I thought the Pineapple Express was the best and most moist of the selection.  All of the other mini-cakes were dried out and just lacking even though they had surprises in their middle.  I don't think I would return to Lolly Cakes for the mini-cupcakes.  Maybe their regular sized cupcakes wouldn't dry out as much, but there are way too many other bakeries in Corpus Christi to blog about!

Lolly Cakes
5425 South Padre Island Drive Suite 147
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
361/906-0244
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Lollycakes-Cupcakes/118512821512198

Cisco's Restaurant & Bakery: Austin

Rumor has it that you could come to Cisco's before a UT game and get a Bloody Mary before 10 am.  How could you not like a place like that?  How could you not like seeing Texas's Power sitting among the locals?  How can you not like a big circular table with one red phone in the middle of it- Who you gonna call?  And, who cares if celebrities even stop in?????

A trip to Austin without a trip to Cisco's is sacri-relig for this girl.  On this early morning, I found out something pretty critical.  Cisco's doesn't open until 7 am, so hit that snooze button a few more times.
We have always sat in the back room, so walk on through the bakery portion, turn right, and turn right again.

This morning, I am alone in the room filled with memorabilia of early Austin, UT, and how life used to be.  I order my usual: a coffee and two breakfast tacos with potato, bacon, and cheese.  I always forget that they don't give you a lot of salsa, so ask for extra.

Local politicos pile in, and the topic on their mind is Rick Perry and his race for the Presidency.  It's a great place to be nosey, but then again, it wasn't like they were whispering!  I enjoyed my two breakfast tacos: boiled red potatoes, the crispiest bacon just the way i like it, the cheese, and the slightly sour salsa- maybe a hint of vinegar.  Definitely, a great way to start the day!

Everyone should get to experience Cisco's in their lifetime.  It's definitely an experience.  Plus, it makes you realize that Austin isn't just weird because places like Cisco's makes it pretty dang cool.

Cisco's Restaurant & Bakery
1511 East Sixth Street
Austin, Texas 78702
512/478-2420

Dog and Duck Pub: Austin

Dog and Duck Pub is one of my all time favorite places.  Back in the good ole days, we used to come here for Happy Hour for some of the coldest Pilsner Urquell.  Now, we just come here for lunch.  Started in May of 1990, Dog and Duck has 42 beers on tap ranging from Texas to International brews.  In 1991, they sistered the Dog and Duck Pub in London.  Their food ranges from burgers to fish-n-chips to actually some "healthy fare" (per their website).

Today, I chose the Spicy Black and Blue Burger.  My companions chose the Willie Burger and the Turkey Club Deluxe.  We are all not going for the healthy fare today.

This is my black and blue burger.  As you can see, it is a beautiful work of art: freshly ground beef, seasoned to perfection, topped with melted blue cheese, bacon, and covered with an adobe sauce.  Pure bliss, and probably one of the BEST burgers that I have ever had- EVER!

This is the Turkey Club Deluxe.  Do I really need to say anymore?  Look at all of that melted cheese!

This is the Willie Burger- yes, more melted cheese and the State of Texas's vegetable: Jalapenos.

Overall, I could barely walk out of the Dog and Duck Pub.  No, not because of consuming one too many pints, but because we just had an awesome lunch.  If you are in the area, check it out for either the food or the brews.  And, if you do, drink one for me!

Dog and Duck Pub
406 W 17th
Austin, Texas 78701
512/479-0598
www.dogandduckpub.com

Black Pearl Oyster Bar & Grille: Galveston

Several Galvestonians recommended the Black Pearl Oyster Bar & Grille to me.  This little restaurant is right around the corner from the Lunchbox Café.  Located on 23^rd Avenue, arrive early as this place fills up quickly even on a Monday evening.

Tonight, we try an order of onion rings for an appetizer.  Make sure you leave room for your entrée because you will fall in love with these thick cut, highly peppered onion rings.  Sorry, no food photos on this blog.

For an entrée, I decided on the crab cakes.  Two large, but flat, golden brown cakes come out over drizzled remoulade sauce.  Although the cakes were filled with crab, I prefer less breadcrumbs with my crab cakes.  The cakes were light and fluffy, but they just seemed to miss the mark. 

Another dining companion had a bowl of their red beans and rice.  Although the dish was extremely watery, she said it had a good taste, and it was pretty good.  Another companion had the blackened shrimp Caesar salad.  It might have been the winner of the group.

