"Foodie Friday" ~ 8-17-12

“Foodie” Fridays in Austin

It’s Friday and time to think about what you’d like to do this weekend and where you’d like to go for dinner.  How about spending some time at the ‘Ranch’ this weekend?  These three choices are a little different from each other, and I can guarantee a delicious meal wherever your taste buds take you.

1.      RANCH 616     http://www.theranch616.com
Chef and Owner Kevin Williamson wanted to concentrate more on the entire concept of the restaurant instead of a specific food niche.  The specialty of Ranch 616 is not a specific food, it’s not Tex-Mex, it’s not Southwestern either.  The special concept of the restaurant is actually South Texas Ice House, which encompasses flavors from the Gulf of Mexico to the border towns of Texas.  Some have called it “gourmet/southwest”.  For an appetizer, you might want to try the frog legs or the bacon wrapped shrimp. You’ll find prime cuts of Texas beef and chicken along with whole fish such as flounder and tilapia along with trout and other fresh seafood daily.  You’ll also find specials like grilled mahi-mahi with coconut beurre blanc served over shrimp enchiladas.  And, for dessert the banana tart with shortbread crust served with vanilla ice cream and a huge heaping of bananas is amazing.  An absolute must to try is the “Ranch Water Margarita” – a mixture of tequila and club soda. The atmosphere is very Austin casual – you can get dressed up for a night on the town or relax in your jeans and flip-flops.

2.      STEINER RANCH STEAK HOUSE   http://www.steinersteakhouse.com/
Designed to captures views of Lake Travis and the surrounding hills, the three story building of the Steiner Ranch Steak House maximizes the beauty of the location.  As you enter the restaurant, you will be greeted with original Buck Steiner saddles and a glass enclosed wine cellar.  In each dining area, from general seating to private dining rooms, you will be treated to sunsets dropping into the lake.  The Great Room offers a fireplace and a wall of windows.  Step through the door to the patio and you’ll find a full bar and seasonal dining with live music and a fire pit.  The Tack Room offers a chance to relax and take in the Ranch and Rodeo memorabilia that tells the story of the property and the family for which it is named.  There are Four (yes, four) bars scattered over the 3 floors each with its own personality; the top floor being the most romantic.
You’ll find a varied menu including chicken fried elk and buffalo quail eggs along with Texas rib-eye and lobster mac ‘n cheese all served with a moist and soft bread with just a touch of asiago cheese on top.  The patio is the perfect spot to relax with an after dinner drink while enjoying live music overlooking the lake.

3.      MESA RANCH     http://mesaranchaustin.com/index.php
There’s something about being at the ranch….The Mesa Ranch, a true Texas grill.  You’ll find bold Texas food with an upscale menu and down-home hospitality.  Owners Steve & Marilane “Lane” Ray realize that Texas is not just one concept or culture, it represents pioneer spirit and family heritage.  For that reason, the Mesa Ranch represents all things TX – new or old.  There’s live music every night and you could hear anything from traditional Texas music representing the blues, jazz, Americana or your favorite Texas tune.  And, don’t be surprised if you see some dancing going on.  Some have asked about how the concept of Mesa Ranch was created.  It started when Steve and Lane started fantasizing about their dream vacation and the result was called “The Texas Beef Trail” in search of the best steak and most unique concept.  Their love of West Texas and its untouched frontier remain dear to their hearts and the result is the Mesa Ranch.  The menu reflects their love for all regions and cultures of Texas.  They want you to feel at home at the ranch.  Start off with the fried cactus appetizer with queso and ranch dressing, then  enjoy delicious entrees including steak, game, seafood, duck, Tex-Mex and Creole in a variety of infusions and tastes.  Be sure to leave room for dessert like the chocolate tower: 2 layers of soft brownies, filled with mocha mousse then all covered with a chocolate ganache.  So, come make yourself at home and hang your hat at the ranch!

Dories Past Picks:

August 10 August 3 July 27 July 20 July 13  July 6  June 29  June 22  June 15  June 8  June 1  May 25  May 18  May 11  May 4  April 27 April 20  April 13   April 6  March 30 March 23  March 16  March 9 March 2

As always, local events and information are brought to you as a courtesy ofDorie Dillard,Coldwell Banker United Realtors, your NW Austin Real Estate Consultant. Please watch for future Dorie picks for Austin dining experiences!

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