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FINO
2905 San Gabriel, second level (512-474-2905)
Open Mon–Thur 11–10, Fri 11–11, Sat 5–11. Brunch Sun 11-3.
web site | map | reserve a table | latest review | photo | access ++ |  add to library | |
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Mediterranean |
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(From October 2009) Fino’s broad second-story concrete patio is perfect for sipping a drink on a comfy sofa. It’s also just right for a leisurely lunch or dinner amid the treetops. The only frustration you might experience at this appealing, contemporary space is deciding what to order from the menu. Are you in the mood for Italian? There’s plenty to be had. If you’re feeling like something a bit less mainstream Mediterranean, there’s also French, Spanish, Greek, Lebanese, and North African. One of the best ways to start is with a signature gazpacho martini (margarita meets Bloody Mary). Then quell your rising hunger with an appetizer like the Spanish-style pork pinchitos, a mini-kebab. The suggested dining style here is sharing numerous small plates, although regular-sized entrées are available as well. A survey of past hits from the ever-changing menu would include the chicken tajine, succulent pieces of meat atop fluffy almond-and-currant couscous. Another would be the cornmeal-crusted salmon filet with oyster mushrooms in a porcini cream sauce. Desserts never resort to clichés: Witness the petite almond-crusted fritters with a dollop of sultry orange-mascarpone cream. |
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OLIVIA
2043 S. Lamar (512-804-2700)
Dinner Mon–Thur 5:30–10, Fri & Sat 5:30–11, Sun 5:30–9. Brunch Sun 10:30–2:30.
web site | map | latest review | photo | access ++ | add to library | |
$$$ |
Mediterranean |
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(From November 2009) We’re always curious to see what executive chef John Holmes has up his sleeve at this sexy South Austin spot, and our recent visit left us pleased. Classic mussels in cilantro pesto and super crisp peppery fries hit the spot. An enormous pork chop with a sambal-spiced peach barbecue sauce was nicely brined and flavored—and so big it made the fried egg atop it look like a quail egg. Pleasantly coarse lemon-ginger Basque cake made a nice finish to the evening. Beer & wine (excellent list). |
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RUSSELL’S BISTRO
Jefferson Square, 1601 W. 38th (512-467-7877)
Open Mon–Fri 6:30 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat 7–10, Sun 7:30–10.
web site | map | latest review | access ++ | add to library | |
$$ |
Mediterranean |
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(From October 2009) At this more-upscale sibling of Russell’s on Hancock, we shared a delightful shrimp-and-scallop brochette (just a hint of garlic) while enjoying a pleasant evening on the patio. Wonderfully light penne with grilled chicken and asparagus came tossed with Roma tomato, Parmesan, and olive oil (we added a pinch of salt). And while our companion’s chicken Marsala sounded ho-hum, it was anything but. We ended with a slice of Mocha Divine Cake that was almost too rich to eat—almost. |
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