Overall, I would return to this local place.  I would try something from their grille.  Since the restaurant is a street over from the Strand, you get more locals than tourist, which is a nice change of pace for Galveston.

The Black Pearl Oyster Bar & Grille

327 23^rd Street

Galveston, TX 77550

409/762-7299

The Lunchbox Cafe: Galveston

Back to the the heat and humidity of Texas, we're off to the Lunchbox Café.  It is a little hard to find due to the construction.  Located on 23^rd Avenue, this little spot is booming on this Monday afternoon.  We ended up having to clear a table for ourselves since the waitress was so overwhelmed taking orders.

We decided to try the Dad’s Pimiento Cheese for an appetizer.  Served with potato chips, this pimento cheese seemed creamier and more sophisticated than most pimento cheeses.  An assortment of shredded cheeses- one had to be a smoked style, fresh dill, and garlic aioli graced this dip.

Next we move onto a variety of sandwiches: for me, the Tomato Caprese on a French baguette and for my friend, the Harvest Turkey.  The Tomato Caprese was OK.  It was slim on the mozzarella and tomatoes but overflowing with super fresh organic field greens.  The  basil pesto tasted good, but the baguette should have been toasted. 

The Harvest Turkey was served on honey bread with a cranberry , garlic, pecan pesto.  Once again, the organic field greens covered much of the sandwich.  Overall, the sandwich was good.

In the end, we both walked out with a cookie.  My chocolate chip cookie was terrible- too dry and hard.  My counterparts lemon drop cookie was just fair too.

The Lunchbox Café is a cute, quaint place to go.  Although it wasn’t the best place that I have eaten at, it was pretty good.  The food is very fresh.  It is more of a Chick Place, and I would probably return if I was back in Galveston.  It's a nice diversion from the more touristy places on the Strand.

The Lunchbox Café

213 23^rd Street

Galveston, TX

409/770-0044

http://www.thelunchboxcafegalveston.com/

The Home Cafe at Bronco Billy's Casino: Cripple Creek, CO

View of Cripple Creek

OK, the guys managed to throw me off of “The Plan.”  When they heard about the $0.49 breakfast at the Home Café at Bronco Billy’s Casino, democracy ruled, and our plans changed.

First of all, the Home Café is a no frills place- just like a truck stop diner.  At least Colorado has implemented a smoke free environment in their Casinos.  The Home Café sits in the back of the Casino.  And, it is true; you can get full breakfast with eggs, pancakes, biscuits, and gravy for just $0.49.  If you really want to splurge, you can get the steak and eggs for just $2.99.

OK, service is just fair.  The coffee tasted like a dirty ashtray, and that’s scary because I like truck stop coffee.  I wasn’t happy about being here because the thought of a $0.49 breakfast just turned my stomach.  I ordered Pancakes that were recommended over the Texas Style French Toast since they are homemade. 

Drum rolls please…….these pancakes were some of the best pancakes that I have ever had.  The two pancakes were so light and fluffy.  I usually eat just a few bites of my pancakes, but today, I ate all of them.  They were super good, and the best part is that they were ONLY $0.49. 

In fact, our table of five ate for under $10- how can you beat that?  If you are in Cripple Creek, and you are craving pancakes or a really cheap breakfast, try the Home Café at Bronco Billy’s Casino.  You can’t be disappointed.  And, if you are, stop your whining!  You just spent less than a $1!

The Home Café at Bronco Billy’s Casino

Cripple Creek, Colorado

www.broncobillyscasino.com

Bierwerks: Woodland Park, CO

There is obviously a trend to some of my get-a-ways.  Beer and Food!  On our way to Cripple Creek, I had mapped out some of the best places to go.  Of course, my counterparts reminded me that “The plan is that there is NO PLAN!” 

When we came into Woodland Park- the infamous location of the Texas Seven- it was closed to 11 am (ie. Time for  a beer).  Of course, I had read about Bierwerks, and how they had jiffy pop on the menu.  I definitely wanted to stop. 

Woodland Park is booming on this day.  The weather is beautiful- cool and crisp- mostly sunny.  There is an art festival going on in conjunction to a critter fest, so dogs are everywhere.

We find Bierwerks located on the main drag across from the festivals.  We take a seat outside and consume a Double Red IPA.  Bierwerks is a really cool place.  They have personalized beer steins that rotate on a “cleaners” style machine.  Just tell them your stein number, and they bring it around.  Very cool!

