Blue Bamboo: The Real Deal

May 14, 2013 by greystar

Blue Bamboo is authentic in every aspect. From the steaming bowls of fresh pho to the Vietnamese iced coffee, they are the real deal in Bee Cave. The menu ranges from traditional Thai to Vietnamese dishes. It’s difficult to figure out one or two dishes to recommend, as the menu is overflowing with excellent options. Everything really is that good, and quick service with friendly smiles just adds to the experience. You can tell that the owners and chefs really do believe in healthy living and quality food when your plates are full of color from the freshest vegetables and a perfect harmony of seasonings. This is the place that Bee Cave locals go when they want to experience bold, assertive flavors. One particular local favorite is the tom yum soup made with shrimp, limes, lemongrass, chili peppers, and mushrooms. The dish is served with flames in the middle of the dish to keep the soup at an ideal temperature throughout your meal.

Blue Bamboo
12918 Shop Pkwy
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-8889
http://www.yelp.com/biz/blue-bamboo-bee-cave

By Kham Tran - www.khamtran.com (Own work) [GFDL or CC-BY-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Austin Dining, Blue Bamboo, Restaurants in Austin

Baguette et Chocolate: As Authentic As You Can Get

April 15, 2013 by greystar

Baguette et Chocolate may seem like a long drive at first, but once you enter this cozy French cafe you will be counting down the seconds until you can come back. The owner hails from a small town outside of Paris where he learned the art of making the perfect French pastries. When you take your first bite you will feel like you have left Texas and are nestled right in the middle of the old country. The locals rave about the crepes and the Parisian sandwiches served on a fresh baked baguette. The sweet pastries are the true treat here, though. They look so beautiful you almost don’t want to ruin the art by eating them, but you will be glad you did. They use real French butter and, yes, you can tell the difference. So next time you want to indulge in a truly perfect meal drive out west and taste what Baguette et Chocolate has baking, and don’t forget to grab a fresh loaf to bring home.

Baguette et Chocolate
12101 Bee Cave Rd Bldg 6
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-8388
http://www.yelp.com/biz/baguette-et-chocolat-bee-cave

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Austin Dining, Baguette et Chocolate, Restaurants in Austin

Riviera Bistro & Wine Bar: Gluten Free Gourmet

April 8, 2013 by greystar

The Riviera Bistro & Wine Bar is a sensitive stomach’s paradise with the entire menu being gluten free without sacrificing a bit of flavor. This place is for everyone who enjoys over-the-top amazing food and atmosphere. The menu is inspired by the tastes of Southern France and Northern Italy. They have placed the kitchen so that your every sense will be heightened with the sounds, smells, and sights as your food is prepared. Don’t be surprised if the chef comes to greet you personally at your table. Regulars are over the moon about the rich, powerful flavors and fresh ingredients on offer. Some favorites to try are the crab macaroni and cheese and the salmon rousade wrapped in prosciutto and stuffed with potatoes, fine cheeses, and fresh vegetables. Don’t forget their immaculate wine selection, which also happens to be completely gluten free. You will be delighted no matter what you order.

Riviera Bistro & Wine Bar
12801 Shops Pkwy Ste 200
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-2960
http://www.yelp.com/biz/riviera-bistro-bee-cave

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Austin Dining, Restaurants in Austin, Riviera Bistro & Wine Bar, Wine Bars

Plate by Dzintra: Serious Servings

March 20, 2013 by greystar

When you first walk into Plate by Dzintra you might be surprised at the small space this exceptional restaurant occupies. Owner, 2010 Food Network Star Finalist and chef Dzintra Dzenis prefers it this way, so each customer can feel and see the entire experience from being seated to the last bite of dessert. The menu is ever evolving to keep your tastes satisfied and reflect the unique produce of each season. There are staples from the menu that are sure to keep you coming back. People are raving about the savory sweet pear and fig pizza topped with melted French brie and, of course, the sushi and sashimi. Many Bee Cave locals put it among the best sushi they’ve ever eaten. This hidden gem offers so much more then lunch and dinner: from personal chef services, dinner clubs, to cooking classes. So keep an eye out for their new events and stop in for a dinner you won’t be forgetting anytime soon.

Plate by Dzintra
12717 Shops Pkwy Ste 100
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 358-4776
http://www.yelp.com/biz/plate-by-dzintra-bee-cave

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Austin Dining, Plate by Dzintra, Restaurants in Austin