Austin is known for the it's quirky spirit that begins in the people and looms into the restaurants, street art and the abundance of dogs you will see in local shops. My hope is the quirk never ends, because this charm blesses our lives with places like Elizabeth Street Cafe.
A Vietnamese café with French undertones is the combination I didn't know I needed until I was seated on a patio dimly lit by colorful lights and served Beignets (paired with raspberry jam) on a vintage, oriental plate.
This dive deserved so much more than my oversized tee shirt and leggings but didn't even size me up because we are in Austin and it's not about you- it's about the food, and even more about the experience. I debated between Pho with pork belly and their Bánh Mì (sandwiches served on their freshly baked baguette). Naturally I decided on the Pho, but came back just a week later to dabble with the 23 Bánh Mi and Bún (rice vermicelli bowl).
(Usually) my phone eats first but the ambiance of most lighting coming from colorfully lit trees outside the window begs one to rebel the status quo, and just pick up the chopsticks and dig in. Hence why I only have a picture of the Ginger-Chili Oil Dumplings from my first visit...but don't worry I went back...again.
Purple's Picks
Red Curry Dan Dan Noodles...spice brine chicken, baby bok choy, sprout, thai basil, fried garlic
The noodle dish you're envisioning before your visit to any Asian-style restaurant. The texture of the bok choy paired with the fried garlic crunch makes this dish impossible to not finish. (Also served at Brunch)
Beignets & Rasberry Jam...dusted with powdered sugar
Crispy & flakey on the outside, soft buttery layers on the inside.
Right: Beignets & Jam
Left: Red Curry Dan Dan Noodles
Dirty Chai Martini...rum blend, Hamilton Pimento Dram, Stumptown Espresso, Chai, Oat Milk
To start or to finish, or both? Personally I begin and end at Elizabeth Street with this cocktail, and you should follow suit.
Rest assured there are many more experiences ahead for me at this noodles and bánh mì cafe, which will mean more recommendations for you. Take my advice and book your reservation today!
xx, ej
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