As far as the Double Red IPA, it was just OK.  For an IPA, it wasn’t very hoppy.  It was more like a Red Ale.  But, it was cold, and the weather was cool, so all was good.  Bierwerks’ building is aesthetically beautiful.  Local food trailers were serving food to go with your beers.  Or you could have just run over to Wally’s Tamales like Carlito did- it was actually pretty darn good.

Check out Bierwerks in Woodland Park.  I am still looking for the jiffy pop, but I think it doesn’t come out until it gets colder when the fire pits are roaring.  Overall, Bierwerks is a good stop on this Saturday afternoon- OK, probably on any afternoon.

Bierwerks

121 E Midland (Hwy 24)

Woodland Park, CO

719/686-8100

www.bierwerks.com

King's Chef Diner: Colorado Springs, CO

Located on the corner of Nevada and Bijou, this location of King’s Chef Diner could be easy to pass up, but DON’T!  On this Saturday morning, we walk in to find the place packed, so we take our seats at the counter- the best place in the diner.  Here you can watch the magic in the kitchen, and trust me, you will be amazed and fascinated.

Thanks to those PCBC Streamliners, coffee is definitely in order on this cool crisp morning.  Sitting at the counter, we are just in awe of the food that is coming out.  No wonder why the Food Network Magazine named them the “Tastiest Breakfast in Colorado!”  This morning, I opt for the MINI breakfast burrito with potatoes, cheese, sausage, and green chili salsa! 

Oh my, these counter seats provide so much entertainment.  The guys behind it keep you laughing with their off kiltered wit and grief to the locals.  I don’t think I would be calling that hunk of a muscle next to us “Princess-” especially since he is from Texas too! 

Anyways, the burrito comes out and the MINI is HUGE.  The green chili salsa rocks, and I am definitely taking some of it home with me.  It is available online too!  This is just what the doctor ordered!

If you find yourself in Colorado Springs, take a seat at the counter at King’s Chef Diner.  Breakfast and lunch are served all day at their two locations. I really want to come back for a burger because they looked awesome.  I can guarantee you that you will not be disappointed.

King’s Chef Diner

131 E Bijou Street                                      OR                                                   110 E  Castilla Street

Colorado Springs, CO 80903                                                                Colorado Springs, CO 80903

719/636-5010                                                                                                              719/634-9135

                                                    www.kingschefdiner.com

Phantom Canyon Brewing Co: Colorado Springs

It has been about ten years (and possibly even longer) since I have been in Colorado Springs.  It’s a great College town loaded with cool bars, amazing breweries, and funky little restaurants.  Phantom Canyon Brewery is located in the Historic Cheyenne Building- this three-story building from 1901 used to be the location for the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad. 

On this Friday night, the downstairs is packed with restaurant goers, so we head up to the second floor bar.  Greeted by a CSPD officer asking me for my ID, I immediately fall in love with this place- it’s the little things.  Anyways, we sit down at the bar and order an American IPA called Streamliner.  This India Pale Ale is a rich golden red in color with an extreme bite thanks to the hops- four kinds in fact.  There is a slight citrus flavor too.  This IPA is an excellent choice on this evening.

Phantom Canyon is loaded with the local college kids from Colorado College.  Tattoos run ramped among the pool tables, and Metallica is blaring from the CD Jukebox- this doesn’t help the altitude headache, but a few more Streamliners do!  J

Overall, Phantom Canyon still reigns.  They have an extensive selection of beers.  The service is great and very appreciative of their tips.  If you get a chance, stop by, and have a beer or two.  Obviously, based on the crowds below, the food must be pretty good too.

Phantom Canyon Brewing Co

2 East Pikes Peak Avenue

Colorado Springs, CO 80903

719/635-2800

http://www.phantomcanyon.com/

Borriello Brothers Pizza: Colorado Springs, CO

After having a rough flight into Colorado Springs, it was time for a good pizza pie.  We set out for Borriello Brothers.  Located in what looks like a fast food pizza spot, don’t judge the book by the cover.

Tonight, I ordered a 16-inch half cheese and half Clemente (pepperoni, sausage, meatballs, and ham.  Their 16-inch pizza is a paper-thin crust while their 18-inch is a hand tossed thin crust.  Flags should have gone up when the girl taking my ordered seemed confused.  Our friend ordered a 16 inch pepperoni, cheese, mushroom and garlic pizza.

The smells coming from the kitchen were killing us.  The pizzas that were walking by with the delivery guy were pure bliss.  Our friend was the first to get his pizza.  He said I could have a piece as a piece was already in my mouth. 

