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“Keep Austin Weird” is a mantra among locals in this Texas oasis, and the Purple Tongue is a great example of what they mean. This roving food truck offers a unique menu of hot dogs and shaved ice, and it’s won a dedicated following. If all you know about shaved ice is carnival stands pouring artificially-flavored sugary syrup, you’re in for a real surprise here. They make all of their syrups with fresh fruits and other ingredients.

Some favorite offerings include the strawberry banana, which might be the most popular, but also praised is the grapefruit mojito. The flavor menu is extensive, featuring classics like cherry and grape and more advanced flavors like dark chocolate and chai tea. You can get your ice topped with whipped cream, caramel, sweetened condensed milk, you name it. If you’re hungry, their dogs are well-regarded – locally-made bratwurst on a fresh roll slathered with mustard and onions will hit the spot.

The Purple Tongue
1012 W. Anderson Lane
Austin, TX 78757
(512) 413-7329
www.facebook.com/ThePurpleTongue.ATX
www.yelp.com/biz/the-purple-tongue-austin-2

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/jasonlam

Although its name sounds like a secret code that only Austin locals understand, Ng BMT is actually a Vietnamese sandwich spot located within the Hong Kong Supermarket. This unique sandwich cafe-meets-bakery serves traditional Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches on fresh-baked baguettes.

Each banh mi is available with your choice of peppered shrimp, tofu, pork, or other meats to accommodate both meat eaters and vegetarian guests. Diners new to the banh mi might enjoy the pork banh mi, which sandwiches slices of marinated pork within a warm baguette with creamy mayo, pickled carrots, cilantro, and, for a little spicy kick, jalapeno peppers! Counter the heat with the chilled sweet tofu dessert.

Ng BMT is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Regulars note that the prices at Ng BMT are easy on the wallet, so you can grab a cheap lunch that’s bit out of the ordinary.

Ng BMT
8557 Research Boulevard
Austin, TX 78758
(512) 931-1088
www.ngbmt.com
www.yelp.com/biz/ng-bmt-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Stacy Spensley