The Backyard: An Austin Tradition

One of the area’s most historic music venues is The Backyard. First opening its doors in 1993, the venue has hosted some of the biggest names in contemporary music, including Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, David Bowie and more. The natural open-air amphitheater is an amazing place to see a concert, building a sense of community among showgoers that continues even after you go home. The Backyard hosts a number of Austin’s best food trucks during shows and features seven separate bars for you to get your drink on at. Another awesome thing about the Backyard is their commitment to environmentally sound practices, reducing waste, recycling and using green energy whenever possible. If you’re going with a group, make sure to carpool – cars with more than 3 people park for free.

The Backyard at Bee Cave
13801 Bee Cave Parkway
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 651-5033
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-backyard-at-bee-cave-bee-cave

Hill Country Galleria: Charming Retail

Bee Cave locals are lucky to have the Hill County Galleria as their local mall. The perfectly manicured facilities are filled with local shops, food and entertainment. Anchored by Barnes & Noble, Dillard’s, Whole Foods and Dick’s Sporting Goods, there’s something for everyone here. Regular cinemagoers suggest that the mall hosts one the best movie theaters in the area. The space also hosts free summer concerts in the pavilion with plenty of parking behind the shops. For those wanting to walk off their lunch, you can stroll through the entire shopping area outside with the light winds coming up over the hill to keep it from getting too hot.  For a day of retail therapy or a family outing for some shopping and food, Hill Country Galleria has it all.

Hill Country Galleria
12700 Hill Country Boulevard
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-0001
http://www.yelp.com/biz/hill-country-galleria-bee-cave

Maudie’s: Tex-Mex Fare in Bee Cave

Maudie’s in Bee Cave has figured out the perfect symphony of Tex-Mex cuisine and even provides a gluten-free menu for people with special dietary needs. From the moment you walk in your senses will be intrigued with the unusual angles and beautifully woven yucca ceiling. Having been open for over 20 years, Maudie’s food is sure to keep regulars coming back for the next 20. On the weekends, make sure to check out their breakfast tacos stuffed with fluffy eggs and just about any other ingredient you could imagine. The local’s favorite dish seems to be the Al Pastor tacos which are full of achiote and citrus marinated pork on corn tortillas, pico de pina, cilantro, and onions. So next time you want fresh Tex-Mex fare and maybe one of their locally famous frozen margaritas, come down to Maudie’s and experience why they've won so many awards.

Maudie's
12506 Shops Parkway
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-1116
http://www.yelp.com/biz/maudies-bee-cave

Plate by Dzintra: Serious Servings

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

Zinger’s Bar And Grill: The Sporting Life

Zinger’s Bar and Grill in the Galleria is a sports bar at heart, but don’t let the TV’s and fireplace fool you, this place has much more to offer. The menu is full of comfort food done right, from cheeseburgers with jalapeno cheddar buns and sautéed mushrooms to mandarin orange salad stocked full of veggies. If wings are what you are looking for, look no further. They have everything from standard Buffalo wings to Cajun and lemon pepper, all fried to perfection. Whether you are looking for a place to sit and watch the game by the fireplace or a nice cozy quiet spot on the outdoor patio under the oak trees, Zinger’s is your spot after a long day shopping at the Galleria. If you plan on catching a game make sure and get there early. The food, atmosphere, and great seats cause Zinger’s to fill up quickly when the ball is in play.

Zinger's Bar and Grill
12700 Hill Country Blvd
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 524-2434
http://www.yelp.com/biz/zingers-bar-and-grill-bee-cave

Spring Has Sprung!

Spring is finally here! Wishing you a season of sunshine and warmth.

Blissful Buckwheat: 5 Great Ways To Prepare This Healthy Grain

Sure, you've heard of buckwheat pancakes, but buckwheat's not just for breakfast. Ok, so this healthful crop isn't actually a grain — it's more like a fruit, and it can be enjoyed in some pretty interesting and tasty ways.

Mandola’s Italian Market: The Perfect Mix

Touted as the perfect combination of an Italian restaurant, deli, market, and bakery, Mandola’s Italian Market is sure to have something you will fall in love with. How many places in Austin can you walk into and buy a fresh Italian cookie, a cup of gelato, or sit down and enjoy an authentic Italian pasta dish? Their regulars call the tortellini moda mia with Pancetta love at first bite, and don’t forget to have them slice you up some prosciutto. Mandola’s in Bee Cave has it all and more. Locals love this spot for any event including family dinners (where they offer pint-sized seating and menus), or just a snack and cup of coffee. Don’t forget about Sundays where freshly poured mimosas are only $2 until 5pm. If you want to share this delectable Italian food with your friends, they also offer full service catering and delivery if you are in a rush but need your Mandola’s fix.

Mandola's Italian Market
12815 Shops Pkwy
Ste 400
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 600-8500
http://www.yelp.com/biz/mandolas-italian-market-bee-cave

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Wishing you a safe and happy St. Patrick's Day full of luck and laughter.

Blue Bamboo: The Real Deal

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

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