Paper-thin was correct.  Wow, I have never had a crust so thin and so good.  Great tomato sauce.  It was pure bliss.  This pizza is the best that I have ever had, so I was getting very excited about our pizza.  Then, it arrived…

For some reason, they gave us an 18-inch hand tossed.  My cheese pizza was not what I had ordered, and they obviously sensed it.  I had ordered a 16-inch half cheese- half Clemente.  They said that this was their cheese pizza- Pizza Blanca (mozzarella, ricotta and Romano cheese- no sauce).  Personally, I call that cheese bread sticks.  They did accommodate my wish for sauce and brought me a side of it.  Overall, the pizza was really good, but the true winner was the 16-inch paper-thin pie.

The service isn’t great at Borriello Brothers.  They committed my biggest peeve ever- they started to sweep around us while we were eating.  OK, they couldn’t wait until we were gone since we were the only ones in the place at 9 pm.  Have you ever thought of what is going in the air around you?  Seriously- it’s disgusting!

Anyways, I will say that if I am ever in Colorado Springs again, I would get another pizza from Borriello Brothers- definitely a 16 inch paper thin and definitely To Go!

Borriello Brothers

215 E Platte Ave

Colorado Springs, CO

719/884-2020

www.BorrielloBrothers.com

Wolf's Burger: East Houston

OK, this is one of those places that you don't judge by the outside.  Wolf Burgers is located in a run down strip shopping center on the Sam Houston Tollway just North of I-10 E.  On this day, it is packed as it probably always is on any given day.

Today, the usual: Cheeseburger Basket with French Fries and Ice Tea.  The burger is really good- multi napkins- fresh ground beef, well seasoned, cooked to perfection on a seasoned grill and JUICY.  The bun was warmed to the point of almost crispy, but you could taste the butter.  The steak fries were a total disappointment.  I should have gone with the tater tots or onion rings. 

If you find yourself on the East side, check out Wolf's Burgers.  Don't judge this place by the Outside, go on inside.  You will be pleasantly surprised, and I would definitely get there early.....

Wolf's Hamburger
4323 E Sam Houston Pkwy N
Houston, TX 77015
713/453-1890

The Blanton Cafe: Austin

The Blanton Museum of Art is directly across from our headquarters, so the Blanton Cafe makes a great lunch break.  The Blanton Café offers a variety of sandwiches, gourmet flat bread pizzas, soups, and create your own salads.

On this day, I try to the Basil Pesto Chicken Salad on Sourdough Bread.  Although the sample showed the Chicken to be grilled strips, the sandwich turned out to be Pesto Chicken Salad with whole basil leaves and tomatoes.  The sandwich is grilled like a Panini, and it is served with potato chips and a dill spear.  Overall, it was a great choice.

Photo by Dave Wilson

By the way, check out the fabulous Museum while you are here.  The building is beautiful with a lot of natural light, aqua glass wall tiles, and travertine- the stairwell is actually a work of art called Stacked Waters by Teresita Fernandez (did not know this until I wrote up this Blog). 

It is like you are floating in the Ocean then you ascend from the water to the second floor for the Collections.  As far as the art, some of the art is very modern, but the Blanton has an extensive collection of Italian Renaissance and Baroque paintings.  The current exhibition is called About Face: Portraiture as Subject- this exhibits holds the very famous and contraversial Andy Warhol of Farrah Fawcett.

But I digress....If you eat at the Blanton Cafe, you can make it a lovely afternoon by combining a visit to the Blanton Art Museum.  And, don't forget the great gift shop next to the Cafe.  Overall, I really like The Blanton Cafe.

The Blanton Cafe
Blanton Museum of Art
The University of Texas at Austin
MLK at Congress
Austin, Texas 78701
http://blantonmuseum.org/

Lockhart Food Follies: Lockhart

Well, I know that I am late in writing up my blogs on certain restaurants, and the moral of this story is to not wait so long because some restaurants can close in the mean time.  This is what has happen to Henry's in Lockhart.  It was less than 2 weeks ago that we were sitting in Henry's enjoying a hamburger and fries.

In fact, I will still write about it.  The hamburger was pretty dang good.  The ground meat was debatable if it was fresh or frozen, but it was well seasoned.  The usual suspects were found: lettuce, tomato, and pickles.  Overall, a pretty good burger on a sweet tasting bun.  The only thing was that the typical bagged french fries came out in a pretty chintzy portion.

