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

If you’re on the lookout for a great neighborhood watering hole with a menu that ventures above the usual pub-grub, put Hopfields on your list of go-to places. It’s a fine spot to chill out with an artisan beer, glass of wine or refreshing cocktail. Order up something tasty from the French-themed menu to accompany your libation. Choices include Moules Frites – mussels in white wine broth with French fries, Ratatoille with fresh veggies, and Steak Frites – a 6-ounce filet with fries & Dijon mustard. The Pascal Burger is also a tasty option, topped with camembert, cornichons, caramelized onions & grain mustard. Save room for a luscious dessert crepe, like Tripel Karmeliet with lavender vanilla sugar and nutella. Open every day.

Hopfields
3110 Guadalupe St, Ste 400
Austin, TX 78705
(512) 537-0467
http://www.yelp.com/biz/hopfields-austin

A European-style family eatery with a classic menu, Milano Café is a great stop for authentic Italian cooking. It's the great sort of place where you can stop in for a great cup of coffee or sit down for a nice, filling meal. The menu consists of a number of wonderful pizza and pasta possibilities, as well as some delectable bruschetta options and a host of starter and entree-sized salads. There is also a helpful and unique "family to-go" menu where you can order large, family-style portions to pick up and take back to your home. Quality is top-notch all around, with everything made from scratch from super fresh ingredients. Milano Café is a friendly, authentic taste of Italy that is a fantastic treat for anyone in the Austin area.

Milano Café
4601 Southwest Parkway
Suite 109
Austin, TX 78735
(512) 428-6076
http://www.yelp.com/biz/milano-cafe-austin