Dishola: Reviews by the Dish

401 W 2nd St, Austin, TX, 78701

laura on 10/23/08

Proprietor Lou Lambert calls this dish "decomposed Texas hummus," which always makes me smile. One bite of these achiote seared chickpeas will turn that smile into a grin. That's because the ground achiote paste has been steeped in olive oil, which infuses the garbanzos with smoke and spice. Add to that the sweet flavor of caramelized onions, roasted tomatoes, and the creaminess of Pure Luck goat cheese, and you've got yourself a knockout plate. It is no wonder that this dish was brought back by bereft fans of the former Lamberts by popular demand. Three cheers for achiote seared chick peas!

2304 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX
(512) 478-8645

laura on 10/14/08

Let's just say that you're trying to lose 10 pounds and your hubby begs you to go to Magnolia Cafe late-night because he's craving hotcakes, eggs, and a side of bacon. I mean, just saying... #1 Don't Fret. #2 Take a deep breath and skim the menu. #3 Don't let your eyes hover on the Magnolia Mud (see http://www.dishola.com/dishes/view/1557). #4 Keep scanning until you find Magnolia's Tuna Salad. #5 Order it. I know, I know...it sounds bland and boring. But this salad is so far from that, loaded with albacore tuna and just the right amount of mayo (not too much, not too little). It also comes with beaucoup de fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, lettuce, and creamy avocado wedges. And Magnolia offers such a wide array of dressings, how can you go wrong? The creamy cilantro is less about the cream; more about the cilantro, while the soy ginger would bring the most lackluster salad to life. So next time you consider that beloved Austin institution, banish thoughts of their cheesy Magna Cristo, the renowned stack of chocolate chip buttermilk pancakes, or the Voodoo Blue Cheese burger and fries. Instead, give that tuna salad a try.

360 Nueces Street, Retail E, Austin, TX
512-320-0297

laura on 10/11/08

This is one of the better fresh pressed sandwiches I've tried in Austin recently. Perhaps it's the fresh, oozing mozzarella? Or the sweet, juicy tomatoes? The Prosciutto imparts an addicitve Spanish saltiness, while the pesto might as well sing B-A-S-I-L. The sandwich comes with a small side salad made of local greens and a light, citrus-y vinaigrette. Perfect for a late afternoon lunch, or a light dinner paired with a sparkling glass of wine.

360 Nueces Street, Retail E, Austin, TX
512-320-0297

laura on 10/11/08

Mulberry's lamb Agnolotti tastes fresh and light, despite being served in a brown butter sauce with enough Parmesan to make every bite a cheesy delight. The fried sage is a lovely detail that adds texture and a hint of earthiness to the pasta. In my opinion, the dish could've used a touch more salt, but better less salt than too much. I would definitely order this dish again.

2015 Manor Rd, Austin, TX
(512) 482-0300

laura on 10/11/08

Vivo's cucumber margarita is LO MAXIMO. Cool, refreshing...dare I say soothing? It kind of reminds me of the cucumber water they offer at fancy spas, (with a tequilita kick of course). Ordering your cucumber margarita on the rocks ensures that it is handmade (as opposed to coming from a mix). Pairs well with Vivo's sprout-topped California nachos.