On another note....just for your information if you don't already know it.  Lockhart is a SERIOUS BBQ town- the BBQ Capital of Texas.  On this day that we ended up at Henry's, my counterpart had just wanted a chopped beef sandwich- you wouldn't think it would be hard to find in Lockhart- Oh, but it is...  After going to Kreuz's and Smitty's, we gave up on the chopped beef sandwich.  Smelling of smoke and hot, we ended up at Henry's by default.  Both Kreuz's and Smitty's greet you with a wall of smoke and heat.  You buy your meat by the pound then eat it without sauce and with white bread.  But, no chopped beef sandwiches to be found!  And, we didn't feel like trying Black's.

I did end up with a pound of brisket from Kreuz's- another Food Folly.  Although the meat was smokey and tender, I definitely believe I have had better brisket.  In fact, some of the meat was so fatty and poorly cut that I thought I was eating a pot roast.  I wasn't that impressed, and we went to A LOT of effort to get that pound of brisket when all we wanted was a chopped beef sandwich- isn't that the truth Mrs. Wells!!!!!

Lockhart: BBQ Capital of Texas
http://www.lockhart-tx.org/web98/visitors/bbqcapitaloftexas.asp

The Hill Drive In: Bellville

The Hill is one of our favorite burger places around.  Located on the way out of Bellville toward Brenham on Hwy 36, the Hill always has a crowd.   Whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner, you will find The Hill serving up delicious fare to the locals since 1952.

Don't think that The Hill is just a burger place.  The chicken tender baskets or fried shrimp baskets will put a smile on your face.  The hamburgers are at least 1/3 of a pound of freshly ground beef, layered with the sweetest mayo and mustard accompanied by the freshest shredded lettuce, tomatoes and pickles.  For a basket, you can choose crinkle fries or tater tots with a medium drink.  Other sides include sweet potato fries, pinto beans, fried okra, and a bunch of others that I have not tried.  Mac-n-Cheese bites have caught my eye though.

Regardless of what you eat at The Hill, I can say that hamburgers, chicken strips, and fried shrimp baskets will not disappoint, and don't forget the malts and shakes especially during these Dog Days of Summer.  So if you are in the area, whether it be breakfast, lunch or dinner, stop on in at The Hill for a local treat! 

The Hill Drive In
979/865-3607
758 W Main St
Bellville, TX  77418 
http://www.thehillrestaurant.com/

UPDATE: Longview

The following restaurants have recently been updated:

Butcher Shop: One morning, we went for a full breakfast.  I ordered breakfast tacos without eggs, of course.  They were really good though they could have had some potatoes added in place of the eggs.  The two very large tacos came out with crumbled sausage, red and yellow bell peppers, and cheese.  Typical jar salsa was added to make a very scrumptious and filling breakfast taco.  Definitely a winner.

Cowboy Chicken: I stopped in to grab a late dinner.  I wanted to be somewhat good, so I had the Grilled Chicken Platter with Green Beans and Tangy Tomato and Cucumber Salad.  When the plate came out, the chicken looked horrible- not appetizing at all, but it was actually very tender, well seasoned, and delish.  The green beans were typical canned green beans with some black pepper added- not great, but the tangy tomato cucumber salad rocked.  The slightly sweet yet Chile smoked vinaigrette marinated the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, celery and cilantro perfectly.  This was a great, healthy and light dinner for after 7 pm.

Joe's Pizza, Pasta and Subs: This restaurant has now closed.  Cafe Italy II has opened in the location.

Frank & Angie's: Austin

This is one of my favorite little places to go to when in Austin, the sister restaurant to Hut's Hamburgers (see the April review). 

This picture is just an example of their pizza not our actual pizza!

Tonight, we decide to split Lugosi's Lament.  This pizza has mozzarella, pecorino, sliced tomatoes, and roasted garlic.  We asked that they add basil.  All I can say is that this pizza was awesome.  The roasted garlic is actually roasted whole garlic cloves.  The tomato sauce was delicious, and the crust was cooked to perfection. 

The other dishes coming out of the open kitchen counter smelled just as good.  In fact, on the next visit, I might have to try one of their pastas.  Decent wine and beer list too.  If you get the chance, check out this neighborhood joint. 

Frank & Angie's Pizzeria

508 West 6th Ave
Austin, TX 78701-2723
(512) 472-3534
www.hutsfrankandangies.com